This chapter presents Jesus Christ as the pre-existent Word, the Creator, the source of life, and the Light of the world. John the Baptist's testimony about Jesus and his divine identity is highlighted. The chapter unfolds the calling of the first disciples who recognize Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God.
The chapter recounts the visit of the women to Jesus' tomb, where they find it empty and are greeted by angels who announce His resurrection. The risen Jesus appears to two disciples on the road to Emmaus and later to the apostles, demonstrating His physical presence and opening their understanding of the Scriptures.
These chapters cover the heart-wrenching moments leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. The narrative includes Jesus' final Passover meal, his agonizing prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, betrayal by Judas, Peter's denial, Jesus' trials before the Sanhedrin, Pilate, and Herod, and his ultimate crucifixion.
The chapter begins with religious leaders questioning Jesus' authority, leading to a parable about tenants who reject the vineyard owner's son, symbolizing Israel's rejection of God's messengers and Christ Himself. Jesus also skillfully navigates a trap about paying taxes, underscoring the need to honour earthly rulers while prioritizing our duty to God.
The chapter recounts the story of Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector whose encounter with Jesus leads to repentance and restitution. Jesus teaches the parable of the minas, emphasizing the responsibility to wisely invest what God has given us.
Esther Sisulu and our host, John Mathews, explore the parables and teachings of Jesus that underscore the need for humility, persistence in prayer, and complete devotion to the kingdom of God.
Jesus discusses the nature of faith and the kingdom of God. Faith, Jesus teaches, is like a muscle that grows with use and is manifested through actions, not just feelings or agreement with doctrines.
Jesus addresses the complex relationship between earthly pursuits and spiritual priorities. The chapter begins with the parable of the dishonest manager, illustrating shrewdness in worldly matters, and transitions to discussing the proper use of wealth in serving God.
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.
