Rev. Tse Amable | July 9, 2024 | John 13:18-30 KEY VERSE: “I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. BUT THIS IS TO FULFILL THE SCRIPTURE: ‘He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.' John 13:18 (NIV) MESSAGE: One truth abundantly clear in the Bible is that knowledge and the application of the knowledge of scriptures can deliver us from sin. Jesus Christ knew the scriptures and he was victorious because of the knowledge of the scriptures – the Mosaic laws, prophecies, etc. When Jesus Christ said in our key verse for today that the disciple who would betray him would be fulfilling scriptures, he had in mind Psalms 41:9 where the Psalmist, as a prophet wrote “EVEN MY CLOSE FRIEND, WHOM I TRUSTED, HE WHO SHARED MY BREAD, HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME”. Perhaps, if Judas Iscariot had known this prophecy, he would not have yielded his life to Satan to fulfil it. In one of his encounters with the Pharisees, Sadducees and scribes, Jesus Christ told them “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Matthew 22:29). Knowledge of the scriptures gives you power over sin and Satan. Study and know the scriptures because that knowledge will steer your path away from fulfilling prophecies which will lead you to your own downfall as happened to Judas Iscariot. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What is your appetite for the word of God? Remember, the truth that you know is the truth that makes and sets you free. Therefore, be a student of the Bible, not only for the knowledge but more so for the application. PRAYER: Lord, give me a hunger and a thirst for your word. Make me to love your word more than I love anything this world can give me. Let your word be my meditation all day – morning, noon and night. In Jesus’ Name, Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: SCRIPTURES The term "Scripture" in the context of John 13:18 comes from the Greek word "γραφή" (graphē), which generally means a writing, but in the New Testament, it specifically refers to the holy writings or sacred texts of the Old Testament. This word is used to denote authoritative texts that are considered divinely inspired and hold significant weight in teaching and understanding God's will. In the verse, Jesus shows His intimate knowledge of Scripture and uses it to provide context and meaning to His disciples, explaining that even the painful betrayal He is about to endure is part of a divine plan that aligns with what has been prophesied. This reveals the consistency and reliability of Scripture, reinforcing the belief that everything written in the sacred texts has purpose and fulfilment in God's timing. Reflections: Knowing Scripture is crucial for understanding God's plans and avoiding spiritual errors. Judas's betrayal, though tragic, fulfils prophecy and underscores the necessity of being grounded in the Word to stay aligned with God's will. How can a deeper understanding of Scripture help you to avoid errors and sins, and ensure that your actions align with God's will?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 8, 2024 | John 13:18-30 KEY VERSE: After he had said this, Jesus was troubled in spirit and testified, “I TELL YOU THE TRUTH, ONE OF YOU IS GOING TO BETRAY ME.” John 13:21 (NIV) MESSAGE: The story of Judas Iscariot illustrates how temptation leads to sin and how the Holy Spirit prompts a believer to overcome the temptation. James 1:14-15 tells us “each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death”. Temptation is not a sin but it becomes a sin when we yield to it. Jesus Christ was “tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). Judas Iscariot was tempted through his love for money but failed to overcome the temptation. Before Cain killed his brother Abel, the Lord prompted and warned him “.... sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, BUT YOU MUST MASTER IT.” (Genesis 4:7). Cain ignored the timely divine warning and succumbed to the temptation. Judas Iscariot also ignored the timely promptings and cautions given to him by the Master and yielded to the temptation of the Devil. If you are a believer, the Lord will be prompting you through the Holy Spirit who dwells inside your spirit. One means the Holy Spirit will use to prompt you is the word of God, the sword of the Spirit. Jesus Christ overcame the temptations he faced using the word of God. The Psalmist wrote, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you”. That is why you must read, study and memorise the word of God so that when Satan tempts you by introducing a sinful desire in your heart, the word of God will cleanse your heart and empower you to overcome. Remember the scripture which says “he who, being often reproved, hardens his neck shall suddenly be destroyed — and that without remedy” (Proverbs 29:1). DO NOT IGNORE THE HOLY SPIRIT’S PROMPTINGS FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you receive promptings from the Holy Spirit when you are getting too close to sin?  How have you used the word of God to walk away from temptations victoriously? PRAYER: Holy Spirit, I need you to be victorious whenever I am faced with temptations which will lead me to sin. Tune my spirit to hear your voice when you speak to me and always give me the will to obey you. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: BETRAY The Greek word for "betray" in John 13:21 is "παραδίδωμι" (paradidōmi), which can be translated as to hand over, deliver up, or betray. It implies the act of delivering someone into the hands of others, often with the connotation of treachery. The use of "betray" (paradidōmi) highlights the profound betrayal by Judas Iscariot, who chooses to hand Jesus over to His enemies. This act of betrayal is not only a personal violation of trust but also a significant event in the divine plan of salvation. Despite being in the presence of Jesus and witnessing His miracles and teachings, Judas ignored the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Throughout Jesus' ministry, the Holy Spirit's role was to convict, guide, and lead the disciples into truth. Judas's resistance to these promptings led him down a path of betrayal. Reflections: Are you sensitive to the Spirit's guidance, or do you, like Judas, resist and follow your own paths? Recognizing the Holy Spirit's role in leading us to truth and righteousness is crucial in our walk with Christ. How can you ensure that you remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit's promptings in your life, avoiding the path of resistance that led to Judas's betrayal?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 7, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.” John 13:16 (NIV) MESSAGE: One of the great mistakes being made in the Church of Christ today is that believers are only being taught about the blessings of God without giving them teachings about THE COST OF BEING A DISCIPLE OF JESUS CHRIST. We are hearing motivational messages about going for the crown of gold, not the crown of thorns on the cross. The statement Jesus Christ made in today’s key verse is so important that he repeated it in John 15:20. Jesus Christ, by his teachings and practice, taught and exemplified a new kind of leadership – THE SERVANT LEADERSHIP. You can find references in many verses in the gospels. In Luke 22:27, he said “For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? BUT I AM AMONG YOU AS ONE WHO SERVES”. One hymnwriter captured this truth in the following lyrics: Go, labour on; spend, and be spent; Thy joy to do the Father’s will; It is the way the Master went; Should not the servant tread it still? The Master we are following “did not come TO BE SERVED, BUT TO SERVE, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). If we are truly following him, then we must live as he lived – TO SERVE AND NOT TO BE SERVED. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How are you implementing the truths Jesus Christ taught concerning leadership? Do you seek to lord it over people or you are genuinely living and serving people with the heart of a servant? PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I thank you for teaching me that in order to be great in the Kingdom of God, I must be a servant of all. Please help me to emulate your example of being a servant leader. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: GREATER The Greek word for "greater" in John 13:16 is "μείζων" (meizōn), which is a comparative term meaning larger, greater, or more significant in size, power, or importance. The term "greater" used in John 13:16 emphasises the inherent hierarchy in relationships between a master and a servant and between a messenger and the sender. Jesus uses this hierarchy to illustrate that His disciples, as servants and messengers, should follow His example of humility and service. It underscores that no follower of Christ should consider themselves above serving others, as even Jesus, their Lord and Master, humbled Himself to serve them. Reflections The emphasis on "greater" invites us to reflect on our attitudes toward service and leadership, reminding us that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is marked by humility and willingness to serve others selflessly. How can you embody the humility and service exemplified by Jesus in your daily life, particularly in your interactions with others?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 6, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: Jesus said to him, “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you. John 13:10 (NIV) MESSAGE: One of the startling statements made by our Lord Jesus at the table of this last Passover supper with his disciples was “NOT ALL OF YOU ARE CLEAN”. And he was speaking to his selected apostles. This was before he washed the feet of his disciples with water. In that statement, Jesus Christ was not referring to the cleanliness of the physical body but rather to the spirit and soul. Water is used in the Bible to represent the word of God. For example when the Lord told Nicodemus “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of WATER and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5) he was referring to being born again by THE WORD OF GOD because “faith comes from hearing, and hearing by THE WORD OF CHRIST” (Romans 10:17). Again, the scriptures say Jesus Christ “also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her BY THE WASHING OF WATER WITH THE WORD” (Ephesians 5:25-26). From the words of Jesus Christ, we see that one of the disciples was not benefitting from the life-transforming messages he had been hearing from the lips of the Master. The Bible says about the Israelites in the Old Testament that “the message they heard was of no value to them because those who heard did not combine it with faith” (Hebrews 4:2). That means it is possible to be attending all the meetings and services of the church, hearing, reading and studying the word of God and remain not clean. This is even more startling to know that these words were spoken to the apostles. They can be spoken to you, a pastor, a deacon or a leader of an auxiliary group in the church. ARE YOU CLEAN? FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Meditate on the words spoken by Jesus Christ and do a self-appraisal. Examine yourself. Are you really in the faith? Is Jesus Christ truly your Lord and Saviour? PRAYER: Search me, O God, and know my heart today Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray See if there be some wicked way in me Cleanse me from every sin, and set me free THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: CLEAN The Greek word for "clean" in John 13:10 is "καθαρός" (katharos), which means clean, pure, or free from dirt, guilt, or sin. It can be used to describe physical cleanliness, moral purity, or ritual purity. In John 13:10, Jesus tells Peter that "those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean." Here, "clean" signifies a state of spiritual purity and forgiveness that comes from Jesus. This passage is part of the larger narrative where Jesus washes His disciples' feet, symbolizing the cleansing from sin that He provides. By stating that Peter is already clean, Jesus is affirming the salvation and purification that His disciples have received through faith in Him. The act of foot-washing also underscores the ongoing need for confession and forgiveness of daily sins, even for those who are already spiritually clean Reflections: Jesus' teaching about being clean highlights the dual aspects of initial salvation and ongoing sanctification. It reminds believers of the importance of daily repentance and seeking forgiveness for sins to maintain a close relationship with God. In what ways can you practice daily repentance and seek spiritual cleanliness?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 5, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “... so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.” John 13:4 (NIV) MESSAGE: What Jesus Christ did at this table of the Passover meal was a type or a shadow of what he was going to do in a few days time on the cross. Another version of our key verse says he “got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself.” Jesus was about to get very low down in order to wash the feet of his disciples. He could not do this menial task reserved for servants of the household in his costly garments. He therefore had to lay them aside – take them off. It was the same thing Jesus Christ did when he accepted to come to the earth as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Apostle Paul wrote that Jesus Christ  “who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:6-7 KJV). The writer of the hymn “HOW CAN IT BE THAT I SHOULD GAIN?” wrote that Jesus Christ “emptied himself of but love and bled for Adam’s helpless race”. Jesus Christ laid aside his majesty and divinity in order to become one of us so that he could offer himself as an atonement for our sins. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Think about how much it cost Jesus Christ to lay aside his majesty and divinity. What are you willing to lay aside in order to serve the purpose of God for you for this generation. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I thank you for laying aside your greatness and became a servant of all. Help me to show my love for you in putting aside whatever status I have acquired in this,life in order to serve others. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: TOOK OFF The Greek word translated as "took off" is "τίθημι" (tithēmi), which can mean to lay down, put aside, or take off. It often signifies a deliberate action of removing or setting something aside for a purpose. In John 13:4, "took off" refers to Jesus laying aside His outer garments before washing His disciples' feet. This act is rich in symbolic meaning, representing Jesus' willingness to set aside His divine privileges and take on the role of a servant. It echoes Philippians 2:6-7, where Paul describes Jesus as "emptying Himself" by taking the form of a servant. By physically removing His outer garments, Jesus demonstrated humility and servitude, foreshadowing His ultimate act of self-sacrifice on the cross. Reflections: Jesus' action of taking off His outer garments to serve His disciples challenges us to consider how we might lay aside our own comforts, privileges, or status to serve others. It reminds us that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in humble service and self-sacrifice. What are some "outer garments" or aspects of privilege and comfort in your life that you might need to set aside to better serve those around you in a Christ-like manner?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 4, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God” John 13:3 (NIV) MESSAGE: One of the lies the devil uses to frighten us and to bring us into bondage to him is that he is powerful. Using all kinds of half-truths and fears, Satan makes us believe he is all-powerful. But that is a big lie. Yes, Satan is powerful but Jesus Christ is more powerful than the devil. Jesus Christ knew the  Father had given all power to him. He declared this in Matthew 28:18  “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”.  In  John 14:30, he said, “.... the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me”. Apostle Paul affirmed “... God placed all things under his feet” (Ephesians 1:22) To the Corinthians, Apostle Paul wrote “For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet” (1 Corinthians 15:25). Let this truth encourage and make you bold. All things have been placed under the power of your Saviour, Redeemer and Deliverer. And the Bible says “You are more than a conqueror through him who loves you”. Let the following truth cause you to stand firm on your faith: “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How are you demonstrating the truth that ALL THINGS have been placed in the power of Jesus Christ in your life as one of his followers? What are you doing to fulfil the Great Commission of making disciples in all nations for Jesus Christ? PRAYER: Father, I thank you for this truth that all things are put under the power of Jesus Christ. Take away from my heart any fear which will lead me to put myself under the power of the devil. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: ALL THINGS The Greek phrase translated as "all things" is "πάντα" (panta), which encompasses everything in the broadest sense. It implies totality, completeness, and universality, indicating that nothing is excluded from this scope. In John 13:3, "all things" refers to Jesus’ knowledge of His divine authority and the extent of His mission. This verse reveals Jesus' awareness that the Father had given Him control over everything, emphasizing His divine sovereignty and ultimate authority. This understanding framed Jesus' actions during the Last Supper, underscoring the deliberate nature of His humility and service in washing the disciples' feet. It illustrates the paradox of Jesus' divine authority and His willingness to serve humbly, reflecting the nature of true leadership and love in God's kingdom. Reflections How can we follow Jesus' example of using our authority and influence to serve others selflessly and humbly?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 3, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus.” John 13:2 (NIV) MESSAGE: The devil is always looking for people to kill and destroy. Jesus Christ said this in John 10:10 and Apostle Peter confirmed it in 1 Peter 5:8. On this occasion, Jesus Christ was Satan’s target but he needed a vessel to work through. Sadly, Judas Iscariot yielded himself as an instrument in the hands of Satan. The fact the devil could use a member of the chosen twelve apostles should teach us that Satan is no respecter of persons. No matter your status or position in the church, the devil can attempt to use you and after that destroy you. He had plans to “sift” Apostle Peter as a wheat but did not succeed because Jesus Christ prayed for Peter. Jesus Christ gave a warning that whoever betrayed the Son of God, “it would be better for him if he had not been born” (Matthew 26:24). But Judas Iscariot ignored the warning because of the love of money. That led to his untimely death. Satan wants to use you and later destroy you. Apostle Peter’s admonition is “Resist him standing firm in the faith” (1 Peter 5:9). Similarly, Apostle James also exhorted “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).  Apostle Paul says “... and do not give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:27). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Examine yourself and see if there is any gap in your devotion, commitment and loyalty to the Lord which Satan can capitalise on to use you and destroy you. PRAYER: Father, I submit myself to you totally. Seal any integrity hole in my heart which Satan can exploit to lead me to sin against you. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: PROMPTED The Greek word translated as "prompted" in John 13:2 is "βάλλω" (ballō), which generally means "to throw" or "to cast." In this context, it conveys the idea of instilling or putting something into someone’s mind or heart, suggesting an active influence or suggestion. In John 13:2, "prompted" signifies the influence of Satan over Judas Iscariot. This term shows the moment when Satan instilled the idea of betraying Jesus into Judas' heart during the Last Supper. It highlights the battle between divine purpose and demonic influence, emphasizing the vulnerability of the human heart to external spiritual forces. The narrative shows how Judas' actions were not merely human decisions but were significantly influenced by Satan, adding a layer of spiritual conflict to the betrayal of Jesus. Reflections: How can we guard our hearts and minds against negative spiritual influences and remain attuned to God's guidance in our decisions?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 2, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “It was just before the Passover feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. HAVING LOVED HIS OWN WHO WERE IN THE WORLD, HE NOW SHOWED THEM THE FULL EXTENT OF HIS LOVE.” John 13:1 (NIV) MESSAGE: The gospel of free salvation by faith in Jesus Christ stands firm on the pillar of love. John 3:16 tells us “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, also loves us. Because love is not only a feeling but an action, Jesus Christ had to demonstrate his love for us practically through an action. The verse above says “Having loved his own who were in the world, he NOW showed them the full extent of his love.” The word “NOW” tells us that what Jesus Christ did in verses 2  to 17 was to show how much he loved his own. With the benefit of the scriptures, we know that dying on the cross of Calvary was the full extent of Jesus Christ’s love for us. The Bible says  “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). In the words of Prophet Jeremiah, the Lord said “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3). Jesus Christ loves you and expects you also to love your neighbour to the extent that you love yourself. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on the love of God for you. To what extent are you going to show your love for others? PRAYER: Father, I thank you that you love me with an everlasting love. Help me also to love others with that dying love you gave to me. Amen. HERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: EXTENT The Greek word often translated as "extent" in John 13:1 is "τέλος" (telos), which means "end," "goal," or "completion." In this context, it signifies the full measure or the utmost degree. In John 13:1, "extent" is used to describe the profound and complete love Jesus had for His disciples. It highlights that Jesus' love was not superficial or partial but reached its ultimate expression in His sacrificial death. The depth and perfection of Christ's love, fulfilling the purpose of His mission on earth. His love "to the end" signifies His commitment and the fulfilment of God's redemptive plan. The theme of God's complete and sacrificial love is echoed in passages such as John 3:16 ("For God so loved the world...") and Romans 5:8 ("But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us"). Reflections: Consider the extent of Jesus' love for you. How can you respond to such a complete and sacrificial love in your daily life and your relationships with others?

Rev. Tse Amable | July 1, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “It was just before the PASSOVER FEAST. Jesus knew that THE TIME HAD COME FOR HIM TO LEAVE THIS WORLD and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.” John 13:1 (NIV) MESSAGE: The Bible tells us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 ”THERE IS A TIME FOR EVERYTHING, AND A SEASON FOR EVERY ACTIVITY UNDER HEAVEN”. Jesus Christ knew the right time to do what the Father sent him to do on the earth. When, at the wedding in Cana, his mother wanted her son to help in solving the problem of the shortage of wine, Jesus Christ replied “MY TIME HAS NOT YET COME” (John 2:4). In John 12 when Philip and Andrew went to see Jesus Christ with the request of some Greeks who wanted to see him, Jesus Christ told them “THE HOUR HAS COME FOR THE SON OF MAN TO BE GLORIFIED” (John 12:23). A few verses down, he said “IT WAS FOR THIS VERY REASON I CAME TO THIS HOUR” (John 12:27). Jesus Christ knew that he came into this world as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”. He knew there was a set time for that mission to be executed.  In the past, attempts to arrest him and kill him were not successful. Here in John 13, he knew “THE TIME HAD COME FOR HIM TO LEAVE THIS WORLD”. And he made himself ready to go to the cross. You too have a set time to do what the Lord has called you to do. You must know that time and do what it calls for. I want to challenge you with the words Mordecai sent to Queen Esther: “For if you remain silent AT THIS TIME, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS?” (Esther 4:14) FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Meditate on the truth that there is a time to do the works of God after which you cannot work again. PRAYER: Father, I thank you that you have set a time for me to do what you called me for. Please help me to be sensitive to your timing so that I will not go ahead of my time or fall behind. Let me be like the “men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do” (1 Chronicles 12:32). Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: TIME The Greek word for "time" in this context of the Key Verse for today's devotional is "ὥρα" (hōra), which can mean a specific hour, a fixed point in time, or a season. It often denotes a significant moment, especially in the context of God's plan and actions. In John 13:1, "time" signifies the crucial moment when Jesus was about to fulfil His mission through His death and resurrection. This "time" marks the transition from His public ministry to the final, private moments with His disciples, emphasizing the impending culmination of His earthly mission. Theological significance is seen in how Jesus' entire ministry led up to this predetermined hour, showcasing divine sovereignty and purpose. Reflections: Reflect on how God's timing plays a role in your life. How can you trust in His perfect timing, especially during significant or challenging moments?

Rev. Tse Amable | June 30, 2024 | John 13:1-17 KEY VERSE: “It was just before the PASSOVER FEAST. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.” John 13:1 (NIV) MESSAGE: The Passover Feast is one of seven feasts Jehovah commanded the Israelites to celebrate annually. You can find them in Leviticus chapter 23 and some other passages in the Bible. One interesting truth about these festivals is (apart from the Day of Atonement which is fast), they were meant for feasting – eating, drinking and rejoicing. The history behind the Passover is captured in Exodus 12. OUR GOD LOVES IT WHEN WE COME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE IN HIS PRESENCE. Jesus Christ since his infancy had been celebrating these festivals. In John 7, we read he was at the Feast of Tabernacles. We also know from the scriptures that Jesus Christ celebrated the Passover Feast and ate the last Passover meal with his disciples hours before his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane (see Matthew 26, Mark 14 and Luke 22). It was at this feast that Jesus Christ instituted the Holy Communion to enable us to remember him. The Feast of the Passover points to Jesus Christ. He is the Supreme Passover Lamb by whose shed blood we were delivered from bondage to Satan. The Bible tells us “CHRIST, OUR PASSOVER LAMB, HAS BEEN SACRIFICED” (1 Corinthians 5:7). As New Testament believers, we are not under any obligation to celebrate these Old Testament festivals. But we can celebrate Jesus Christ every day. We can celebrate Jesus Christ when we gather around the Communion Table to share in his body which was broken for our deliverance and for his blood which was shed for our redemption. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Meditate on the truth that Jesus Christ was slain as your “Passover Lamb” and find out other reasons you must celebrate Jesus Christ and how you should do it. PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessings I've received through Jesus Christ, who gave His life for me. Help me live a life that points others to the One who died to set me free from bondage to Satan. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: FEAST The Greek word for "feast" is "ἑορτή" (heortē), referring to a festival or a sacred celebration. It often denotes Jewish religious festivals, such as Passover, which involve communal gatherings and rituals. In John 13:1, "feast" refers to the Passover, a significant Jewish celebration commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The timing underscores the impending crucifixion of Jesus, aligning with the sacrificial lamb's symbolism. This context highlights Jesus as the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice would bring spiritual deliverance. Reflections: Consider the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice as the ultimate Passover Lamb. How does this understanding shape your appreciation of Easter and your daily walk with Christ?

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 29, 2024 | John 12:47-50 KEY VERSE: There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day. John 12:48 (NIV) MESSAGE: Jesus makes clear that he speaks God's truth. What we do with that truth has eternal consequences and has both eternal and present-day benefits if we obey. In John 12:47-50, Jesus speaks about His mission and the judgment that comes from rejecting His words. He emphasises that He came not to judge the world but to save it, yet His words will serve as a standard for judgment on the last day. This passage invites us to reflect on the significance of Jesus' teachings and their eternal implications. Jesus’ words are not just wise teachings but divine commandments from the Father. He highlights that rejecting His words is equivalent to denying the One who sent Him. The authority and weight of Jesus' words are profound because they are not merely human opinions but the very words of God, intended to bring life and salvation. Jesus reiterates that His mission was to bring salvation, not condemnation. However, He clarifies that there will be a future judgment based on how people respond to His message. His words will be the measure against which lives are judged. Therefore, embracing His teachings is essential for receiving eternal life and avoiding judgment. While obedience may not be a popular concept in modern culture, Jesus reminds us that obeying his teaching is vital. We should listen to them as if our eternity depends on what we do with them - because it does. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: As followers of Jesus, we are called to take His words seriously, understanding that they carry the authority of God Himself. Evaluate your life in light of Jesus' teachings and align your actions with His truth. Pray for courage and urgency to share His message with others, as their eternal destiny hinges on their response to His words. PRAYER: Holy and loving Father, thank you for revealing your will in human words taught to us by Jesus. Open my mind to understand Jesus' teaching more completely and open my heart to accept those words more willingly as I commit to live by Jesus' words in all that I do, empowered by your Spirit. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: JUDGE The Greek word for "judge" is "κρίνω" (krinō), meaning to separate, distinguish, or make a decision, implying legal judgment, forming an opinion, or discerning. In John 12:48, "judge" emphasizes Jesus' words as the standard of judgment for those who reject Him. This illustrates the gravity of rejecting Jesus' teachings and the inevitable accountability before God, consistent with John's theme of spiritual discernment and responsibility. Jesus being entrusted with judgment is also seen in John 5:22, Matthew 12:36 highlights accountability for words spoken, and Romans 2:16 notes God judging people's secrets through Christ. Reflections: Reflect on how you respond to Jesus' teachings. Are there aspects you find challenging? How does knowing His words will judge you affect your daily life and decisions?

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 28, 2024 | John 12:44-46 KEY VERSE: "I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." John 12:46 (NIV) MESSAGE: At one time or another, most of us have been trapped in a darkened room and could not see anything until our eyes adjusted. Then, if we see some light, no matter how faint or far away it is, we begin to move toward the light. In this passage from John, Jesus makes a powerful proclamation about His identity and purpose. He emphasizes that belief in Him is synonymous with belief in God the Father. Jesus is not merely a representative; He is the visible image of the invisible God. His mission is clear: to bring light into a world shrouded in darkness, offering an escape for all who believe in Him. Darkness in this context symbolizes ignorance, sin, and separation from God. It represents the confusion and fear that characterize a life apart from His truth. Jesus, the light of the world, pierces through this darkness, bringing clarity, hope, and guidance. By placing our faith in Him, we are transferred from a realm of darkness into His marvellous light. This transition is transformative. It means moving from despair to hope, confusion to understanding, and death to life. Jesus' light reveals our true identity as beloved children of God and directs our steps according to His will. It dispels the shadows of fear and sin, illuminating the path of righteousness and peace. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on how Jesus has illuminated areas of darkness in your life and led you to greater understanding and peace. Consider how you might still be holding onto aspects of darkness, and invite Jesus to shine His light into those areas. Seek to be a light in the lives of others, guiding them towards the hope and truth found in Jesus. PRAYER: Father, give me the courage to stand up and confess my faith in Jesus with graciousness. I truly believe that you sent Jesus to die for my sins and give me power over sin and death. Regardless of other people's acceptance or rejection of me because of my faith, please help me live that faith before the people with whom I interact. In Jesus' name. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: DARKNESS The Greek word for "darkness" is "σκοτία" (skotia). It refers to literal darkness, ignorance, spiritual blindness, and the absence of divine truth and moral light. In John 12:46, "darkness" symbolizes spiritual ignorance and moral corruption. Jesus, as the light, dispels this darkness, emphasizing the transformative power of His presence. This theme of light versus darkness is central to John's Gospel, illustrating the contrast between living in God's truth and being ensnared by sin and unbelief. Reflections Consider how Jesus as the "light of the world" impacts your life. Are there areas of darkness—ignorance, sin, or fear—that need His illuminating presence? How can you actively seek and live in His light daily?