Esther Sisulu and our host, John Mathews, focus on the restoration of Peter after his denial of Jesus. The theme is "celebrating the recovery," highlighting Jesus' forgiveness and the re-establishment of Peter despite his previous failures.
Esther Sisulu and our host, John Mathews, delve into the pivotal event of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb and Jesus appears to her, the disciples, and especially to Thomas, who doubts until he sees Jesus himself. These eyewitness accounts and the disciples' transformative experiences provide compelling evidence of the truth of the resurrection.
John Mathews explores the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ as detailed in John Chapters 18 and 19. Jesus, the Son of God, faced an unjust trial and was crucified despite being innocent.
In what is known as the high priestly prayer, Jesus not only prays for the strength to endure his suffering but also for the sanctification and unity of his followers. He emphasizes the importance of being set apart for God’s work and remaining protected from evil influences.
Jesus prepares his disciples for the hardships they will face, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit will guide them through persecution, tribulation, and everyday challenges. Christ's departure is necessary for the Comforter to come and empower believers.
Jesus teaches his disciples about the importance of remaining in him to bear fruit. He likens himself to a vine and his followers to branches, emphasizing that fruitfulness stems from a close relationship with him.
As Jesus prepares his disciples for his departure, he offers comfort and the promise of the Holy Spirit. He assures them that in his Father's house are many rooms, and he goes to prepare a place for them.
As Jesus prepares for his crucifixion, He demonstrates an extraordinary act of humility by washing his disciples' feet, illustrating the profound nature of servanthood.
The chapter reveals the misconceptions about Jesus' purpose, highlighting that he was not a political revolutionary, but the Messiah sent by God to die for sinners. John illustrates Jesus' divinity through miraculous signs, like raising Lazarus, and emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus for eternal life.
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.
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.
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.
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.
