Rev. Enoch Thompson | August 8, 2023 | Matthew 23:13 (14) KEY VERSE: Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Therefore you will be punished more severely. Matthew 23: 13 (14) (NIV) MESSAGE: Human beings find themselves at one time or another in a situation where they are helpless and will clutch at a straw in the hope of possible help. Widows in the culture of the Bible may be the best illustration of a disadvantaged person. A woman who had lost her husband in a male-dominated culture, not having the physical strength of a man to cater for herself, and open to the evil schemes of lawyers who may not want to defend their cause or men who may want to abuse them is a very good picture of a person who is vulnerable and open to being taken advantage of. So, the Lord charges the scribes and Pharisees of using religious gymnastics to take advantage of disadvantaged persons, just as today's religious hypocrites take advantage of all manner of people, male and female, literate and illiterate, rich or poor, fat or slim, people, just disadvantaged people. Maybe you have read of, heard of, or even been the victim of the extortions religious charlatans make of people who follow them in the search for answers to their life questions. To extort is to use cunning pressurized methods to take from people that which they possess. Religious hypocrites master and demonstrate the skills of extortion. They are materialistic and seek to amass more and more wealth to support their show of affluence. They, therefore, find ways by pampering or cajoling their victims to extract wealth from them. They project strange ideas about how giving to them would make the givers rich or how using items produced by them would make one have divine favour. Religious hypocrites project themselves as meriting the best treatment possible in any community of faith they find themselves in, and they get the support of accomplices who shout their praises and require that all resources be placed at their feet. When soldiers came to John the Baptist with an interest to participate in the Kingdom of God which he was proclaiming he directed them to stop extorting from people (Luke 3:14). Do security agents, government workers, Pastors, and church members, extort still, and call themselves Kingdom citizens? The Pharisees were charlatans as well, they concocted ways of religious showmanship to hoodwink their prey. Today long prayers and superbly heavy glossolalia (speaking in tongues) are glazed with swallowable revelations of things seen in the “spirit world,” with the intention to devour the resources of the helpless seekers. The Lord saw the Pharisees in this mode and condemned them roundly and soundly. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Beware of the schemes of religious extorting charlatans. In the context of church or the marketplace, do you find yourself veering into the mode of such people, to take advantage of vulnerable people? The Lord is watching, and He promises to punish such conduct severely. In all we do, and especially in the position of leadership let us make sure we do not act hypocritically and take advantage of the weak. PRAYER: Dear Lord, please forgive me if I have used my position to extort anything from anyone. Please help me to be content with what I have, and to be sincere in exercising my temporal and spiritual opportunities and gifts. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ______________________________ DAILY word study: DEVOUR In Matthew 23:14, Jesus rebukes the scribes and Pharisees: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You devour widows' houses and make long prayers for show. Therefore, you will receive greater condemnation." The word "devour" conveys the idea of consuming or exploiting, and in this context, it speaks of the religious leaders' exploitation of vulnerable individuals while masking their intentions with public displays of piety. This passage prompts us to examine our treatment of the vulnerable and marginalized. It calls us to consider whether our actions reflect genuine care and compassion or if we are inadvertently exploiting others for personal gain. The Greek word used for "devour" in Matthew 23:14 is "κατεσθίω" (katesthio), which means "to eat up, to consume." It carries a sense of devouring or using up something completely. In this verse, "katesthio" is used metaphorically to describe the exploitation of widows' houses, indicating a figurative consumption of their resources and well-being. Throughout the New Testament, "katesthio" is used to describe both physical consumption (eating food) and metaphorical consumption (exploiting or squandering resources). In this passage, it highlights the misuse of authority and power by the religious leaders to take advantage of those who were in a vulnerable position. As we study "devour" within the context of Matthew 23:14, it prompts us to reflect on our interactions with others, particularly those who may be vulnerable or in need. Are we using our influence to uplift and support them, or are we inadvertently "devouring" their well-being for our own gain? This reflection challenges us to live out Jesus' example of compassion, justice, and genuine care for those who are in need. Let us seek to be a source of blessing and empowerment rather than contributing to the exploitation of others.

Rev. Enoch Thompson | August 7, 2023 | Matthew 23:13 KEY VERSE: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to. Matthew 23:13 (NIV) MESSAGE: Our journey in the Anatomy of Hypocrisy has taken us through a few lessons; let’s recap: ANATOMY LESSON 1: HYPOCRITES BURDEN OTHER PEOPLE WITH A HEARTLESS RELIGION ANATOMY LESSON 2: RELIGIOUS HYPOCRISY LOVES SHOWMANSHIP (PART 1; BEWARE OF SELF ON THE THRONE) ANATOMY LESSON 3: RELIGIOUS HYPOCRISY LOVES SHOWMANSHIP (PART 2; USE TITLES IN HUMILITY) You might have heard said of someone being a dog in a manger. Such a dog does not eat the grass in the manger, and at the same time does not allow the sheep who need the grass to have access to the grass in the manger. This is the portrait of the hypocritical religionist in ANATOMY LESSON 4: RELIGIOUS HYPOCRISY OBSTRUCTS KINGDOM BENEFITS. The Pharisees opposed the teaching and claims of the Lord Jesus and sought every opportunity to trip Him with contrived loaded questions and baseless unfounded and moot accusations based on a deliberate misinterpretation of His words. To them, Jesus of Nazareth was an ordinary Jewish young man empowered by Satan himself and making misleading boisterous claims as Messiah. They did not follow Him, as a group, but some individuals among them believed in the Lord. Remember Nicodemus came to Him by night to seek a closer acquaintance with His doctrine, and Joseph of Arimathea was a secret disciple who came out of hiding after the crucifixion! This shows that individual consciences when not surrounded by negative influences can lend themselves to sound judgment, and also that the wrong pretence of false religious leadership can affect people negatively in their search for the Kingdom of God. The group rejection of Jesus of Nazareth as Messiah, by the religious leaders (who should have known better, who should have embraced the Messiah and who should have led the people to accept Him as their long-awaited Messiah and the Saviour of the world), influenced the masses of the Jewish people and resulted in a national rejection of the Lord. These pretending religious leaders were not taking hold of the Kingdom of God, and they became detractors of those who otherwise would have benefitted from the blessings of the person and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ. O the judgment to come when my failure to access God's provisions and privileges affects other people’s faith-walk negatively, especially people who look up to me for spiritual direction! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What is your state of belief or unbelief concerning the Bible and the claims it makes about your person? Are you in some ways becoming a negative influence on the faith and faith-walk of another person, spouse, child, parent, colleague neighbour the Church or the world? Are you a sheep feeding from the manger of Kingdom living, or a dog in the manger, frightening people away from the King and His Kingdom? It is time to stop, reflect, repent, and turn to serve the evangelism and discipleship agenda of Christ in the lives of others, especially those entrusted to us in the family, in the church and the world. PRAYER: Dear Lord, please forgive me for times I have been an obstruction to people coming to you, to people walking with you, and to people growing in you. Please forgive me and help me to help others to the banquet of the Kingdom. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! _______________________________ DAILY word study: HYPOCRISY In Matthew 23:13, Jesus begins a series of denunciations against the scribes and Pharisees: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to." This verse exposes the hypocrisy of the religious leaders, who outwardly presented themselves as righteous but obstructed others from truly knowing God. The passage calls us to examine our own hearts and actions. It prompts us to reflect on whether our lives reflect true devotion or if we are inadvertently creating barriers for others to experience the grace and love of God. The Greek word used for "hypocrites" in Matthew 23:13 is "ὑποκριτής" (hypokrites), which refers to an actor or pretender. In its original context, it described someone who wore a mask to play a role on stage. In the New Testament, "hypokrites" refers to those who pretend to be something they are not, particularly in matters of faith and morality. This word captures the essence of the scribes and Pharisees' behaviour. They projected an image of piety while lacking sincerity and genuine devotion. Their outward appearances concealed their inner motivations, resulting in a form of religious deception. As we study "hypocrisy" within the context of Matthew 23:13, we are reminded of the importance of authenticity in our faith. It prompts us to consider whether our relationship with God is characterized by transparency and honesty. Are we truly living out our convictions, or are we wearing a spiritual mask? This reflection challenges us to align our inner lives with our external actions, ensuring that our faith is marked by genuine sincerity and a heart that seeks to glorify God above all else.

Rev. Enoch Thompson| August 5, 2023 | Matthew 23:5-12 KEY VERSE: "Everything they do is done for men to see: . . . Matt 23:5a (NIV). MESSAGE: Modern-day mindset requires self-assertion. Coaching goes on as to how one could project a dominant image of themselves. I recently saw a video clip in which a career coach was showing a class of people how they could use the facts of themselves to sell themselves for higher acceptance. The young man being used to illustrate the principle was a pilot who had some eighteen years of experience. He was instructed to introduce himself as having been flying to close to two decades. That difference in presentation he was told will make a better impression in any conversation than just saying “I have been a pilot for eighteen years.” Self-assertion is good in a way to offset the depreciation of others that is carried out through gender differences, race, ethnicity, and other differences. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself taught us in Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV): ¹⁴ "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” However, for the Pharisees, they were obsessed with self-projection in their whole life and their religion. They did not seek to live out the demands of godliness because of the necessity of it and in the bid to glorify God. Their every act was an attempt to draw attention to themselves. They were now gods and must receive the praise. Their sense of importance came from their impressive dressing, the accumulation of titles and occupying high places in social gatherings or social discourse, being recognized by others, and being applauded. They wanted, even demanded that their works of religion be seen, commended, and commented upon in flowery terms by others. And they reached out to grab the recognition of humans in every situation, and by whatever means. Whatever they did, which looked good and seemed to work for the general good, was intended by them to project themselves as the best and most suited to be given recognition and veneration. The Lord Jesus rebuked this hypocritical attitude. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What motivates you in the things you do generally, but particularly in matters of religion and religious observance? Are you impressed by people’s impression of you more than God’s impression of you? Beware of showmanship, especially religious showmanship. PRAYER: Lord, please throw your searchlight on my heart, and help me judge the intentions and motives for the way I carry myself. If there is any element of unhealthy self-projection and a desire to be seen by people, then heal me with a sense of self-worth that is derived because I am conscious of your acceptance and love for me. Help me Lord to find my self-definition in you alone. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ___________________________________________ DAILY word study: PHYLACTERIES In Matthew 23:5, Jesus criticizes the scribes and Pharisees for their showy displays of piety: "Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long." Phylacteries were small boxes containing Scripture verses worn on the forehead and arm as a symbol of devotion. The exaggerated size of their phylacteries and tassels reflected their desire for public recognition. This passage prompts us to reflect on the sincerity of our worship and devotion. Are our actions driven by a genuine desire to honour God, or are they tainted by a desire for praise from others? Jesus invites us to cultivate a heart of authentic worship that seeks God's approval above all else. The Greek word used for "phylacteries" in Matthew 23:5 is "φυλακτήριον" (phylakterion), derived from "φυλάσσω" (phylássō), which means "to guard, to observe, to keep safe." The phylacteries served as a reminder to keep God's commandments close and to guard them in daily life. The root study of "phylacteries" invites us to consider the intention behind our outward expressions of faith. Just as the phylacteries were meant to remind the wearer of God's commands, our actions should reflect a heart that diligently seeks to guard and observe God's Word. The focus is on internalizing God's truth and allowing it to shape our character. As we reflect on "phylacteries" within the context of Matthew 23:5, may it prompt us to assess our motives and intentions in worship and devotion. Let us cultivate a genuine desire to honour God, ensuring that our actions align with a heart that treasures and guards His Word. ----

Rev. Enoch Thompson| August 4, 2023 | Matthew 23:1-4 KEY VERSE: They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. Matthew 23:4 (NIV) MESSAGE: One prevalent imagery the Bible uses to depict God is that of a good shepherd. The ever-popular Psalm 23 of King David, and the eloquent claims of the Lord Jesus Christ in John 10 are good examples of how godly church leaders are required to live their lives and to lead God’s people. John 10:11-15 (NIV) ¹¹"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. ¹²The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. ¹³The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. ¹⁴"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— ¹⁵just as the Father knows me and I know the Father — and I lay down my life for the sheep. The Lord Jesus Christ is a compassionate Saviour and a caring Master. Church leaders are supposed to be sympathetic caring and aiding towards their followers. Not so the hypocrites! The Pharisees were bent on creating an impression of deep spirituality by imposing rigorous rules and demands upon their followers. The sad part is that these rules were not followed by themselves. Either because the rules are unrealistic or that they are additions to God’s Law which they brought in in the guise of strict spirituality. While the followers strained themselves to meet the requirements the leaders led an easy life which made a mockery of their followers. This also is hypocrisy and the Lord spoke hard against it. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you realistic in your demands and expectations of others in the matter of faith and practice? Do you demand of your children and subordinates standards of behaviour and performance that you are not willing to subject yourself to? Don't be a hypocrite. Come by the side of those who are struggling to keep up with the standards you set and be a supportive guide to anyone you lead. PRAYER Lord how we desire shepherds like you over your flock. Please raise leaders at home and in the Church who set realizable standards, demonstrate commitment to those standards, and hold up those who struggle to live up to the standards. Please deliver us from ungodly leaders who may know all the right things but have a wrong spirit. Please enable those of us in leadership positions to be people who lead by willing example and participating in the struggle. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study - HEAVY LOADS Matthew 23:4 records Jesus' rebuke to the religious leaders: "They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them." In this passage, Jesus addresses the burden of legalism and hypocrisy that the scribes and Pharisees imposed on others while avoiding such obligations themselves. The concept of "heavy loads" extends beyond physical weight. It represents the emotional, spiritual, and psychological burdens that can result from rigid adherence to rules and external piety. Jesus' words remind us of the dangers of imposing unrealistic expectations on ourselves and others, rather than embracing the liberating grace and love of God. The Greek word used for "heavy" in Matthew 23:4 is "βαρύς" (barus), which means "heavy, weighty, burdensome." It implies a sense of heaviness and difficulty. In the context of this passage, "barus" metaphorically refers to the oppressive religious requirements that burdened people's souls. This root word study invites us to consider the weightiness of legalism and the contrast with Jesus' invitation to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28-30). The Pharisees burdened people with external regulations, while Jesus offered a yoke that is easy and a burden that is light. The study of "barus" reminds us to seek a faith that is rooted in grace, love, and a genuine relationship with God, rather than a burdensome adherence to rules. As we reflect on "heavy loads" within the context of Matthew 23:4, may it prompt us to examine our own approach to faith. Let us release the unnecessary burdens we may have placed upon ourselves and others, and instead embrace the freedom and rest that comes from following Jesus with an open heart.

Rev. Enoch Thompson| August 3, 2023 | Matthew 23:1-4 KEY VERSE: ²"The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. ³So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. Matthew 23:2-3 (NIV) MESSAGE: I do not know if you have ever been faced with the challenge of a leader whose works do not match their words, especially in the context of the Christian life. This poses a considerable challenge to the followers, who are either misled to copy the wrong behaviour and attitudes of the bad leader or are thrown into confusion as to what to do. The Lord Jesus needed to clarify the question of authority in matters of spirituality, as in all other domains of human life. He needed to do this before opening the bandages to show what hypocrites the scribes and Pharisees were. The community of faith must have designated leaders, and there are people who one way or the other have become religious leaders, but do not show the character transformation that should go with their faith declaration or their positions in the community of believers. They play roles that are intended to serve as an example and to foster the total welfare of the members of the community of believers, yet they fall short of it in many ways. The Lord sets a principle out in clear terms for our guidance. When a person occupies a leadership role as an appointed representative, we are to give them full regard, for the sake of the good office they occupy, in spite of their hypocrisy. A distinction must be made between the correct teaching offered by the bad leader and the bad leader and between their right teaching or administrative capabilities and their bad character. In Romans 13 the Apostle Paul urges believers to be subject to the ruling authorities even though they were non-Christian and sometimes antagonistic to the Christian faith. Such obedience makes for social and organizational orderliness, which is necessary for progress and development. The other option for followers with morally inconsistent leaders is to rebel against them and create confusion in the community. The instruction given by the Lord here is, when you feel revulsive with a hypocritical leader, submit to them in the right things they teach because you respect the office they occupy. However, the Lord is very clear, “. . . do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.” Matthew 23:3 (NIV). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: When you find yourself in a dilemma because of a leader who is inconsistent with their morality and spirituality, don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. Just make sure you don’t jump into the bathtub with them! PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I am sorry if at any time and by any means I have caused anyone to be confused when my behaviour and speech have not matched my Christian claims. Please help me to align properly. I pray that the Church will have leaders that walk the talk and do not cause confusion among those who seek the Kingdom of God. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study - PRACTICE In Matthew 23:2-3, Jesus instructs His followers to observe and obey the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees but warns against imitating their actions. He points out their lack of genuine practice of what they preach. This passage underscores the significance of consistent and authentic practice in our faith journey. The call to "practice" extends beyond mere knowledge or verbal proclamation. It involves the intentional and consistent application of God's principles in our daily lives. We are challenged to align our beliefs with our actions, allowing our faith to permeate every aspect of our existence. Just as a musician refines their skill through diligent practice, our faith grows stronger as we continually apply and embody the teachings of Christ. The Greek word used for "practice" in Matthew 23:3 is "ποιέω" (poieo), which carries the meanings of "to make, to do, to produce, to perform, to commit." It emphasizes active and purposeful engagement in carrying out an action. The root word conveys the idea of creating or bringing something into existence through deliberate effort. In the context of this passage, "ποιέω" emphasizes the practical application of religious teachings. It invites us to actively live out the truths we profess. Just as a skilled craftsman creates a work of art through meticulous effort, we are called to craft a life that reflects our faith in action. This entails a continuous commitment to aligning our conduct with our convictions, transforming knowledge into lived experience. As we meditate on "practice" within the context of Matthew 23:2-3, may it inspire us to earnestly engage in the intentional and purposeful application of God's Word. Let our daily actions be a living testament to the transformative power of faith put into practice.

LISTEN TO THE TIMELY WORDS OF CHRIST Rev. Enoch Thompson| August 2, 2023 | Matthew 23:1-4 KEY VERSE: Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples:..... Matthew 23:1 (NIV). MESSAGE: There are heightened moments of communication when the best effects could be attained. In traditional Ghanaian culture, a mother who wants to advise her son or daughter will, for the best effect, wake them up at dawn and address the issues. The Lord Jesus Christ had been addressing the testing of the religious leaders in the seeing and hearing of His disciples and the multitudes, and when He had shown the emptiness of those leaders, He knew the stage was set for the addressing of the people on the danger of the hypocrisy. The little word “then” at the beginning of Matthew 23 connects us to all that had transpired in the preceding chapter. There is a “then,” a time when God wills and does speak certain truths to us. And the Lord expected that the listening crowds will be warned of the misleading false character of their religious leaders. Are there times that we have felt a strong communication of God concerning ways in our lives, especially in the context of the consequences of those behaviours in the lives of people close to us, or far away from us, but brought into our story by media or other technologies? The experiences of the past are meant to prepare us to better catch the communications from God to us today. Similarly, our present experiences are shaping us for the new experiences God would like for us to have with Him as we journey through this life. That is on the receiving side; what about the giving side? "Then," and the question is “When?” Certain facts should provoke certain responses and reactions from us and make us communicate our convictions and concerns to those who are in our love and are our responsibility. Parents must share with their children candid views about certain persons, worldviews, and behaviour. Christian brothers and sisters must determine when to communicate some concerns. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you able to determine when it is time to offer certain responses to certain misbehaviours in the home, in society or the Church? The Lord speaks still to those who are willing to listen, and in times and circumstances to make us better people. Are you able to hear when the Lord speaks? Who are your responsibilities? Do you see any things that you need to caution them about? Are you able to determine when is the right time to address issues with others? PRAYER: Gracious Master, tender Teacher, thank you that you know best when and how you speak to me. How privileged am I to have you bow to my low position, to speak to me. Please make me have ears that hear, and a heart that is always sensitive to you. Please draw your Church closer to your bosom and help us hear when you speak. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

Rev. Enoch Thompson| August 1, 2023 | Matthew 23:13a KEY VERSE: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! Matthew 23:13a (NIV) MESSAGE: Matthew chapter 23 is the most detailed presentation of the Lord's primary problem with the Jewish religious leaders of His time, the Scribes and the Pharisees, and the reality of the fact that they were hypocrites. The events in chapter 22, especially 22:34-46, the Lord’s encounters with attempts of the Jewish religious leaders to catch Him in His own words, and His successful silencing of them, set the scene for chapter 23. In this chapter we are going to join the Lord to do the analysis of hypocrisy, to determine the description of the form and component parts of hypocrisy, a factor that made the religious leaders so unacceptable to Him and which made them so opposed to Him. The word “hypocrite” originally was used to refer to stage-actors, people in the theatres who played the roles of those they were not or would never become. Used that way, it was an innocent word. Over time it came to be used to refer to people who made a lifestyle of pretence. The Lord Jesus found the Scribes and Pharisees of His time astute pretenders, hypocrites! Chapter 23:1-30 is going to spell out eight counts on which the guilt of hypocrisy is affirmed for the Jewish religious leaders. Verses 37-39 will show us the doom that comes to those who made a life of religious hypocrisy. It is a scathing time in the surgery ward where we will be helped by the Lord, the Great Surgeon, to see the diseased insides of a life of hypocrisy. We are going to be faced with our own portraits or maybe warned of what we are likely to become if we fail to follow Christ sincerely. Through this surgical operation, we will learn to be different from those Jewish leaders, so we will find the Lord’s favour where they courted His displeasure and anger. From this point on, things begin to move faster towards the cross. The scribes and the Pharisees had to get Jesus killed because He spoke truth to power. They could not withstand the audacity of a young man who pointed at them and told them what they truly were. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE The descendants of the Scribes and Pharisees are still with us or may sometimes be us. The devotionals in this chapter are an invitation to look within each of our souls, in the presence of the Lord, and to seek healing for ourselves. It is an invitation to let God's Spirit lead us to look at the Church to see how we fare as individual persons, as leaders and as a body. Are you a pretender? Let the searchlight of God help you discern. PRAYER: Lord, I tremble as I stand in your holy and searching presence. I tremble as I hear the woes directed at the hypocritical Scribes and Pharisees, and I pray that I will not come under the same judgment. I yield my heart to you; search me oh God and help me clean my heart that I may not come under your judgment. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 31, 2023 | Matthew 22:41-46 KEY VERSE: No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions. Matthew 22:46 (NIV) MESSAGE: In this chapter of Matthew, various religious groups came to question Jesus in an attempt to trap him with his own words. The Pharisees and Herodians teamed up to ask about taxes, but Jesus provided a wise response. The Sadducees followed with a question about marriages after the resurrection, but Jesus challenged their understanding of the law of Moses. Finally, the Scribes asked about the great commandment, and Jesus provided an answer that satisfied their doubts. The master then took his turn to ask a question of his own. The question was designed to be simple in form but with a complex answer. Its purpose was to test their comprehension of the scriptures about Jesus Christ. The question was, "Whose son is Christ?" They correctly answered that he was the son of David. However, instead of praising them, the master presented them with a perplexing truth that would require further explanation to fully understand its meaning. Although the answer that Jesus gave to the Pharisees and Scribes was not easy to understand, the way they reacted in the last verse indicated that they recognized the implication of it. This caused them to remain silent for the remainder of the period. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Your detractors may seem as though they are having a field day and have the upper hand over you. It is just because the master hasn’t spoken yet because He is observing their motives and mannerisms. The best way to win a war is to study the opponent’s strategy and build your attack around it. He is about to speak on your behalf, and when He speaks all those hecklers will be silenced and scattered. Just wait for him. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I will be silent and wait for you to speak on my behalf. I know that when you speak, you will silence the enemy and bring closure to my case. I depend on you. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSING!!

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 30, 2023 | Matthew 22:34-40 KEY VERSE: Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37 (NIV) MESSAGE: When Jesus was asked about the great commandment in the law, he replied with two laws: loving God and loving our neighbours. Some individuals have questioned how it is possible to love our neighbours and spouses if Jesus instructs us to love God with all our hearts, soul, and mind. The answer lies in the fact that all love originates from God; thus, we can genuinely love others when we first love God, who is the source of all love. Without God's love, all love is selfish and self-seeking. To truly love those around us, such as our neighbours, friends, siblings, and spouse, we must first love God with all our hearts. This love for God will spill over into our relationships with others, allowing them to also benefit from our love. Therefore, it is essential to place God first, and everything else will fall into place. It has been said that the price for finding all of God is engaging all of yourself in the search (heart, soul and mind). And it is those who seek Him with all of their heart that will find him. FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE Are you seeking God but haven’t found him yet? Check how you are seeking Him; is it with all your heart? Do you have trouble loving others? How much do you love God? Love God first, and He will help you to love others. Seek Him with all your heart and you will find Him. PRAYER Dear God, I want to love you with all I am and all I have. Help me to seek you with my whole heart. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSING!!

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 29, 2023 | Matthew 22:23-33 KEY VERSE: At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven. Matthew 22:30 (NIV) MESSAGE: Right after the Pharisees had tried and failed to trick and entangle Jesus by his words came the Sadducees, also with a trick question. They came with some form of sarcasm; remember, the Sadducees do not believe there is going to be a resurrection after death. So, the question and the scenario they created for Jesus was an attempt to be sarcastic. But the master had time for all kinds of people and their schemes. It brings to mind the scripture that says, always be ready with an answer for anyone who questions your faith. Jesus always had time to do just that, and he ended up teaching lessons from the questions asked. In this case with the Sadducees, the lesson was on the nature of God and marriage. He affirmed the doctrine of the resurrection and stated that, in the resurrection, there will be nothing like marriage nor being given into marriage. This means that all marriages will eventually end, as we depart from this earth and all human relationships, including marriages, will become insignificant. There is a valuable lesson we can all learn and apply: when you get married, don't postpone your happiness and enjoyment. All the fun and fulfilment can only be experienced while you're alive on Earth. Once you're gone, it's over. Therefore, it's important to strive to understand God's plan for your marriage and make every effort to submit your union to His ultimate purpose. Through my interactions with numerous married couples, I have noticed a trend of individuals simply tolerating their partner and enduring their marriage. This behaviour seems unusual to me, as I believe that marriage should be a source of joy and fulfilment when shared with someone we love and have chosen to commit our lives to. FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE Why endure marriage when you can enjoy marriage? If for some reason you are postponing your enjoyment in marriage, I will humbly ask you to rethink and find some middle ground with your spouse to start enjoying your marriage now. And for those of us yet to get married and trusting God that much, rethink your perception about marriage and prepare to enjoy it here on earth. But remember it is still “till death do us part.” There is no marriage in heaven. PRAYER Heavenly Father, you are the God of the living and not the dead. Help me according to your will to have every form of enjoyment in this Holy institution of marriage here in this body. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSING!!

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 28, 2023 | Matthew 22:15-22 KEY VERSE: But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me?" Matthew 22:18 (NIV) MESSAGE: Anytime the Pharisees came to Jesus with a question, there was always a hidden agenda. By now, they knew that Jesus had read into their evil plots and seen almost all their approach and tricks. So, this time, they sent their disciples with some allies, and hid behind them, to try another trick on Jesus. One may wonder why they wanted to trap him and get rid of him by all means. In earlier readings where they openly confronted Jesus and He dribbled them, they had attempted to even arrest him, but he escaped. The people revered the Pharisees as the lawmakers and custodians of the law in the sect, and they were very powerful among the people. They were the final authority in things about religious law among the Jews. And here comes Jesus who is now demonstrating such authority in the open that, the Pharisees seem powerless in the eyes of the people. He was a serious threat to the governing of the Jews by the religious leaders and must be gotten rid of by all means necessary. According to scripture, the Pharisees made numerous attempts to “corner” Jesus and arrest him for what he would say, but they failed each time. Jesus usually could discern what kind of plot they were bringing and cleverly escaped from them. Mostly by asking them questions they could not find answers to, and sometimes by referring them to the very scripture they claim to be championing as religious leaders. There was a way he beat them all the time to diffuse their arguments and tensions directed at Him. How does He do it? Jesus discerned their thoughts and plans but had to act to disentangle himself from their schemes and traps. FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE We must be able to discern the evil thoughts of men and apply Godly wisdom to escape their traps. Discerning and not acting wisely will result in us falling into the trap of the enemy. Jesus is the wisdom of God, and he is available to guide us. Ask for wisdom for Wisdom is the principal thing. PRAYER Heavenly Father, grant me wisdom to navigate my path from falling into the traps of my enemies. Help me to discern their thoughts and actions, so I will know how to deal with their entrapments. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSING!!

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 27, 2023 | Matthew 22:11-14 KEY VERSE: But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. He asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?’ The man was speechless. Matthew 22:11-12 (NIV) MESSAGE: It is interesting to note that even in the banquet where everyone is supposed to have a free entry there could still be people who are imposters. In our earlier devotional “Free Gate” we understood that the gate of the wedding feast was opened to anyone. But today we will learn that not everyone will be welcomed as a guest. This sounds very contradictory but let us talk about it in the next few paragraphs. In our text today the king found a man at the wedding feast who was not properly dressed for the occasion; he did not have a wedding garment. He immediately ordered the man to be bound hands and feet and cast out into outer darkness. As much as salvation is free, one must accept the invitation by accepting Jesus as Lord and Saviour of their lives and live their lives for Him. Accepting and living for Him is what produces the beautiful yarns to sew your wedding garment. It provided you with the right attire to remain at the wedding banquet and belong in that space. Just like the man who did not have the wedding garment but found his way into the people at the feast, Christ warned us that, there will be such men among us today who will use his name to cast out demons and prophesy and perform miracles. But they are none of His. He called them evildoers. There are in our day, many such men, who are deceiving the same people God is calling to Himself. And one needs to decern to know what the will of God is to stay aligned. The king will question such soon and they will be found wanting. But beware, for they walk and live among us. FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE The proof that you have accepted Jesus, is you living for Him and allowing Him to live through you. As you do the will of your Father in heaven after accepting His son, your good deeds provide the golden yarns needed to sew the beautiful wedding garment you will wear at the wedding feast. We are saved unto good deeds, therefore do not grow weary in doing good. PRAYER My Father my Father, help me to decern and know your will. Give me the grace to study and know your word, so I will not be deceived and swayed by every wave of doctrine. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSING!!