Our Teacher, John Mathews, delves into Matthew 23 and discusses the theme "harmful to your spiritual health." Jesus confronts the hypocrisy of the scribes, Pharisees, and religious leaders of His time.
On this edition of Mission 66, Our Teacher, John Mathews, discusses Matthew chapter 21, with the theme “welcomed, yet rejected.” Jesus enters Jerusalem, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies, notably from Zechariah 9:9, as he rides humbly on a donkey, symbolizing peace.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, explore Matthew Chapters 19 and 20 under the theme "The Cost of Non-Discipleship." These chapters address the serious issue of wealth and its potential to become a barrier to following Jesus.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, navigate the complex and often misunderstood topic of marriage and divorce as presented in Matthew Chapter 19. The theme "Faithful to the End" encapsulates Jesus' teachings on the sanctity and endurance of marriage.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, delve into Matthew Chapter 18, where Jesus teaches about "Strength in Humility." Jesus uses a child to illustrate that greatness in the kingdom of heaven is marked by humility and child-like faith.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, explore Matthew Chapter 17 with the theme "A Mission from Another World." This chapter showcases the Transfiguration, a pivotal event where Jesus reveals His divine glory to Peter, James, and John.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, examine Matthew Chapters 15 and 16 under the theme "From Galilee to the World." In these chapters, Jesus continues to perform miracles and teach, but faces increasing opposition from religious leaders.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, delve into Matthew Chapter 14, focusing on the theme "Seeing Yet Unbelieving." Despite Jesus performing incredible miracles, such as feeding the five thousand and walking on water, many witnesses remain skeptical of His true identity.
In this episode of Mission 66, Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, explore Matthew Chapter 13, which is filled with Jesus' parables. The theme is "An Illustrated Kingdom," where Jesus uses parables to convey deep spiritual truths about the kingdom of heaven.
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.
