Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, tackle Matthew chapters 11 and 12, under the theme "Conflict and Confrontation." Jesus, who performs miracles and shares the message of the kingdom, receives mixed reactions.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, examine Matthew Chapter 10, where Jesus prepares His disciples for their mission to spread the Gospel. The theme of the day is "A Mission Almost Impossible."
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, dive into Matthew chapters 8 and 9, where Jesus demonstrates His divine power through various miracles, reflecting the theme: "Experiencing Supernatural Power Leads to a Super-Radical Decision."
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, discuss Matthew Chapter 7, concluding Jesus' Sermon on the Mount with the theme "An Efficient Spirituality." Jesus teaches about the importance of not judging others hypocritically but instead examining oneself first.
Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, delve into Matthew Chapter 6, continuing the exploration of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, focusing on "A Different Spirituality." This chapter challenges believers to examine their motives behind charitable acts, prayer, fasting, and handling material possessions.
On Mission 66, Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, explore the profound teachings of Jesus in Matthew Chapter 5, focusing on "a surprising spirituality." This chapter introduces the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus outlines the characteristics of true Christian virtue, contrasting them with worldly values.
In this episode of Mission 66, Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, examine Matthew Chapter 4, focusing on "the devil's temptation." Jesus, led by the Spirit, faces the devil's temptations in the wilderness after fasting for forty days.
In this episode of Mission 66, Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, discuss Matthew Chapter 3, themed "Make Way for the King!" John the Baptist emerges as a herald in the wilderness, calling people to repentance because the kingdom of heaven is near.
On Mission 66, Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, delve into Matthew Chapter 2, discussing the theme "A Star is Born." The chapter recounts the visit of the Magi, wise men from the East, who followed a miraculous star to Bethlehem to worship Jesus, the newborn "star" or important figure prophesied to be the Savior.
On this edition of Mission 66, Esther and our teacher, John Mathews, explore the first chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, beginning our journey through the New Testament. The theme for this study is "Pre-natal Checkup," focusing on the genealogy of Jesus Christ and the miraculous circumstances surrounding His birth.
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.
