Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 22, 2024 | John 9:35-38 KEY VERSE: Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" John 9:35 (NIV) MESSAGE: I am impressed by the Lord Jesus and His sense of allegiance to those who align themselves with Him. He cares for them and looks out for their best interest. When we are cast out of the places of human prestige and recognition because of Him and for His Name’s sake, He does not abandon us but comes to us and empowers us to keep on growing in Him. The Lord heard that the healed blind man had been thrown out of the synagogue. That meant he had been separated from the centre of community life and the place where he could receive spiritual as well as social and economic support. In verse 35 it appears that the Lord had gone looking for the man, for “he found him.” When the Lord finds us, He touches on the essential things. The most important thing for the healed man, from the perspective of the Lord Jesus, was not the opening of his eyes. It was not the fact that he had been cast out of the synagogue. It was about his faith in the Son of Man. Physical recovery of sight without belief in the Saviourhood of the Lord Jesus does not achieve God’s ultimate desire for the human being. The Lord therefore helps this man to understand Him as the Messiah (Saviour, Redeemer), and the man believes and worships. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you know that the Lord is searching out for you and that He cares about you? Do you truly believe that Jesus is your Saviour? Tell Him you believe, and really believe. Let all of your life become an act of worship to your Lord. PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, my Prophet, Priest and King. Thank you that when I was cast out of the Garden of God, you came looking for me, and you brought me back to the banqueting Hall of your heavenly Kingdom. Please help me stay found by you, always in your house, for you brought me in. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: FOUND The word 'Found' is translated in the Greek text as "εὑρίσκω" (heuriskō). It denotes a purposeful search, not a coincidental discovery. The healed man faced rejection from religious leaders, yet Jesus intentionally finds and affirms him, highlighting the contrast between societal rejection and divine acceptance. Jesus' action demonstrates God's proactive love and personal care. Even when the world rejects us, Jesus seeks us out to affirm our value and faith. Reflections: Reflect on times you felt rejected or marginalized. How does knowing that Jesus actively seeks you out in such moments encourage and strengthen your faith?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 21, 2024 | John 9:24-34 KEY VERSE: He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” John 9:25 (NIV) MESSAGE: When our faith in God and our discipleship walk with the Lord Jesus is called into question, and our God is mocked and insulted, there is one force that will help us stay firm and faithful: the power of personal conviction. What we have seen, touched, experienced and become convinced about, personally, will hold us up spiritually, morally, emotionally, and intellectually as we face the opposition of the devil, the world and the sinful nature in us. The healed blind man was not free to go his way yet. The Pharisees insulted his Saviour Jesus and called Him a sinner (verse 27). They rubbished the Lord Jesus and ignorantly placed Moses above Him (verse 28). To all their taunting and false accusations of the Lord being a sinner, the response of the healed blind man was personal conviction: ‘He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!”’ (John 9:25), NIV. To the claim of the Pharisees that they did not even know where the Lord Jesus came from, the healed man’s response was personal conviction: ‘The man answered, ". . .  You don't know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes.”’ (John 9:30), NIV. Personal conviction will stand in the face of every opposition. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you convinced about the reality and being of God? Are you convinced about the power of the blood of the Lord Jesus to save your soul? Are you convinced that He is coming again to take us home? Are you convinced that God would take care of you, and that it is better to die believing in God than to live without God in this world? Get conviction, it will make you tough for life. PRAYER: Lord, please help me to believe, and to truly believe. May my convictions based on your Word be so strong that they will stand the test of time. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: ONE THING The Greek phrase for "one thing" is "ἓν οἶδα" (hen oida). "ἓν" (hen) means "one" and "οἶδα" (oida) means "I know" or "I am aware of." This emphasizes the singular, undeniable fact the healed blind man is certain about, despite the surrounding controversy. Amidst Pharisaic scepticism, the healed man focuses on his personal encounter with Jesus, asserting the reality of his healing over theological debates. In Psalm 27:4, David expresses a similar focus: "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life." This single-minded pursuit of God’s presence parallels the healed man’s single-minded testimony. In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul states, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal." This shows a similar focus on a single, significant purpose. The verse underscores the power of personal testimony. The man's experience with Jesus' healing power is irrefutable evidence of divine intervention. Reflections: What is your "one thing" about Jesus that you can share? Reflect on how your personal encounter with Him can be a powerful testimony to others.

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 20, 2024 | John 9:18-23 KEY VERSE: ²² His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for already the Jews had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. ²³ That was why his parents said, "He is of age; ask him." John 9:22-23 (NIV) MESSAGE: The Pharisees were not satisfied with the open declaration of the healed blind man that Jesus was a prophet. They wanted further and incriminating evidence, and so they sent for the parents of the man. They posed a set of questions in verse 19:  "Is this your son?" "Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?" (NIV). The parents of the man answered the first two questions directly in verse 20: "We know he is our son, and we know he was born blind.” Their response to the third question is the focus of our reflection today. In verses 21 to 23 we see the parents of the man exercise shrewd reasoning to handle the mischievous cunning questioning of the Pharisees; ‘“. . . how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don't know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself." They knew that the Pharisees were trapping them and were looking for an opportunity to throw them out of their security in the synagogue. At worst the healed man could speak for himself and convince the Jews or be expelled from the synagogue, alone. Afterall, the parents might have been used to living without him or his help and could continue in the security of the community if their son alone was cast out. The reflection is not a call to avoid standing for Christ and our convictions about Him. It is a call to develop wisdom and ask for Spirit leading in answering the questions that life and society raise against our faith, and to keep from statements that will unnecessarily put us in unnecessary danger. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you see how the world system tries to make us expose ourselves to its lies and deceptions? Will you stay alert to avoid falling into the traps they set for you? PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you that you always knew how to answer your opponents when you walked among mankind. Please give me wisdom to handle my circumstances, and to beat the tricks of the evil one. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: PARENTS The Greek word for "parents" is "γονεῖς" (goneis). This term generally refers to one's father and mother and, in this context of John 9:22-23, it highlights their role as guardians and protectors of their son. The actions of the parents in this verse underscore the tension between fear and faith. They knew the truth of their son's healing but feared the social and religious consequences of openly supporting Jesus. This situation calls for wisdom to navigate the cunning schemes of those in power. It challenges believers to seek divine wisdom and courage to stand firm in the truth, even when facing opposition. Reflections: Reflect on times when you felt pressured to conform to societal or peer expectations that conflicted with your faith. How can you seek God's wisdom to handle such cunning tactics with courage and integrity?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 19, 2024 | John 9:13-17 KEY VERSE: ”Finally they turned again to the blind man, "What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened." The man replied, "He is a prophet."John 9:17 (NIV) MESSAGE: The life of a person is the sum total of the decisions one makes in the space and time that we have. My life today is going to be summed up in the things I choose to do or not to do, how to go about issues that come up and my views about who I am and who other people around me are. Ultimately our lives are a reflection of our view of the spiritual and our conclusion on the claims of the Lord Jesus Christ. The healed blind man was brought before the Pharisees for questioning, for his healing had disturbed the religious atmosphere of formal religious observance of the Sabbath. The beneficiary of divine blessings often becomes the victim of God’s enemies, (see Job and Lazarus). The Pharisees had formed an opinion about the Preacher from Nazareth, Jesus Christ, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." (9:16a). From their group another view emerged: ‘But others asked, ‘"How can a sinner do such miraculous signs?" So they were divided.’ (9:16 b). Jesus often causes divisions as people are forced by His claims to make one decision or another about Him. The most exciting part of the debate about the Lord Jesus is seen in John 9:17; ‘Finally they turned again to the blind man, "What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened." The man replied, "He is a prophet." You must form and express an opinion about Christ and His teachings. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: The debate about the Lord continues into our day and will continue till He comes. You must form an opinion as to whether Jesus of Nazareth was an ordinary human being, one of Israel’s many prophets or God Almighty who took on human form to die for you and in your place. Jesus is Lord of all or of nothing at all! PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, I am a blessed beneficiary of your saving grace. I am nothing without you. Please help me to understand who you have revealed yourself to be, and to firmly form a right opinion of you. May I boldly declare my convictions about you, in spite of fierce opposition by surrounding forces. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: HAVE TO SAY The Greek phrase for "have to say" can be rendered as "τί λέγεις" (ti legeis). "Τί" (ti) means "what" and "λέγεις" (legeis) means "do you say" or "do you think". This phrase is used to elicit someone's personal opinion or testimony. In our devotional today we see the religious leaders asking the healed blind man his personal opinion on who he thinks Jesus is, showing their intent to understand and possibly challenge the man's perception of Jesus. We find a similar expression in Matthew 16:15, where Jesus asks his disciples, "But what about you? Who do you say I am?" This question invites a personal declaration about Jesus' identity. In John 4:29, the Samaritan woman invites others to consider who Jesus is, saying, "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?" The inquiry "What do you have to say" emphasizes the importance of personal testimony and acknowledgment of Jesus' identity. It highlights the transformative impact of Jesus' miracles, leading individuals to form and express their understanding of who He is. It also reflects the broader theme of witness and testimony in the Gospel of John, where personal encounters with Jesus often lead to public declarations of faith. Reflections: How would you answer the question "What do you have to say" about Jesus in your own life? How has your understanding of Him been shaped by your experiences and personal encounters with His work?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 18, 2024 | John 9:9-12 KEY VERSE: "Where is this man?" they asked him. "I don't know," he said. John 9:12 (NIV) MESSAGE: The healed blind man was faced with the interrogations of the people around him about how he was healed and where the person who performed the healing was. He gave a good account of the healing processes, and identified the person who did it to be “The man they call Jesus” (John 9:11). This was how much he could address their questions. To their question in verse 12 "Where is this man?" his answer was "I don't know". John 9:12. Certainly, he did not know where the Lord had turned among the many people around, and so his answer was acceptable. But for those of us who have come to faith in the Lord Jesus and experienced His saving grace and redeeming power, we cannot say we do not know where the Saviour is today. Having ascended physically to sit at the place of authority in Heaven He has descended by His Holy Spirit, and lives in our spirits, ruling as Lord over His new creation, in our individual lives, and through His body the Church universal. The old Gospel chorus says: He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Where is Jesus? Let us boldly and convincingly say, He lives in us, and in our hearts. Go with Jesus in your heart, and let it show! PRAYER: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for coming into my life and walking with me. Please help me to always remember that you live in me and live through me. May the world see you in me and come to you. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: WHERE The Greek word for "where" is ποῦ (pou), which primarily denotes a question of place or location. After witnessing the miraculous healing of the blind man by Jesus, the people inquired about the whereabouts of Jesus, seeking to understand where he was and possibly to find him. Throughout the Gospels, there are instances where people inquire about the location of Jesus, indicating their desire to find him and interact with him (e.g., Mark 3:32, John 11:56). The question "where" reflects the people's curiosity and eagerness to encounter Jesus after witnessing his miraculous works. It underscores the significance of seeking Jesus and engaging with him personally for spiritual enlightenment and transformation. Reflections: How does the question "where" prompt you to reflect on your own desire to seek and encounter Jesus in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 17, 2024 | John 9:8-9 KEY VERSE: Some claimed that he was. Others said, "No, he only looks like him." But he himself insisted, "I am the man.". John 9:9 (NIV) MESSAGE: People who have known us seem to have a great ability to remember our lowliness, sickness, backwardness, waywardness, blindness and badness when we have been graced by God and delivered by His might. They can only marvel at the transformation that has occurred and often marvel at what God has done, with a tinge of confusion as to whether we are really the people they knew before.  We see that in our text today from the people around the former blind man: Some claimed that he was. Others said, "No, he only looks like him.” John 9:9 (NIV). Observers may be pardoned for their confusion about us in view of what God has done, but we will remain unpardonable if we fail to own up to our blessing and declare that we are indeed those who have been visited by God. The healed blind man in our text passed the test of blessing-ownership. He saw the debate among the people, but he himself insisted, "I am the man." John 9:9 (NIV). The ancient people of Israel record a similar experience in Psalms 126:1-3 (NIV); When the Lord brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. ² Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." ³ The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you aware of what God has done for you, which others might well be aware of about you? Are you able to stand up and declare that you have been a beneficiary of God’s grace? You must own your blessings and give God all the praise PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for coming into my story and changing the narrative about me. I declare before Heaven that I have been blessed by your grace. Help me to declare before people that I am that one that has been touched by the goodness of God. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: I AM THE MAN The Greek phrase "I am the man" (Ἐγώ εἰμι) signifies a straightforward statement of self-awareness and recognition of one's own identity. In this passage, the man who was formerly blind asserts his identity confidently when questioned by others who knew him. His declaration serves as a testimony to the miraculous work of Jesus in his life. This declaration echoes similar instances in the Bible where individuals express their personal experiences of transformation and encounter with God, such as the man born blind in John 9 and the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4. The phrase "I am the man" highlights the transformative power of Jesus to change lives and bring about spiritual illumination. It underscores the importance of personal testimony in proclaiming the work of God in individual lives. Reflections: How does the declaration "I am the man" resonate with your experience of encountering Jesus and His transformative power in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 16, 2024 | John 9:1-7 KEY VERSE: "Go," he told him, "wash in the Pool of Siloam" (this word means Sent). So, the man went and washed, and came home seeing. John 9:7  (NIV) MESSAGE: We desire so many favours from God, and in His graciousness, He grants them, even sometimes without us asking. The question for our reflection today is “Why does God do for us the many things He does for us?” In the instruction the Lord Jesus gave to the blind man is a guide to answering the question for the day; "Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam" (this word means Sent). The Lord could have asked for some water to be brought for the man to wash his face and see, rather the Lord directed that the blind man go to the Pool of Siloam to wash his face and see. Siloam we are told meant “sent.” In effect, the blind man was to acknowledge that his healing was so that he would become a sent-one, a proclaimer of the God of his salvation. We are graced by God with His many blessings so that we can become His agents in the world to let others know about Him. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Would you stop for a moment to acknowledge how much God has been good to you? Would you thank God for the things He has done for you? And would you be determined to go and tell others how good God is, and how much He wants them to come to Him? PRAYER: Dear God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you have shown me much mercy and goodness, and I am ever grateful. Please help me to be a true apostle of your goodness, to go and touch the world with the message of salvation. For Christ’s Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: POOL OF SILOAM The phrase "Pool of Siloam" is translated in the Greek text as (κολυμβήθρα τοῦ Σιλωάμ) which denotes a specific location mentioned in the New Testament, where Jesus sent a blind man to wash his eyes, resulting in his miraculous healing. The mention of the Pool of Siloam is unique to the Gospel of John, emphasizing Jesus' authority over physical infirmities and His ability to perform miraculous healings. The mention of the Pool of Siloam underscores Jesus' divine mission and authority as the "sent one" from God, whose actions bring about spiritual enlightenment and restoration to those who believe in Him. Reflections How does understanding the meaning of Siloam deepen your appreciation for Jesus as the "sent one" from God, whose mission is to bring healing and spiritual sight to humanity?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 15, 2024 | John 9:1-7 KEY VERSE: As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. John 9:4  (NIV) MESSAGE: The motivation for our life and our work sometimes comes from personal convictions in the pursuit of money, position, titles, and recognition by society among others. While these may not be wrong in themselves, they remain limited and may easily become selfish and inward-looking. In declaring the work of God as the reason for the condition of the blind man, the Lord Jesus proceeds to link the work of God to the work of the agents of God; “As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.” John 9:4 (NIV). The work of God is accomplished by means of the people of God. We must find out and determine what God is doing in the world, and our immediate environment, and join in with an understanding that we are operating on limited time, for night is coming when we cannot work again. The night of retirement from office, the night of old age, the night of sickness, the night of lack of opportunity etc. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you see the opportunity to raise children, educate yourself, provide for the elderly, evangelise the world and disciple others as invitations to join in the work of God with God, while your fleeting time on earth passes? Grab the opportunity and work while God works. PRAYER: Dear Father in Heaven, how I long to see your work and desire to join you in your work. Please make me sensitive to what you are doing in the world, and by your Spirit make me rise and work with you. For Christ’s dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: WORK The Greek word for "work" in John 9:4 is "ἔργα" (erga), which encompasses a range of meanings including deeds, actions, or tasks. In this passage, Jesus speaks about the urgency of performing the works assigned by God while it is still day, suggesting the limited time available for ministry. Similar themes of urgency in fulfilling God's mission are found throughout the Bible, such as Paul's exhortation to make the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:16). The verse underscores the importance of actively engaging in God's work and fulfilling His purposes within the time given. It reflects the concept of stewardship of time and talents, emphasizing the need for faithful service and obedience to God's will. Reflections: How can we prioritize our time and efforts to ensure that we are actively participating in God's work and fulfilling His purposes in our lives?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 14, 2024 | John 9:1-7 KEY VERSE: "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.” John 9:3  (NIV) MESSAGE: The challenges of life are many and varied and show up in unexpected times and places. The case of a person born blind makes the inquisitive minds of humans seek an explanation which sometimes does not make sense. If the man in the text was born blind, then how could he have sinned before he was born, so that he was born blind? That question also puts the other assumed cause of his blindness to sleep, was it the sin of the parents that brought about his condition? We learn from the baselessness of the proposed causes of the blindness of the man that it is not always true that people have sinned and that is why they suffer. Certainly, other parts of Scripture show that sin can lead to sickness and disaster, but not in this case. The underlying fact for us today is that when bad things happen to people, whether by their own bringing it upon themselves or not, God is able and willing to work His works in their lives and to give them His rest. "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. John 9:3 (NIV). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you have a baffling situation in your life? If you know the cause to be some sin committed by yourself or by someone else’s sin, then ask for forgiveness and plead for God’s intervention. If you do not have clear indications of the cause of the challenge, simply trust in the power of God to work His works for you on the merit of Christ Jesus our Advocate. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, thank you for your power to will and to do good to me, a frail mortal being. Please come on my side, and do what only you can do, to free me from every form and cause of evil. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: WORK OF GOD The Greek word translated as "works" in John 9:3 is ἔργα (erga), which generally refers to deeds, actions, or works. In this context, it denotes the miraculous acts or divine interventions that manifest God's power and glory. The word "God" in Greek is Θεοῦ (Theou), which signifies the works belonging to or originating from God. Together, ἔργα Θεοῦ (erga Theou) emphasizes the miraculous works specifically attributed to God. These works serve as a demonstration of His divine nature, sovereignty, and redemptive purposes. Jesus corrects the disciples' assumption that the man's blindness was due to sin, explaining that his condition was permitted by God to reveal divine power and glory through his healing. Throughout the Bible, God's miraculous interventions display His power and glory, from Jesus' healing miracles to the Exodus from Egypt and the resurrection of Lazarus. Jesus' statement emphasizes God's sovereignty in orchestrating events for redemptive purposes, challenging the idea that suffering always results from sin. It underscores the importance of recognizing and glorifying God's works as a testimony to His power and love. Reflections: How does recognizing the miraculous works of God in your life impact your faith and understanding of His character and purposes? How can you actively participate in sharing God's miraculous works with others as a testament to His power and love?

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | May 13, 2024 | John 8:56-59 KEY VERSE: Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you. Before Abraham was, I am.” John 8:58  (NKJV) MESSAGE: In John 8:56-59, Jesus reiterated a remarkable claim, responding to their question in John 8:53. Jesus claimed that not only was He greater than Abraham, but Abraham himself also acknowledged this. Jesus declares Himself as the "I AM," asserting His divinity and eternal nature. This passage reveals Jesus' identity as the eternal Son of God and challenges us to recognise His greatness and authority. It echoes God's revelation of Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where God declares, "I AM WHO I AM." This statement emphasises Jesus' timeless existence and His equality with God. Jesus' statement "Before Abraham was, I am" highlights His eternal existence. He existed before Abraham and continues to exist eternally, affirming His divinity and preeminence over all creation. By using the phrase "I AM," Jesus told them He was the eternal God, existing not only during Abraham's time but before that, into eternity past. He claimed to be the great I AM, the same God who spoke to Moses from the burning bush. This is the third time in this chapter that Jesus uses the phrase I AM, and it is a clear divine title belonging to Yahweh alone. His listeners understood this and reacted strongly. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Jesus' statement that He existed before Abraham is bold but true. He didn't just appear when He came to earth; He existed before anything was created. He died for us and left heaven's glory to live among us and show us God's love. How can you respond to Jesus as the "I AM" in your life, acknowledging His divinity, and submitting to His lordship? PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the revelation of your Son, Jesus Christ, as the "I AM." Help me to acknowledge His divinity and authority in my life. May I submit to His lordship and recognize His eternal nature. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: I AM The phrase "I AM" is translated in Greek as "ἐγώ εἰμί" (ego eimi) In John 8:58, Jesus uses the divine "I AM" declaration to assert his preexistence before Abraham, the revered patriarch of the Jewish faith. By claiming to exist before Abraham, Jesus affirms his eternal nature and divine identity. This statement elicits a strong reaction from the Jewish leaders, who understand the significance of Jesus' words and attempt to stone him for blasphemy. The use of the "I AM" declaration by Jesus reiterates several Old Testament passages where God identifies himself using the same phrase, such as Exodus 3:14 and Isaiah 43:10. By appropriating this divine title to himself, Jesus asserts his equality with God and his divine authority. Jesus' declaration of "I AM" emphasizes his eternal existence and divine nature. By claiming the divine name, Jesus affirms his unity with God the Father and his role in the divine plan of salvation. This statement underscores the doctrine of the deity of Christ, affirming that Jesus is the eternal Son of God who shares in the divine essence. Reflections: How does recognizing Jesus' declaration of "I AM" impact your understanding of his identity and mission? How does this revelation influence your relationship with Jesus as Lord and Saviour?

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | May 12, 2024 | John 8:52-55 KEY VERSE: Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are? John 8:53 (NLT) MESSAGE: In John 8:52-55, Jesus asserts His superiority over Abraham and emphasizes the greatness of the promises He offers. Jesus' response to the Jews' questioning highlights His authority and the unique relationship He has with the Father. He emphasizes that knowing and obeying God's word is key to understanding His identity and the promises He offers. Jesus asserts that He is greater than Abraham, as evidenced by the promises He offers. While Abraham and the prophets died, Jesus offered eternal life to those who kept His word, demonstrating His authority over death. Jesus' promise of eternal life to those who keep His word surpasses any promise made by Abraham or the prophets. This promise is based on His authority and the unique relationship He has with the Father. Those who truly know God will recognize Jesus' authority and obey His word. Sometimes the doubts of the crowd become our reminder of the truth. "Are you greater than our father Abraham?" the people ask Jesus. That's the question we are to ask. The answer is Yes! He is to be obeyed just as he obeyed the Father, revealing the Father's will to us. Jesus is greater because he is God's Son, our Lord, and Saviour—the Christ. This passage challenges us to recognize Jesus' authority and the surpassing value of the promises He gives to those who believe in Him. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: In the midst of doubt and questioning, Jesus stands firm in His authority and reveals Himself as greater than Abraham. As we ponder His words, we are challenged to recognize His authority and the surpassing value of the promises He offers. Jesus is greater than all. He is greater because He is God's Son and the Saviour, the Christ. As we seek to know and obey Him, may we be reminded of His authority and the eternal promises He offers to those who believe in Him. PRAYER: All praise to you, God most high, and all praise to Jesus, your Son and my Savior. You planned my deliverance, dear Father, and purchased my salvation through the gift of your Son who brought life and immortality to light in himself and his message. I pledge to you, O God, my heart and my life. In Jesus' name. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: GREATER The Greek word "μείζων" (meizon), carries the primary meaning of "greater" or "larger" in comparison to something else. In this context, the Jewish leaders were questioning Jesus' authority and identity, implying that he was claiming to be greater than Abraham and the prophets. The word "greater" denotes superiority or preeminence over others. It implies a higher status, authority, or importance. In John 8:53, the Jewish leaders are challenging Jesus' authority and questioning his claim to be greater than Abraham. They ask, "Are you greater than our father Abraham?" This question reflects their disbelief and scepticism regarding Jesus' identity and mission. Similar language emphasizing Jesus' greatness or superiority can be found elsewhere in the New Testament, particularly in passages where Jesus asserts his divine authority or contrasts himself with prominent figures like Abraham or Moses (e.g., John 8:58, Matthew 12:6). The use of the word "greater" tells us about Jesus' unique identity as the Son of God and the fulfilment of God's promises. It highlights his authority and superiority over all human authorities, including Abraham and the prophets. This theological concept emphasizes Jesus' divine nature and his role as the ultimate revealer of God's truth and grace. Reflections: How does recognizing Jesus' greatness and authority impact your understanding of his teachings and your relationship with him?

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | May 11, 2024 | John 8:48-51 KEY VERSE: “Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps my word, he shall never see death” John 8:51 (NKJV) MESSAGE: In John 8:51, Jesus makes a profound statement about the eternal nature of those who keep His word. This passage offers hope and speaks to the assurance of salvation and the promise of life beyond physical death for believers. This speaks to believers' hope in Christ, knowing that their souls are secure in Him. Keeping Jesus' word involves faithfulness and obedience to His teachings. This reflects a life surrendered to Christ, guided by His word, and characterised by a desire to follow Him wholeheartedly. Jesus' statement also highlights believers' victory over death through Him. While physical death is a reality, it is not the end for those who are in Christ. Believers can have confidence in the promise of eternal life with Him. When we become Christians, when we are baptised into Christ, we die to our old selves. We are raised to live a new life. The old life is gone. The most important death has happened. Yes, our bodies will eventually die. But as Christians, we are united with Christ and not even physical death can separate us from him. The part of us that is spiritually alive goes to be with Jesus and awaits his triumphant return to Earth in glory. At that time, everything that belongs to him will be transformed, and we will receive immortal bodies to live with him forever. When we obey him, when we belong to him, death cannot claim the living part of us. We will never die but will live with the Lord forever. As Paul says, we should encourage one another with this message! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How does Christ's promise of eternal life impact your perspective on death? In what ways are you striving to keep Jesus' word in your daily life? Deepen your trust in God's promise of eternal life and live more fully in light of this truth. PRAYER: Almighty and eternal God, my Abba Father, thank you for making me yours and joining my life to Jesus so that death can claim only my body, but can never have me. I look forward to the coming day of victory when I will join all of your children to celebrate and participate in your glory! In Jesus' name and by his power, I praise you. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: DEATH The Greek word for "death" in this passage is "θάνατος" (thanatos), which typically refers to physical death but is also used metaphorically to denote spiritual death or separation from God. Jesus accuses his opponents of being spiritually dead, belonging to their father, the devil, who is the source of sin and spiritual death. This spiritual death results in their inability to understand and accept Jesus' message of truth and salvation. Reflections: Reflecting on your own life, do you find yourself spiritually alive in Christ, or are you spiritually dead, separated from God due to sin and disobedience? How can you experience spiritual life and renewal through Jesus Christ?