In this episode, teacher John Mathews and co-host lead us in a study of Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome, facing a violent storm and shipwreck. Through divine intervention and Paul's leadership, all passengers survive, demonstrating God's faithfulness and control even amidst chaos and danger.
Have you ever felt that you were treated unfairly? This episode highlights the limitations of earthly justice and the reliability of divine purpose as Paul faces trials and accusations in front of Roman governors Felix and Festus, and King Agrippa, after being falsely accused in Jerusalem.
Consider a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did you navigate it? John Mathews leads us in a study that shares the story of Paul's confrontation with the Jewish council, his cleverness in dividing the Pharisees and Sadducees, and a plot to assassinate him.
Think about a time you were misunderstood for doing the right thing. How did you handle it? In this episode, the importance of standing for truth amidst misunderstandings and the power of personal testimony is examined.
Have you ever felt called to do something despite knowing it would be difficult?Today's study highlights Paul's unwavering commitment to God's work despite impending trials. Highlighted are his travels through Macedonia and Greece has he returns to Jerusalem.
Is there anything in your life that conflicts with your faith? Today's study emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel and the spiritual and societal upheaval it can cause.
Today our teacher John Mathews guides us through a study of Paul and Silas missionary journey intending to go to Asia but their plans change when the Holy Spirit guides them to Macedonia instead of Asia. This episode examines God sovereignty and how the Gospel can be spread in the face of adversity.
Our teacher, John Mathews leads us through todays episode which examines how the church decides to include Gentiles. Paul and Barnabas do amazing things on their journey, like healing a man in Lystra. Even when Paul gets hurt, he keeps preaching. The council's decision shows the church's commitment to sharing Jesus's message with everyone.
In 2 Peter Chapter 1, our teacher John Mathews emphasizes that
believers have “Everything We Need” for a godly life through their
knowledge of Jesus Christ. He reassures us that Jesus’ sacrifice is
sufficient and that the teachings of the apostles provide us with all
the necessary guidance. Peter encourages Christians to lead lives
of virtue, knowledge, self-control, godliness and love, confirming
their calling and election. He also affirms the truthfulness of
Scripture, emphasizing that prophecy is not open to personal
interpretation but is inspired by the Holy Spirit.
The theme of Leviticus 3-5 is “Peace With God and Man.” These chapters explain offerings meant to restore peace between people and God, and address how unintentional sins can be forgiven. The peace offering symbolized gratitude and a harmonious relationship with God, reminding us that gratitude strengthens our connection with Him. The sin offering covered unintentional sins, showing that all sin—whether small or accidental—interrupts our fellowship with God and requires atonement through the shedding of blood. The guilt offering focused on how sins and offenses against others required confession and restitution. These laws teach us to be thankful, confess wrongs, and repair relationships with neighbours. Today, we don’t need animal sacrifices because Jesus paid the price for us through His blood, but peace with God and others still requires repentance, honesty, and humility.
Leviticus 11 talks about pure and impure animals in the Old Testament dietary laws. These laws weren’t just about food—they taught deep spiritual lessons. Clean animals like those that chew their cud symbolize ruminating over God’s Word, while parted-hoof animals represent a separated, holy walk. Both traits are necessary to live a God-honouring life: focusing on the Word and living set apart from the world. God used these dietary laws to teach holiness, reminding the Israelites to stay distinct from pagan practices and impurities. While these ceremonial laws are no longer required for Christians today, striving for holiness remains important. Our teacher, John Mathews, reminds us that impurity doesn’t just come from outward things—it often comes from within. Ultimately, God calls us to be holy because He is holy, setting a higher standard for living lives that honour Him.
While Moses was on Mount Sinai, the Israelites created a golden calf and fell into idolatry. This revealed their continued attachment to the sinful practices of Egypt. Moses interceded for the people, and God showed mercy, though consequences followed. This chapter reminds us that even after being saved, we must actively remove sin and worldly influences from our lives. God calls us to worship Him alone and to remain faithful, even when tempted to stray.
In Exodus 17-18, the theme “Don’t Be in Dismay, Pray!” highlights God’s provision and guidance during challenges. In chapter 17, the Israelites complain about thirst, and God provides water from a rock. When the Amalekites attack, Moses prays while Joshua leads the battle. God’s power prevails when Moses’ hands are lifted, teaching the importance of prayer and teamwork. In chapter 18, Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, advises him to delegate responsibilities to capable leaders. This wisdom helps Moses avoid burnout and trains others for leadership. These chapters remind us that God provides for both our physical and spiritual needs when we trust Him.
