Reading : Luke 13:10-17
The sermon in first person:
Jesus came preaching of his kingdom amidst roman empire. An empire which was a counter trend to the empires of the world. Jesus is teaching in a synagogue (a place of worship of the Jews).
Beth == House, Bethlehem == House of Gods, Synagogue == House of prayer
A woman is incapable of standing as she was crippled for the past 18 years. Although being weighed down by the deformity yet she came to the house of the Lord, glorifying God. Whether bent or straight her intention was to praise the Lord. We may ask ourself why should we go to the church. Imagine a football match between manchester united and chelsea without spectators. Church needs us and we need church. It is a place of assembly for praising God. Synagogue leader open the house of the Lord for prayer. He is responsible for the community thus a critical personality. Spiritual leadership is completely different from normal leadership. Spiritual leader is confident in God and knows God, seeks God well, is humble, a follower of God's example, serves God, loves God and is dependent of God.
God is calling us for spiritual leadership. God is looking for people who understand spiritual powers. Jesus says "You have been freed". God intervened in the life of the crippled woman. Jesus works with God to perform miracles. He then looks up to the father and give Him thanks.
God's empire in action is that Jesus works with God to accomplish various tasks. Jesus re interperates the law for the crippled woman. Deutronomy 5:12-15 : God created the sabbath. Jesus re interperates to tell that the sabbath day was meant to explain real meaning of God's purpose. God is telling us via the scripture that the timing of God is very important. God intercepts our problem at the right time...
Everyone needs healing. The vision of God is that we all stand erect and praise Him. Spiritual power is untying people who are caught up in their bandages. 1 Corinthians 4:20 "Kingdom of God is not in world but in power"
Showing posts with label For the love of God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label For the love of God. Show all posts
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Sunday, July 13, 2008
15/6/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church (KMC): Speaker: Pastor Grace Methodist Church: Theme: Life in his kingdom
Was unable to get the name of the speaker. Reading was taken from 1 Timothy 1:1-10. And here goes the sermon in 1st person
Paul appreciated timothy and his parents and grandparent of their faith.
1 John 3:1-3: talks about the lavish love for our heavenly father. When God appears we will be like Him.
Scripture talks about various workers working for different amount of time getting the same amount of money as renumeration. The laborers belong to the poorest of the poor. This parable talks about the kingdom of god.
Where is the kingdom of God? When this kingdom will come. We normally believe that this kingdom is up above without any sufferings. New testament has a lot of parables which talk about the kingdom of God. New testament tells that the kingdom of God has come. A place where we obey the will of God. But it also tells that the best is yet to come.
What is life like in God's kingdom. The parables tells a lot about the kingdom. It tells that there is no favoritism in God's kingdom.
Jews disliked gentiles for thinking themselves as favorite to God. But everyone is equal in the sight of God.
God loves all. Irrespective of time or place. his love is for everyone. Some may have accepted Christ at different points in our life, as a child, as a youth, as an old. But in Jesus Christ we have someone who loves us equally. God loves those who come in the morning as well as those who come in the evening.
Thief in the cross asked Jesus to remember him and he accepts him in his kingdom.
Infinite compassion of God. It is so much, we won't be able to measure with our own understanding. In this parable God in His mercy Gave these poor people work ....
Common criticism to church is that to fill various vacancies with the second best candidates. We need to show compassion to other people who need it.
Generosity of God: All these laborers do different amount of work. There is no rank in God's kingdom. Everyone is same in the eyes of God and God gives them liberally and lovingly.
Pastor also raise funds. Some do give liberally and sometimes the generosity could be surprising. The philosophy of work is different in God's kingdom. These workers who came to work can be divided into two groups. One who were under contract and others who were not. In God's kingdom it is the joy of working which is important. Today the money which is abundant and flow has also affected the church. There is no joy of working instead we are working for thw money. In the kingdom of God we work for the joy. Its a joy to do his ministry
Paul appreciated timothy and his parents and grandparent of their faith.
1 John 3:1-3: talks about the lavish love for our heavenly father. When God appears we will be like Him.
Scripture talks about various workers working for different amount of time getting the same amount of money as renumeration. The laborers belong to the poorest of the poor. This parable talks about the kingdom of god.
Where is the kingdom of God? When this kingdom will come. We normally believe that this kingdom is up above without any sufferings. New testament has a lot of parables which talk about the kingdom of God. New testament tells that the kingdom of God has come. A place where we obey the will of God. But it also tells that the best is yet to come.
What is life like in God's kingdom. The parables tells a lot about the kingdom. It tells that there is no favoritism in God's kingdom.
Jews disliked gentiles for thinking themselves as favorite to God. But everyone is equal in the sight of God.
God loves all. Irrespective of time or place. his love is for everyone. Some may have accepted Christ at different points in our life, as a child, as a youth, as an old. But in Jesus Christ we have someone who loves us equally. God loves those who come in the morning as well as those who come in the evening.
Thief in the cross asked Jesus to remember him and he accepts him in his kingdom.
Infinite compassion of God. It is so much, we won't be able to measure with our own understanding. In this parable God in His mercy Gave these poor people work ....
Common criticism to church is that to fill various vacancies with the second best candidates. We need to show compassion to other people who need it.
Generosity of God: All these laborers do different amount of work. There is no rank in God's kingdom. Everyone is same in the eyes of God and God gives them liberally and lovingly.
Pastor also raise funds. Some do give liberally and sometimes the generosity could be surprising. The philosophy of work is different in God's kingdom. These workers who came to work can be divided into two groups. One who were under contract and others who were not. In God's kingdom it is the joy of working which is important. Today the money which is abundant and flow has also affected the church. There is no joy of working instead we are working for thw money. In the kingdom of God we work for the joy. Its a joy to do his ministry
Monday, June 30, 2008
8/6/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church: Speaker: Pastor H Mathew: Theme: Growing from Small to Big: Months Theme: Life in His Kingdom
I have finally realized that it was not the pastor but me. I slept to my hearts content the previous night and found his sermon not so boring. Now I can definitely make peace with the notion that there is something wrong with his delivery. In fact his content is even more appealing.
A small story of a hymn was also mentioned today. "Blessed Assurance" was written by a blind person. What it signifies that even in disability this person was able to see the promise in the Lord.
Another thing worth mentioning is the soulful rendition by Joshua and one lady. Even though I am writing the post after such a long time their voice still rings in my ear.
The reading was taken from Mark 4:26-32
We always desire to grow and rise to greater heights. If we are not growing then we are static, stagnant leading to unhappiness.
In the parable their is an imagery of a seed with the kingdom of God. It talks about the growth of the seed referring to the growth of the kingdom of God. Another parable about wheat refers to the separation in the kingdom of God. Another parable talks about spreading of the kingdom of God.
People came and asked that why do Jesus talk in parables. He replies that kingdom of God is so mysterious that you won't understand it without simplification.
There is a secret growth of the kingdom of God as emphasized in the imagery via seed in the parable. Farmer sows and forgets but the seed grows with the farmer returning at the time of harvest. It is God who brings the fruit for the farmer. Similarly the kingdom grows under the eyes of God
Through intervention, involvement, participation of God something small can be transformed into something big. We may spend our life to achieve something big but we may not succeed due to the absence of God's involvement, as we do not desire his involvement...
In the scripture we see so many lives although being small in stature and grandeur was transformed to heights of greatness, David in old testament is such an example.
In new testament we see that Jesus feeds so many with so little in quantity. When sometimes we think that we are not worthy so much to do the work of God but God has a purpose for us and makes work in different ways.
No one thought that cross is something great questioning the very of a God being crucified. But for others cross is where we get our salvation from. Throughout his life Jesus humbleness was making Him the savior of the world.
We may think that we do not have that much ability, think oneself to be small in various aspects, but God will deliver us from smallness we may feel of. We may be in despair, poverty, hunger, smallness but when Jesus works continuously in our life then He brings great joy, comfort and the potential within us to make us greater in our life. We just need to plant the seed. Unless we sow the seed we won't get fruit. Although it may be a small seed but it will grow using the power within us. Likewise in the fields of family, society, friends, church; we have to sow the seed of God so that it can grow and do miracles. Sometimes we may sow the seed of evil. Satan encourages us in doing so. So we need to be careful and watchful.
God causes seed to grow. We may decide to lead a particular kind of life to achieve greatness but it is quite possible that we might fail. This happens due to our dependence on other things than God. We need to make an effort with God and allow the seed to grow. God works in us to help us grow in the kingdom of God.
Some one said that "Do what you do thoroughly, pray over it heartily and leave the result to God." When we do that God works in our life.
A story widely used to encourage young people. There was an emperor. In the absence of any child he thought of entrusting his kingdom to one among the youths. He called upon every young person in his kingdom. He said that "I will give you all one seed each, take it, plant it and come back after a year". A young man took the seed and went home. He took care of it. As time passed by all those who had taken the seed was confident but not this guy. He was not happy as his plant was not growing. After a year every one who had taken the seed brought their plants to the king's court for judgment. But this guy was sad as his plant had not grown and did not know what to do. His mother then told him to be honest. So he took whatever he had to the king. Every body else seeing his plant made fun of him. King arrived and was happy to see so many well developed plant. He noticed this young man's pot which was empty. On seeing that he exclaimed "Behold this person is your future king" Every one was surprised. The king explained "the seed give to each one you was such that it would have never grown. Everybody except this guy was dishonest and had used their own seed"
God has given us the seed. Many times we struggle to make it grow. We put our own seed to portray that the seed has grown. But we need to grow using the seed which God has given us. But if the seed fails to grow we need to be honest and as God for its purpose. We need to accept the kingdom of God with all honesty and sincerity and then God will take us from smallness to heights of glory.
A small story of a hymn was also mentioned today. "Blessed Assurance" was written by a blind person. What it signifies that even in disability this person was able to see the promise in the Lord.
Another thing worth mentioning is the soulful rendition by Joshua and one lady. Even though I am writing the post after such a long time their voice still rings in my ear.
The reading was taken from Mark 4:26-32
We always desire to grow and rise to greater heights. If we are not growing then we are static, stagnant leading to unhappiness.
In the parable their is an imagery of a seed with the kingdom of God. It talks about the growth of the seed referring to the growth of the kingdom of God. Another parable about wheat refers to the separation in the kingdom of God. Another parable talks about spreading of the kingdom of God.
People came and asked that why do Jesus talk in parables. He replies that kingdom of God is so mysterious that you won't understand it without simplification.
There is a secret growth of the kingdom of God as emphasized in the imagery via seed in the parable. Farmer sows and forgets but the seed grows with the farmer returning at the time of harvest. It is God who brings the fruit for the farmer. Similarly the kingdom grows under the eyes of God
Through intervention, involvement, participation of God something small can be transformed into something big. We may spend our life to achieve something big but we may not succeed due to the absence of God's involvement, as we do not desire his involvement...
In the scripture we see so many lives although being small in stature and grandeur was transformed to heights of greatness, David in old testament is such an example.
In new testament we see that Jesus feeds so many with so little in quantity. When sometimes we think that we are not worthy so much to do the work of God but God has a purpose for us and makes work in different ways.
No one thought that cross is something great questioning the very of a God being crucified. But for others cross is where we get our salvation from. Throughout his life Jesus humbleness was making Him the savior of the world.
We may think that we do not have that much ability, think oneself to be small in various aspects, but God will deliver us from smallness we may feel of. We may be in despair, poverty, hunger, smallness but when Jesus works continuously in our life then He brings great joy, comfort and the potential within us to make us greater in our life. We just need to plant the seed. Unless we sow the seed we won't get fruit. Although it may be a small seed but it will grow using the power within us. Likewise in the fields of family, society, friends, church; we have to sow the seed of God so that it can grow and do miracles. Sometimes we may sow the seed of evil. Satan encourages us in doing so. So we need to be careful and watchful.
God causes seed to grow. We may decide to lead a particular kind of life to achieve greatness but it is quite possible that we might fail. This happens due to our dependence on other things than God. We need to make an effort with God and allow the seed to grow. God works in us to help us grow in the kingdom of God.
Some one said that "Do what you do thoroughly, pray over it heartily and leave the result to God." When we do that God works in our life.
A story widely used to encourage young people. There was an emperor. In the absence of any child he thought of entrusting his kingdom to one among the youths. He called upon every young person in his kingdom. He said that "I will give you all one seed each, take it, plant it and come back after a year". A young man took the seed and went home. He took care of it. As time passed by all those who had taken the seed was confident but not this guy. He was not happy as his plant was not growing. After a year every one who had taken the seed brought their plants to the king's court for judgment. But this guy was sad as his plant had not grown and did not know what to do. His mother then told him to be honest. So he took whatever he had to the king. Every body else seeing his plant made fun of him. King arrived and was happy to see so many well developed plant. He noticed this young man's pot which was empty. On seeing that he exclaimed "Behold this person is your future king" Every one was surprised. The king explained "the seed give to each one you was such that it would have never grown. Everybody except this guy was dishonest and had used their own seed"
God has given us the seed. Many times we struggle to make it grow. We put our own seed to portray that the seed has grown. But we need to grow using the seed which God has given us. But if the seed fails to grow we need to be honest and as God for its purpose. We need to accept the kingdom of God with all honesty and sincerity and then God will take us from smallness to heights of glory.
Saturday, June 07, 2008
1/6/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church: Theme: Gods Kingdom: Speaker: Pastor Andrew
One thing I noticed this day that in the absence of my hair band, open hair makes me look out of the place. Anyways without wasting too many words here is the sermon for this day
Reading: St. Mathew 3:1-12
The gospel contiuously speak about the kingdon of God. What is kingdom of God? It is the dynamic rule of God,.... The kingdom of God does not belong belong to a particular tribe. Mathew speaks 50 times, Mark 14, Luke 39 and John 5 times about the kingdom of God. In the passage John came preaching aout the kingdon of God. Three important things we can carry on in our spiritual life; preaching of John the baptist, life of John the baptist and purpose of john the baptist.
God was faithfull to the people of Israel. He brought them to the promise land. Wilderness is a place of revelation. It is also a place for testing.Gods kingdom is based out of the place of wilderness. We may undergo wilderness i our own life( life of hostility ) but God gives us the promise to show the way from wilderness. We need to turn arouno and face the reality of kingdom of God. John tells us about repentance in order to enter kingdom of God. We often tend to change externally but resist any change internally and in our own private life. John talks about judgement. We like to here goody message which gives comfort to us but in the absence of genuine repentance we are to be judged like everyone else.
A tree that does not bear good fruit is bound to be cut down by the axe and thrown to fire. We as Christians are the tree and via the axe (a symbol of authority) , will be judged for the absence of fruit. John the baptist dressed peculiarly which denoted his poverty and was dependent on God in his wilderness. He ate and dress within the things which were available to him. But even in poverty he was committed towards God's purpose. We spend so much time towards improving our lifestyle that its desire gets closer towards greed leading to gluttony. It is important for us to realize that we are God's people and thus should be content with what God has given to us.
John 1:19-23: People are confused who is He. He then replies that he is not Christ, Elijah or any prophet. He replies that he is the voice of the wilderness who comes to prepare the way of the Lord. Who are we? How we define our own identity? Many people are caught in bothering about what are others saying about them. Our identity should come from the relationship we have with Lord Jesus. Pupose of John which he had in his life was clear to him that he had come to prepare the way of the Lord. Likewise we should also prepare the way of the Lord by our deeds, our bearings,....We should prepare the way for the second coming of Jesus. We should move out of the way, lower the resistance and allow God to work in us. John 3:30. He says that "He must increase but I must decrease". That is the way we make the way for the kingdom of God for its coming. We should be humble to allow Lord to prosper in our life . Mathew 11:11 He who is humble is greater
Reading: St. Mathew 3:1-12
The gospel contiuously speak about the kingdon of God. What is kingdom of God? It is the dynamic rule of God,.... The kingdom of God does not belong belong to a particular tribe. Mathew speaks 50 times, Mark 14, Luke 39 and John 5 times about the kingdom of God. In the passage John came preaching aout the kingdon of God. Three important things we can carry on in our spiritual life; preaching of John the baptist, life of John the baptist and purpose of john the baptist.
God was faithfull to the people of Israel. He brought them to the promise land. Wilderness is a place of revelation. It is also a place for testing.Gods kingdom is based out of the place of wilderness. We may undergo wilderness i our own life( life of hostility ) but God gives us the promise to show the way from wilderness. We need to turn arouno and face the reality of kingdom of God. John tells us about repentance in order to enter kingdom of God. We often tend to change externally but resist any change internally and in our own private life. John talks about judgement. We like to here goody message which gives comfort to us but in the absence of genuine repentance we are to be judged like everyone else.
A tree that does not bear good fruit is bound to be cut down by the axe and thrown to fire. We as Christians are the tree and via the axe (a symbol of authority) , will be judged for the absence of fruit. John the baptist dressed peculiarly which denoted his poverty and was dependent on God in his wilderness. He ate and dress within the things which were available to him. But even in poverty he was committed towards God's purpose. We spend so much time towards improving our lifestyle that its desire gets closer towards greed leading to gluttony. It is important for us to realize that we are God's people and thus should be content with what God has given to us.
John 1:19-23: People are confused who is He. He then replies that he is not Christ, Elijah or any prophet. He replies that he is the voice of the wilderness who comes to prepare the way of the Lord. Who are we? How we define our own identity? Many people are caught in bothering about what are others saying about them. Our identity should come from the relationship we have with Lord Jesus. Pupose of John which he had in his life was clear to him that he had come to prepare the way of the Lord. Likewise we should also prepare the way of the Lord by our deeds, our bearings,....We should prepare the way for the second coming of Jesus. We should move out of the way, lower the resistance and allow God to work in us. John 3:30. He says that "He must increase but I must decrease". That is the way we make the way for the kingdom of God for its coming. We should be humble to allow Lord to prosper in our life . Mathew 11:11 He who is humble is greater
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
25/5/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church: Speaker : Pastor H Mathew: Theme:Gifts of the Spirit
This day was really strange. For a change I did not sleep during the sermon. If you think that is something unthinkable then hold on, what is even more shocking that the speaker was Pastor H. Mathew. For those who are following this sunday stories of mine, you already know my not so comfortable relationship with his sermon. I guess one should always expect the unexpected. Anyways here goes what he had to say. The reading for this day was taken from Galatians: 5: 16-26
We live in a world where we come across plenty of things which we cherish. On the other hand we may come across thing which we wish we never had to face. We as people are busy being so are the others who we may meet. Their could be plenty who need guidance of the Lord. Sometimes some of us may feel the absence of the guidance of the Lord. In this busy schedule, the spiritual life also needs its place and presence. So their is a need to be busy in spiritual life too. In such fast paced world whenever we feel tired their is Jesus to carry us on his shoulders. (Psalm 46:10) The presence of the Lord is required in our life. And we also require to have the holy spirit present in our bodies.
Anecdote: Jesus goes t his temple to find out that it has been taken over by all the things deemed unholy in God's sight. So he got angry overturned all such activities to make the place as it should have been i.e. to be a place of worship. We need a place where people can come together in the presence of the Lord. We need to be still in His love and give time to the Lord. In the passage read to day there are three C's which needs to be considered and notice.
1)Conflict: In the passage we see that the two nature mentioned i.e. wicked and spiritual are in conflict. They are in constant battle. Sometimes we succumb to the powers of evil then we need more time to bring out and harness the spiritual power within us. What are the fruits of the spirit? Love, kindness, peace...all of them constitutes the fruits we are talking about. These are the nature and the character of the holy spirit which helps us in defeating the evil within us. These factors are the spiritual fruits which will keep us healthy spiritually.
2) Crucified: Those who belong to Christ have crucified the sinful nature with passion and desire. When we are crucified in the holy spirit then the holy spirit dwells in us. Baptism in the the church symbolizes the death of us and us being raised in the Lord. (Romans 8:6) Mind of sinful man is death but mind controlled by spirit is peaceful...
Anecdote: Sadhu Sundar Singh. After he accepted Jesus he became a great witness of the Lord. With Christ he said it was like being in the ocean of love.
3) Conform: Conform to the way of the spirit. Since we live in the spirit we should keep it in step with the holy spirit. We need to walk along the holy spirit. We should not lead a spiritual life at the superficial level. Within us we need to conform to the callings then only we will experience the spirit dwelling within us continuously. Someone pointed out that one is paint and the other is stain. Paint looks good and is on the surface and can be removed. Stain goes deep inside the fabric and need effort in its removal. Likewise the holy spirit goes deep within us to clean us from the stains of evil.
Anecdote: A young artist was dissatisfied with his creation. He thought of taking the paint brush of a famous artist and then may be he will be able to do better job. Somehow he got hold of the brush and carried on painting. But still he was not happy. Then a friend of his said it is not the masters brush but the masters spirit is required.
So we need to inherit the nature of the Lord and be in the holy spirit to enjoy its fruit and replenish it periodically.
Then he closed summarizing the sermon.
We live in a world where we come across plenty of things which we cherish. On the other hand we may come across thing which we wish we never had to face. We as people are busy being so are the others who we may meet. Their could be plenty who need guidance of the Lord. Sometimes some of us may feel the absence of the guidance of the Lord. In this busy schedule, the spiritual life also needs its place and presence. So their is a need to be busy in spiritual life too. In such fast paced world whenever we feel tired their is Jesus to carry us on his shoulders. (Psalm 46:10) The presence of the Lord is required in our life. And we also require to have the holy spirit present in our bodies.
Anecdote: Jesus goes t his temple to find out that it has been taken over by all the things deemed unholy in God's sight. So he got angry overturned all such activities to make the place as it should have been i.e. to be a place of worship. We need a place where people can come together in the presence of the Lord. We need to be still in His love and give time to the Lord. In the passage read to day there are three C's which needs to be considered and notice.
1)Conflict: In the passage we see that the two nature mentioned i.e. wicked and spiritual are in conflict. They are in constant battle. Sometimes we succumb to the powers of evil then we need more time to bring out and harness the spiritual power within us. What are the fruits of the spirit? Love, kindness, peace...all of them constitutes the fruits we are talking about. These are the nature and the character of the holy spirit which helps us in defeating the evil within us. These factors are the spiritual fruits which will keep us healthy spiritually.
2) Crucified: Those who belong to Christ have crucified the sinful nature with passion and desire. When we are crucified in the holy spirit then the holy spirit dwells in us. Baptism in the the church symbolizes the death of us and us being raised in the Lord. (Romans 8:6) Mind of sinful man is death but mind controlled by spirit is peaceful...
Anecdote: Sadhu Sundar Singh. After he accepted Jesus he became a great witness of the Lord. With Christ he said it was like being in the ocean of love.
3) Conform: Conform to the way of the spirit. Since we live in the spirit we should keep it in step with the holy spirit. We need to walk along the holy spirit. We should not lead a spiritual life at the superficial level. Within us we need to conform to the callings then only we will experience the spirit dwelling within us continuously. Someone pointed out that one is paint and the other is stain. Paint looks good and is on the surface and can be removed. Stain goes deep inside the fabric and need effort in its removal. Likewise the holy spirit goes deep within us to clean us from the stains of evil.
Anecdote: A young artist was dissatisfied with his creation. He thought of taking the paint brush of a famous artist and then may be he will be able to do better job. Somehow he got hold of the brush and carried on painting. But still he was not happy. Then a friend of his said it is not the masters brush but the masters spirit is required.
So we need to inherit the nature of the Lord and be in the holy spirit to enjoy its fruit and replenish it periodically.
Then he closed summarizing the sermon.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
18/5/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore: Speaker: Pastor Andrew: Theme: Empowered by the Spirit
The speaker for this day was Pastor Andrew. I like this guy. He speaks well and gives me enough fodder to write. The difference this day was that I had walked to church instead of biking. I was feeling good and the praise and worship was fantastic. The speaker also did not disappoint with his well directed sermon. One of those days when all things went right. So here is the sermon in first person. The passage for meditation was taken from Ephesians:5:15-21
We are called Christians (those who follow the Lord). In the new testament, we the people of God have an identity i.e. spiritual ones. Three observation can be made about the holy spirit from the new testament. Will try to portray/ show the spiritual reference which will help us in our spiritual journey.
1st Observation: Spiritual people need the holy spirit. One cannot please God on our own, on our own talent, on our own credentials. God send us the power which would help us to please Him.
John: 14:15-18: Jesus is talking about another helper. The one who comes along with you in your spiritual journey. What Jesus says is that I will give you another helper who will help you in your spiritual journey. Basically the observation is we cannot please God on our own.
2nd Observation: Spiritual people need to be in balance. It is quite possible that we may not be in balance. How can we go out of balance in life. We may be intellectuals seeking reason in everything to believe. Some of us may be very emotional. The biblical pattern suggest we need to be both intellectual and emotional. Word of God tells us to the put our foot in both camps. Jesus was emotional. He cried at various instances in his stay on earth. Jesus was intellectual. As we look in Luke:24:32 we can observe that in their heart they became emotional as Jesus open their mind. Spiritual people can be conservative (resisting any change) or they may be radical (advocating only change). John 10:35: Jesus was radical as well as conservative. He says He comes not to abolish the law but to keep it. But at the same time Jesus was radical defying time and trend to talk to the prostitute, eat with poor and many such activities against established norms and practices.
If we only concentrate on the holy spirit then we go out of balance. Now the question is how to keep the balance. Colossi ans:3:16 has the answer. The spirit of God and the word of God will keep us in balance. We are moving amidst two polarities. If we concentrate only on one thing then it is not the right approach. We need to understand that we need to take the middle path. Christians should always be in equilibrium. It can become public spectacle if we fall. We need to stay in balance. May the Lord give us the strength to be in balance.
3rd Observation: Spiritual people need to exhibit the fruits of the spirit. How do people realize that you are a Christian. Galatians:5:22,33: What is the fruit of the spirit. Fruit of the spirit is love ....This is what is the most important thing. If we don't see people around with love then their is something wrong with us. The church is an institution where losers can find solace. We are this thing together and we need to exhibit love for one another. As a church we want to change the world but it is not working. Is our doctrine, theology, stewardship wrong. No, it is because of the absence of love. Loving the one who is not changeable. Their won't be any revival in church, in family in the absence of love.
After this the pastor summarized the three observation and concluded with a prayer
We are called Christians (those who follow the Lord). In the new testament, we the people of God have an identity i.e. spiritual ones. Three observation can be made about the holy spirit from the new testament. Will try to portray/ show the spiritual reference which will help us in our spiritual journey.
1st Observation: Spiritual people need the holy spirit. One cannot please God on our own, on our own talent, on our own credentials. God send us the power which would help us to please Him.
John: 14:15-18: Jesus is talking about another helper. The one who comes along with you in your spiritual journey. What Jesus says is that I will give you another helper who will help you in your spiritual journey. Basically the observation is we cannot please God on our own.
2nd Observation: Spiritual people need to be in balance. It is quite possible that we may not be in balance. How can we go out of balance in life. We may be intellectuals seeking reason in everything to believe. Some of us may be very emotional. The biblical pattern suggest we need to be both intellectual and emotional. Word of God tells us to the put our foot in both camps. Jesus was emotional. He cried at various instances in his stay on earth. Jesus was intellectual. As we look in Luke:24:32 we can observe that in their heart they became emotional as Jesus open their mind. Spiritual people can be conservative (resisting any change) or they may be radical (advocating only change). John 10:35: Jesus was radical as well as conservative. He says He comes not to abolish the law but to keep it. But at the same time Jesus was radical defying time and trend to talk to the prostitute, eat with poor and many such activities against established norms and practices.
If we only concentrate on the holy spirit then we go out of balance. Now the question is how to keep the balance. Colossi ans:3:16 has the answer. The spirit of God and the word of God will keep us in balance. We are moving amidst two polarities. If we concentrate only on one thing then it is not the right approach. We need to understand that we need to take the middle path. Christians should always be in equilibrium. It can become public spectacle if we fall. We need to stay in balance. May the Lord give us the strength to be in balance.
3rd Observation: Spiritual people need to exhibit the fruits of the spirit. How do people realize that you are a Christian. Galatians:5:22,33: What is the fruit of the spirit. Fruit of the spirit is love ....This is what is the most important thing. If we don't see people around with love then their is something wrong with us. The church is an institution where losers can find solace. We are this thing together and we need to exhibit love for one another. As a church we want to change the world but it is not working. Is our doctrine, theology, stewardship wrong. No, it is because of the absence of love. Loving the one who is not changeable. Their won't be any revival in church, in family in the absence of love.
After this the pastor summarized the three observation and concluded with a prayer
11/5/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore: Speaker: Rev. Bill Layle: Theme: Life in Spirit
The speaker on this day was Rev. Bill Layle, a pastor from Kentwood Community Church, Michigan who had come to Bangalore for the Emerging Youth Leader Conference. There is one thing about guys whose mother tongue is English. The thing is that they will be fast in their speaking and I struggled throughout to keep pace with the sermon. Somehow, I think I have managed to note down a some part of it, and reproducing it here in first person. His sermon was peculiar in one other way that it comprised of sections containing questions and thereafter 5-10 minute answer to the question. A different and effective style at least for the people like us who were listening to him for the first time.The reading for this day was taken from Judges:6:11-16
Life in spirit. Alternative is to lead a life not in spirit. Life of Gideon is what is being concentrated upon. In old testament it is said that the spirit of the Lord will come upon some. Due to Christ we have the opportunity to lead such a life. This body is the temple of the spirit...
6:12: Israelites were living in a valley.....Israel was impoverished. It is an opportunity to call to the Lord. One can be impoverished in many ways - financial, spiritual etc. There are various important question this passage raises. We have all these questions which waiver in our mind. God chose Gideon to sit on the chair of making difference. Question: What is life all about? In the same way we need to move to the chair of difference. Some may think that you are not mighty warriors. People tend to label. Soon we also start believing in the words they say. We cant do that
Ques: Who is God? The God who the forefathers talked about. The God who is almighty and powerful.
Personal Anecdote: A business was I, making good money, but was missing something i.e. a relationship with God. One need not be in full time ministry to be with God. Part of growing as a Christian is to shrink the gap of misunderstanding and difficulty.
God replied to Gideon Am I not sending You.
Ques: Who am I? (6:15). Self Doubt. He belonged to the lowest of families. Do you ever feel that God is using other people but will and can't use me. But God relabels people. "I the mighty warrior". God did not say you can do it. But he says (6:16) I will be with you. God can use anyone as it doesn't have to be an individual who knows as God expresses though us. We don't have to walk this life all alone.
Ques:(6:25): Will you put me first? We have things we are working for. We put our career, finance, family first. But do we have the courage to put God above all. Can we put him first in our life and allow Him to flow freely through us....
What do we want. What is our life all about. Do we have the courage to make a difference as we are the mighty warriors for God. Can we say/ask that 'God I am ready to be used by you and for you'. Do believe in the words 'I am the mighty warrior'. God will use us if we surrender our life to Him
Life in spirit. Alternative is to lead a life not in spirit. Life of Gideon is what is being concentrated upon. In old testament it is said that the spirit of the Lord will come upon some. Due to Christ we have the opportunity to lead such a life. This body is the temple of the spirit...
6:12: Israelites were living in a valley.....Israel was impoverished. It is an opportunity to call to the Lord. One can be impoverished in many ways - financial, spiritual etc. There are various important question this passage raises. We have all these questions which waiver in our mind. God chose Gideon to sit on the chair of making difference. Question: What is life all about? In the same way we need to move to the chair of difference. Some may think that you are not mighty warriors. People tend to label. Soon we also start believing in the words they say. We cant do that
Ques: Who is God? The God who the forefathers talked about. The God who is almighty and powerful.
Personal Anecdote: A business was I, making good money, but was missing something i.e. a relationship with God. One need not be in full time ministry to be with God. Part of growing as a Christian is to shrink the gap of misunderstanding and difficulty.
God replied to Gideon Am I not sending You.
Ques: Who am I? (6:15). Self Doubt. He belonged to the lowest of families. Do you ever feel that God is using other people but will and can't use me. But God relabels people. "I the mighty warrior". God did not say you can do it. But he says (6:16) I will be with you. God can use anyone as it doesn't have to be an individual who knows as God expresses though us. We don't have to walk this life all alone.
Ques:(6:25): Will you put me first? We have things we are working for. We put our career, finance, family first. But do we have the courage to put God above all. Can we put him first in our life and allow Him to flow freely through us....
What do we want. What is our life all about. Do we have the courage to make a difference as we are the mighty warriors for God. Can we say/ask that 'God I am ready to be used by you and for you'. Do believe in the words 'I am the mighty warrior'. God will use us if we surrender our life to Him
Saturday, May 17, 2008
4/5/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore: Speaker Pastor H. Mathew: Theme: Life in Spirit
The speaker for this day was Pastor H. Matthew. As any other day this day was no different. I felt asleep. For once I wish that I knew his native language. I have this feeling that he must be a much better speaker while speaking in his native language. If you ask me what is the basis of this belief. I would say nothing but my gut feeling. Another thing I noticed that there were plenty other people who were sleeping but at the same time some of them were awake and listening. So I guess his sermon is not so bad after all. May be the fault is in me only but what to do I try hard not to sleep during his sermon to no avail. Nevertheless here is his sermon in first person. The passage was taken from Romans 8:1-11
In the apostle creed we say we believe in the holy spirit. The third element of the trinity is more often than not neglected by us. We may feel it belongs to the pentecostal church but the fact is holy spirit continuosly work in each and every one. Noise, music gets associated with the holy spirit and we may percieve that we can receive it in such environments only. But we can be anointed in a number of different ways. To revive our life, to strengthen our life we require holy spirit. It is the primary activating, motivating factor in the church today. Holy spirit; when it was received on the day of Pentecost; the lives of the people present got changed. Even the disciples underwent transformation. When it came, it came like a gushing wind. ....
Here my pen stopped working and a part of the sermon got lost in the process of finding a new pen
Holy spirit is percieved as a person and all the things in church is inspired by it. It is involved in all the activities of the church. Four things holy spirit does in believers life (i) Convicts the sinful (ii) Regenerates those who repent and believe (iii) Sanctifies our life (iv) Guide us in all the truth.
Holy spirit convicts the world (sinfull people). Holy spirit ministers to us by convicting us of sinful nature. So that we will be able to come out of the sinfull nature and we may live a righteous life in Jesus Christ. Many time we do unrighteous things inspite of knowing it to be so. Holy spirit continuosly warns us and shows us the right path. The people who crucified Christ thought that they were doing the right thing. After the crucifixtion and anointment of the holy spirit they realized that the person on the cross died for their sins and He is the son of God.....
Gripped by sleep I started to lose my concentration frequently till I finally gave up. So the sermon reproduced after this will become more and more incoherent ultimately ending without any conclusion.
Holy Spirit rejuvinates those who believe. .....Power of revival comes via holy spirit. When regeneration happens ; person life, mind, thoughts will be under control of Christ jesus (Romons 8:1-2)......
After this I totally lost it and stopped noting down anything more.
In the apostle creed we say we believe in the holy spirit. The third element of the trinity is more often than not neglected by us. We may feel it belongs to the pentecostal church but the fact is holy spirit continuosly work in each and every one. Noise, music gets associated with the holy spirit and we may percieve that we can receive it in such environments only. But we can be anointed in a number of different ways. To revive our life, to strengthen our life we require holy spirit. It is the primary activating, motivating factor in the church today. Holy spirit; when it was received on the day of Pentecost; the lives of the people present got changed. Even the disciples underwent transformation. When it came, it came like a gushing wind. ....
Here my pen stopped working and a part of the sermon got lost in the process of finding a new pen
Holy spirit is percieved as a person and all the things in church is inspired by it. It is involved in all the activities of the church. Four things holy spirit does in believers life (i) Convicts the sinful (ii) Regenerates those who repent and believe (iii) Sanctifies our life (iv) Guide us in all the truth.
Holy spirit convicts the world (sinfull people). Holy spirit ministers to us by convicting us of sinful nature. So that we will be able to come out of the sinfull nature and we may live a righteous life in Jesus Christ. Many time we do unrighteous things inspite of knowing it to be so. Holy spirit continuosly warns us and shows us the right path. The people who crucified Christ thought that they were doing the right thing. After the crucifixtion and anointment of the holy spirit they realized that the person on the cross died for their sins and He is the son of God.....
Gripped by sleep I started to lose my concentration frequently till I finally gave up. So the sermon reproduced after this will become more and more incoherent ultimately ending without any conclusion.
Holy Spirit rejuvinates those who believe. .....Power of revival comes via holy spirit. When regeneration happens ; person life, mind, thoughts will be under control of Christ jesus (Romons 8:1-2)......
After this I totally lost it and stopped noting down anything more.
27/4/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore : Speaker: Rev Paul...: Theme: Life beyond Grave
The speaker for this day was Rev. Paul... Pastor of Methodist Church at Mysore..This guy was different. I bet no matter how much you feel sleepy you are guaranteed to remain wide awake during his sermon. The reason is simple which is he is too loud. Listening to him from a single microphone with speakers metres away from you was equivalent to listening to loud music in a closed room. Hey I am not criticizing. He was just someone who was unknowingly able to solve the biggest problem of mine during sermons i.e. sleep. The reading for this day was taken from Psalm:34:1-10 and here goes his sermon in first person.
In the Psalm the first 10 verses are hymn and last 10 versus are sermon. In the first three verses David vows to praise and exalt God and invite others.
Two friend walking through the field saw a raging bull. They ran to a drench and the bull came after them. Then one of them shouted to the other that 'Mark please pray'. Mark replied that 'I cannot I have never said a public prayer in my life'. The friend being afraid and nervous requested Mark to try and pray anything. Mark being nervous himself said a prayer which he use to say on the dinning table. 'O Lord..For what we are about to receive we are truly thankful :)'
Can we be truly thankful of what we receive...
David did not say I may. He was determined to praise God at all times - in adversity, joy or sorrow. Can we say Thank You in the times of pain. Can we say Thank You in the times of sorrow. Can we say Thank You in adverse situations. How do we look at God. As an object of praise or worship. Shall praise be in our mouth always. We must glorify our Lord not only with all our soul but also with our lips. We praise with our lips by singing a hymn titled "Then sings my soul my Saviour lord to thee. How great thou art, How great thou art"
Job 1:20. Job got up and fell to the ground in worship. He got up in all his sorrow and pain and prayed that whatever Lord gave me has take it away. May the name of the Lord be praised. God expect us to praise Him even in times of trouble, in times of immense pain. Are we doing that. if we are unable to do that then we should pray to Him that Lord I need to be anointed. I need your help. Romans 8:28: All things work for good, for those who have been called. We are lucky of having been called.
Psalm 34:4: Have we experienced Life beyond grave. Have we experienced salvation, grace, deliverance.. None of us has experienced life beyond grave.
Two drunken soldier walked towards their captain room. One asked the other where are we going. Near the captain's room they saw the captain standing outside but they did not salute. Captain got angry and asked do you know who I am. One of them said to the other 'We don't where we are going but this man does not even know who He is.'
We cannot find comfort in this world but Bible talks about life beyond grave. We are aware that life ends with life. In this world we know that life ends with death. Death is a certainty but promise of a permanent place (heaven) has been made .
He will be faithful and liberate us from the troubles we encounter in this world. Death is real but we need not fear. Jesus conquered the power of death and we have the His power and the Holy spirit. Let us encourage ourselves in this knowledge. Life has been given by God and returned to God in death.
John 11:26: Whosoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Death is an end to an earthly relationship. Let us not fear something which is just a necessary prelude. John 14:14: If a man dies will he live again. Jesus says He is the resurrection. Are we ready to reign with God. Can we say this to Lord. When a man and a woman marries they promise to cherish each other always. Jesus promises and says that come to me heavy hearted I will give you rest. Do we believe that there is life beyond grave. God will wipe out our tears as He has been doing so. Psalm34:4: What is your fear this morning. Fear of failure, fear of anything....we all are living in fear. Are we in a situation where we don't know where to go...Seek God as David sought the Lord. Only Jesus can deliver us from the power of fear
In the Psalm the first 10 verses are hymn and last 10 versus are sermon. In the first three verses David vows to praise and exalt God and invite others.
Two friend walking through the field saw a raging bull. They ran to a drench and the bull came after them. Then one of them shouted to the other that 'Mark please pray'. Mark replied that 'I cannot I have never said a public prayer in my life'. The friend being afraid and nervous requested Mark to try and pray anything. Mark being nervous himself said a prayer which he use to say on the dinning table. 'O Lord..For what we are about to receive we are truly thankful :)'
Can we be truly thankful of what we receive...
David did not say I may. He was determined to praise God at all times - in adversity, joy or sorrow. Can we say Thank You in the times of pain. Can we say Thank You in the times of sorrow. Can we say Thank You in adverse situations. How do we look at God. As an object of praise or worship. Shall praise be in our mouth always. We must glorify our Lord not only with all our soul but also with our lips. We praise with our lips by singing a hymn titled "Then sings my soul my Saviour lord to thee. How great thou art, How great thou art"
Job 1:20. Job got up and fell to the ground in worship. He got up in all his sorrow and pain and prayed that whatever Lord gave me has take it away. May the name of the Lord be praised. God expect us to praise Him even in times of trouble, in times of immense pain. Are we doing that. if we are unable to do that then we should pray to Him that Lord I need to be anointed. I need your help. Romans 8:28: All things work for good, for those who have been called. We are lucky of having been called.
Psalm 34:4: Have we experienced Life beyond grave. Have we experienced salvation, grace, deliverance.. None of us has experienced life beyond grave.
Two drunken soldier walked towards their captain room. One asked the other where are we going. Near the captain's room they saw the captain standing outside but they did not salute. Captain got angry and asked do you know who I am. One of them said to the other 'We don't where we are going but this man does not even know who He is.'
We cannot find comfort in this world but Bible talks about life beyond grave. We are aware that life ends with life. In this world we know that life ends with death. Death is a certainty but promise of a permanent place (heaven) has been made .
He will be faithful and liberate us from the troubles we encounter in this world. Death is real but we need not fear. Jesus conquered the power of death and we have the His power and the Holy spirit. Let us encourage ourselves in this knowledge. Life has been given by God and returned to God in death.
John 11:26: Whosoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Death is an end to an earthly relationship. Let us not fear something which is just a necessary prelude. John 14:14: If a man dies will he live again. Jesus says He is the resurrection. Are we ready to reign with God. Can we say this to Lord. When a man and a woman marries they promise to cherish each other always. Jesus promises and says that come to me heavy hearted I will give you rest. Do we believe that there is life beyond grave. God will wipe out our tears as He has been doing so. Psalm34:4: What is your fear this morning. Fear of failure, fear of anything....we all are living in fear. Are we in a situation where we don't know where to go...Seek God as David sought the Lord. Only Jesus can deliver us from the power of fear
Saturday, April 26, 2008
20/4/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore: Speaker: Sumesh Jacob: Theme: Life beyond the Grave
Today the sermon was given by a guest named Sumesh Jacob. Sumesh is a youth chaplin in CMA (I guess) and was in MX which he left. He was a classmate of Pastor Andrew. It was an interesting sermon, he gave. To be honest somehow I have always liked sermon of guest speakers than of KMC pastor's. May be because of me listening to them so often that I have got used to their style. Anyways, moving on to the sermon...
The importance of resurrection in 21st century. The grave is significant because it is empty. What is their of the resurrection which happened centuries ago. In the ever changing world of today what is its meaning. What have we already become due to the empty grave. And now what should be done because of it. The rising of Christ on death is the foundation oh Church today. (Romans 6:3-11) helps us realize that we already been raised in Christ. This realization is so vital to understand what we have already become if we believe in death and resurrection. Our life is hidden in Christ with God. In this ever changing world we tend to forget. It may be invisible to world and yourself that our salvation is secure and safe as once and for all a perfect sacrifice has been made.
Great preachers have been spreading the word of God. After one of the conference was over a preacher was packing his bag. A young man came to him and said that he wants to accept Christ and he was unable to do so in conference as he was shy. The preacher replied 'Too late ..Too late'. This young man was shocked and felt desperate. Then the preacher continued that 'You are too late by 2000 years now in order to accept Christ we have to just believe'
We should keep our thought on thing above and look at life in God's perspective. We should interact with world. Those with are heavenly minded the most are of greatest earthly use. We should continue to strive for setting our heart and mind daily on God in this ever changing world. We should concentrate on the word in this materialistic world. In super market if we see something beautiful we tend to want to have the thing even though its not a necessity. Same way its difficult to concentrate on Gods word. Our vision is so focused on earthly things we tend to overlook and forget heavenly things. Our morals and ethics must change, our life must make a difference by letting in Christ. How can this be possible with various weaknesses and struggle. Lord understand this problem of ours and that is why we are not alone in this world. We need not be discouraged and distressed. The reward is the promise that we will be with Him when He appears. That is the hope, that is the future. We should recognize what we have become and remind ourselves to strive daily.
The short and sweet sermon was ended by a beautiful rendition of the song Things we leave behind . His sermon was exotic and was topped by his deep baritone and amazing singing. I enjoyed it to the last minute and wish some day you all will also be able to listen to him
The importance of resurrection in 21st century. The grave is significant because it is empty. What is their of the resurrection which happened centuries ago. In the ever changing world of today what is its meaning. What have we already become due to the empty grave. And now what should be done because of it. The rising of Christ on death is the foundation oh Church today. (Romans 6:3-11) helps us realize that we already been raised in Christ. This realization is so vital to understand what we have already become if we believe in death and resurrection. Our life is hidden in Christ with God. In this ever changing world we tend to forget. It may be invisible to world and yourself that our salvation is secure and safe as once and for all a perfect sacrifice has been made.
Great preachers have been spreading the word of God. After one of the conference was over a preacher was packing his bag. A young man came to him and said that he wants to accept Christ and he was unable to do so in conference as he was shy. The preacher replied 'Too late ..Too late'. This young man was shocked and felt desperate. Then the preacher continued that 'You are too late by 2000 years now in order to accept Christ we have to just believe'
We should keep our thought on thing above and look at life in God's perspective. We should interact with world. Those with are heavenly minded the most are of greatest earthly use. We should continue to strive for setting our heart and mind daily on God in this ever changing world. We should concentrate on the word in this materialistic world. In super market if we see something beautiful we tend to want to have the thing even though its not a necessity. Same way its difficult to concentrate on Gods word. Our vision is so focused on earthly things we tend to overlook and forget heavenly things. Our morals and ethics must change, our life must make a difference by letting in Christ. How can this be possible with various weaknesses and struggle. Lord understand this problem of ours and that is why we are not alone in this world. We need not be discouraged and distressed. The reward is the promise that we will be with Him when He appears. That is the hope, that is the future. We should recognize what we have become and remind ourselves to strive daily.
The short and sweet sermon was ended by a beautiful rendition of the song Things we leave behind . His sermon was exotic and was topped by his deep baritone and amazing singing. I enjoyed it to the last minute and wish some day you all will also be able to listen to him
Thursday, April 24, 2008
13/4/2008: Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore: Speaker: Pastor Andrew: Theme: Life Beyond Grave
I am little late in updating my post because of the time which I was unable to get. So sincere apologies to those who are following my Sunday Church experience. The passage for meditation was 1 Corinthians:15:50-58.
Pastor Andrew started with a little tale to humour and set the tone of his sermon. A man always use to sleep when a pastor preached. So one day a pastor thought of doing something different so that from the next time onwards at least this person would make an effort to keep awake. So when this man slept the pastor shot a question and said very softly that all those who wants to go to heaven stand up. The congregation except this man stoop up. Then he shouted all those who want to go to hell stand up. Then this man who was sleeping woke up in a hurry stood up. This man was puzzled and he then said to the pastor that I don't know what are we voting for but it seems that only me and you are in favour of it :)
Now the rest of the sermon went like this.
Some of the churches in Corinth (1 Corinthians 15:12) did not believe in resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:35) Some of the churches stopped believing in the resurrection of the dead. Churches in Corinth became materialistic and lost view of the future. (Mark 12:8) Jesus encountered those who did not believe in resurrection. They believed in life now and enjoying that life to the fullest. (Isaiah 38:18) They believed but not in the same way as it is to be believed. Today one of the major religion believes in the concept of reincarnation. Moksha is a higher state of and for the spirit. Marxist believe that the concept of life after death is what the rich propagate. The soul escapes the body which is evil (in some beliefs). Some said that the holy spirit is enough and they did not look at the future. (1 Corinth 15:50-58) Paul says we shall be transformed. Focus is on two type of people : one who is dead an the other who is alive in Christ. (1 Corinth 15:42) Paul says the phenomenon will happen when Jesus arrives. Those dead and those alive will undergo change. Spiritual body will undergo transformation. How is the spiritual body attainable (1 Corinth 15:45). Jesus is the life giving spirit. Flesh and blood will not inherit the kingdom of God. The holy spirit in power will resurrect us in spiritual life and give us a spiritual body. Body will be under full control and will be under the dominion of the holy spirit. Paul is talking about it being a mystery. New testament reveals plenty of things. It has answers because of Jesus Christ. When will the transformation happen ? It will happen in a split of time. (Revelation 11:15) The seven angel will sound the trumpet. Some of us are not believers. All of us will be raised but not in the same way as one images Jesus, But all will not enter the kingdom of God. This morning the Lord is calling you that 'I will give you the spiritual life'. the incorruptible is a body which God gives to each one of us. The sting (sin) is taken out from the bee (death) because of grace of God. Death drives its power from sin. When Jesus rose it lost its power. We sing doxology which is the doxology of the early Church as a sign of victory over death. Some may have come to church today from conflicting situation but God says 'Come to me'. Paul talks about steadfast heart. We should always work for and towards the kingdom of God. Our heart should perceive with the knowledge that its labour in Lord is not in vain. this morning the resurrection phenomenon is inevitable. We need to get involve in the kingdom of God. I believe in resurrection by faith. Do You??? Faith sees the way, faith sees light, faith is what we need to exercise.
Nice sermon I would have to say :)
Pastor Andrew started with a little tale to humour and set the tone of his sermon. A man always use to sleep when a pastor preached. So one day a pastor thought of doing something different so that from the next time onwards at least this person would make an effort to keep awake. So when this man slept the pastor shot a question and said very softly that all those who wants to go to heaven stand up. The congregation except this man stoop up. Then he shouted all those who want to go to hell stand up. Then this man who was sleeping woke up in a hurry stood up. This man was puzzled and he then said to the pastor that I don't know what are we voting for but it seems that only me and you are in favour of it :)
Now the rest of the sermon went like this.
Some of the churches in Corinth (1 Corinthians 15:12) did not believe in resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:35) Some of the churches stopped believing in the resurrection of the dead. Churches in Corinth became materialistic and lost view of the future. (Mark 12:8) Jesus encountered those who did not believe in resurrection. They believed in life now and enjoying that life to the fullest. (Isaiah 38:18) They believed but not in the same way as it is to be believed. Today one of the major religion believes in the concept of reincarnation. Moksha is a higher state of and for the spirit. Marxist believe that the concept of life after death is what the rich propagate. The soul escapes the body which is evil (in some beliefs). Some said that the holy spirit is enough and they did not look at the future. (1 Corinth 15:50-58) Paul says we shall be transformed. Focus is on two type of people : one who is dead an the other who is alive in Christ. (1 Corinth 15:42) Paul says the phenomenon will happen when Jesus arrives. Those dead and those alive will undergo change. Spiritual body will undergo transformation. How is the spiritual body attainable (1 Corinth 15:45). Jesus is the life giving spirit. Flesh and blood will not inherit the kingdom of God. The holy spirit in power will resurrect us in spiritual life and give us a spiritual body. Body will be under full control and will be under the dominion of the holy spirit. Paul is talking about it being a mystery. New testament reveals plenty of things. It has answers because of Jesus Christ. When will the transformation happen ? It will happen in a split of time. (Revelation 11:15) The seven angel will sound the trumpet. Some of us are not believers. All of us will be raised but not in the same way as one images Jesus, But all will not enter the kingdom of God. This morning the Lord is calling you that 'I will give you the spiritual life'. the incorruptible is a body which God gives to each one of us. The sting (sin) is taken out from the bee (death) because of grace of God. Death drives its power from sin. When Jesus rose it lost its power. We sing doxology which is the doxology of the early Church as a sign of victory over death. Some may have come to church today from conflicting situation but God says 'Come to me'. Paul talks about steadfast heart. We should always work for and towards the kingdom of God. Our heart should perceive with the knowledge that its labour in Lord is not in vain. this morning the resurrection phenomenon is inevitable. We need to get involve in the kingdom of God. I believe in resurrection by faith. Do You??? Faith sees the way, faith sees light, faith is what we need to exercise.
Nice sermon I would have to say :)
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, 30th March 2008, Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore
The Sunday after Easter was a little bit different in the sense of walked instead of biking to church. I reached early to hear the choir practicing songs for praise and worship and for a change I sat in the middle instead of the corners. The sermon was taken by Pastor Andrew and I was wide awake for most of its part, which was a different experience altogether.So here goes the sermon...
1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5
Corinth a place where church was established by Paul. Corinth a cosmopolitan city. Corinth a place where ship building was the major occupation. Corinth a place where many philosophy thrived. Corinth a place where people were fascinated by preachers and cult leaders. Corinth a place where people loved wisdom. Corinth a place of pluralistic community. Corinth a religious city, the light of Greece. Corinth a place where immorality thrived. Corinth a place where prostitution thrived. And here was a where a church was established. Bangalore is also cosmopolitan. Do parallel exist between our city and Corinth? How should we as a church be. Like flies getting attracted to dead meat are people flocking to this city like that.
1:21..What is wisdom of God, wisdom of man....Human wisdom is constantly craving for the quest for God. With human wisdom many Gods get created. If you recognize and portray how God should be then that can also be called as idolatry. Greeks looked for wisdom as God. Here Paul introduces Gods wisdom. We preach Christ was crucified. Crucifixion is humbling and shameful....and for Greeks Messiah getting crucified was foolish. Greeks were in lookout for personality who could speak but God's wisdom is not the same. God reveals himself as a God who suffers. The glory of God is experienced by his love and grace. God chooses a weak thing in life to show his love, grace and forgiveness. The cross is the power of God. It is the saving power and a power which overcomes the enemies. God's wisdom is that he operates in weakness which dismantles conventional beliefs. His ways are different. Ask God to show his wisdom. Here then will come the answer that he chose corinth when she was weak and sinful. The parallel is between the weak thing(cross) and weak people.So we should not boast as the glory is Gods'. Then ask give more evidence as I am not satisfied. 2:1 is an another example of God's wisdom. Nike ad says just do it, but here you can't do it all alone. When we recognize our weaknesses then God takes care of them. Our faith must be in the power of God not in our mere wisdom. Weakness could be anything. It could be loneliness, ill health, financial problem....God says that he will operate in our life with his wisdom we just have to submit.
Wow that day it was sounding more interesting than today when I tried to replicate it. Still I have to say the content is still good enough to be consumed by a believer.
1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5
Corinth a place where church was established by Paul. Corinth a cosmopolitan city. Corinth a place where ship building was the major occupation. Corinth a place where many philosophy thrived. Corinth a place where people were fascinated by preachers and cult leaders. Corinth a place where people loved wisdom. Corinth a place of pluralistic community. Corinth a religious city, the light of Greece. Corinth a place where immorality thrived. Corinth a place where prostitution thrived. And here was a where a church was established. Bangalore is also cosmopolitan. Do parallel exist between our city and Corinth? How should we as a church be. Like flies getting attracted to dead meat are people flocking to this city like that.
1:21..What is wisdom of God, wisdom of man....Human wisdom is constantly craving for the quest for God. With human wisdom many Gods get created. If you recognize and portray how God should be then that can also be called as idolatry. Greeks looked for wisdom as God. Here Paul introduces Gods wisdom. We preach Christ was crucified. Crucifixion is humbling and shameful....and for Greeks Messiah getting crucified was foolish. Greeks were in lookout for personality who could speak but God's wisdom is not the same. God reveals himself as a God who suffers. The glory of God is experienced by his love and grace. God chooses a weak thing in life to show his love, grace and forgiveness. The cross is the power of God. It is the saving power and a power which overcomes the enemies. God's wisdom is that he operates in weakness which dismantles conventional beliefs. His ways are different. Ask God to show his wisdom. Here then will come the answer that he chose corinth when she was weak and sinful. The parallel is between the weak thing(cross) and weak people.So we should not boast as the glory is Gods'. Then ask give more evidence as I am not satisfied. 2:1 is an another example of God's wisdom. Nike ad says just do it, but here you can't do it all alone. When we recognize our weaknesses then God takes care of them. Our faith must be in the power of God not in our mere wisdom. Weakness could be anything. It could be loneliness, ill health, financial problem....God says that he will operate in our life with his wisdom we just have to submit.
Wow that day it was sounding more interesting than today when I tried to replicate it. Still I have to say the content is still good enough to be consumed by a believer.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Easter, 23rd March,2008, Koramangala Methodist Church, Bangalore
Easter was the day which went too holy for me. Attended dawn service at 5 a.m. in KMC then attended 9:30 am service at KMC with my cousin and then attended the musical service at 6 pm in KMC. Unfortunately in all of them I was rather sleepy because of waking up so early. So attending all three services as an option did not turn out to be so good. Anyhow here are the excerpts from the three services.
1) Dawn Service 5 am: Luke 24:1-8. The sermon was taken by Pastor H Mathew and the inevitable happened that is in between service I was toggling between sleep and consciousness. So here are some random points I manage to remember. We look for living among the dead. We go to places to seek among those who cannot provide. Resurrection has provided greater hope. Recognition is one the stepping stone of proclaiming Jesus. Unexpected things are always a possibility and the impossible with men is possible with God. The only thing more I remember is the following and I like it very much. He said the following in reference with something which you guessed it right I have forgotten. He said The trains of thoughts on a lonely track, the greener grasses and the trees passes by. Well from these random phrases/sentences you must have realized that I was really sleepy.
2) 9:30 service koramangala. As from the excerpts of the sermon of the dawn services you might have realized that I was sleepy. What chances did I had to be attentive and awake during this service. Yes my friends the probability of that happening was 0, in spite of a very good sermon by Rev. Theodore Williams. He said We believe on Him as a living Christ. For time the Lord revealed Himself as a living one ( after crucifixion). One of this revelation was to Peter ....Luke 23:14..We cannot keep on worshipping him only during the time of troubles and sorrows. ..Suddenly on a long 'life' road Jesus happen to meet paralyzing, blinding sadness... We should open our hearts and allow the scriptures to do the rest. The urge is strong and it stays with us....not just as a problem but as saviour..He will never refuse invitation...The guest will then become the host. He will become the master. He is not an aspirin tablet for quick relief. So we should open our heart and submit. That's it, these are the few things I was able to assimilate during the time I was awake and I hope that you may gain something out of these incoherent aggregation of the sermon.
So the day ended in the evening in the church listening to beautiful rendition of some wonderful and meaningful praise and worship.
1) Dawn Service 5 am: Luke 24:1-8. The sermon was taken by Pastor H Mathew and the inevitable happened that is in between service I was toggling between sleep and consciousness. So here are some random points I manage to remember. We look for living among the dead. We go to places to seek among those who cannot provide. Resurrection has provided greater hope. Recognition is one the stepping stone of proclaiming Jesus. Unexpected things are always a possibility and the impossible with men is possible with God. The only thing more I remember is the following and I like it very much. He said the following in reference with something which you guessed it right I have forgotten. He said The trains of thoughts on a lonely track, the greener grasses and the trees passes by. Well from these random phrases/sentences you must have realized that I was really sleepy.
2) 9:30 service koramangala. As from the excerpts of the sermon of the dawn services you might have realized that I was sleepy. What chances did I had to be attentive and awake during this service. Yes my friends the probability of that happening was 0, in spite of a very good sermon by Rev. Theodore Williams. He said We believe on Him as a living Christ. For time the Lord revealed Himself as a living one ( after crucifixion). One of this revelation was to Peter ....Luke 23:14..We cannot keep on worshipping him only during the time of troubles and sorrows. ..Suddenly on a long 'life' road Jesus happen to meet paralyzing, blinding sadness... We should open our hearts and allow the scriptures to do the rest. The urge is strong and it stays with us....not just as a problem but as saviour..He will never refuse invitation...The guest will then become the host. He will become the master. He is not an aspirin tablet for quick relief. So we should open our heart and submit. That's it, these are the few things I was able to assimilate during the time I was awake and I hope that you may gain something out of these incoherent aggregation of the sermon.
So the day ended in the evening in the church listening to beautiful rendition of some wonderful and meaningful praise and worship.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Good Friday (21st March 2008, KMC : Koramangala Methodist Church) : Part 2
Carrying on from the previous post here are the elaboration of the last 4 verse by Jesus on the Cross.
4) "Eloi, Eloi,[a] lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"Mathew 27:46. This has probably been one of personal favourite. There is something about these few words which has always been able to attract. First of all Eloi Eloi....sounds tacky and cool and above all these words sounds that of a desperate/defeated man and I guess some point of time in our life some of us might have such an experience of desperation. Nevertheless different people can have different views on the point and the speaker who was going to speak on them was a choir leader. I had great expectation from him and I bet he did justice to these words by his own interpretation. I have to ask for excuse if I am unable to reciprocate the same thing he said over here. Anyhow here is what he said: Imagine the scene the one who is the healer, the one who is the preacher the one who is loved by many...is hanging on the cross. The one who proclaims intimacy with his father is crying out. If this does not make an impact on our lives then probably we are too used to it. Probably then nothing would ruffle our feathers then. Sometimes in our life we feel meaninglessness, abandonment, unloved ....These feelings gets enhanced by the media , by the people around us, by the overall environment. Today we are living ripped apart from God. Before death this becomes the deepest identification. It is said that Mother Teresa also felt forsakeness from God. Christ forsakeness reaches deep into our own.Sinlessness forsake the sinful creature. Greatest deed is what Christ did on the cross. So has He reached deep into our hearts to be more specific have we allowed Him that special place
5) Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." John 19:28. Meditation on these words were taken by a lady who along with one other lady maintains decorum/discipline in church during the time of communion. Her was the most impressive content which I was struggling to keep pace with. I will anyhow try to remember as much I can. The meditation undertaken went something like this Were they the words uttered by a desperate man. definitely not....Only cries of the disciples penetrated the slumber..The only thing flying higher were the doves...Thirst refers to physical thirst...These were words of humanity in divinity...Why did He endure thirst was it amazing love...was it amazing grace...Its spiritual dimension is the fulfilling of the old testament prophecy. John 4:34 Jesus thirst to fulfill His fathers work. Greek word used for fulfill means to complete. He thirsted for reunion with His father. Imagine God and the two on his two side. His heart thirst to save you and me. Why did not everyone was able to see that He was the Messiah. Probably because they were not thirsty. The one who thirst is the giver of living water. Irony of an empty soul is that it is perpetually dissatisfied. It shifts from one thing to another. A dry soul would be the one which does not know what it is missing. Whereas the satisfied soul knows who is God and goes to that thirst quencher. Are we in constant relationship with God? Do we thirst for Him. John:7:14 If anyone is thirsty come to me and drink
6) When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:30. This was taken by another lady. Her content was also well formed but it seemed it was not coming naturally to her still her content did draw attention which I was unable to ignore. Still the things I remember I will pen down. He was caught, beaten and crucified. spiritually battered and physically broken on the cross. This was a cry of triumph on the cross. He had accomplished what he had come to do. The sense was of accomplishment can be guaged in five different ways (i) All prophesies were accomplished in just one man, Jesus. It was finished in Him. (ii) All forms of sacrifices were abolished because He sacrificing Himself on the cross. (iii) God justice were met. Full atonement had been made. The wages of sin was fulfilled forever and the ransom paid in full. (iv) The power of satan, sin and death were destroyed. (v) He ratified the eternal covenant i.e. God the Father, God the son and God the Holy spirit. Eternity passed and the son of God willingly submitted himself to the father to pave the path of cross. So question which should be asked by us the strength of the response we establish between us and God
7) Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:46. This was taken by Reverend H. Mathews and I am sorry to say that I am not a big fan of his sermon at least in English. I lose his context and meaning more often than not. This is what I think he said. If we relive the same form of hardship as Jesus did on the cross what will be our reaction. These versus re-emphasize the trust of Jesus in his father. Elaborates the kind of faith we need to live in. (Jewish) mother often tell their children to pray these versus as prayer which shows the closeness of relationship. The presence of the father always accompanied Jesus. What is required by us is to delight in Lord and he will take care of all our needs. Sorry as i said I always drift a lot in his sermon.
This is it guys that was what I heard and probably understood on the 23rd of March KMC's Good Friday service.
4) "Eloi, Eloi,[a] lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"Mathew 27:46. This has probably been one of personal favourite. There is something about these few words which has always been able to attract. First of all Eloi Eloi....sounds tacky and cool and above all these words sounds that of a desperate/defeated man and I guess some point of time in our life some of us might have such an experience of desperation. Nevertheless different people can have different views on the point and the speaker who was going to speak on them was a choir leader. I had great expectation from him and I bet he did justice to these words by his own interpretation. I have to ask for excuse if I am unable to reciprocate the same thing he said over here. Anyhow here is what he said: Imagine the scene the one who is the healer, the one who is the preacher the one who is loved by many...is hanging on the cross. The one who proclaims intimacy with his father is crying out. If this does not make an impact on our lives then probably we are too used to it. Probably then nothing would ruffle our feathers then. Sometimes in our life we feel meaninglessness, abandonment, unloved ....These feelings gets enhanced by the media , by the people around us, by the overall environment. Today we are living ripped apart from God. Before death this becomes the deepest identification. It is said that Mother Teresa also felt forsakeness from God. Christ forsakeness reaches deep into our own.Sinlessness forsake the sinful creature. Greatest deed is what Christ did on the cross. So has He reached deep into our hearts to be more specific have we allowed Him that special place
5) Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." John 19:28. Meditation on these words were taken by a lady who along with one other lady maintains decorum/discipline in church during the time of communion. Her was the most impressive content which I was struggling to keep pace with. I will anyhow try to remember as much I can. The meditation undertaken went something like this Were they the words uttered by a desperate man. definitely not....Only cries of the disciples penetrated the slumber..The only thing flying higher were the doves...Thirst refers to physical thirst...These were words of humanity in divinity...Why did He endure thirst was it amazing love...was it amazing grace...Its spiritual dimension is the fulfilling of the old testament prophecy. John 4:34 Jesus thirst to fulfill His fathers work. Greek word used for fulfill means to complete. He thirsted for reunion with His father. Imagine God and the two on his two side. His heart thirst to save you and me. Why did not everyone was able to see that He was the Messiah. Probably because they were not thirsty. The one who thirst is the giver of living water. Irony of an empty soul is that it is perpetually dissatisfied. It shifts from one thing to another. A dry soul would be the one which does not know what it is missing. Whereas the satisfied soul knows who is God and goes to that thirst quencher. Are we in constant relationship with God? Do we thirst for Him. John:7:14 If anyone is thirsty come to me and drink
6) When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:30. This was taken by another lady. Her content was also well formed but it seemed it was not coming naturally to her still her content did draw attention which I was unable to ignore. Still the things I remember I will pen down. He was caught, beaten and crucified. spiritually battered and physically broken on the cross. This was a cry of triumph on the cross. He had accomplished what he had come to do. The sense was of accomplishment can be guaged in five different ways (i) All prophesies were accomplished in just one man, Jesus. It was finished in Him. (ii) All forms of sacrifices were abolished because He sacrificing Himself on the cross. (iii) God justice were met. Full atonement had been made. The wages of sin was fulfilled forever and the ransom paid in full. (iv) The power of satan, sin and death were destroyed. (v) He ratified the eternal covenant i.e. God the Father, God the son and God the Holy spirit. Eternity passed and the son of God willingly submitted himself to the father to pave the path of cross. So question which should be asked by us the strength of the response we establish between us and God
7) Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:46. This was taken by Reverend H. Mathews and I am sorry to say that I am not a big fan of his sermon at least in English. I lose his context and meaning more often than not. This is what I think he said. If we relive the same form of hardship as Jesus did on the cross what will be our reaction. These versus re-emphasize the trust of Jesus in his father. Elaborates the kind of faith we need to live in. (Jewish) mother often tell their children to pray these versus as prayer which shows the closeness of relationship. The presence of the father always accompanied Jesus. What is required by us is to delight in Lord and he will take care of all our needs. Sorry as i said I always drift a lot in his sermon.
This is it guys that was what I heard and probably understood on the 23rd of March KMC's Good Friday service.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Good Friday (21st March 2008, KMC : Koramangala Methodist Church) : Part 1
I have been thinking about this for a while and finally I am doing it i.e. to try and write out what the things I had heard and part of the thing which I may have assimilated. You may like it or you may not, I do not bother but I have decided that I will write about them anyhow. Anyways this post is the first of its kind in my blog and their will be many more in due course of time
Good Friday : Well I am not going to introduce its meaning and would not be preachy but instead write about what I had been preached. This post has seven section in accordance with the seven thing said by Christ on the cross and in accordance with the speakers speaking on these words in KMC.
1) "Father, forgive them. They don't know what they are doing." : Luke23:34. This was discussed by a lady and I was unable to get a single thing she wanted to say. To me it was too incoherent
2) "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." : Luke 23:42. These words were reflected upon by a guy. Although he is unknown to me as everyone else in KMC but one thing is confirmed that he was impressive and was able to engage me for the whole time. He started of by talking about some one. It went something like this. --- He was/wasn't probably there when thousands were fed. He was/wasn't probably there when the dead was raised. He was/wasn't probably there when people were healed. He was/wasn't probably there when ....By this time this speaker left me wondering who is the so called "He" is he talking about till the time when the sermon came to this. He knew who Jesus was and he was a thief. He knew that he was hanging beside two people. He knew that one was good and the other deserve his fate. Amidst all the insult mooted out by different people to this good man, one reacted differently inspite of being a robber. A transaction happened between man and God and an audacious question was asked "Remember me ......" . Good....well till now he was able to keep me interested by his beautiful oratory skills but the better part was yet to come when the speaker revealed his actual intentions/meanings. He said We may come to church every week and pretend to be as much holy as possible but the fact remains that we are caught in the ways of the world. God does not forget. God did not forget Joseph thrown into the pit by his brothers. God did not forget Daniel in the den. God did not forget Samson. God did not forget .... and God did no forget this thief. He will remember us but the question is will we ask Him ??
3) "Jesus said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son." He said to the disciple, "Here is your mother."": John:19:26-27. This word from the cross was taken up by the pastor. KMC has two pastors actually one reverend and one pastor. Have no idea what these titles stand for. But the one who is pastor is young and this guy lead the meditation of these words. His sermon went something like this. The scene shifted from the soldier to the present. Jesus went about doing miracles and now He was on the cross. The lady standing is a true mother and like any other she loves her child inspite of the world condemning her child on the cross as a criminal. On the cross Jesus glorified His Father and honoured his mother. Children has responsibilities towards their parents. That is what Christ was taking heed of while still on the cross. The point is a new life is possible if a relationship is thriving. A disciple took hers as her mother and it was beginning of a new relationship as a symbol of circle of faith. To us the mean of that faith is the church. As the community grows we should always welcome one another and accept. So we should allow these new brotherhood to prosper so that when time comes we be able to bring comfort to others. One of the examples he used was of a German Pastor during the time of Hitler who was killed for explaining Jesus as a Man for others The pastor concluded by saying Like wise we have to do the welfare of others like Jesus did even going through all that he went through on the cross
Good Friday : Well I am not going to introduce its meaning and would not be preachy but instead write about what I had been preached. This post has seven section in accordance with the seven thing said by Christ on the cross and in accordance with the speakers speaking on these words in KMC.
1) "Father, forgive them. They don't know what they are doing." : Luke23:34. This was discussed by a lady and I was unable to get a single thing she wanted to say. To me it was too incoherent
2) "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." : Luke 23:42. These words were reflected upon by a guy. Although he is unknown to me as everyone else in KMC but one thing is confirmed that he was impressive and was able to engage me for the whole time. He started of by talking about some one. It went something like this. --- He was/wasn't probably there when thousands were fed. He was/wasn't probably there when the dead was raised. He was/wasn't probably there when people were healed. He was/wasn't probably there when ....By this time this speaker left me wondering who is the so called "He" is he talking about till the time when the sermon came to this. He knew who Jesus was and he was a thief. He knew that he was hanging beside two people. He knew that one was good and the other deserve his fate. Amidst all the insult mooted out by different people to this good man, one reacted differently inspite of being a robber. A transaction happened between man and God and an audacious question was asked "Remember me ......" . Good....well till now he was able to keep me interested by his beautiful oratory skills but the better part was yet to come when the speaker revealed his actual intentions/meanings. He said We may come to church every week and pretend to be as much holy as possible but the fact remains that we are caught in the ways of the world. God does not forget. God did not forget Joseph thrown into the pit by his brothers. God did not forget Daniel in the den. God did not forget Samson. God did not forget .... and God did no forget this thief. He will remember us but the question is will we ask Him ??
3) "Jesus said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son." He said to the disciple, "Here is your mother."": John:19:26-27. This word from the cross was taken up by the pastor. KMC has two pastors actually one reverend and one pastor. Have no idea what these titles stand for. But the one who is pastor is young and this guy lead the meditation of these words. His sermon went something like this. The scene shifted from the soldier to the present. Jesus went about doing miracles and now He was on the cross. The lady standing is a true mother and like any other she loves her child inspite of the world condemning her child on the cross as a criminal. On the cross Jesus glorified His Father and honoured his mother. Children has responsibilities towards their parents. That is what Christ was taking heed of while still on the cross. The point is a new life is possible if a relationship is thriving. A disciple took hers as her mother and it was beginning of a new relationship as a symbol of circle of faith. To us the mean of that faith is the church. As the community grows we should always welcome one another and accept. So we should allow these new brotherhood to prosper so that when time comes we be able to bring comfort to others. One of the examples he used was of a German Pastor during the time of Hitler who was killed for explaining Jesus as a Man for others The pastor concluded by saying Like wise we have to do the welfare of others like Jesus did even going through all that he went through on the cross
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