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Day 365 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 31 December 2023 reflections - Healing by Believers and the Rapture of the Church

Day 365, 31 December 2023



Today at Calvary Community

Church
, Jordan Reiger spoke in A Spirit Filled Community is empowered

to heal



Acts 3:1-5



Acts 3



The Lame Man Healed at the Temple Gate



1 (Ps 55:17; Ac 10:30) Now Peter and John went up together to the temple

at the ninth hour, the hour of prayer.

2 (Lk 16:20; Jn 9:8) A man lame from birth was being carried,

whom people placed daily at the gate of the temple called Beautiful

to ask alms from those who entered the temple.

3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked for alms.

4 Peter, gazing at him with John, said, "Look at us."

5 So he paid attention to them, expecting to receive something from them.



[1] Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of

prayer, being the ninth hour.

[2] And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they

laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms

of them that entered into the temple;

[3] Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.

[4] And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.

[5] And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.



Followers of Jesus



A) Know God and listen to His Spirit.



Mark 4:39-41



Mark 4:35-41



The Calming of a Storm



39 (Job 38:11; Ps 89:9) He rose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea,

"Peace, be still!" Then the wind ceased and there was a great calm.

40 (Mt 14:31; Lk 8:25) He said to them, "Why are you so fearful?

How is that you have no faith?"

41 They feared greatly and said to one another,

"What kind of Man is He, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?"



[39] And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be

still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

[40] And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no

faith?

[41] And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of

man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?



Psalm 65:7



7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) who stills the noise of the seas,

the noise of their waves,

and the tumult of peoples.



[7] Which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the

tumult of the people.



In Mark 4,5 and 6 we see:



- Commanded a demon and freed a man from its influence

- a woman healed of a bleeding condition that afflicted her making

her and outcats for 12 years

- Jesus raised a little girl from the dead.



Mark 6:7-13



The Mission of the Twelve

Mt 10:1, 5-15; Lk 9:1-6



Then He went to the surrounding villages, teaching.

7 (Mk 3:13-14) He called to Him the twelve, and began to send them out

two by two, and gave them authority over unclean spirits.

8 He commanded them to take nothing for their journey except a staff:

no bag, no bread, and no money in their purse,

9 (Ac 12:8) but to wear sandals, and not put on two tunics.

10 He said to them, "Wherever you enter a house, remain there

until you depart from that place.

11 (Ne 5:13; Ac 18:6) And whoever will not receive you or hear you,

when you depart from there, shake the dust off your feet as a testimony

against them. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable

for Sodom and Gomorrah on the Day of Judgment than for that city."

12 (Mt 4:17; Eze 18:30) So they went out and preached that men should repent.

13 And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick

and healed them.



[7] And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two

and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;

[8] And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save

a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse:

[9] But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats.

[10] And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house,

there abide till ye depart from that place.

[11] And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart

thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them.

Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in

the day of judgment, than for that city.

[12] And they went out, and preached that men should repent.

[13] And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were

sick, and healed them.



B) Bring Healing to Those who are suffering



Acts 3



6 (Ac 3:16; 4:10) Then Peter said, "I have no silver and gold,

but I give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,

rise up and walk."

7 He took him by the right hand and raised him up.

Immediately his feet and ankles were strengthened.

8 (Ac 14:10; Isa 35:6) Jumping up, he stood and walked

and entered the temple with them, walking and jumping and praising God.

9 (Ac 4:16; 4:21) All the people saw him walking and praising God.

10 (Ac 3:2) They knew that it was he who sat for alms at the Beautiful Gate

of the temple. And they were filled with wonder and amazement

at what happened to him.



[6] Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I

thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

[7] And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately

his feet and ancle bones received strength.

[8] And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the

temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.

[9] And all the people saw him walking and praising God:

[10] And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate

of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which

had happened unto him.



Exodus 15:26



26 (Dt 7:15; Ex 23:25; Dt 28:60) He said, "If you diligently listen

to the voice of the Lord your God, and do what is right in His sight,

and give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes,

I will not afflict you with any of the diseases with which

I have afflicted the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you."



[26] And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy

God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his

commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases

upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that

healeth thee.



Deuteronomy 32:39



39 (1Sa 2:6; Isa 45:5; 41:4) See now that I, even I, am He,

and there is no god besides Me;

I kill, and I make alive;

I wound, and I heal;

there is no one who can deliver out of My hand.



[39] See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and

I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out

of my hand.



2 Kings 5



Naaman Healed of Leprosy



1 (Lk 4:27) Now Naaman, captain of the army of the king of Aram,

was a great man before his master and held favor because by him the Lord had

given deliverance to Aram. He was also a mighty warrior, but he had leprosy.

2 (2Ki 6:23; 13:20) The Arameans had gone out raiding and had taken captive

a little girl from the land of Israel, and she waited on the wife of Naaman.

3 She said to her mistress, "If only my lord were before the prophet who is

in Samaria! Then he would take away his leprosy from him."

4 So Naaman went in and told his lord, "Thus and so spoke the girl

from the land of Israel."

5 (Jdg 14:12; 2Ki 8:8-9) The king of Aram said, "Go, and I will send a letter

to the king of Israel." So he went and took with him ten talents

[About 150 pounds, or 69 kilograms.] of silver, six thousand shekels

[About 150 pounds, or 69 kilograms.] of gold, and ten sets of clothes.

6 He brought the letter to the king of Israel, which read,

"Now when this letter comes to you, know that I have sent Naaman

my servant to you, that you may take away from him his leprosy."

7 (1Sa 2:6; Ge 30:2; 1Ki 20:7) When the king of Israel had read the letter,

he tore his clothes and said, "Am I God, to kill and to give life,

that this man sends a man to me to take away his leprosy?

But consider, and see how he is seeking a quarrel with me."

8 But when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel

had torn his clothes, he sent word to the king, saying,

"Why have you torn your clothes? Let him come to me,

and he will know that there is a prophet in Israel."

9 So Naaman came with his horses and chariot and stood at the entrance

to the house of Elisha.

10 (Jn 9:7; Lev 14:7) Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying,

"Go and wash seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be returned

and cleansed."

11 But Naaman became angry and went away and said to himself,

"Surely he could have come out, and stood and called on the name

of the Lord his God, and waved his hand over the infected area,

and taken away the leprosy.

12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters

of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?" So he turned and went away

in a rage.

13 (2Ki 6:21; 2:12) But his servants approached and spoke to him,

"My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not

have done it? How much more when he said to you, 'Wash and be clean'?"

14 (Job 33:25; Lk 4:27) So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan

seven times, according to the word of the man of God, and his flesh returned

like the flesh of a little boy, and he was clean.

15 (1Sa 25:27; Da 2:47) Then he returned to the man of God, he

and all his company. He came and stood before him, and he said,

"Now I know that there is no God in all the land, except in Israel.

Now take a gift from your servant."

16 (2Ki 3:14; 5:20) But he said, "As the Lord lives, before whom I stand,

I will take no gift." He urged him to take it, but he refused.

17 Then Naaman said, "If not, let two mule loads of dirt be

given to your servant, for your servant will no longer offer a burnt offering

or sacrifice to any god, except the Lord.

18 (2Ki 7:2; 7:17) But may the Lord pardon your servant on one account:

When my master enters the house of Rimmon to worship, and he leans

on my hand, and I bow down in the house of Rimmon, when I do bow

down in the house of Rimmon, may the Lord pardon your servant

on this one account."

19 (1Sa 1:17; Ex 4:18) He said to him, "Go in peace."

So he departed from him a short distance.



Gehazi's Greed



20 (Ex 20:7; 2Ki 4:12) Then Gehazi the servant of Elisha the man of God said,

"My master has spared Naaman the Aramean by not taking from his hands

what he brought. As the Lord lives, I will run after him

and take something from him."

21 So Gehazi pursued Naaman. Then Naaman saw him running after him,

jumped down from the chariot to meet him, and said, "Is everything all right?"

22 (2Ki 5:5) And he said, "Everything is all right. My master has sent me

and says, 'Even now two servants from Ephraim, from the sons of the prophets,

have come to me. Give them a talent

[About 75 pounds, or 34 kilograms.] of silver and two changes of clothes.' "

23 Naaman said, "Please, take two talents." He urged him and tied up

two talents of silver in two bags with two changes of clothes

and gave them to two of his servants, who carried them before Gehazi.

24 (Jos 7:1; 7:11-12) When he came to Ophel, he took them from their hand

and put them away in the house. Then he sent the men away, and they departed.

25 (2Ki 5:22) Then he entered and stood before his master. And Elisha said

to him, "Where have you come from, Gehazi?"

And he said, "Your servant went here and there."

26 (2Ki 5:16) He said to him, "Did my heart not go with you when the man

turned from his chariot to meet you? Is it a time to take money,

and to take garments, olives and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male

and female servants?

27 (Ex 4:6; Nu 12:10) The leprosy of Naaman will cling to you

and to your descendants forever." So he went out from his presence, leprous

like snow.



2 Kings 5

[1] Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man

with his master, and honourable, because by him the LORD had given

deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a

leper.

[2] And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive

out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman's wife.

[3] And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet

that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy.

[4] And one went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maid

that is of the land of Israel.

[5] And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto

the

king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver,

and six thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment.

[6] And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this

letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my

servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.

[7] And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that

he rent his clothes, and said, Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that

this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? wherefore

consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me.

[8] And it was so, when Elisha the man of God had heard that the king of

Israel had rent his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, Wherefore

hast thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that

there is a prophet in Israel.

[9] So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the

door of the house of Elisha.

[10] And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in the Jordan

seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.

[11] But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He

will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the LORD his

God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.

[12] Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the

waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and

went away in a rage.

[13] And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if

the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done

it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?

[14] Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according

to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the

flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

[15] And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came,

and stood before him: and he said, Behold, now I know that there is no God

in all earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a blessing of

thy servant.

[16] But he said, As the LORD liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive

none. And he urged him to take it; but he refused.

[17] And Naaman said, Shall there not then, I pray thee, be given to thy

servant two mules' burden of earth? for thy servant will henceforth offer

neither burnt offering nor sacrifice unto other gods, but unto the LORD.

[18] In this thing the LORD pardon thy servant, that when my master goeth

into the house of Rimmon to worship there, and he leaneth on my hand, and I

bow myself in the house of Rimmon: when I bow down myself in the house of

Rimmon, the LORD pardon thy servant in this thing.

[19] And he said unto him, Go in peace. So he departed from him a little way.

[20] But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my

master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that

which he brought: but, as the LORD liveth, I will run after him, and take

somewhat of him.

[21] So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw him running after

him, he lighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, Is all well?

[22] And he said, All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even

now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the

prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of

garments.

[23] And Naaman said, Be content, take two talents. And he urged him, and

bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of garments, and

laid them upon two of his servants; and they bare them before him.

[24] And when he came to the tower, he took them from their hand, and

bestowed them in the house: and he let the men go, and they departed.

[25] But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him,

Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither.

[26] And he said unto him, Went not mine heart with thee, when the man

turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money,

and to receive garments, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen,

and menservants, and maidservants?

[27] The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy

seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.



Psalm 6:2



2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am weak;

O Lord, heal me, for my bones are terrified.



2 Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak:

O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.



Psalm 41:4



4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) I said, "Lord, be gracious to me;

heal my soul, for I have sinned against You."



[4] I said, LORD, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned

against thee.



Psalm 103:3



3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) who forgives all your iniquities,

who heals all your diseases,



[3] Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;



Isaiah 19:22



22 (Dt 32:39; Hos 14:1) The Lord shall strike Egypt. He shall strike

and heal it. Then they shall return to the Lord, and He shall be entreated

by them and shall heal them.



[22] And the LORD shall smite Egypt: he shall smite and heal it: and they

shall return even to the LORD, and he shall be intreated of them, and shall

heal them.



Jeremiah 17:14



14 (Dt 10:21; Ps 109:1) Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed;

save me, and I will be saved,

for You are my praise.



[14] Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved:

for thou art my praise.



Hosea 7:1



1 (Hos 4:2; 6:4) When I would heal Israel,

the iniquity of Ephraim is revealed,

and the wickedness of Samaria.

For they deal deceitfully;

the thief breaks in;

the robbers raid outside,



[1] When I would have healed Israel, then the iniquity of Ephraim was

discovered, and the wickedness of Samaria: for they commit falsehood; and

the thief cometh in, and the troop of robbers spoileth without.



James 5:13-15



13 (Ps 50:15; Eph 5:19) Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray.

Is anyone merry? Let him sing psalms.

14 (Mk 6:13; 16:18; Ac 14:23) Is anyone sick among you? Let him call

for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him,

anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.

15 (Isa 33:24; Jas 1:6) And the prayer of faith will save the sick,

and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed any sins,

he will be forgiven.



[13] Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing

psalms.

[14] Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and

let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:

[15] And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise

him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.



Isaiah 55:9



9 (Ps 103:11) For as the heavens are higher than the earth,

so are My ways higher than your ways,

and My thoughts than your thoughts.





[9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than

your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.



C) Declare the Glory of the Lord



Acts 3:11-13

Peter's Speech at Solomon's Porch



11 (Jn 10:23; Ac 5:12) As the lame man who was healed held on to Peter

and John, all the people ran together to them in the entrance that is

called Solomon's Porch, greatly amazed.

12 When Peter saw it, he answered the people: "Men of Israel,

why do you marvel at this man? Or why do you stare at us,

as if by our own power or piety we had made him walk?

13 (Mt 22:32; 27:2) The God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob,

the God of our fathers, has glorified His Son ­Jesus,

whom you handed over and denied in the presence of Pilate,

when he had decided to release Him.



[11] And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the

people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly

wondering.

[12] And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel,

why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our

own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?

[13] The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers,

hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the

presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.



Acts 4:13-14



13 (Jn 7:15; Mt 11:25) When they saw the boldness of Peter and John

and perceived that they were illiterate and uneducated men, they marveled.

And they recognized that they had been with ­Jesus.

14 But seeing the man who was healed standing with them, they had nothing

to say against it.



[13] Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that

they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took

knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

[14] And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could

say nothing against it.



Acts 3

16 (Ac 3:6; Dt 32:4) And His name, by faith in His name, has made

this man strong, whom you see and know. And faith which comes

through Him has given him perfect health in your presence.



[16] And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom

ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect

soundness in the presence of you all.



Acts 4:4



4 (Ac 2:41) But many of those who heard the word believed,

and the number of the men grew to about five thousand.



[4] Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of

the men was about five thousand.



Benediction



Acts 4:29-31



29 (Ac 4:13; 4:31) Now, Lord, look on their threats

and grant that Your servants may speak Your word with great boldness,

30 (Ac 4:27; 3:6) by stretching out Your hand to heal and that signs

and wonders may be performed in the name of Your holy Son Jesus."

31 (Ac 2:2; 2:4) When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled

together was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit

and spoke the word of God with boldness.



[29] And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants,

that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

[30] By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may

be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

[31] And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were

assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they

spake the word of God with boldness.



1) 1 Corinthians 15, 1 Thessalonians 4



1 Corinthians 15



The Resurrection of Christ



1 (Ro 5:2; 2Co 1:24) Now, brothers, I declare to you the gospel which I

preached to you, which you have received, and in which you stand.

2 (Gal 3:4; Ro 1:16) Through it you are saved, if you keep in memory

what I preached to you, unless you have believed in vain.

3 (1Pe 2:24; 1Co 11:23; Gal 1:4) For I delivered to you first of all

that which I also received: how Christ died for our sins according

to the Scriptures,

4 (Ps 16:10-11; Hos 6:2) was buried, rose again the third day

according to the Scriptures,

5 (Mk 16:14; Ac 10:41) and was seen by Cephas, and then by the twelve.

6 (Ac 7:60; 1Co 15:18) Then He was seen by over five hundred brothers

at once, of whom the greater part remain to this present time,

though some have passed away.

7 (Lk 24:50) Then He was seen by James and then by all the apostles.

8 (1Co 9:1; Ac 9:17) Last of all, He was seen by me also,

as by one born at the wrong time.

9 (Ac 8:3; 2Co 12:11) For I am the least of the apostles

and am not fit to be called an apostle,

because I persecuted the church of God.

10 (Php 2:13; 2Co 3:5) But by the grace of God I am what I am.

And His grace toward me was not in vain. I labored more abundantly

than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

11 Therefore, whether it was I or they,

so we preach and so you believed.



[1] Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto

you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;

[2] By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto

you, unless ye have believed in vain.

[3] For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how

that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;

[4] And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according

to the scriptures:

[5] And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:

[6] After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom

the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.

[7] After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.

[8] And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.

[9] For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an

apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.

[10] But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was

bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they

all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

[11] Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.



The Resurrection of the Dead



12 (Ac 23:8; 2Ti 2:18) Now if Christ is preached that He rose from the dead,

how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?

13 (1Th 4:14) If there is no resurrection of the dead,

then Christ has not risen.

14 If Christ has not risen, then our preaching is vain,

and your faith is also vain.

15 (Ac 2:24) Yes, and we would then be found false witnesses of God,

because we have testified that God raised up Christ, whom He did not

raise up, if in fact the dead do not rise.

16 For if the dead do not rise, then Christ has not been raised.

17 (Ro 4:25) If Christ is not raised, your faith is vain;

you are still in your sins.

18 (Rev 14:13; 1Co 15:6) Then they also who have fallen asleep

in Christ have perished.

19 (2Ti 3:12) If in this life only we have hope in Christ,

we are of all men most miserable.

20 (Ac 26:23; 1Co 15:23) But now is Christ risen from the dead

and become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.

21 (Jn 11:25; Ro 6:23) For since death came by man, by man came

also the resurrection of the dead.

22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

23 (1Co 15:20; 15:52) But every man in his own order: Christ the first fruits;

afterward, those who are Christ's at His coming.

24 (Da 7:27; 7:14; Isa 9:7) Then comes the end when He will deliver up

the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule

and all authority and power.

25 (Ps 110:1; Mt 22:44) For He will reign until He has put all enemies

under His feet.

26 (2Ti 1:10; Rev 20:14) The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.

27 (Ps 8:6; Mt 28:18) For He "has put all things under His feet."(Ps 8:6.)

But when He says, "all things are put under Him," it is revealed that He,

who has put all things under Him, is the exception.

28 (1Co 3:23; Php 3:21) When all things are subjected to Him,

then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put

all things under Him, that God may be all in all.

29 Otherwise, what will they do who are baptized for the dead,

if the dead do not rise at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead?

30 And why do we stand in danger every hour?

31 (Ro 8:36; 1Th 2:19) I affirm, by the boasting in you which

I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.

32 (Isa 22:13; Lk 12:19) If, in the manner of men, I have fought with beasts

at Ephesus, what advantage is it to me if the dead do not rise?

"Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die."(Isa 22:13.)

33 (1Co 5:6; 6:9) Do not be deceived: "Bad company corrupts good morals."

34 (Ro 13:11; 1Co 6:5) Awake to righteousness and do not sin,

for some do not have the knowledge of God. I say this to your shame.



[12] Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some

among you that there is no resurrection of the dead?

[13] But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:

[14] And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith

is also vain.

[15] Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified

of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the

dead rise not.

[16] For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:

[17] And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your

sins.

[18] Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished.

[19] If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most

miserable.

[20] But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of

them that slept.

[21] For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the

dead.

[22] For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

[23] But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they

that are Christ's at his coming.

[24] Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to

God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority

and power.

[25] For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.

[26] The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

[27] For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all

things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put

all things under him.

[28] And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also

himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be

all in all.

[29] Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead

rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?

[30] And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?

[31] I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I

die daily.

[32] If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what

advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow

we die.

[33] Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

[34] Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of

God: I speak this to your shame.



The Resurrection Body



35 (Eze 37:3) But someone will say, "How are the dead raised up?

With what body do they come?”

36 (Jn 12:24) You fool! What you sow is not made alive unless it dies.

37 When you sow, you do not sow the body that shall be, but a bare kernel,

perhaps of wheat or of some other grain.

38 Then God gives it a body as He pleases, and to each seed its own body.

39 All flesh is not the same flesh. There is one kind of flesh of men,

another flesh of beasts, another of fish, and another of birds.

40 There are also celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies.

The glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial

is another.

41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon,

and another glory of the stars. One star differs from another star in glory.

42 (Da 12:3; Mt 13:43) So also is the resurrection of the dead.

The body is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption.

43 (Col 3:4) It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory.

It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power.

44 It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.

There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

45 (Ge 2:7; Ro 8:2; Jn 5:21) So it is written,

"The first man Adam was made a living soul." (Ge 2:7.)

The last Adam was made a life-giving spirit.

46 However, that which is spiritual is not first, but the natural,

and then the spiritual.

47 (Jn 3:31; Ge 2:7; 3:19) The first man was of the earth, made of dust;

the second man was the Lord from heaven.

48 (Php 3:20-21) As was the man of dust, so are those who are of dust;

and as is the man of heaven, so are those who are of heaven.

49 (Ge 5:3; Ro 8:29) As we have borne the image of the man of dust,

we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven.

50 (Mt 16:17) Now this I say, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot

inherit the kingdom of God, nor does corruption inherit incorruption.

51 (1Co 13:2; Php 3:21) Listen, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep,

but we shall all be changed.

52 (Mt 24:31; Jn 5:25; Isa 27:13) In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,

at the last trumpet, for the trumpet will sound,

the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

53 (2Co 5:2-4; 1Jn 3:2) For this corruptible will put on incorruption,

and this mortal will put on immortality.

54 (Isa 25:8; Rev 20:14) When this corruptible will have put on incorruption,

and this mortal will have put on immortality, then the saying that is written

shall come to pass: "Death is swallowed up in victory."(Isa 25:8.)

55 (Hos 13:14) "O death, where is your sting?

O grave, where is your victory?"(Hos 13:14.)

56 (Ro 4:15) The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law.

57 (Ro 8:37; 2Co 2:14) But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory

through our Lord Jesus Christ!

58 (1Co 16:10; 2Pe 3:14) Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast,

unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that

your labor in the Lord is not in vain.



[35] But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body

do they come?

[36] Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die:

[37] And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be,

but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain:

[38] But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his

own body.

[39] All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men,

another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.

[40] There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory

of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.

[41] There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and

another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in

glory.

[42] So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it

is raised in incorruption:

[43] It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness;

it is raised in power:

[44] It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a

natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

[45] And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the

last Adam was made a quickening spirit.

[46] Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is

natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.

[47] The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from

heaven.

[48] As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the

heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly.

[49] And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the

image of the heavenly.

[50] Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the

kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

[51] Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all

be changed,

[52] In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the

trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we

shall be changed.

[53] For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put

on immortality.

[54] So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this

mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the

saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

[55] O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

[56] The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

[57] But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord

Jesus Christ.

[58] Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always

abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is

not in vain in the Lord.



1 Thessalonians 4



A Life Pleasing to God



1 (Eph 4:1; 2Th 1:3) Finally, brothers, we urge and exhort you by the Lord

Jesus, that as you have learned from us how you ought to walk and to please

God, you should excel more and more.

2 For you know what commands we gave you through the Lord Jesus.

3 (Ac 15:29; Ro 6:22) For this is the will of God, your sanctification:

that you should abstain from sexual immorality,

4 (1Pe 3:7) that each one of you should know how to possess his own vessel

in sanctification and honor,

5 (Ro 1:26; Gal 4:8) not in the lust of depravity, even as the Gentiles

who do not know God,

6 (Ro 12:19; Heb 13:4) and that no man take advantage of

and defraud his brother in any matter, because the Lord

is the avenger in all these things,

as we also have forewarned you and testified.

7 (1Th 2:3; Lev 11:44) For God has not called us to uncleanness,

but to holiness.

8 (1Jn 3:24; Lk 10:16) Therefore he that despises does not despise man,

but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit.

9 (1Th 5:1; Ro 12:10) As concerning brotherly love, you do not need me

to write to you. For you yourselves are taught by God to love one another.

10 (1Th 1:7; 3:12) And indeed, you do have love for all the brothers

who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, that you increase

more and more.

11 (Eph 4:28; 1Pe 4:15) Learn to be calm, and to conduct your own business,

and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you,

12 (Mk 4:11; Ro 13:13) so that you may walk honestly toward

those who are outsiders and that you may lack nothing.



[1] Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord

Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please

God, so ye would abound more and more.

[2] For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.

[3] For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should

abstain from fornication:

[4] That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in

sanctification and honour;

[5] Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not

God:

[6] That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because

that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and

testified.

[7] For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.

[8] He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also

given unto us his holy Spirit.

[9] But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye

yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

[10] And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia:

but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

[11] And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work

with your own hands, as we commanded you;

[12] That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may

have lack of nothing.



The Lord's Coming



13 (Eph 2:12; Lev 19:28) But I would not have you ignorant, brothers,

concerning those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others

who have no hope.

14 (1Th 4:13; Rev 1:18) For if we believe that Jesus died and arose again,

so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

15 (1Ki 20:35) For this we say to you by the word of the Lord,

that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord

will not precede those who are asleep.

16 (1Co 15:23; Jude 1:9) For the Lord Himself will descend

from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel,

and with the trumpet call of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.

17 (Jn 12:26; Ac 1:9) Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up

together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we

shall be forever with the Lord.

18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.



[13] But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them

which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

[14] For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also

which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

[15] For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are

alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which

are asleep.

[16] For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the

voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ

shall rise first:

[17] Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with

them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be

with the Lord.

[18] Wherefore comfort one another with these words.



2) Our Daily Bread for 31 December 2023 Titled



The Righteous City




Hebrews 13:14-21



14 (Heb 12:22; Mic 2:10) For here we have no continuing city,

but we seek one to come.

15 (Hos 14:2; Lev 7:12) Through Him, then, let us continually offer

to God the sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of our lips,

giving thanks to His name.

16 (Ro 12:13; Php 4:18) But do not forget to do good and to share.

For with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

17 (Ac 20:28; Heb 13:7) Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch

over your souls as those who must give an account. Let them do this with joy

and not complaining, for that would not be profitable to you.

18 (1Th 5:25; Ac 23:1) Pray for us. For we trust that we have a good

conscience and in all things are willing to live honestly.

19 (Phm 1:22) But I implore you to pray,

that I may be restored to you very soon.

20 (Zec 9:11; Jn 10:11) Now may the God of peace, who through the blood

of the eternal covenant brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus,

the Great Shepherd of the sheep,

21 (Php 2:13; 2Th 2:17) make you perfect in every good work to do His will,

working in you that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ,

to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.



[14] For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.

[15] By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God

continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

[16] But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices

God is well pleased.

[17] Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they

watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it

with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

[18] Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things

willing to live honestly.

[19] But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you

the sooner.

[20] Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus,

that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting

covenant,

[21] Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that

which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory

for ever and ever. Amen.



On New Year's Eve 2000, officials in Detroit carefully opened a

hundred-year-old time capsule. Nestled inside the copper box were hopeful

predictions from some city leaders who expressed visions of prosperity. The

mayor's message, however, offered a different approach. He wrote, "May we be

permitted to express one hope superior to all others . . . [that] you may

realise as a nation, people, and city, you have grown in righteousness,

for it is this that exalts a nation."



More than success, happiness, or peace, the mayor wished that future citizens

would grow in what it means to be truly just and upright. Perhaps he took his

cue from Jesus, who blessed those who long for His righteousness (Matthew

5:6). But it's easy to get discouraged when we consider God's perfect

standard.



Praise God that we don't have to rely on our own effort to grow. The author of

Hebrews said it this way: "May the God of peace . . . equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to

him, through Jesus Christ" (Hebrews 13:20-21). We who are in Christ are made

holy by His blood the moment we believe in Him (v. 12), but He actively grows

the fruit of righteousness in our hearts throughout a lifetime. We'll often

stumble on the journey, yet still we look forward to "the city that is to

come" where God's righteousness will reign (v. 14).



By: Karen Pimpo



Reflect & Pray



For what Christlike attributes would you like to be known?

How can you encourage others to seek God's righteousness?



Dear God, please work in me what's pleasing to You.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 8 Guided by Grace Day 1 A circle of Light



John 8:12



12 (Jn 12:35; Job 33:28; Isa 49:6)Again, Jesus spoke to them, saying,

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me

shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life."



12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:

he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,

but shall have the light of life.



When Judy Garland stepped onstage, she filled the spotlight. Nothing was

illuminated but her face, and as she sang, her listeners had a sense of being

transported beyond themselves into the meaning of her song. The focus of

reality, at that moment, was "Judy", and everything else faded into the dim

recesses of the shadowed room. The spotlight brought her into sharp focus

as the center of attention, and all around her was darkness.

When the scriptures speaks of Jesus as "the light," the image is not

of thousands of blazing bulbs lighting up a football field for a night game.

Rather, he is like a hand-help lamp that throws a circle of light in the

immediate vicinity. such a lamp lights the path that a traveler will walk,

but lights it only one step at a time.

Jesus is the center of that circle of light. As we follow him, we share the

light, but he is always at center. Jesus Christ is the focal point,

and everything else fades into dim gray by comparison.

If we are to keep our lives illuminated, to have his light falling upon the

road we walk, we must stay close to him. Jesus does not hand the lamp

to us and suggest that we go the way he wants; he , the Light, leads,

and if we want to stay in the light, we follow.



Application



a) Have I ever tried to go my own way, apart from the Light?

What was the result?



b) How can this verse help me remember the importance of staying close

to Jesus?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Luke 6:38



38 "Give, and it will be given to you: Good measure, pressed down,

shaken together, and running over will men give unto you.

For with the measure you use, it will be measured unto you."



38 give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down,

and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For

with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Burdened by Doubt



Proverbs 30:5



5 Every word of God is pure;

He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.



5 Every word of God is pure:

He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord for Revival and healing.



Pray to understand the Resurrection of the Dead and the Rapture of the Church



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, please work in me what's pleasing to You."



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be close to the Light of the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be a joyful giver.



Pray to the Lord and pray to him to know that His Pure word is a shield.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that believers in Jordan receiving Biblical training will be

emboldened in their witness for Christ.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 364 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 30 December 2023 reflections - The Resurrection of Christ

Day 364, 30 December 2023



1) Mark 16:1-8 Matthew 28:1-7 Luke 24:1-12 Mark 16:9-13 John 20:1-18

Matthew 28:8-15 Luke 24:13-43 Mark 16:12-13 John 20:19-23 Mark 16:14

John 20:24-31 John 21 Matthew 28:16-20 Mark 16:15-18 Luke 24:44-49

Mark 16:19-20 Luke 24:50-53 Acts 1:1-11



Mark 16:1-8





The Resurrection of Jesus

Mt 28:1-8; Lk 24:1-12; Jn 20:1-10



1 (Mk 15:40; 15:47) When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene,

and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices,

so that they might go and anoint Him.

2 (Mt 28:1; Lk 24:1) Very early in the morning, on the first day

of the week, they came to the tomb at the rising of the sun.

3 They said among themselves, "Who will roll the stone away

from the door of the tomb for us?"

4 (Lk 24:2; Jn 20:1) But when they looked, they saw that the stone

had been rolled away. For it was very large.

5 (Jn 20:11-12; Mt 28:3) And entering the tomb, they saw a young man

sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white robe.

And they were frightened.

6 He said to them, "Do not be frightened. You are looking for Jesus

of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen. He is not here.

See the place where they laid Him.

7 (Mk 14:28; Mt 26:32) But go your way, tell His disciples and Peter

that He is going before you to Galilee. There you will see Him,

as He told you."

8 They went out quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled

and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.



[1] And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of

James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint

him.

[2] And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto

the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.

[3] And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from

the door of the sepulchre?

[4] And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it

was very great.

[5] And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the

right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.

[6] And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth,

which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where

they laid him.

[7] But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you

into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

[8] And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they

trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they

were afraid.



Matthew 28:1-7



The Resurrection



Mk 16:1-8; Lk 24:1-12; Jn 20:1-10



1 (Mt 27:56; 27:61) At the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn

on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene

and the other Mary went to see the tomb.

2 And then there was a great earthquake. For the angel of the Lord

descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone from the door

and sat on it.

3 (Mk 9:3; Ac 1:10) His countenance was like lightning, and his garments

white as snow.

4 (Rev 1:17) The soldiers shook for fear of him and became like dead men.

5 (Heb 1:14) The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid.

For I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified.

6 (Mt 16:21; 27:63) He is not here. For He has risen, as He said.

Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

7 (Mt 26:32; 28:10) Then go quickly and tell His disciples

that He has risen from the dead, and indeed, He is going before you

to Galilee. There you will see Him. Listen, I have told you."



[1] In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of

the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

[2] And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord

descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and

sat upon it.

[3] His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

[4] And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

[5] And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know

that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

[6] He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where

the Lord lay.

[7] And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead;

and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I

have told you.



Luke 24:1-12



The Resurrection of Jesus

Mt 28:1-10; Mk 16:1-8; Jn 20:1-10



1 (Lk 24:10; Jn 20:1-2) Now on the first day of the week,

very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them,

came to the tomb bringing the spices they had prepared.

2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb.

3 (Lk 24:23) But when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord

Jesus.

4 (Mk 16:5; Ac 1:10) While they were greatly perplexed concerning this,

suddenly two men stood by them in shining garments.

5 As they were afraid and bowed their faces to the ground, they said to them,

"Why do you seek the living among the dead?

6 (Mt 17:22-23; Lk 9:22) He is not here, but has risen! Remember how

He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee,

7 saying, 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men,

and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.' "

8 Then they remembered His words.

9 And they returned from the tomb and reported all these things

to the eleven and to all the rest.

10 (Mk 15:40-41; Lk 8:2-3) It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna,

Mary the mother of James, and other women with them, who told these things

to the apostles.

11 (Mk 16:11) But their words seemed like fables to them, and they did not

believe them.

12 But Peter rose and ran to the tomb. Stooping down, he saw the linen

clothes lying by themselves. He departed, wondering in himself what

had happened.



[1] Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came

unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain

others with them.

[2] And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.

[3] And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

[4] And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two

men stood by them in shining garments:

[5] And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they

said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

[6] He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was

yet in Galilee,

[7] Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men,

and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

[8] And they remembered his words,

[9] And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the

eleven, and to all the rest.

[10] It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and

other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.

[11] And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them

not.

[12] Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he

beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in

himself at that which was come to pass.



Mark 16:9-13



The Appearance to Mary Magdalene

Mt 28:9-10; Jn 20:11-18

9 (Mk 15:40; Lk 8:2) Now when Jesus rose early on the first day

of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom

He had cast seven demons.

10 She went and told those who had been with Him as they mourned

and wept.

11 (Lk 24:11; Mk 16:13-14) When they heard that He was alive

and had been seen by her, they did not believe it.



[9] Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared

first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.

[10] And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and

wept.

[11] And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of

her, believed not.



The Appearance to Two Disciples

Lk 24:13-35



12 (Lk 24:13-32) After that He appeared in another form to two of them

as they walked and went into the country.

13 (Lk 24:33-35; Jn 20:25) And they went and told it to the rest,

but they did not believe them either.



[12] After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they

walked, and went into the country.

[13] And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.



John 20:1-18



John 20

The Resurrection of Jesus

Mt 28:1-10; Mk 16:1-8; Lk 24:1-12



1 (Mt 27:60; Mk 15:46) Early on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene

went to the tomb while it was still dark

and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb.

2 (Jn 13:23; 20:13; 19:26) So she came running to Simon Peter

and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and said to them,

"They have taken the Lord out of the tomb,

and we do not know where they have put Him."

3 (Lk 24:12) So Peter came out with the other disciple

and they went toward the tomb.

4 They both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter

and came to the tomb first.

5 (Jn 19:40) Stooping down and looking in, he saw the linen cloths lying.

Yet he did not enter.

6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went inside the tomb.

He saw the linen cloths lying there,

7 (Jn 11:44) and the cloth that was around His head, not lying

with the linen cloths, but wrapped in a place by itself.

8 (Jn 20:4) Then the other disciple, who came first to the tomb,

went in also. He saw and believed.

9 (Lk 24:26; Ps 16:10) For as yet they did not know the Scripture,

that He must rise from the dead.

10 Then the disciples went away again to their own homes.



[1] The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet

dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.

[2] Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple,

whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of

the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.

[3] Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the

sepulchre.

[4] So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and

came first to the sepulchre.

[5] And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet

went he not in.

[6] Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and

seeth the linen clothes lie,

[7] And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen

clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.

[8] Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the

sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.

[9] For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the

dead.

[10] Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.



The Appearance of Jesus to Mary Magdalene

Mk 16:9-11



11 But Mary stood outside at the tomb weeping. As she wept,

she stooped down and looked into the tomb,

12 and she saw two angels in white sitting where the body of Jesus

had lain, one at the head and one at the feet.

13 (Jn 20:15; 2:4) They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?"

She said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord,

and I do not know where they have put Him."

14 (Mt 28:9; Mk 16:9) When she had said this, she turned around

and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus.

15 (Jn 1:38; 18:4) Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?

Whom are you seeking?"

Supposing Him to be the gardener, she said to Him,

"Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have put Him,

and I will take Him away."

16 (Jn 1:38) Jesus said to her, "Mary."

She turned and said to Him, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).

17 Jesus said to her, "Stop holding on to Me, for I have not

yet ascended to My Father. But go to My brothers and tell them,

'I am ascending to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God.' "

18 (Lk 24:10; Mt 28:10) Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples

that she had seen the Lord and that He had said these things to her.



[11] But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she

stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,

[12] And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the

other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.

[13] And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them,

Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid

him.

[14] And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus

standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.

[15] Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She,

supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne

him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.

[16] Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him,

Rabboni; which is to say, Master.

[17] Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my

Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father,

and your Father; and to my God, and your God.

[18] Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord,

and that he had spoken these things unto her.



Matthew 28:8-15



8 (Ps 2:11) So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear

and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word.

9 (Mt 14:33; 28:17) As they went to tell His disciples,

suddenly Jesus met them, saying, "Greetings!" They came

and took hold of His feet and worshipped Him.

10 (Jn 20:17; Ro 8:29) Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid.

Go tell My brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me."



[8] And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy;

and did run to bring his disciples word.

[9] And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying,

All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

[10] Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they

go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.



The Report of the Guard



11 (Mt 27:65-66) While they were going, indeed, some of the soldiers

went into the city and described to the chief priests everything

that had happened.

12 When the chief priests were assembled with the elders

and had taken counsel, they gave much money to the soldiers,

13 saying, "You are to say, 'His disciples came by night

and stole Him away while we were sleeping.'

14 (Mt 27:2) If this comes to the governor's ears, we will satisfy him

and keep you secure."

15 (Mt 27:8) So they took the money and did as they were instructed.

And this saying has been commonly reported among the Jews to this day.



[11] Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city,

and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.

[12] And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel,

they gave large money unto the soldiers,

[13] Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while

we slept.

[14] And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and

secure you.

[15] So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is

commonly reported among the Jews until this day.



Luke 24:13-43



The Walk to Emmaus

Mk 16:12-13



13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus,

about seven miles (Gk. 60 stadia, or 11 kilometers.) from Jerusalem.

14 They were talking with each other about all these things that had happened.

15 (Lk 24:36) While they communed and reasoned together,

Jesus Himself drew near and went with them.

16 (Jn 20:14; 21:4) But their eyes were kept from recognizing Him.

17 He said to them, "What kind of communication are you sharing

with one another while you are walking and are sad?”

18 (Jn 19:25) One of them, named Cleopas, answered Him, "Are You

the only foreigner in Jerusalem who does not know what has happened

there in these days?"

19 (Mt 21:11; Ac 2:22) He said to them, "What things?"

They said to Him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet,

powerful in deed and word before God and all the people,

20 (Lk 23:13) and how our chief priests and rulers handed Him over

to be sentenced to death and crucified Him.

21 (Lk 1:68; 2:38) But we were hoping that it was He who was to redeem

Israel. Moreover, today is the third day since these things happened.

22 Even some women from among us, who arrived early at the tomb, surprised us.

23 When they did not find His body, they returned saying that they had

even seen a vision of angels, who said that He was alive.

24 (Lk 24:12) Then some of those who were with us went to the tomb

and found it just as the women had said. But they did not see Him."

25 He said to them, "O fools! And slow of heart to believe what

the prophets have spoken!

26 (1Pe 1:11; Lk 24:46) Was it not necessary for the Christ to suffer

these things and to enter His glory?"

27 (Ge 3:15; Isa 7:14) And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets,

He explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures.

28 (Mk 6:48) They drew near the village where they were traveling,

and He seemed to be going farther.

29 But they urged Him, saying, "Stay with us. For it is nearly evening

and the day is far spent." So He went in to stay with them.

30 (Mt 14:19; Lk 24:35) As He sat at supper with them, He took the bread,

blessed it and broke it, and gave it to them.

31 (Lk 24:16; 4:30) Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him.

And He vanished out of their sight.

32 (Lk 24:45; Ps 39:3) They said to each other, :Did not our hearts burn

within us while He talked to us on the way and while He opened

the Scriptures to us?"

33 They rose up and returned to Jerusalem at once. And they found

the eleven and those who were with them assembled together,

34 (1Co 15:5) saying, "The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!"

35 Then they reported what had happened on the way, and how He was recognised

by them in the breaking of the bread.



[13] And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus,

which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs.

[14] And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

[15] And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned,

Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.

[16] But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.

[17] And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye

have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

[18] And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him,

Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which

are come to pass therein these days?

[19] And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning

Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God

and all the people:

[20] And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned

to death, and have crucified him.

[21] But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel:

and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

[22] Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which

were early at the sepulchre;

[23] And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also

seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.

[24] And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found

it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.

[25] Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that

the prophets have spoken:

[26] Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his

glory?

[27] And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in

all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

[28] And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as

though he would have gone further.

[29] But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward

evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.

[30] And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and

blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.

[31] And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of

their sight.

[32] And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while

he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

[33] And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found

the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,

[34] Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.

[35] And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of

them in breaking of bread.



The Appearance to the Disciples

Mt 28:16-20; Mk 16:14-18; Jn 20:19-23; Ac 1:6-8



36 (Mk 16:14; Jn 14:27) As they were saying this, Jesus Himself stood among

them and said to them, "Peace be unto you."

37 They were terrified and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit.

38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise

in your hearts?

39 (Jn 20:27; 1Jn 1:1; Jn 20:20) See My hands and My feet, that it is

I Myself. Feel Me and see. For a spirit does not have flesh

and bones as you see that I have."

40 When He said this, He showed them His hands and His feet.

41 (Jn 21:5) And while they yet disbelieved for joy and wondered,

He said to them, "Do you have any food here?"

42 They gave Him a piece of broiled fish and some honeycomb.

43 (Ac 10:41) And He took it and ate it before them.



[36] And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and

saith unto them, Peace be unto you.

[37] But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen

a spirit.

[38] And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise

in your hearts?

[39] Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see;

for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

[40] And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.

[41] And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto

them, Have ye here any meat?

[42] And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.

[43] And he took it, and did eat before them.



Mark 16:12-13



The Appearance to Two Disciples

Lk 24:13-35



12 (Lk 24:13-32) After that He appeared in another form to two of them

as they walked and went into the country.

13 (Lk 24:33-35; Jn 20:25) And they went and told it to the rest,

but they did not believe them either.



[12] After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they

walked, and went into the country.

[13] And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.



John 20:19-23



The Appearance of Jesus to His Disciples

Mt 28:16-20; Mk 16:14-18; Lk 24:36-49



19 (Jn 20:26; 14:27; 20:21) On the evening of that first day of the week,

the doors being locked where the disciples were assembled,

for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst, and said to them,

"Peace be with you."

20 (Jn 16:22; 20:27) When He had said this, He showed them His hands

and His side. The disciples were then glad when they saw the Lord.

21 (Jn 13:20; 14:27) So Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you.

As My Father has sent Me, even so I send you."

22 (Ge 2:7; Jn 15:26) When He had said this, He breathed on them

and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit.

23 (Mt 16:19; 18:18) If you forgive the sins of anyone,

they are forgiven them. If you retain the sins of anyone,

they are retained."



[19] Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the

doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews,

came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.

[20] And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side.

Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.

[21] Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath

sent me, even so send I you.

[22] And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them,

Receive ye the Holy Ghost:

[23] Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose

soever sins ye retain, they are retained.



Mark 16:14



The Commissioning of the Disciples

Mt 28:16-20; Lk 24:36-49; Jn 20:19-23; Ac 1:6-8



14 (1Co 15:5; Lk 24:36-43) Afterward He appeared to the eleven

as they sat at supper, and He reprimanded them for their unbelief

and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had

seen Him after He had risen.



[14] Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and

upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they

believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.



John 20:24-31



Jesus and Thomas



24 (Jn 11:16) But Thomas, one of the twelve, called The Twin,

was not with them when Jesus came.

25 (Mk 16:11) So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!"

But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail prints in His hands,

and put my finger in the nail prints, and put my hand in His side,

I will not believe."

26 (Jn 20:19) After eight days His disciples were again

inside with the doors shut, and Thomas was with them.

Jesus came and stood among them, and said, "Peace be with you."

27 (Jn 20:25) Then He said to Thomas, "Put your finger here,

and look at My hands. Put your hand here and place it in My side.

Do not be faithless, but believing."

28 (Isa 7:14; 9:6) Thomas answered Him, "My Lord and my God!"

29 (1Pe 1:8; 2Co 5:7) Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have

seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen,

and have yet believed."



[24] But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when

Jesus came.

[25] The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But

he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails,

and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his

side, I will not believe.

[26] And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with

them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and

said, Peace be unto you.

[27] Then saith he to Thomas, reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands;

and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless,

but believing.

[28] And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

[29] Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast

believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.



The Purpose of the Book



30 (Jn 21:25) Jesus performed many other signs in the presence

of His disciples, which are not written in this book.

31 (Jn 3:15-16; 10:10) But these are written that you might believe

that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing

you may have life in His name.



[30] And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciple

which are not written in this book:

[31] But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ,

the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.



John 21



The Appearance of Jesus to the Seven Disciples



1 (Jn 6:1) After this, Jesus revealed Himself again to the disciples

at the Sea of Tiberias. He revealed Himself this way:

2 (Jn 1:45-2:1; 4:46) Simon Peter; Thomas, called The Twin;

Nathanael of Cana in Galilee; the sons of Zebedee;

and two more of His disciples were together.

3 (Lk 5:5) Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing."

Then they said to him, "We will go with you."

They went out and immediately entered the boat.

But that night they caught nothing.

4 (Jn 20:14) When the morning came, Jesus stood on the shore.

But the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.

5 Jesus said to them, "Children, do you have any fish?"

They answered Him, "No."

6 (Lk 5:4-7) He said to them, "Throw the net on the right side of the boat,

and you will find some." So they threw it, and now they were not able

to draw it in because of the abundance of fish.

7 (Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2) Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter,

"It is the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord,

he put on his outer garment, for he had taken it off, and jumped into the sea.

8 The other disciples came in the little boat, dragging the net full of fish.

For they were not far from land, but about three hundred feet away.

(About 200 cubits, or 90 meters.)

9 When they came to land, they saw a charcoal fire there with fish lying

on it, and bread.

10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish which you have just caught."

11 Simon Peter went up and dragged the net, full of 153 large fish, to land.

Although there were so many, the net was not torn.

12 (Ac 10:41; Jn 4:27) Jesus said to them, "Come and eat breakfast."

None of the disciples dared ask, "Who are You?" They knew it was the Lord.

13 (Jn 21:9) Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them,

and likewise the fish.

14 (Jn 20:19; 20:26) This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed

to His disciples after He was raised from the dead.



[1] After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the

sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.

[2] There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and

Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his

disciples.

[3] Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also

go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that

night they caught nothing.

[4] But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the

disciples knew not that it was Jesus.

[5] Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered

him, No.

[6] And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and

ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it

for the multitude of fishes.

[7] Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the

Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's

coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

[8] And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far

from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.

[9] As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there,

and fish laid thereon, and bread.

[10] Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.

[11] Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, and

hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the

net broken.

[12] Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst

ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.

[13] Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish

likewise.

[14] This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples,

after that he was risen from the dead.



Jesus and Peter



15 (Mt 26:33; Mk 14:29) So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said

to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?"

He said to Him, "Yes, Lord. You know that I love You."

He said to him, "Feed My lambs."

16 (Ac 20:28; 1Pe 5:2) He said to him again a second time,

"Simon, son of John, do you love Me?"

He said to Him, "Yes, Lord. You know that I love You."

He said to him, "Tend My sheep."

17 (Jn 13:38; 16:30) He said to him the third time,

"Simon, son of John, do you love Me?"

Peter was grieved because He asked him the third time, "Do you love Me?"

He said to Him, "Lord, You know everything. You know that I love You."

Jesus said to him, "Feed My sheep.

18 (Jn 13:36) Truly, truly I say to you, when you were young,

you dressed yourself and walked where you desired.

But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands,

and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go."

19 (2Pe 1:14; Jn 21:22) He said this, signifying by what kind of death

he would glorify God. When He had said this, He said to him, "Follow Me."



[15] So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of

Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou

knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

[16] He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou

me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith

unto him, Feed my sheep.

[17] He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?

Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me?

And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I

love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

[18] Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst

thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old,

thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry

thee whither thou wouldest not.

[19] This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when

he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.



Jesus and the Beloved Disciple



20 (Jn 21:7; 20:2) Peter turned and saw following them the disciple

whom Jesus loved, who also leaned against His bosom at the supper

and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray You?"

21 (Ac 1:6-7) When Peter saw him, he said to ­Jesus,

"Lord, what about this man?"

22 (1Co 4:5; Rev 2:25) Jesus said to him, "If it is My will that

he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow Me!"

23 The saying went out among the brothers that this disciple would not die.

Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but,

"If it is My will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?"

24 (Jn 19:35; 3Jn 1:12) This is the disciple who testifies about

these things, and wrote these things. We know that his testimony is true.

25 (Am 7:10; Jn 20:30-31) There are also many other things which Jesus did.

Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that not even the world

itself could contain the books that would be written. Amen.



[20] Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved

following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which

is he that betrayeth thee?

[21] Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?

[22] Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that

to thee? follow thou me.

[23] Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple

should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I

will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?

[24] This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these

things: and we know that his testimony is true.

[25] And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if

they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could

not contain the books that should be written. Amen.



Matthew 28:16-20



The Commissioning of the Disciples

Mk 16:14-18; Lk 24:36-49; Jn 20:19-23; Ac 1:6-8



16 (Mt 28:7; 26:32) Then the eleven disciples went away to Galilee,

to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.

17 (Mt 28:9) When they saw Him, they worshipped Him. But some doubted.

18 (Mt 11:27; Ro 14:9) Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying,

"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.

19 (Mk 16:15-16; Ac 1:8) Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,

baptizing them in the name of the Father

and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

20 (Mt 18:20; Ac 2:42) teaching them to observe all things I have commanded

you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.



[16] Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where

Jesus had appointed them.

[17] And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

[18] And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me

in heaven and in earth.

[19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of

the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

[20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:

and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.



Mark 16:15-18



15 (Mt 28:19; Ac 1:8) He said to them, "Go into all the world,

and preach the gospel to every creature.

16 (Jn 3:36; 1Pe 3:21; Mt 28:19) He who believes and is baptized

will be saved. But he who does not believe will be condemned.

17 (Ac 5:16; 8:7) These signs will accompany those who believe:

In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;

18 (Lk 10:19; Ac 3:16) they will take up serpents; if they drink

any deadly thing, it will not hurt them;

they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."



[15] And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel

to every creature.

[16] He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth

not shall be damned.

[17] And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they

cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

[18] They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it

shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall

recover.



Luke 24:44-49



44 (Ps 72:1-20; 118:22) He said to them, "These are the words

which I spoke to you while I was still with you,

that all things must be fulfilled which were written

in the Law of Moses and in the Prophets and in the Psalms concerning Me."

45 (Ac 16:14; Job 33:16) Then He opened their minds to understand

the Scriptures.

46 (Lk 24:44) He said to them, "Thus it is written, and accordingly

it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead

the third day,

47 (Ac 5:31; Mt 28:19; Ac 2:38) and that repentance and remission

of sins should be preached in His name to all nations,

beginning at Jerusalem.

48 (Ac 1:8; 2:32) You are witnesses of these things.

49 (Ac 1:4; Jn 14:26) And look, I am sending the promise of My Father

upon you. But wait in the city of Jerusalem until you are clothed

with power from on high."



[44] And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you,

while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were

written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms,

concerning me.

[45] Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the

scriptures,

[46] And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to

suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

[47] And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his

name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

[48] And ye are witnesses of these things.

[49] And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in

the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.



Mark 16:19-20



The Ascension

Lk 24:50-53; Ac 1:9-11

19 (1Pe 3:22; Heb 1:3; 12:2) After the Lord had spoken to them,

He was received up into heaven and sat at the right hand of God.

20 (Ac 5:12; Heb 2:4) Then they went forth and preached everywhere,

the Lord working with them and confirming the word through

the accompanying signs. Amen.



[19] So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into

heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.

[20] And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with

them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.



Luke 24:50-53



The Ascension

Mk 16:19-20; Ac 1:9-11



50 (Ac 1:12; Mt 21:17) Then He led them out as far as Bethany,

and He lifted up His hands and blessed them.

51 (2Ki 2:11; Mk 16:19) While He blessed them, He parted from them

and was carried up into heaven.

52 (Mt 28:9; Jn 16:22) Then they worshipped Him,

and returned to Jerusalem with great joy,

53 and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.



[50] And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands,

and blessed them.

[51] And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them,

and carried up into heaven.

[52] And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:

[53] And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.



Acts 1

The Promise of the Holy Spirit



1 (Lk 1:3; 24:19) The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus,

concerning all that Jesus began both to do and teach,

2 (Jn 13:18; 20:21) until the day when He was taken up,

after He had given commandments through the Holy Spirit

to the apostles whom He had chosen,

3 (1Co 15:5-7; Jn 20:26) to whom He presented Himself alive

after His passion by many infallible proofs,

appearing to them for forty days,

and speaking concerning the kingdom of God.

4 (Lk 24:49; Jn 14:16) Being assembled with them, He commanded them,

"Do not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father,

of which you have heard from Me. (Lk 24:49. 5Mt 3:11; Lk 3:16)

For John baptized with water, but you shall be baptized

with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."



[1] The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus

began both to do and teach,

[2] Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the

Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:

[3] To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many

infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the

things pertaining to the kingdom of God:

[4] And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they

should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the

Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.

The Ascension



6 (Mt 17:11) So when they had come together, they asked Him,

"Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?"

7 (Mt 24:36; Da 2:21; Mk 13:32) He said to them, "It is not for you

to know the times or the dates, which the Father has fixed

by His own authority.

8 (Mt 28:19; Mk 16:15) But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit

comes upon you. And you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem,

and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

9 (Ac 1:2; Lk 24:50-51) When He had spoken these things,

while they looked, He was taken up.

And a cloud received Him from their sight.

10 (Lk 24:4; Jn 20:12) While they looked intently toward heaven as

He ascended, suddenly two men stood by them in white garments.

11 (Ac 2:7; 13:31) They said, "Men of Galilee, why stand looking

toward heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you to heaven,

will come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven."



[6] When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying,

Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

[7] And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the

seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

[8] But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon

you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all

Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

[9] And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken

up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

[10] And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up,

behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;

[11] Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into

heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall

so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.



2) Our Daily Bread for 30 December 2023 Titled



Troubled Souls, Honest Prayers




John 12:27-32



27 (Lk 22:53; Jn 13:21) "Now My soul is troubled. What shall I say?

'Father, save Me from this hour'? ­Instead, for this reason I came

to this hour.

28 (Mt 3:17; 17:5) Father, glorify Your name."

Then a voice came from heaven, saying, "I have glorified it, and will glorify

it again."

29 The crowd that stood by and heard it said that it had thundered.

Others said, "An angel has spoken to Him."

30 (Jn 11:42) Jesus answered, "This voice came not for My sake,

but for your sakes.

31 (Jn 14:30; 2Co 4:4; Eph 6:12) Now judgment is upon this world.

Now the ruler of this world will be cast out.

32 (Jn 6:44; 3:14; 8:28) And if I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw

all men to Myself."



[27] Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from

this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.

[28] Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying,

I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.

[29] The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it

thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.

[30] Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for

your sakes.

[31] Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world

be cast out.

[32] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.



Three days before a bomb blast rocked his home in January 1957, Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr. had an encounter that marked him for the rest of his life.

After receiving a threatening phone call, King found himself pondering an exit

strategy from the civil rights movement. Then prayers emerged from his soul.

"I am here taking a stand for what I believe is right. But now I am afraid. I

have nothing left. I've come to the point where I can't face it alone." After

his prayer, there came quiet assurance. King noted, "Almost at once my fears

began to go. My uncertainty disappeared. I was ready to face anything."



In John 12, Jesus acknowledged, "My soul is troubled" (v. 27). He was

transparently honest about His internal disposition; still He was God-centered

in His prayer. "Father, glorify your name!" (v. 28). Jesus' prayer was one of

surrender to God's will.



How human it is for us to feel the pangs of fear and discomfort when we find

ourselves with the option of honoring God or not; when wisdom requires making

hard decisions about relationships, habits, or other patterns (good or bad).

No matter what we're faced with, as we pray boldly to God, He'll give us the

strength to overcome our fear and discomfort and do what brings glory to Him

-for our good and the good of others.



By: Arthur Jackson



Reflect & Pray



What experiences have prompted prayers for God to be honoured?

What advice would you give to others facing such situations?



Father, please help me to face challenging things

honestly and prayerfully that are for my good and will bring You glory.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 7 Support System



Deut 33:27



27 (Ge 49:24; Ps 90:1-2) The eternal God is your refuge,

and underneath you are the everlasting arms;

He will drive out the enemy before you,

and will say, "Destroy them."



27 The eternal God is thy refuge,

And underneath are the everlasting arms:

And he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee;

And shall say, Destroy them.



Misty was only 4 when her parents divorced. Her dad moved away,

and the following summer she went with her grandparents to visit him

in his new apartment. In the swimming pool one afternoon, Grandpa stood

Misty on the side of the pool, held out his arm, and called, "Jump!"

But Misty, normally a little fish, suddenly seemed afraid of the water,

and stood trembling on the sidewalk shaking her head.

"Jump, Misty - I'll catch you!"

"Are you sure, Grandpa?"

"Of course I'm sure! Jump!"

But Misty wouldn't jump. Finally Grandpa, a bit irritated, said, "Misty, do

you think I Won't catch you? Do you think I'll just walk away?"

The tears spilled over, and Misty sobbed. "Daddy did!"

Human support systems often fail us. We disappoint those we love, and

are disappointed by them. People simply aren't there for us

when we need them most.

But God promises that with him things are different. He's always there,

always listening, always caring, always ready to support us.

"Underneath his everlasting arms".

Sometimes those arms reach out clothed in flesh, in the warm embrace

of a loved one. Sometimes they support us through the Word, sometimes through

the quiet peace that comes in prayer. Sometimes we are not aware of them

at all, but they still hold us up, supporting, surrounding, loving.

Underneath us are the everlasting arms.



Application



a) Have I ever felt abandoned by someone I loved and depended upon?



b) How have I experienced the faithfulness of God's "Everlasting arms"?



c) Now can this verse help me in times when I feel my supports have given way?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Mark 4:19



19 But the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches,

and the desires for other things entering in choke the word,

and it proves unfruitful.



19 and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches,

and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word,

and it becometh unfruitful.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Burdened by Doubt



James 1:2 to 8



Faith and Wisdom



2 My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into diverse temptations,

3 knowing that the trying of your faith develops patience.

4 But let patience perfect its work, that you may be perfect and complete,

lacking nothing.

5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men

liberally and without criticism, and it will be given to him.

6 But let him ask in faith, without wavering. For he who wavers

is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed with the wind.

7 Let not that man think that he will receive anything from the Lord.

8 A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.



2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

3 knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect

and entire, wanting nothing.

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men

liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth

is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13





9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 30 of the Month



a) Pray for God's will to be done where you live and throughout

Canadian society, as it is in Heaven



( Matt 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



)



b) Pray that in kindness God will lead many to repentance in your city

or community, and across our nation. (



Rom 2:4



4 (Ex 34:6; Isa 30:18) Do you despise the riches of His goodness,

tolerance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness of God

leads you to repentance?



4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance

and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth

thee to repentance?



)





Conclusion:



Pray to Have the Risen and Resurrected Lord have a walk with you.



Pray to the Lord: "Father, please help me to face challenging things

honestly and prayerfully that are for my good and will bring You glory."



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to know that He is your support System.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him not to be deceived by the riches of

the World.



Pray to the Lord and pray to him to seek wisdom.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for God's will to be done where you live and throughout

Canadian society, as it is in Heaven



Pray that in kindness God will lead many to repentance in your city

or community, and across our nation.



Pray for the peace of those denied education and jobs in Cuba for following

Christ.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 363 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 29 December 2023 reflections Part 1b - The Crucifixion



Matthew 27:32-34



The Crucifixion

Mk 15:21-32; Lk 23:26-43; Jn 19:17-27



32 (Mk 15:21; Lk 23:26) As they came out, they found a man of Cyrene,

Simon by name. This man they compelled to bear His cross.

33 When they came to a place called Golgotha, which means

The Place of the Skull,

34 (Ps 69:21; Mt 27:48) they gave Him sour wine mingled with gall to drink.

But when He tasted it, He would not drink it.



[32] And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him

they compelled to bear his cross.

[33] And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a

place of a skull,

[34] They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had

tasted thereof, he would not drink.



Luke 23:26-31



The Crucifixion

Mt 27:32-44; Mk 15:21-32; Jn 19:17-27



26 As they led Him away, they seized Simon of Cyrene, who was coming

from the country, and they laid the cross on him to carry it behind Jesus.

27 (Lk 8:52) A large number of people followed Him, including women

who mourned and lamented Him.

28 Jesus turned to them, saying, "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for Me,

but weep for yourselves and for your children.

29 (Mt 24:19; Hos 13:16) Listen, the days are coming when they will say,

'Blessed are the barren, who never bore and never nursed!'

30 (Isa 2:19; Hos 10:8) Then they will begin to say to the mountains,

'Fall on us,' and to the hills, 'Cover us.'

31 (Pr 11:31) For if men do these things when the tree is green,

what will happen when it is dry?"



[26] And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian,

coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might

bear it after Jesus.

[27] And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which

also bewailed and lamented him.

[28] But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for

me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.

[29] For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed

are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave

suck.

[30] Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the

hills, Cover us.

[31] For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the

dry?



John 19:17



17 (Lk 23:33; 14:27; 23:26) He went out, carrying His own cross,

to a place called The Place of a Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.



[17] And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a

skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:



Mark 15:25-32



25 (Mk 15:33; Jn 19:14) Now it was the third hour, and they crucified Him.

26 (Mt 27:37)The inscription of His accusation was written above:

THE KING OF THE JEWS.

27 With Him they crucified two thieves, one on His right

and the other on His left.

28 And the Scripture was fulfilled, which says, "He was numbered

with the lawless ones." (Isa 53:12.)

29 (Ps 109:25; Mk 14:58) Those who passed by blasphemed Him,

shaking their heads and saying, "Ah, You who would destroy the temple

and build it in three days,

30 save Yourself, and come down from the cross!"

31 Likewise the chief priests mocked Him among themselves

with the scribes and said, "He saved others, but He cannot save Himself!

32 (Lk 23:39-43; Mt 27:44) Let the Christ, the King of Israel,

descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe."

Those who were crucified with Him also reviled Him.



[25] And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.

[26] And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF

THE JEWS.

[27] And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and

the other on his left.

[28] And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with

the transgressors.

[29] And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying,

Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,

[30] Save thyself, and come down from the cross.

[31] Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the

scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

[32] Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may

see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.



Matthew 27:35-44



35 (Ps 22:18) When they crucified Him, they divided His garments

by casting lots to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet,

"They divided My garments among themselves

and for My clothing they cast lots."(Ps 22:18.)

36 (Mt 27:54) And sitting down, they kept watch over Him there.

37 (Mk 15:26; Lk 23:38) They put His accusation over His head, which read:

THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

38 (Isa 53:12) Then two thieves were crucified with Him, one on the right

and another on the left.

39 (Ps 109:25; La 1:12) Those who passed by insulted Him, wagging their heads,

40 (Mt 26:61; 4:3) saying, "You who would destroy the temple

and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God,

come down from the cross."

41 Likewise the chief priests, with the scribes and elders,

mocked Him, saying,

42 (Jn 1:49; Mt 27:37) "He saved others. He cannot save Himself.

If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross,

and we will believe Him.

43 (Ps 22:8) He trusted in God. Let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him.

For He said, 'I am the Son of God.' "

44 Even the thieves who were crucified with Him insulted Him in the same way.



[35] And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it

might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments

among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.

[36] And sitting down they watched him there;

[37] And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING

OF THE JEWS.

[38] Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand,

and another on the left.

[39] And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,

[40] And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three

days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.

[41] Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and

elders, said,

[42] He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel,

let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.

[43] He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he

said, I am the Son of God.

[44] The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his

teeth.



Luke 23:32-43



32 (Mk 15:27; Mt 27:38; Jn 19:18) Two different men, who were criminals,

also were led with Him to be killed.

33 (Mt 27:33-34; Mk 15:22-23) When they came to the place which is called

The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right

and one on the left.

34 (Ps 22:18; Mt 5:44; Mk 15:24) Jesus said, "Father, forgive them,

for they know not what they do." And they divided His clothes

by casting lots.

35 (Ps 22:17; Isa 42:1) The people stood by watching. But the rulers

with them scoffed, saying, "He saved others. Let Him save Himself

if He is the Christ, the Chosen One of God."

36 (Mt 27:48; Ps 69:21) And the soldiers also mocked Him,

coming to Him and offering Him sour wine,

37 saying, "If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself."

38 (Mt 27:37; Mk 15:26) An inscription was written over Him in letters

of Greek and Latin and Hebrew:

THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

39 (Mt 27:44; Mk 15:32) One of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him,

saying, "If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us!"

40 But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God,

seeing you are under the same sentence?

41 And we indeed, justly. For we are receiving the due reward of our deeds.

But this Man has done nothing amiss."

42 Then he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom."

43 (Rev 2:7; Isa 53:11; 2Co 5:8) Jesus said to him,

"Truly, I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise."



[32] And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to

death.

[33] And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there

they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the

other on the left.

[34] Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

[35] And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided

him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the

chosen of God.

[36] And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him

vinegar,

[37] And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

[38] And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and

Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

[39] And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If

thou be Christ, save thyself and us.

[40] But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God,

seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

[41] And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but

this man hath done nothing amiss.

[42] And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy

kingdom.

[43] And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be

with me in paradise.



John 19:18-27



18 There they crucified Him, and two others with Him, one on either side,

and Jesus in the middle.

19 (Mt 27:37; Mk 15:26) Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross.

The writing was:

JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

20 (Jn 19:13) Many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus

was crucified was near the city. And it was written in Hebrew,

in Greek, and in Latin.

21 (Jn 19:14) The chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate,

"Do not write, 'The King of the Jews,' but 'He said, I am King of the Jews.' "

22 Pilate answered, "What I have written, I have written."

23 (Lk 23:34; Mt 27:35) When the soldiers had crucified Jesus,

they took His garments and divided them into four parts,

a part for each soldier; and also His tunic.

Now the tunic was seamless, woven from top to bottom.

24 (Ps 22:18; Jn 19:28) So they said to one another,

"Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to decide whose it shall be."

This happened to fulfill the Scripture which says:

"They divided My garments among them,

and for My clothing they cast lots." (Ps 22:18.)

Therefore the soldiers did these things.

25 (Lk 23:49; Mt 27:55-56; Mk 15:40-41) But standing by the cross of Jesus

were His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas,

and Mary Magdalene.

26 (Jn 13:23; 2:4; 20:2) When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple

whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother,

"Woman, here is your son."

27 (Jn 16:32; 1:11) Then He said to the disciple, "Here is your mother."

From that time, this disciple took her to his own home.



[18] Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one,

and Jesus in the midst.

[19] And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was,

JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.

[20] This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was

crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and

Latin.

[21] Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King

of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews.

[22] Pilate answered, What I have written I have written.

[23] Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments,

and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the

coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.

[24] They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots

for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which

saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast

lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

[25] Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's

sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.

[26] When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom

he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

[27] Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour

that disciple took her unto his own home.



Mark 15:33-41



The Death of Jesus

Mt 27:45-56; Lk 23:44-49; Jn 19:28-30



33 (Mt 27:45; Mk 15:25; Lk 23:44-45) When the sixth hour had come,

there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.

34 (Ps 22:1; Mt 27:46; Lk 23:46) And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out

with a loud voice, saying, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" which means,

"My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?"(Ps 22:1.)

35 Some of those who stood by, when they heard it, said,

"Listen, He is calling Elijah!"

36 (Ps 69:21; Mk 15:23) One man ran and filled a sponge with vinegar,

put it on a stick, and gave it to Him to drink, saying,

"Leave Him alone. Let us see if Elijah will come to take Him down."

37 (Jn 19:30; Mt 27:50) But Jesus cried with a loud voice

and gave up the spirit.

38 (Lk 23:45) And the curtain of the temple was torn

in two from top to bottom.

39 (Mt 27:54; 27:43) When the centurion

(Commander with the rank of captain over 100 soldiers.)

who stood facing Him saw that He cried out and gave up the spirit,

he said, "Truly, this Man was the Son of God."

40 (Ps 38:11; Mt 27:55-56) There were also women looking on from

a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother

of James the Less and of Joseph, and Salome.

41 (Lk 8:2-3) They also had followed Him and had ministered

to Him when He was in Galilee. And many other women who came up

with Him to Jerusalem were there.



[33] And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole

land until the ninth hour.

[34] And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi,

Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why

hast thou forsaken me?

[35] And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he

calleth Elias.

[36] And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed,

and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come

to take him down.

[37] And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.

[38] And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the

bottom.

[39] And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so

cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of

God.

[40] There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary

Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the

less and of Joses, and Salome;

[41] (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto

him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.



Matthew 27:45-56



The Death of Jesus

Mk 15:33-41; Lk 23:44-49; Jn 19:28-30



45 (Am 8:9; Mk 15:33-34) Now from the sixth hour until the ninth hour

there was darkness over all the land.

46 (Ps 22:1; Lk 23:46; Heb 5:7) About the ninth hour Jesus cried out

with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" which means,

"My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?"(Ps 22:1.)

47 Some of those who stood there heard it and said,

"This Man is calling for Elijah."

48 (Ps 69:21; Mt 27:34) Immediately one of them ran, took a sponge,

filled it with wine, and put it on a stick, and gave it to Him to drink.

49 The rest said, "Leave Him alone.

Let us see if Elijah will come to save Him."

50 (Jn 19:30; Mk 15:37) And Jesus, when He had cried out again

with a loud voice, released His spirit.

51 (Mk 15:38; Ex 26:31-37) At that moment the curtain of the temple

was torn in two, from the top to the bottom. And the ground shook,

and the rocks split apart.

52 (1Co 15:20; 1Th 4:14) The graves also were opened, and many bodies

of the saints who had died were raised,

53 (Mt 4:5) and coming out of the graves after His resurrection,

they went into the Holy City and appeared to many.

54 (Mt 27:36; 27:43) When the centurion and those with him,

keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place,

they feared greatly and said, "Truly He was the Son of God!"

55 (Lk 8:2-3) Many women who were there watching from afar followed

Jesus from Galilee, serving Him,

56 (Jn 19:25; Mt 28:1) among whom was Mary Magdalene,

and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.



[45] Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the

ninth hour.

[46] And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli,

Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou

forsaken me?

[47] Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man

calleth for Elias.

[48] And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled it with

vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink.

[49] The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.

[50] Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.

[51] And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to

the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;

[52] And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept

arose,

[53] And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the

holy city, and appeared unto many.

[54] Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus,

saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly,

saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

[55] And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from

Galilee, ministering unto him:

[56] Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses,

and the mother of Zebedee's children.



Luke 23:44-49



The Death of Jesus

Mt 27:45-56; Mk 15:33-41; Jn 19:28-30



44 (Am 8:9; Mt 27:45) It was now about the sixth hour,

and darkness came over all the land until the ninth hour,

45 (Ex 26:31-33; 2Ch 3:14) while the sun was darkened.

And the veil of the temple was torn in the middle.

46 (Jn 19:30; Ps 31:5; Ac 7:59) And Jesus cried out with a loud voice,

"Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit."

Having said this, He gave up the spirit.

47 (Mt 27:54; Mk 15:39) When the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified

God and said, :Certainly, this was a righteous Man."

48 (Lk 18:13) All the crowds who came together to that sight,

witnessing what occurred, struck their chests and ­returned.

49 (Lk 8:2; Ps 38:11; Mt 27:55-56) But all those who knew Him

and the women accompanying Him from Galilee stood at a distance,

seeing these things.



[44] And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the

earth until the ninth hour.

[45] And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the

midst.

[46] And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy

hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

[47] Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying,

Certainly this was a righteous man.

[48] And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the

things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

[49] And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee,

stood afar off, beholding these things.



John 19:28-37



The Death of Jesus

Mt 27:45-56; Mk 15:33-41; Lk 23:44-49



28 (Ps 69:21; Jn 13:1) After this, Jesus, knowing that everything

was now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said,

"I thirst."

29 (Mt 27:48; Mk 15:36) A bowl full of sour wine was placed there.

So they put a sponge full of sour wine on hyssop and held it to His mouth.

30 (Lk 23:46; Jn 17:4) When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said,

"It is finished." And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.



[28] After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that

the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.

[29] Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge

with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.

[30] When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished:

and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.



The Piercing of Jesus' Side



31 (Jn 19:14; 19:42; Jos 8:29) Since it was the Day of Preparation,

to prevent bodies from remaining on the cross on the Sabbath day

(for that Sabbath day was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate

that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.

32 (Jn 19:18) Therefore the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first

and of the other who was crucified with Him.

33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was dead already,

they did not break His legs.

34 (1Jn 5:6; 5:8) However, one of the soldiers pierced His side

with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.

35 (Jn 21:24; 15:27) He who saw it has testified, and his testimony is true.

He knows that he is telling the truth, that you may believe.

36 (Ps 34:20; Ex 12:46; Nu 9:12) For these things happened so that

the Scripture should be fulfilled, "Not one of His bones shall be broken,"

(Ex 12:46; Nu 9:12; Ps 34:20.)

37 (Zec 12:10; Rev 1:7; Ps 22:16-17) and again another Scripture says,

"They shall look on Him whom they have pierced." (Zec 12:10.)



[31] The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies

should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day

was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that

they might be taken away.

[32] Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the

other which was crucified with him.

[33] But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they

brake not his legs:

[34] But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith

came there out blood and water.

[35] And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth

that he saith true, that ye might believe.

[36] For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A

bone of him shall not be broken.

[37] And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they

pierced.



Mark 15:42-47



The Burial of Jesus

Mt 27:57-61; Lk 23:50-56; Jn 19:38-42



42 When the evening had come, because it was the Day of Preparation,

that is, the day before the Sabbath,

43 (Lk 2:25; 2:38) Joseph of Arimathea, an honorable member of the Council,

who also waited for the kingdom of God, came and went in boldly to Pilate,

and requested the body of Jesus.

44 Pilate wondered if He were already dead. And calling for the centurion,

he asked him whether He had been dead for a while.

45 When he learned about it from the centurion, he granted the body to Joseph.

46 (Isa 22:16; 53:9) So he bought fine linen, and taking Him down,

wrapped Him in the linen and laid Him in a tomb which had been hewn

out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the door of the tomb.

47 (Mk 15:40; 16:1) Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw

where He was laid.



[42] And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that

is, the day before the sabbath,

[43] Joseph of Arimathaea, and honourable counseller, which also waited for

the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the

body of Jesus.

[44] And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the

centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

[45] And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.

[46] And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the

linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled

a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.

[47] And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was

laid.



Matthew 27:57-61



The Burial of Jesus

Mk 15:42-47; Lk 23:50-56; Jn 19:38-42



57 (Jn 19:38-42) When the evening came, there came a rich man of Arimathea,

named Joseph, who also was a disciple of Jesus.

58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.

Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him.

59 When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

60 (Mt 27:66; 28:2) and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had cut out of

the rock. And he rolled a large stone to the door of the tomb and departed.

61 (Mt 27:56; 28:1) Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there,

sitting opposite the tomb.



[57] When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named

Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:

[58] He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded

the body to be delivered.

[59] And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen

cloth,

[60] And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and

he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

[61] And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against

the sepulchre.



Luke 23:50-56



The Burial of Jesus

Mt 27:57-61; Mk 15:42-47; Jn 19:38-42



50 Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council,

who was a good and just man.

51 (Lk 2:25; 2:38) He had not consented to their counsel and deed.

He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews,

and he himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God.

52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.

53 (Isa 53:9) Then he took Him down, and wrapped Him in linen,

and placed Him in a hewn tomb, where no one had ever been buried.

54 (Mt 27:62; Jn 19:31) It was the Day of Preparation,

and the Sabbath was drawing near.

55 (Lk 23:49) The women who came with Him from Galilee followed,

and saw the tomb and how His body was placed.

56 (Mk 16:1; Lk 24:1) Then they returned and prepared spices

and ointments. On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment.



[50] And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counseller; and he was a

good man, and a just:

[51] (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of

Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of

God.

[52] This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.

[53] And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a

sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

[54] And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

[55] And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after,

and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.

[56] And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the

sabbath day according to the commandment.



John 19:38-42



The Burial of Jesus

Mt 27:57-61; Mk 15:42-47; Lk 23:50-56



38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus,

but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might

take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission.

So he came and took away His body.

39 (SS 4:14) Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night,

also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes,

weighing about seventy-five pounds.

(Gk. a hundred litrai or 34 kilograms.)

40 (Jn 11:44; Lk 24:12) Then they took the body of Jesus

and wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices,

as is the burial custom of the Jews.

41 (Lk 23:53; Mt 27:60) Now in the place where He was crucified there was

a garden, and in the garden was a new tomb in which no one had

ever been buried.

42 (Jn 19:14; 19:31)So because of the Jewish Day of Preparation,

and since the tomb was nearby, they buried Jesus there.



[38] And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but

secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the

body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the

body of Jesus.

[39] And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by

night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound

weight.

[40] Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with

the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.

[41] Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the

garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.

[42] There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day;

for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.



Matthew 27:62-66



The Guard at the Tomb



62 (Mk 15:42; Jn 19:14) The next day, following the Day of Preparation,

the chief priests and Pharisees gathered before Pilate,

63 (Mt 16:21; 17:23) saying, "Sir, we remember that deceiver saying

while He was still alive, 'After three days I will rise.'

64 (Mt 28:13) Therefore command that the tomb be made secure

until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away,

and tell the people, 'He has risen from the dead.'

The last deception will be worse than the first."

65 Pilate said to them, "You have a guard. Go your way.

Make it as secure as you can."

66 (Da 6:17) So they went and made the tomb secure

by sealing the stone and posting the guard.



[62] Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief

priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,

[63] Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet

alive, After three days I will rise again.

[64] Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day,

lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the

people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the

first.

[65] Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as

ye can.

[66] So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and

setting a watch.

Day 363 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 29 December 2023 reflections Part 2

2) Our Daily Bread for 29 December 2023 titled



The Crown of Life




James 1:1-12



Salutation



1 (Jn 7:35; Ac 12:17) James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,

To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad:

Greetings.



[1] James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve

tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.



Faith and Wisdom



2 (Jas 1:12) My brothers, count it all joy

when you fall into diverse temptations,

3 (Heb 10:36; 2Pe 1:6) knowing that the trying

of your faith develops patience.

4 (Mt 5:48; Lk 21:19) But let patience perfect its work,

that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

5 (Pr 2:3-6; Jn 15:7) If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God,

who gives to all men liberally and without criticism,

and it will be given to him.

6 (Eph 4:14) But let him ask in faith, without wavering. For he who wavers

is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed with the wind.

7 Let not that man think that he will receive anything from the Lord.

8 (Jas 4:8; 2Pe 2:14) A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.



[2] My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

[3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

[4] But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and

entire, wanting nothing.

[5] If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men

liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

[6] But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like

a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

[7] For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

[8] A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.



Poverty and Riches



9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted,

10 (1Co 7:31; 1Pe 1:24) but the rich in that he is made low,

because as the flower of the grass he will pass away.

11 (Isa 40:7-8) For the sun rises with a burning heat

and it withers the grass, and its flowers fall, and its beauty perishes.

So will the rich man wither away in his ways.



[9] Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:

[10] But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the

grass he shall pass away.

[11] For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth

the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of

it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.



Trial and Temptation



12 (Jas 2:5; 1Co 9:25; 2Ti 4:8) Blessed is the man who endures temptation,

for when he is tried, he will receive the crown of life,

which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.



[12] Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he

shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that

love him.



Twelve-year-old LeeAdianez Rodriguez-Espada was worried that she'd be late for

a 5K run (just over 3 miles). Her anxiousness led her to take off with a group

of runners fifteen minutes earlier than her start time with participants of the

half-marathon (more than 13 miles)! LeeAdianez fell in pace with other runners

and put one foot in front of the other. At mile four, with the finish line

nowhere in sight, she realized that she was in a longer and more difficult

race. Instead of dropping out, she simply kept running. The accidental

half-marathoner completed her 13.1-mile race and placed 1885th out of 2111

finishers. Now that's perseverance!



While undergoing persecution, many first-century believers in Jesus wanted to

drop out of the race for Christ, but James encouraged them to keep running. If

they patiently endured testing, God promised a double reward (James 1:4, 12).

First, "perseverance [would] finish its work" so they could be "mature and

complete, not lacking anything" (v. 4). Second, God would give them the

"crown of life"-life in Jesus on earth and the promise of being in His

presence in the life to come (v. 12).



Some days the Christian race feels like it's not the one we signed up for-it's

something longer and more difficult than we expected. But as God provides what

we need, we can persevere and keep on running.



By: Marvin Williams



Reflect & Pray



What difficulty are you enduring right now?

What can you do to remain faithful to God as you undergo testing?



Dear God, my legs are tired, and I feel like giving up. Please strengthen me.







3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 6 Humility and Exaltation



1 Peter 5:6-7



6 (Jas 4:10; Mt 23:12) Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,

that He may exalt you in due time.

7 (Ps 55:22; 37:5) Cast all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.



6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,

that he may exalt you in due time:

7 casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.



"I was so humble I was given an award for humility," the pastor quipped.

"They gave me a humility plaque - but they had to take it back when I hung it

on my office wall."

Humility is rare among 20th Century Christians. Our pride takes two

seemingly contradictory forms: Self-exaltation and self-denial. But both

focus on self, not on God.

Francois Fenelon, 17th century French archbishop, From his

"Letters of Spiritual Counsel" wrote:

"He who so completely forget himself that he never thinks of self ... is

truly humble. If we had the light to discern it, we should see clearly that

when we think we are humbling ourselves we are exalting ourselves;

when we think we are annihilating ourselves we are seeking out own life."

True humility, as Fenelon implies, means recognising who we are in the light

of who God is. Excess of self-importance and low self-esteem are both

self-centered perspectives; true humility is God-centered.

When we humble ourselves, we become intensely aware of God and less

aware of ourselves. We can focus on his face and get our eyes off our own

image. We can stop worrying about how others perceive us. Such humbling

is difficult - as one 70-year-old saint joked, "It ain't the heat that gets

you, it's the humility." But when we submit to him and fell the weight of the

"Mighty hand of God" upon us, we can forget ourselves, abandon

ourselves to his presence, and cast our cares upon him.



Application



a) What form does my pride usually take - self-exaltation or self-degradation?



b) Why must I humble myself in order for the Lord to lift me up?



c) How can today's verse encourage me when times are tough?







4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Hebr 11:6



6 (1Ch 28:9; Jer 29:13-14) And without faith it is impossible to please God,

for he who comes to God must believe that He exists

and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.



6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh

to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them

that diligently seek him.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Burdened by Doubt



Matt 7:7-11



Ask, Seek, Knock



Lk 11:9-13



7(Mt 21:22; Mk 11:24) "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find;

knock and it will be opened to you.

8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds,

and to him who knocks, it will be opened.

9 "What man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread,

will give him a stone?

10 Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a snake?

11 (Ge 6:5; 8:21) If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts

to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give

good things to those who ask Him!



7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock,

and it shall be opened unto you:

8 for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth;

and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread,

will he give him a stone?

10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?

11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children,

how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things

to them that ask him?



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 29 of the Month



a) Pray that God will enlighten those in medicine and health care

to acknowledge the sanctity of life and server with true

integrity and compassion (



Ps 139:13-16



13 You brought my inner parts into being;

You wove me in my mother's womb.

14 I will praise you, for You made me with fear and wonder;

marvelous are Your works,

and You know me completely.

15 My frame was not hidden from You

when I was made in secret,

and intricately put together in the lowest parts of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw me unformed,

yet in Your book

all my days were written,

before any of them came into being.



13 For thou hast possessed my reins:

Thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.

14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made:

Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.

15 My substance was not hid from thee,

When I was made in secret, and curiously wrought

in the lowest parts of the earth.

16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect;

And in thy book all my members were written,

Which in continuance were fashioned,

When as yet there was none of them.



)



b) Pray that the Church in Canada will remember the poor

and compassionately respond to their plight (



Gal 2:10



10 (Ac 24:17) Only they requested that we should remember the poor,

which I also was eager to do.



10 Only they would that we should remember the poor;

the same which I also was forward to do.



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to know why He died on the Cross.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, my legs are tired,

and I feel like giving up. Please strengthen me."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be humble in your life.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him in faith.



Pray to the Lord and pray to be persistent in prayer.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that God will enlighten those in medicine and health care

to acknowledge the sanctity of life and server with true

integrity and compassion



Pray that the Church will remember the poor

and compassionately respond to their plight



Pray that women in Egypt who have been expelled from their homes

because of their Christian faith will receive safe shelter.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 363 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 29 December 2023 reflections Part 1a - The Crucifixion

Day 362, 28 December 2022



1)Mark 14:53-65 Matthew 26:57-68 Mark 14:66-72 Matthew 26:69-75 Luke 22:54-65

John 18:25-27 Mark 15:1 Matthew 27:1-2 Luke 22:66-71 Matthew 27:3-10

Mark 15:2-5 Matthew 27:11-14 Luke 23:1-12 John 18:28-40 Mark 15:6-15

Matthew 27:15-26 Luke 23:13-25 John 19:1-16 Mark 15:16-20 Matthew 27:27-31

Mark 15:21-24 Matthew 27:32-34 Luke 23:26-31 John 19:17 Mark 15:25-32

Matthew 27:35-44 Luke 23:32-43 John 19:18-27 Mark 15:33-41 Matthew 27:45-56

Luke 23:44-49 John 19:28-37 Mark 15:42-47 Matthew 27:57-61 Luke 23:50-56

John 19:38-42 Matthew 27:62-66 Mark 16:1-8



Mark 14:53-65



Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

Mt 26:57-68; Lk 22:54-55, 63-71; Jn 18:13-14, 19-24

53 (Mt 26:57-68) They led Jesus away to the high priest. And all

the chief priests and the elders and the scribes were assembled with him.

54 (Jn 18:18; Mt 26:3) Peter followed Him at a distance into the courtyard

of the high priest. He sat with the guards and warmed himself by the fire.

55 Now the chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin requested testimony

against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none.

56 Many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not agree.

57 (Mt 26:60-61) Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him,

saying,

58 (Mk 15:29; Jn 2:19) "We heard Him say, 'I will destroy this temple

that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another

not made with hands.' "

59 But still their testimony did not agree.

60 Then the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus,

"Do You answer nothing? What is it which these men testify against You?"

61 (Isa 53:7; Mt 16:16) But He kept silent and answered nothing.

Again the high priest asked Him, "Are You the Christ,

the Son of the Blessed One?"

62 (Ps 110:1; Heb 1:3) Jesus said, "I am. And you will see the Son of Man

sitting at the right hand of Power and coming with the clouds of heaven."

63 (Nu 14:6) The high priest tore his robes, saying,

"What need do we have of any further witnesses?

64 (Lev 24:16) You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?"

They all condemned Him as guilty unto death.

65 (Isa 50:6; Mt 26:67-68) Then some began to spit on Him,

and to blindfold Him, and to strike Him, saying to Him,

"Prophesy!" And the guards struck Him with the palms of their hands.



[53] And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled

all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.

[54] And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high

priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.

[55] And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against

Jesus to put him to death; and found none.

[56] For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not

together.

[57] And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying,

[58] We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands,

and within three days I will build another made without hands.

[59] But neither so did their witness agree together.

[60] And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying,

Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?

[61] But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest

asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?

[62] And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the

right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

[63] Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any

further witnesses?

[64] Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him

to be guilty of death.

[65] And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet

him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the

palms of their hands.



Matthew 26:57-68



Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

Mk 14:53-65; Lk 22:54-55, 63-71; Jn 18:13-14, 19-24



57 (Mt 26:3) Those who had seized Jesus led Him away to Caiaphas

the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had assembled.

58 (Jn 7:32) But Peter followed Him from afar to the high priest's courtyard

and went in, and sat with the servants to see the end.

59 The chief priests and the elders and the entire Sanhedrin searched

for false witness against Jesus to put Him to death,

60 (Dt 19:15; Ps 27:12) but they found none. Yes, though many false witnesses

came forward, they found none.

At last two false witnesses came forward

61 (Mt 27:40; Isa 49:7) and said, "This fellow said, 'I am able to destroy t

he temple of God and to build it in three days.' "

62 Then the high priest stood up and said to Him, "Do You answer nothing?

What is it these men testify against You?"

63 (Lev 5:1; Mt 16:16) But Jesus remained silent.

The high priest said to Him, "I adjure You by the living God,

tell us whether You are the Christ, the Son of God."

64 (Ps 110:1; Da 7:13) Jesus said to him, "You have said so. But I say to you,

hereafter you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power

and coming on the clouds of heaven."

65 (Mt 9:3; Jn 10:36) Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying,

"He has uttered blasphemy. What further need do we have for witnesses?

See, now you have heard His blasphemy.

66 (Jn 19:7) What do you think?"

They answered, "He is guilty unto death."

67 (Isa 50:6; Mt 27:30) Then they spat in His face and struck Him.

And others slapped Him with the palms of their hands,

68 (Mk 14:65; Lk 22:63-65) saying, "Prophesy to us, You Christ!

Who is it that struck You?"



[57] And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high

priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.

[58] But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went

in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

[59] Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false

witness against Jesus, to put him to death;

[60] But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they

none. At the last came two false witnesses,

[61] And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and

to build it in three days.

[62] And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing?

what is it which these witness against thee?

[63] But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto

him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the

Christ, the Son of God.

[64] Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you,

Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power,

and coming in the clouds of heaven.

[65] Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken

blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard

his blasphemy.

[66] What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.

[67] Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him

with the palms of their hands,

[68] Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?



Mark 14:66-72



Peter's Denial of Jesus

Mt 26:69-75; Lk 22:56-62; Jn 18:15-18, 25-27



66 (Mk 14:54) While Peter was below in the courtyard,

one of the servant girls of the high priest came.

67 (Mk 14:54) When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said,

"You also were with Jesus of Nazareth."

68 But he denied it, saying, "I neither know nor understand

what you are saying." Then he went out to the porch, and a rooster crowed.

69 The servant girl saw him again and began to say to those who stood by,

"This man is one of them."

70 (Ac 2:7) But again, he denied it.

A little while later, those who stood by said again to Peter,

"Surely, you are one of them.

For you are a Galilean, and your speech confirms it."

71 Peter began to invoke a curse on himself, and to swear,

"I do not know this Man of whom you speak."

72 (Mk 14:30; 14:68) And the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter called

to mind the word that Jesus said to him,

"Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times."

And when he thought on this, he wept.



[66] And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids

of the high priest:

[67] And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said,

And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.

[68] But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou

sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.

[69] And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This

is one of them.

[70] And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said

again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and

thy speech agreeth thereto.

[71] But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom

ye speak.

[72] And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word

that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me

thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.



Matthew 26:69-75



Peter's Denial of Jesus

Mk 14:66-72; Lk 22:56-62; Jn 18:15-18, 25-27



69 (Mt 26:71) Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard.

And a girl came to him, saying, "You also were with Jesus of Galilee."

70 But he denied it before them all, saying,

"I do not know what you are saying."

71 Then when he went out onto the porch, another girl saw him

and said to those who were there, "This man was also with Jesus of Nazareth."

72 Again he denied with an oath, "I do not know the Man."

73 (Jdg 12:6) After a while those who stood by came to Peter and said,

"Surely you also are one of them, for your accent betrays you."

74 Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and he swore,

"I do not know the Man."

Then immediately a rooster crowed.

75 (Mt 26:34; Jn 13:38) Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken,

"Before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times."

Then he went out and wept bitterly.



[69] Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him,

saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.

[70] But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest.

[71] And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said

unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.

[72] And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.

[73] And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter,

Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.

[74] Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And

immediately the cock crew.

[75] And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the

cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.



Luke 22:54-65



Peter's Denial of Jesus

Mt 26:57-58, 69-75; Mk 14:53-54, 66-72; Jn18:12-18, 25-27



54 (Mt 26:57-58; Mk 14:53-54) Then they arrested Him, and led Him away,

and brought Him into the high priest's house. Peter followed at a distance.

55 But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard

and sat down together, Peter sat among them.

56 Then a servant girl saw him as he sat near the fire,

and gazed at him, and said, "This man was with Him."

57 But he denied Him, saying, "Woman, I do not know Him."

58 A little later someone else saw him and said, "You also are one of them."

Peter said, "Man, I am not!"

59 About an hour later another man firmly declared,

"Certainly, this man also was with Him, for he is a Galilean."

60 Peter said, "Man, I do not know what you are saying."

Immediately, while he was yet speaking, the rooster crowed.

61 (Lk 22:34) The Lord turned and looked at Peter.

Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him,

"Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times."

62And Peter went outside and wept bitterly.



[54] Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest's

house. And Peter followed afar off.

[55] And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set

down together, Peter sat down among them.

[56] But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly

looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him.

[57] And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not.

[58] And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of

them. And Peter said, Man, I am not.

[59] And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed,

saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean.

[60] And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately,

while he yet spake, the cock crew.

[61] And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the

word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt

deny me thrice.

[62] And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.



The Mocking and Whipping of Jesus

Mt 26:67-68; Mk 14:65



63 (Jn 18:22) The men who guarded Jesus mocked Him and whipped Him.

64 When they had blindfolded Him, they struck Him on the face and asked Him,

"Prophesy! Who struck You?"

65 And many other things they blasphemously spoke against Him.



[66] And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief

priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council,

saying,

[67] Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye

will not believe:

[68] And if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go.

[69] Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of

God.

[70] Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto

them, Ye say that I am.

[71] And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have

heard of his own mouth.



John 18:25-27



Peter Denies Jesus Again

Mt 26:71-75; Mk 14:69-72; Lk 22:58-62



25 Meanwhile Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to

him, "Are you not also one of His disciples?"

He denied it and said, "I am not!"

26 (Jn 18:1; 18:10) One of the servants of the high priest, being a relative

of the man whose ear Peter cut off, said,

"Did I not see you in the garden with Him?"

27 (Jn 13:38) Peter then denied it again, and immediately a rooster crowed.



[25] And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him,

Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it, and said, I am not.

[26] One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear

Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him?

[27] Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crew.



Mark 15:1



Jesus Before Pilate

Mt 27:1-2, 11-14; Lk 23:1-5; Jn 18:28-38



1 (Mt 27:1-2; Lk 22:66) Early in the morning the chief priests

held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole Sanhedrin.

And they bound Jesus and took Him away and handed Him over to Pilate.



[1] And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation

with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and

carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.



Matthew 27:1-2



Jesus Brought Before Pilate

Mk 15:1; Lk 23:1-2; Jn 18:28-32



1 (Mk 15:1; Lk 22:66) When the morning came, all the chief priests

and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put Him to death.

2 (Mt 20:19; Ac 3:13)When they had bound Him, they led Him away

and handed Him over to Pontius Pilate the governor.



[1] When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the

people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:

[2] And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to

Pontius Pilate the governor.



Luke 22:66-71



Jesus Before the Council

Mt 26:59-66; Mk 14:55-64; Jn 18:19-24



66 (Mt 27:1; Mk 15:1) When day came, the assembly of the elders

of the people, both the chief priests and scribes, came together

and led Him away to their council, saying,

67 "Are You the Christ? Tell us!"

He said to them, "If I tell you, you will not believe.

68 (Lk 20:3-7) And if I also question you, you will not answer Me

or release Me.

69 (Mk 16:19; Ps 110:1) From now on the Son of Man will be seated

at the right hand of the power of God."

70 (Lk 23:3; Mt 26:64) They all said, "Are You then the Son of God?"

He said to them, "You truly say that I am."

71 Then they said, "What further testimony do we need?

We have heard it from His own mouth."



[66] And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief

priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council,

saying,

[67] Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye

will not believe:

[68] And if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go.

[69] Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of

God.

[70] Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto

them, Ye say that I am.

[71] And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have

heard of his own mouth.



Matthew 27:3-10



The Death of Judas

Ac 1:18-19



3 When Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that He was condemned,

he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver

to the chief priests and elders,

4 saying, "I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood."

They said, "What is that to us? You must see to that."

5 (2Sa 17:23; Job 2:9) So he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple

and departed. And he went and hanged himself.

6 The chief priests took the silver pieces and said, "It is not lawful

to put them into the treasury, because this is the price of blood."

7 So they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field

to bury strangers in.

8 (Ac 1:19; Mt 28:15) Therefore that field has been called the Field of Blood

to this day.

9 (Zec 11:12-13) Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled:

"They took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of that the sons of Israel

set on Him,

10 and gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me."



[3] Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned,

repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief

priests and elders,

[4] Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And

they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

[5] And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and

went and hanged himself.

[6] And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful

for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.

[7] And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury

strangers in.

[8] Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day.

[9] Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued,

whom they of the children of Israel did value;

[10] And gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me.



Mark 15:2-5



2 (Mt 2:2; 1Ti 6:13) Pilate asked Him, "Are You the King of the Jews?"

He answered him, "You have said so."

3 (Isa 53:7) The chief priests accused Him of many things,

but He answered nothing.

4 (Jn 19:10) So Pilate asked Him again, "Do You answer nothing?

See how many things they testify against You."

5 But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate was astonished.



[2] And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering

said unto him, Thou sayest it.

[3] And the chief priests accused him of many things: but he answered

nothing.

[4] And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how

many things they witness against thee.

[5] But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.



Matthew 27:11-14



Jesus Questioned by Pilate

Mk 15:2-5; Lk 23:3-5; Jn 18:33-38



11 (Mt 2:2; 26:25) Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor

asked Him, "Are You the King of the Jews?"

Jesus said to him, "You have said so."

12 (Mt 26:63) When He was accused by the chief priests and elders,

He gave no answer.

13 (Mt 26:62) Then Pilate said to Him, "Do You not hear how many things

they testify against You?”

14 But He never answered him a word, so that the governor was greatly amazed.



[11] And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him,

saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

[12] And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered

nothing.

[13] Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they

witness against thee?

[14] And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor

marvelled greatly.



Luke 23:1-12



Jesus Brought Before Pilate

Mt 27:1-2, 11-14; Mk 15:1-5; Jn 18:28-38



1 Then the whole assembly rose and led Him to Pilate.

2 (Jn 19:12; Mk 15:3-5) And they began to accuse Him, saying, "We found this

Man perverting our nation, and forbidding us to pay taxes to Caesar,

and saying that He Himself is Christ a King."

3 (1Ti 6:13; Mt 27:1) 1So Pilate asked Him, "Are You the King of the Jews?"

He answered, "You truly say so."

4 (Jn 18:38; Mk 15:14) Then Pilate said to the chief priests

and to the people, "I find no fault in this Man."

5 (Mk 1:14; Mt 4:23) But they insisted, saying, "He stirs up the people,

teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee to here."



[1] And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate.

[2] And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting

the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself

is Christ a King.

[3] And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he

answered him and said, Thou sayest it.

[4] Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault

in this man.

[5] And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people,

teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.



Jesus Before Herod



6 When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the Man was a Galilean.

7 (Lk 3:1; 13:31) When he learned that He belonged to Herod's jurisdiction,

he sent Him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time.

8 (Mt 14:1; Mk 6:14) When Herod saw Jesus, he greatly rejoiced,

for he had desired to see Him for a long time, because he had heard

many things of Him, and he was hoping to see some miracle performed by Him.

9 (Mt 27:14) He questioned Him with many words, but He gave no answer.

10 The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing Him.

11 (Mk 9:12) Then Herod with his soldiers despised Him, and mocked Him,

and dressed Him in a fine robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.

12 (Ac 4:27) On the same day Pilate and Herod became friends with each other,

having previously been at enmity with each other.



[6] When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean.

[7] And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he

sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.

[8] And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to

see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he

hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.

[9] Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing.

[10] And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him.

[11] And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and

arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.

[12] And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for

before they were at enmity between themselves.



John 18:28-40



Jesus Before Pilate

Mt 27:1-2, 11-14; Mk 15:1-5; Lk 23:1-5



28 (Jn 18:33; 19:9; Mt 27:27) Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas

to the Praetorium. It was early. Yet they themselves did not enter

the Praetorium, so that they might not be defiled,

but might eat the Passover.

29 Pilate then went out to them and said,

"What accusation do you bring against this Man?"

30 They answered him, "If He were not an evildoer,

we would not have handed Him over to you."

31 Then Pilate said, "Take Him and judge Him according to your law."

The Jews said to him, "It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death,"

32 (Mt 20:19; 26:2) that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled

which He spoke, signifying what death He would die.

33 (Jn 19:9) Again Pilate entered the Praetorium, called Jesus,

and said to Him, "Are You the King of the Jews?"

34 Jesus answered him, "Are you speaking of your own accord,

or did others tell you about Me?"

35 Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? Your own nation

and the chief priests handed You over to me. What have You done?"

36 (Jn 6:15; Da 2:44) Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world.

If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would fight,

that I would not be handed over to the Jews.

But now My kingdom is not from here."

37 (Jn 8:47; 1Jn 4:6) Therefore Pilate said to Him, "Then are You a king?"

Jesus answered, "You say correctly that I am a king. For this reason

I was born, and for this reason I came into the world, to bear witness

to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice."

38(Jn 19:4; Lk 23:4; Jn 19:6) Pilate said to Him, "What is truth?"

When he had said this, he went out again to the Jews and said to them,

"I find no guilt in Him at all.



[28] Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was

early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should

be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.

[29] Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye

against this man?

[30] They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would

not have delivered him up unto thee.

[31] Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to

your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put

any man to death:

[32] That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying

what death he should die.

[33] Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and

said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?

[34] Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others

tell it thee of me?

[35] Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests

have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?

[36] Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of

this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to

the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

[37] Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered,

Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause

came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one

that is of the truth heareth my voice.

[38] Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he

went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at

all.



Jesus Sentenced to Die

Mt 27:15-31; Mk 15:6-20; Lk 23:13-25



39 (Mt 27:15-18) "But you have a custom, that I should release someone

to you at the Passover. Do you therefore want me to release to you

the King of the Jews?"

40 They all shouted again, "Not this Man, but Barabbas!"

Now Barabbas was a robber.



[39] But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the

passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?

[40] Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now

Barabbas was a robber.



Mark 15:6-15



Jesus Sentenced to Die

Mt 27:15-26; Lk 23:13-25; Jn 18:39-19:16



6 (Jn 18:39-40) Now at the feast he always released to them one prisoner,

whomever they requested.

7 There was one named Barabbas, who had committed murder

in the insurrection and was bound with the rebels.

8 The crowd began crying aloud, asking Pilate to do as he had always

done for them.

9 He answered them, "Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?"

10 For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over out of envy.

11 (Ac 3:14) But the chief priests stirred the people,

so that he should instead release Barabbas to them.

12 Pilate answered them again, "What then would you have me do to Him

whom you call the King of the Jews?"

13 They again cried out, "Crucify Him!"

14 (Lk 23:41) Pilate said to them, "Why, what evil has He done?"

But they cried out even more, "Crucify Him!"

15 (Mt 27:26; Jn 19:1) So Pilate, resolving to satisfy the people,

released Barabbas to them. And when he had scourged Jesus,

he handed Him over to be crucified.



[6] Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they

desired.

[7] And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had

made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.

[8] And the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever

done unto them.

[9] But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the

King of the Jews?

[10] For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.

[11] But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release

Barabbas unto them.

[12] And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I

shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?

[13] And they cried out again, Crucify him.

[14] Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried

out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.

[15] And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto

them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.



Matthew 27:15-26



Jesus Sentenced to Die

Mk 15:6-15; Lk 23:13-25; Jn 18:39-19:16



15 Now at the feast, the governor was accustomed to releasing

to the people a prisoner whom they chose.

16 They had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas.

17 So when they had gathered together, Pilate said to them,

"Whom do you want me to release to you—Barabbas,

or Jesus who is called Christ?"

18 (Pr 27:4) For he knew that they had handed Him over out of envy.

19 (Mt 27:24; Lk 23:47) When he was sitting on the judgment seat,

his wife sent word to him, "Have nothing to do with that righteous Man,

for I have suffered much today in a dream on account of Him."

20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas

and kill Jesus.

21 The governor answered, "Which of the two do you want me to release to you?"

They said, "Barabbas."

22 Pilate said to them, "Then what shall I do with Jesus

who is called Christ?"

They all said to him, "Let Him be crucified!"

23 The governor said, "Why, what evil has He done?"

But they cried out all the more, "Let Him be crucified!"

24 (Mt 27:4; Ps 26:6) When Pilate saw that he could not prevail,

but rather that unrest was beginning, he took water

and washed his hands before the crowd, saying,

"I am innocent of the blood of this righteous Man. See to it yourselves."

25 (Jos 2:19; Ac 5:28) Then all the people answered, "His blood be on us

and on our children!"

26 (Jn 19:1; Isa 53:5) Then he released Barabbas to them.

But when he had scourged Jesus, he handed Him over to be crucified.



[15] Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a

prisoner, whom they would.

[16] And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

[17] Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom

will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

[18] For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

[19] When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him,

saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many

things this day in a dream because of him.

[20] But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they

should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.

[21] The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye

that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas.

[22] Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called

Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.

[23] And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out

the more, saying, Let him be crucified.

[24] When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult

was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying,

I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.

[25] Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our

children.

[26] Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he

delivered him to be crucified.



Luke 23:13-25



Jesus Sentenced to Die

Mt 27:15-26; Mk 15:6-15; Jn 18:39-19:16



13 Pilate called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,

14 and said to them, "You have brought this Man to me as one who incites

the people. And truly, I, having examined Him before you, have found

no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him.

15 No, neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Look, nothing worthy

of death has been done by Him.

16 (Mt 27:26; Mk 15:15) I will therefore chastise Him and release Him."

17 For he was obligated to release one man to them at the feast.

18 (Ac 3:14; 21:36) But they all cried out at once saying,

"Take this Man away and release Barabbas to us!"

19 (Ac 3:14) This man had been thrown in prison for an insurrection

in the city and for murder.

20 Therefore Pilate spoke to them again, desiring to release Jesus.

21 But they cried out, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!"

22 (Lk 23:14; 23:16) He said to them a third time, "Why, what evil has

He done? I have found in Him no cause worthy of death.

I will therefore chastise Him and release Him."

23 But they insisted with loud voices, asking that He be crucified.

And the voices of these men and of the chief priests prevailed.

24 (Ex 23:2) So Pilate gave the sentence as they demanded.

25 He released to them the man who was thrown in prison for insurrection

and murder, whom they asked for. But he sentenced Jesus according

to their will.



[13] And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the

rulers and the people,

[14] Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that

perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have

found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:

[15] No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of

death is done unto him.

[16] I will therefore chastise him, and release him.

[17] (For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.)

[18] And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release

unto us Barabbas:

[19] (Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast

into prison.)

[20] Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.

[21] But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.

[22] And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I

have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let

him go.

[23] And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be

crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.

[24] And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required.

[25] And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast

into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.



John 19:1-16



John 19



1 (Isa 50:6; 53:5) Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged Him.

2 The soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on His head,

and they put a purple robe on Him.

3 (Mt 27:29) They said, "Hail, King of the Jews!" And they hit Him

with their hands.

4 (Jn 18:38; 19:6) Again Pilate went out and said to them,

"Look, I am bringing Him out to you, that you may know that

I find no guilt in Him."

5 (Jn 19:2) Then Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns

and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, "Here is the Man!"

6 (Jn 18:31; 19:4) When the chief priests and officers saw Him,

they cried out, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!"

Pilate said to them, "Take Him yourselves and crucify Him,

for I find no guilt in Him."

7 (Jn 5:18; Lev 24:16; Mt 26:63-66) The Jews answered him,

"We have a law, and by our law He ought to die,

because He made Himself the Son of God!"

8 When Pilate heard these words, he was more afraid,

9 (Jn 18:33) and entered the Praetorium again, and said to Jesus,

"Where are You from?" But Jesus gave him no answer.

10 Pilate said to Him, "Are You not speaking to me?

Do You not know that I have power to release You, and power to crucify You?"

11 (Ro 13:1; Mt 27:2) Jesus answered, "You would have no power at all over Me,

unless it were given to you from above.

Therefore he who handed Me over to you has the greater sin."

12 (Jn 18:33-36) From then on, Pilate tried to release Him.

But the Jews cried out, "If you release this Man, you are not Caesar's friend.

Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar!"

13 (Mt 27:19) When Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out

and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Pavement

(which in Hebrew is Gabbatha).

14 (Mt 27:62; Mk 15:25) It was the Day of Preparation of the Passover

and about the sixth hour.

He said to the Jews, "Here is your King!"

15 (Lk 23:18; Ac 21:36) But they shouted,

"Away with Him! Away with Him! Crucify Him!"

Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your King?"

The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar!"

16 Then he handed Him over to them to be crucified.



[1] Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him.

[2] And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and

they put on him a purple robe,

[3] And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands.

[4] Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring

him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.

[5] Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe.

And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!

[6] When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out,

saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and

crucify him: for I find no fault in him.

[7] The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die,

because he made himself the Son of God.

[8] When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid;

[9] And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art

thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.

[10] Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not

that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?

[11] Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except

it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath

the greater sin.

[12] And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried

out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend:

whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.

[13] When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and

sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in

the Hebrew, Gabbatha.

[14] And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour:

and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!

[15] But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate

saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priest answered, We

have no king but Caesar.

[16] Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they

took Jesus, and led him away.



Mark 15:16-20



The Soldiers Mock Jesus

Mt 27:27-31; Jn 19:2-3



16 (Jn 18:28; 19:9) The soldiers led Him away to Praetorium Hall,

and they called together the entire battalion.

17 (Lk 23:11) They clothed Him with a purple robe. And they wove a crown

of thorns and put it on His head,

18 and began to salute Him, "Hail, King of the Jews!"

19 (Mk 14:65) They struck His head with a staff and spit on Him.

And bowing their knees, they worshipped Him.

20 When they had mocked Him, they took the purple robe off of Him

and put His own garments on Him. Then they led Him out to crucify Him.



[16] And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and

they call together the whole band.

[17] And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and

put it about his head,

[18] And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!

[19] And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and

bowing their knees worshipped him.

[20] And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and

put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.



Matthew 27:27-31



The Soldiers Mock Jesus

Mk 15:16-20; Jn 19:2-3



27 (Jn 18:28; 18:33) Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into

the Praetorium, and gathered the whole detachment of soldiers before Him.

28 (Mk 15:17; Lk 23:11) They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him,

29 (Isa 53:3; Mt 20:19) and when they wove a crown of thorns, they put it

on His head and put a staff in His right hand. They knelt before Him a

nd mocked Him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!"

30 (Mt 26:67; Mk 15:19) They spit on Him, and took the staff

and hit Him on the head.

31 (Isa 53:7) After they had mocked Him, they took the robe off Him,

put His own garments on Him, and led Him away to crucify Him.



[27] Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and

gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.

[28] And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

[29] And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head,

and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked

him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

[30] And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.

[31] And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him,

and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.



Mark 15:21-24



The Crucifixion

Mt 27:32-44; Lk 23:26-43; Jn 19:17-27



21 (Mt 27:32; Lk 23:26; Ro 16:13) They compelled a man named Simon

from Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus, as he was passing

through from the country, to bear Jesus' cross.

22 (Mt 27:33-44) They brought Him to the place called Golgotha,

which means, "Place of a Skull."

23 (Mt 27:34) They gave Him wine mingled with myrrh to drink,

but He did not take it.

24 When they had crucified Him, they divided His garments,

casting lots for them, to decide what each man should take.



[21] And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the

country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.

[22] And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being

interpreted, The place of a skull.

[23] And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it

not.

[24] And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots

upon them, what every man should take.

Day 362 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 28 December 2023 reflections Part 2

2) Our Daily Bread for 28 December 2023 Titled



Meeting the Needs of Others
By Kirsten Holmberg



Exodus 22:22–27



22 (Dt 24:17; 27:19) You shall not afflict any widow or orphan.

23 (Ps 18:6; Lk 18:7) If you afflict them in any way

and they cry at all to Me, I will surely hear their cry.

24 (Ps 109:9; 69:24) And My anger will burn,

and I will kill you with the sword,

and your wives will become widows,

and your children fatherless.

25 (Ps 15:5; Lev 25:35-37; Dt 23:19-20) If you lend money to any

of My people who is poor among you, do not be a creditor to him,

and do not charge him interest.

26 (Dt 24:6; Pr 20:16) If you take your neighbor's garment as a pledge,

you shall return it to him before the sun goes down,

27 (Ex 34:6; 2Ch 30:9) for that is his only covering;

it is his garment for his body. In what else will he sleep?



[22] Ye shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child.

[23] If thou afflict them in any wise, and they cry at all unto me, I will

surely hear their cry;

[24] And my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and

your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.

[25] If thou lend money to any of my people that is poor by thee, thou shalt

not be to him as an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon him usury.

[26] If thou at all take thy neighbour's raiment to pledge, thou shalt

deliver it unto him by that the sun goeth down:

[27] For that is his covering only, it is his raiment for his skin: wherein

shall he sleep? and it shall come to pass, when he crieth unto me, that I

will hear; for I am gracious.



Phillip's father suffered from severe mental illness and had left home to live

on the streets. After Cyndi and her young son Phillip spent a day searching

for him, Phillip was rightly concerned for his dad's well-being. He asked his

mother whether his father and other people without homes were warm. In

response, they launched an effort to collect and distribute blankets and

cold-weather gear to homeless people in the area. For more than a decade,

Cyndi has considered it her life's work, crediting her son and her deep faith

in God for awakening her to the hardship of being without a warm place to

sleep.



The Bible has long taught us to respond to the needs of others. In the book of

Exodus, Moses records a set of principles to guide our interaction with those

who lack plentiful resources. When we're moved to supply the needs of another,

we're to "not treat it like a business deal" and should make no gain or profit

from it (Exodus 22:25). If a person's cloak was taken as collateral, it was to

be returned by sunset "because that cloak is the only covering your neighbour

has. What else can they sleep in?" (v. 27).



Let's ask God to open our eyes and hearts to see how we can ease the pain of

those who are suffering. Whether we seek to meet the needs of many-as Cyndi

and Phillip have-or those of a single person, we honour Him by treating

them with dignity and care.



How has God supplied your needs through others?

Whose needs might you be able to supply?



Heavenly Father, please open my eyes to the needs of others.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 5 The Way Out



1 Cor 10:13



13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken

you except what is common to man. God is faithful,

and He will not permit you to be tempted above

what you can endure, but will with the temptation

also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.



13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common

to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be

tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation

also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.



Becky had experienced some hard knocks in the past few weeks; the stress

was beginning to show, and she wasn't sure she should handle anything else.

"Why me?" Becky wept, covering her face. "I just can't stand it any more!

I can't pay my bills; I just lost my job, and now my car broke down

on the highway. How much more of this can I take?"

Some people seem to have more than their share of trouble and temptation.

Within six months, one family faced financial trouble, cancer, quadruple

bypass surgery, and leukemia; their trials brought them face to face with

anger, bitterness, and despair as well. Other people seem to go through

life with relatively minor stresses and few real temptations to sin.

But whether our problems are great or small, they are part of the common

thread that ties humanity together. All of us face temptation; it is ,

Paul says, "Common to man." But Paul assures us that

"God ... will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear."

Often what we can bear is more that what we think we can bear. God will use

the troubled times in our lives for our maturity in him, but he promises

as well that he will not let temptation break us. He will provide "a way out,"

"a way of escape".

Sometimes the "way out" is true escape, being removed from what caused the

trouble. At other times, rather than being removed from it, we must

withstand the stress, face the temptation, enure the pain. Whether we escape

or endure, God is faithful to provide what we need; we can trust him

not to give us more than we can bear.



Application



a) Have I ever faced more stress or temptation than I thought I could bear?



b) Under what circumstances has God provided an "escape" for me?

When have I had to walk "through" my difficulties?



c) How can today's verse encourage me when times are tough?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Ps 1:3



He will be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,

that brings forth its fruit in its season;

its leaf will not wither,

and whatever he does will prosper.



3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,

That bringeth forth his fruit in his season;

His leaf also shall not wither;

And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Angry of Vengeful



James 1:19-25



Hearing and Doing the Word



19 Therefore, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear,

slow to speak, and slow to anger,

20 for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God.

21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and remaining

wickedness and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able

to save your souls.

22 Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man

viewing his natural face in a mirror.

24 He views himself, and goes his way,

and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.

25 But whoever looks into

the perfect law of liberty, and continues in it,

and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work,

this man will be blessed in his deeds.



19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear,

slow to speak, slow to wrath:

20 for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness,

and receive with meekness the engrafted word,

which is able to save your souls.

22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only,

deceiving your own selves.

23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer,

he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

24 for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway

forgetteth what manner of man he was.

25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty,

and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer,

but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 28 of the Month



a) Pray for new Canadians, that they will have opportunity to hear

and respond to the Gospel and place their faith in Jesus Christ.



(



John 5:24



24 (Jn 3:18; 1Jn 3:14; Jn 3:36) "Truly, truly I say to you, whoever

hears My word and believes in Him who sent

Me has eternal life and shall not come into condemnation,

but has passed from death into life."



24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word,

and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life,

and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.



)



b) Pray for God's kingdom to come in the life of someone you

know today . (



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.



For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. "



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to how to Honour the Last Supper and know

He is preparing a place for you in Heaven.



Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, please open my eyes to

the needs of others."



Pray to the Lord and pray to give Him all your temptations.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the inheritance of Righteousness.



Pray to the Lord and pray to be slow to anger.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for newcomers to your country, that they will have opportunity to hear

and respond to the Gospel and place their faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for God's kingdom to come in the life of someone you

know today .



Praise God for Turkmenistani Christians who take great risks to share the

Gospel with Muslims.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 362 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 28 December 2023 reflections Part 1 - The Last Supper

1) Mark 14:1-2, Matthew 26:1-5, Luke 22:1-2, Mark 14:10-11, Matthew 26:14-16,

Luke 22:3-6, Mark 14:12-16, Matthew 26:17-19, Luke 22:7-13, John 13:1-20,

Mark 14:17-26, Matthew 26:20-30, Luke 22:14-30, John 13:18-30, John 13:31-38, Mark 14:27-31, Matthew 26:31-35 , Luke 22:31-38, John 14 , John 15:1-17 ,

John 15:18-27, John 16, John 17





Mark 14:1-2



The Plot to Kill Jesus

Mt 26:1-5; Lk 22:1-2; Jn 11:45-53

1 (Lk 22:1-2; Jn 13:1) Now the feasts of the Passover

and of Unleavened Bread were two days away.

And the chief priests and the scribes looked for a way to seize Him

secretly and kill Him.

2 But they said "Not on the feast day,

lest there will be an uproar among the people."



[1] After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread:

and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by

craft, and put him to death.

[2] But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the

people.



Matthew 26:1-5



The Plot to Kill Jesus

Mk 14:1-2; Lk 22:1-2; Jn 11:45-3



1 When Jesus had finished all these sayings, He said to His disciples,

2 (Mk 14:1-2; Lk 22:1-2) "You know that after two days is the Passover,

and the Son of Man will be betrayed to be crucified."

3 (Jn 18:24; Mt 26:57-58) Then the chief priests, the scribes,

and the elders of the people gathered in the palace of the high priest,

who was called Caiaphas,

4 and took counsel that they might take Jesus covertly and kill Him.

5 (Mt 27:24) But they said, "Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar

among the people."



[1] And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said

unto his disciples,

[2] Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of

man is betrayed to be crucified.

[3] Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the

elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called

Caiaphas,

[4] And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him.

[5] But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the

people.



Luke 22:1-2



The Plot to Kill Jesus

Mt 26:1-5, 14-16; Mk 14:1-2, 10-11; Jn 11:45-53



1 (Mk 14:1-2; Ex 12:6-23) Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread,

which is called the Passover, drew near.

2 And the chief priests and scribes were seeking how to kill Jesus,

for they feared the people.



[1] Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover.

[2] And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for

they feared the people.



Mark 14:10-11



Judas' Agreement to Betray Jesus

Mt 26:14-18; Lk 22:3-6



10 (Jn 13:2; Mt 26:14-16) Then Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve,

went to the chief priests to betray Him to them.

11 When they heard it, they were glad and promised to give him silver.

So he looked for how he might conveniently betray Him.



[10] And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to

betray him unto them.

[11] And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money.

And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.



Matthew 26:14-16



Judas' Agreement to Betray Jesus

Mk 14:10-11; Lk 22:3-6



14 (Mt 10:4; Lk 22:3-6) Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas

Iscariot, went to the chief priests

15 (Ex 21:32) and said to them, "What will you give me if I hand Him over

to you?" And they paid him thirty pieces of silver.

16 From that moment he searched for an opportunity to betray Him.



[14] Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief

priests,

[15] And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto

you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.

[16] And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.



Luke 22:3-6



3 (Jn 13:2; Mk 14:10-11) Then Satan entered into Judas, called Iscariot,

who was one of the twelve.

4 (Ac 4:1; 5:24) He went and discussed with the chief priests

and captains how he might betray Him to them.

5 They were glad and agreed to give him money.

6 He fully consented and searched for an opportunity to betray Him

to them apart from the crowds.



[3] Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of

the twelve.

[4] And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains,

how he might betray him unto them.

[5] And they were glad, and covenanted to give him money.

[6] And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the

absence of the multitude.



Mark 14:12-16



The Passover With the Disciples

Mt 26:17-28; Lk 22:7-14, 21-23; Jn 13:21-30



12 (Ex 12:6; 12:8) On the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed

the Passover lamb, His disciples said to Him,

"Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?"

13 So He sent two of His disciples and said to them,

"Go into the city, and a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you there.

Follow him.

14 (Jn 11:28) Wherever he enters, say to the owner of the house,

'The Teacher says, Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover

with My disciples?'

15 (Ac 1:13) He will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready.

Make preparations for us there."

16 His disciples went out, and came into the city,

and found it as He had told them. And they prepared the Passover.



[12] And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the passover,

his disciples said unto him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare that

thou mayest eat the passover?

[13] And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye

into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water:

follow him.

[14] And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The

Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with

my disciples?

[15] And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there

make ready for us.

[16] And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he

had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.



Matthew 26:17-19



The Passover With the Disciples

Mk 14:12-21; Lk 22:7-14, 21-23; Jn 13:21-30



17 (Ex 12:18-20; 12:6) On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread

the disciples came to Jesus, saying,

"Where will You have us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?"

18 (Jn 7:6; 7:30) He said, "Go into the city to a certain man,

and say to him, 'The Teacher says, My time is at hand.

I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples.' "

19 The disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared

the Passover.



[17] Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came

to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat

the passover?

[18] And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The

Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with

my disciples.

[19] And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready

the passover.



Luke 22:7-13



The Preparation of the Passover

Mt 26:17-25; Mk 14:12-21; Jn 13:21-30



7 (Ex 12:18) Then the Day of Unleavened Bread came,

when the Passover lamb must be killed.

8 He sent Peter and John, saying,

"Go and prepare the Passover for us to eat it."

9 They said to Him, "Where will You have us prepare it?"

10 He said to them, "Now, as you enter the city, a man carrying a pitcher

of water will meet you there. Follow him into the house which he enters,

11 (Jn 11:28) and say to the owner of the house, 'The Teacher says to you,

"Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?" '

12 (Ac 1:13) He will show you a large furnished upper room. Prepare there."

13 They went and found it as He had told them. So they prepared the Passover.



[7] Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed.

[8] And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that

we may eat.

[9] And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare?

[10] And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there

shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house

where he entereth in.

[11] And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto

thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my

disciples?

[12] And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready.

[13] And they went, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready

the passover.



John 13:1-20



Washing the Disciples' Feet



1 (Jn 12:23; 16:28) Now before the Passover Feast, ­Jesus knew that His hour

had come to depart from this world to the Father.

Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

2 (Ac 5:3) Now supper being concluded, the devil had put into the heart

of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray Him.

3 (Jn 8:42; Mt 11:27) Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things

into His hands and that He came from God and was going to God,

4 (Lk 12:37; 22:27) rose from supper, laid aside His garments,

and took a towel and wrapped Himself.

5 (Lk 7:44; Ge 18:4) After that, He poured water into a basin

and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel

with which He was wrapped.

6 Then He came to Simon Peter, and Peter said to Him,

"Lord, are You washing my feet?"

7Jn 12:16Jesus answered him, "You do not understand what I am doing now.

But later you will understand."

8 (1Co 6:11; Heb 10:22) Peter said to Him, "You shall never wash my feet!"

Jesus answered him, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me."

9 Simon Peter said to Him,

"Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!"

10 (Jn 15:3) Jesus said to him, "He who is bathed needs only to wash

his feet, but is completely clean. You are clean, but not all of you."

11 (Jn 2:25) For He knew who would betray Him. Therefore He said,

"Not all of you are clean."

12 (Jn 13:7) So when He had washed their feet, and put on His garments,

and sat down again, He said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you?

13 (1Co 12:3; Php 2:11) You call Me Teacher and Lord. You speak accurately,

for so I am.

14 (1Pe 5:5) If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet,

you also ought to wash one another's feet.

15 (Mt 11:29) For I have given you an example, that you should do

as I have done to you.

16 (Jn 15:20; Lk 6:40) Truly, truly I say to you, a servant is not greater

than his master, nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him.

17 (Mt 7:24-25; Jas 1:25) If you know these things,

blessed are you if you do them.

18 (Ps 41:9; Mt 26:23) "I do not speak concerning all of you.

I know whom I have chosen, but that the Scripture may be fulfilled,

'He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.' (Ps 41:9.)

19 (Jn 14:29; 16:4) "Now I tell you before it happens,

that when it does happen, you may believe that I am He.

20 (Lk 10:16; Mk 9:37) Truly, truly I say to you, he who receives whomever

I send receives Me. And he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me."



[1] Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was

come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved

his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.

[2] And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas

Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him;

[3] Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and

that he was come from God, and went to God;

[4] He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel,

and girded himself.

[5] After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the

disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.

[6] Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou

wash my feet?

[7] Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but

thou shalt know hereafter.

[8] Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him,

If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.

[9] Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands

and my head.

[10] Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his

feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.

[11] For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all

clean.

[12] So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was

set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?

[13] Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.

[14] If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought

to wash one another's feet.

[15] For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to

you.

[16] Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his

lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.

[17] If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

[18] I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the

scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his

heel against me.

[19] Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may

believe that I am he.

[20] Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send

receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.



Mark 14:17-26



17 (Lk 22:14) In the evening He came with the twelve.

18 (Ps 41:9; Jn 6:70) As they sat and ate, Jesus said,

"Truly I say to you, one of you who is eating with Me will betray Me."

19 They began to be sorrowful and to say to Him one by one,

"Is it I?" and another, "Is it I?"

20 (Jn 13:26) He answered them, "It is one of the twelve,

one who is dipping bread in the dish with Me.

21 (Mk 14:49) The Son of Man indeed goes as it is written concerning Him,

but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed!

It would have been good for that man if he had never been born."



[17] And in the evening he cometh with the twelve.

[18] And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of

you which eateth with me shall betray me.

[19] And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it

I? and another said, Is it I?

[20] And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that

dippeth with me in the dish.

[21] The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that

man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had

never been born.



The Lord's Supper

Mt 26:26-30; Lk 22:15-20; 1Co 11:23-25



22 (Mt 26:26-29; 14:19) As they were eating, Jesus took bread,

blessed and broke it, and gave it to them, saying,

"Take and eat it. This is My body."

23 (1Co 10:16) Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks,

He gave it to them. And they all drank from it.

24 (Ex 24:8; Zec 9:11) He said to them, "This is My blood of the new

covenant, which is shed for many.

25 (Mt 26:29) Truly I say to you, I will drink no more of the fruit

of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God."

26 (Mt 26:30; 21:1) When they had sung a hymn, they went

out to the Mount of Olives.



[22] And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and

gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.

[23] And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them:

and they all drank of it.

[24] And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is

shed for many.

[25] Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine,

until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

[26] And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.



Matthew 26:20-30



20 (Mk 14:17-21; Jn 13:21) When evening came, He sat down with the twelve.

21 (Jn 13:21; 6:70-71) And as they were eating, He said,

"Truly I say to you, one of you will betray Me."

22 They were very sorrowful, and each of them began saying to Him,

"Lord, is it I?"

23 (Jn 13:18; Ps 41:9) He answered and said, "He who has dipped his hand

with Me in the dish will betray Me.

24 (Mk 9:12; Lk 24:46) The Son of Man goes as it is written of Him,

but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed!

It would have been good for that man if he had not been born."

25 (Mt 26:64; 27:11) Then Judas, who betrayed Him, answered, "Master,

is it I?"

He said to him, "You have said it."



[20] Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.

[21] And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you

shall betray me.

[22] And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say

unto him, Lord, is it I?

[23] And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish,

the same shall betray me.

[24] The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by

whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not

been born.

[25] Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He

said unto him, Thou hast said.



The Lord's Supper

Mk 14:22-26; Lk 22:15-20; 1Co 11:23-25



26 (Mt 14:19) As they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it

and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said,

"Take and eat. This is My body."

27 Then He took the cup, and after He gave thanks, He gave it to them, saying,

"Drink of it, all of you.

28 (Mt 20:28; Ex 24:7-8) For this is My blood of the new covenant,

which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

29 (Mt 13:43; Mk 14:25) I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit

of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you

in My Father's kingdom."

30 (Mt 21:1; Lk 22:39) And when they had sung a hymn,

they went out to the Mount of Olives.



[26] And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake

it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

[27] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying,

Drink ye all of it;

[28] For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for

the remission of sins.

[29] But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the

vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.

[30] And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.



Luke 22:14-30



The Lord's Supper

Mt 26:26-30; Mk 14:22-26; 1Co 11:23-25



14 (Mt 26:20; Mk 14:17) When the hour had come, He and the twelve apostles

with Him sat down.

15 And He said to them, "I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover

with you before I suffer.

16 (Lk 14:15; Rev 19:9) For I tell you, I will never eat it again

until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God."

17 And He took the cup and gave thanks and said,

"Take this and divide it among yourselves.

18 (Mt 26:29; Mk 14:25) For I tell you, I will not drink of the fruit

of the vine until the kingdom of God comes."

19 (1Co 10:16; Mt 26:26-28) Then He took the bread, and when He had given

thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying,

"This is My body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me."

20 (Ex 24:8; Zec 9:11) In like manner, He took the cup after supper, saying,

"This cup is the new covenant in My blood which is shed for you.

21 (Ps 41:9; Jn 13:26) But see the hand of him who betrays Me is with Me

at the table.

22 (Ac 2:23) Indeed, the Son of Man goes as it has been determined.

But woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!"

23 They began to inquire among themselves which of them it was who would

do this.



[14] And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with

him.

[15] And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover

with you before I suffer:

[16] For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be

fulfilled in the kingdom of God.

[17] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide

it among yourselves:

[18] For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until

the kingdom of God shall come.

[19] And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them,

saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of

me.

[20] Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new

testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

[21] But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table.

[22] And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that

man by whom he is betrayed!

[23] And they began to inquire among themselves, which of them it was that

should do this thing.



The Dispute About Greatness



24 (Mk 9:34; Lk 9:46) There was also rivalry among them concerning which

of them was to be counted the greatest.

25 (Mt 20:25-28) He said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles exercise

lordship over them, and those who exercise authority

over them are called benefactors.

26 (Lk 9:48) But you are not so. Instead, let him who is greatest among

you be as the younger, and he who rules as he who serves.

27 (Mt 20:28; Lk 12:37) For who is greater: he who sits at the table,

or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table?

But I am among you as He who serves.

28 (Heb 2:18; 4:15) You are those who have continued with Me in My trials.

29 (2Ti 2:12; Mt 25:34) And I appoint to you a kingdom as My Father

has appointed one to Me,

30 (Mt 19:28; Lk 14:15) so that you may eat and drink at My table

in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel."



[24] And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be

accounted the greatest.

[25] And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over

them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.

[26] But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be

as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.

[27] For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is

not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.

[28] Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations.

[29] And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;

[30] That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones

judging the twelve tribes of Israel.



John 13:18-30



18 (Ps 41:9; Mt 26:23) "I do not speak concerning all of you.

I know whom I have chosen, but that the Scripture may be fulfilled,

'He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.' (Ps 41:9.)

19 (Jn 14:29; 16:4) "Now I tell you before it happens,

that when it does happen, you may believe that I am He.

20 (Lk 10:16; Mk 9:37) Truly, truly I say to you, he who receives whomever

I send receives Me. And he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me."



[18] I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the

scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his

heel against me.

[19] Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may

believe that I am he.

[20] Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send

receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.



Jesus Foretells His Betrayal

Mt 26:20-25; Mk 14:17-21; Lk 22:21-23



21 (Mt 26:21; Mk 14:18) When Jesus had said this, He was troubled in spirit,

and testified, "Truly, truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me."

22 (Lk 22:23; Mt 26:22) The disciples looked at one another,

uncertain of whom He spoke.

23 (Jn 19:26; 20:2; 21:7)Now there was leaning against Jesus' bosom

one of His disciples whom Jesus loved.

24 Therefore Simon Peter motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke.

25 (Jn 21:20) Leaning back against Jesus' bosom, he said to Him,

"Lord, who is it?"

26 (Mt 26:23) Jesus answered, "It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread

when I have dipped it." When He had dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas

Iscariot, the son of Simon.

27 (Lk 22:3; Jn 13:2) After receiving the piece of bread, Satan entered him.

Then Jesus said to him, "What you are going to do, do quickly."

28 But no one at the table knew why He said this to him.

29 (Jn 12:5-6) Since Judas had the moneybox, some thought that Jesus said

to him, "Buy what we need for the feast," or that he should give something

to the poor.

30 Having received the piece of bread, he then left immediately.

And it was night.



[21] When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and

said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

[22] Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.

[23] Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus

loved.

[24] Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should

be of whom he spake.

[25] He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?

[26] Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have

dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the

son of Simon.

[27] And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him,

That thou doest, do quickly.

[28] Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.

[29] For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had

said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or,

that he should give something to the poor.

[30] He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night.



John 13:31-38



The New Commandment



31 (Jn 7:39; 14:13) When he had gone out, Jesus then said,

"Now is the Son of Man glorified, and in Him God is glorified.

32 (Jn 12:23; 17:1) If God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him

in Himself and will immediately glorify Him.

33 (Jn 7:33-34; 1Jn 2:1) "Little children, yet a little while I am with you.

You will seek Me. And as I said to the Jews, so now I tell you,

'Where I am going, you cannot come.'

34 (Lev 19:18; Eph 5:2) "A new commandment I give to you,

that you love one another, even as I have loved you,

that you also love one another.

35 (Jn 17:21) By this all men will know that you are My disciples,

if you have love for one another."



Peter's Denial Foretold

Mt 26:31-35; Mk 14:27-31; Lk 22:31-34



36 (2Pe 1:14; Jn 13:33) Simon Peter said to Him, "Lord, where are You going?"

Jesus answered him, "Where I am going, you cannot follow Me now.

But you shall follow Me afterward."

37 Peter said to Him, "Lord, why can I not follow You now?

I will lay down my life for Your sake."

38 (Mk 14:30) Jesus answered Him, "Will you lay down your life for My sake?

Truly, truly I say to you, the rooster shall not crow until you have denied Me

three times."



[31] Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world

be cast out.

[32] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

[33] This he said, signifying what death he should die.

[34] The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ

abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who

is this Son of man?

[35] Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you.

Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that

walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.

[36] While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children

of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from

them.

[37] But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed

not on him:

[38] That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he

spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the

Lord been revealed?



Mark 14:27-31



Peter's Denial Foretold

Mt 26:31-35; Lk 22:31-34; Jn 13:36-38



27 (Zec 13:7; Mt 26:31) Jesus said to them,

"All of you will fall away on account of Me this night, for it is written:

'I will strike the shepherd,

and the sheep will be scattered.' (Zec 13:7).

28 (Mt 28:16; Mk 16:7) But after I have risen,

I will go before you to Galilee."

29 Peter said to Him, "Even if all fall away, I will not."

30 (Mk 14:66-72; Jn 13:38) Jesus said to him, "Truly, I say to you that

this day, during the night, before the rooster crows twice,

you will deny Me three times."

31 But he said more vehemently, "If I must die with You, I will not deny You."

They all said the same thing.



[27] And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this

night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be

scattered.

[28] But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee.

[29] But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I.

[30] And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even

in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.

[31] But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not

deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.



Matthew 26:31-35



Peter's Denial Foretold

Mk 14:27-31; Lk 22:31-34; Jn 13:36-38



31 (Zec 13:7; Jn 16:32) Then Jesus said to them,

"All of you will fall away on account of Me this night,

for it is written:

'I will strike the shepherd,

and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered.' (Zec 13:7).

32 (Mt 28:10; 28:16) But after I have risen, I will go before you to Galilee."

33 (Lk 22:33) Peter answered, "Though all men will fall away on account

of You, yet I will never fall away."

34 (Jn 13:38; Mt 26:75) Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you, this night,

before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times."

35 (Jn 13:37) Peter said to Him, "Though I should die with You, yet I will

not deny You." And all the disciples spoke in this manner.



[31] Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this

night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the

flock shall be scattered abroad.

[32] But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.

[33] Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended

because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

[34] Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before

the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

[35] Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny

thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.



Luke 22:31-38



Peter's Denial Foretold



31 (Am 9:9; Job 1:6-12) Then the Lord said, "Simon, Simon, listen!

Satan has demanded to have you to sift you as wheat.

32 (Jn 21:15-17; Ro 8:34) But I have prayed for you that your faith

may not fail. And when you have repented, strengthen your brothers."

33 (Mt 26:33-35; Mk 14:29) He said to Him, "Lord, I am ready to go

with You to prison and to death."

34 (Mt 26:34; Mk 14:30) He said, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster

crows today, you will deny three times that you know Me."



[31] And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have

you, that he may sift you as wheat:

[32] But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art

converted, strengthen thy brethren.

[33] And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into

prison, and to death.

[34] And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day,

before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.



Purse, Bag, and Sword



35 (Lk 9:3; Mt 10:9-10) Then He said to them, "When I sent you without purse

or bag or sandals, did you lack anything?"

They said, "Nothing."

36 He said to them, "But now, let him who has a purse take it and also a bag.

And let him who has no sword sell his garment and buy one.

37 (Isa 53:12) For I tell you, what is written must yet be accomplished in Me,

'And He was numbered with the transgressors.'(Isa 53:12.)

Indeed, what is written concerning Me has a fulfillment."

38 They said, "Lord, look, here are two swords."

He said to them, "It is enough."



[35] And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and

shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing.

[36] Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it,

and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment,

and buy one.

[37] For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished

in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things

concerning me have an end.

[38] And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto

them, It is enough.



John 14



John 14

Jesus the Way to the Father



1 (Jn 12:44; 16:22-23) "Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God.

Believe also in Me.

2 (Jn 13:33; 13:36) In My Father's house are many dwelling places. If it were

not so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you.

3 (Jn 12:26; 14:28) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again

and receive you to Myself, that where I am, you may be also.

4 You know where I am going, and you know the way."

5 (Jn 11:16) Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know where You are going.

How can we know the way?"

6 (Jn 10:9; 1:14; Ac 4:12) Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth,

and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

7 (Jn 8:19) If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also.

From now on you do know Him and have seen Him."

8 Philip said to Him, "Lord, show us the Father,

and that is sufficient for us."

9 (Heb 1:3; Jn 12:45; Col 1:15) Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you

such a long time, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen

Me has seen the Father. So how can you say, 'Show us the Father'?

10 (Jn 5:19; 10:38) Do you not believe that I am in the Father

and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak

on My own authority. But the Father who lives in Me does the works.

11 (Jn 5:36; 10:38) Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father

is in Me. Or else believe Me on account of the works themselves.

12 (Mt 21:21; Jn 14:28) Truly, truly I say to you, he who believes in Me

will do the works that I do also. And he will do greater works than these,

because I am going to My Father.

13 (Mt 7:7; Jn 13:31) I will do whatever you ask in My name, that the Father

may be glorified in the Son.

14 If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.



[1] Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

[2] In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would

have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

[3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and

receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

[4] And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

[5] Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how

can we know the way?

[6] Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man

cometh unto the Father, but by me.

[7] If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from

henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.

[8] Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us.

[9] Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet

hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the

Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?

[10] Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me?

the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father

that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.

[11] Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else

believe me for the very works' sake.

[12] Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works

that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do;

because I

go unto my Father.

[13] And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father

may be glorified in the Son.

[14] If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.



The Promise of the Spirit



15 (Eph 6:24) "If you love Me, keep My commandments.

16 (Jn 15:26; 14:26; 1Jn 2:1) I will pray the Father, and He will give you

another Counselor, that He may be with you forever:

17 (Jn 15:26; 16:13; 1Co 2:14) the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot

receive, for it does not see Him, neither does it know Him. But you know Him,

for He lives with you, and will be in you.

18 (Jn 14:3) I will not leave you fatherless. I will come to you.

19 (Jn 7:33; 16:16) Yet a little while and the world will see Me no more.

But you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also.

20 (Jn 10:38; 14:10) On that day you will know that I am in My Father,

and you are in Me, and I am in you.

21 (Jn 14:15; 16:27) He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one

who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father. And I will love

him and will reveal Myself to him."

22 (Lk 6:16; Ac 1:13) Then Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, "Lord, how is it

that You will reveal Yourself to us, but not to the world?"

23 (Jn 14:15; 14:21) Jesus answered him, "If a man loves Me, he will keep

My word. My Father will love him, and We will come to him, and make Our home

with him.

24 (Jn 7:16; 14:10) He who does not love Me does not keep My words.

The word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father's who sent Me.

25 "I have spoken these things to you while I am still with you.

26 (Jn 15:26; 16:7) But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father

will send in My name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that

I told you.

27 (Jn 16:33; Php 4:7; Col 3:15) Peace I leave with you.

My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.

Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

28 (Jn 14:12; 14:18) "You have heard Me say to you, 'I am going away

and am returning to you.' If you loved Me, you would rejoice

because I said, 'I am going to the Father,' for My Father is greater than I.

29 (Jn 13:19) Now I have told you before it happens so that, when it happens,

you may believe.

30 (Jn 12:31; 2Co 4:4; Heb 4:15) After this I will not speak much with you,

for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over Me.

31 (Jn 10:18; 12:49) But I do as the Father has commanded Me

so that the world may know that I love the Father.

"Rise, let us go from here.



[15] If ye love me, keep my commandments.

[16] And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter,

that he may abide with you for ever;

[17] Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it

seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with

you, and shall be in you.

[18] I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

[19] Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me:

because I live, ye shall live also.

[20] At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I

in you.

[21] He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth

me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him,

and will manifest myself to him.

[22] Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt

manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?

[23] Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my

words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our

abode with him.

[24] He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye

hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.

[25] These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.

[26] But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send

in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your

remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

[27] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world

giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be

afraid.

[28] Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you.

If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for

my Father is greater than I.

[29] And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come

to pass, ye might believe.

[30] Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world

cometh, and hath nothing in me.

[31] But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father

gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.



John 15:1-17



Jesus the True Vine

1 (Isa 5:1-7; 1Co 3:9) "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.

2 (Mt 3:10; 13:12) Every branch in Me that bears no fruit, He takes away.

And every branch that bears fruit, He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.

3 (Jn 13:10; 17:17) You are already clean through the word

which I have spoken to you.

4 (1Jn 2:6; Jn 6:56; Gal 2:20) Remain in Me, as I also remain in you.

As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine,

neither can you, unless you remain in Me.

5 (Php 4:13; Jn 15:16) "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who remains

in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit. For without Me you can do nothing.

6 (Mt 13:41; Jn 15:2) If a man does not remain in Me, he is thrown out

as a branch and withers. And they gather them and throw them into the fire,

and they are burned.

7 (Jn 14:13; 15:16) If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you,

you will ask whatever you desire, and it shall be done for you.

8 (Mt 5:16; Jn 8:31) My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit;

so you will be My disciples.

9 (Jn 17:26) "As the Father loved Me, I also loved you. Remain in My love.

10 (Jn 14:15; 8:29; 17:4) If you keep My commandments, you will remain

in My love, even as I have kept My Father's commandments

and remain in His love.

11 (Jn 17:13; 16:24) I have spoken these things to you, that My joy

may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.

12 (Jn 13:34; 1Jn 3:23) This is My commandment: that you love one another,

as I have loved you.

13 (Jn 10:11; 10:15) Greater love has no man than this: that a man lay down

his life for his friends.

14 (Mt 12:50; Lk 12:4) You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.

15 (Jn 8:26; 15:20) I no longer call you servants, for a servant does

not know what his master does. But I have called you friends,

for everything that I have heard from My Father have I made known to you.

16 (Jn 13:18; 6:70You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you,

that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain,

that the Father may give you whatever you ask Him in My name.

17 (Jn 15:12) This I command you: that you love one another.



[1] I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

[2] Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every

branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

[3] Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

[4] Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself,

except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

[5] I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him,

the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

[6] If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered;

and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

[7] If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will,

and it shall be done unto you.

[8] Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be

my disciples.

[9] As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

[10] If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have

kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.

[11] These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you,

and that your joy might be full.

[12] This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

[13] Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for

his friends.

[14] Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

[15] Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what

his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have

heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

[16] Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye

should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that

whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

[17] These things I command you, that ye love one another.



John 15:18-27



The World's Hatred



18 (1Jn 3:13; Jn 7:7) "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me

before it hated you.

19 (Jn 15:16) If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own.

But because you are not of the world, since I chose you out of the world,

the world therefore hates you.

20 (Jn 13:16; Mt 10:24) Remember the word that I said to you: 'A servant

is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also

persecute you. If they kept My words, they will keep yours also.

21 (Mt 10:22; Jn 16:3) But all these things they will do to you for

My name's sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.

22 (Jn 9:41; Ro 1:20) If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not

have had sin. But now they have no excuse for their sin.

23 He who hates Me hates My Father also.

24 (Jn 5:36; 10:37) If I had not performed among them the works

which no one else did, they would have no sin.

But now have they seen and hated both My Father and Me.

25 (Ps 35:19; 69:4) But that the word which is written in their law might be

fulfilled, 'They hated Me without a cause.' (Ps 35:19; 69:4.)

26 (Jn 14:16-17; 14:26; 16:7) "But when the Counselor comes, whom I shall send

to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father,

He will bear witness of Me.

27 (Lk 24:48; Jn 21:24) And you also will bear witness, because you have been

with Me from the beginning.



[18] If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

[19] If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye

are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the

world hateth you.

[20] Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than

his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they

have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

[21] But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because

they know not him that sent me.

[22] If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now

they have no cloke for their sin.

[23] He that hateth me hateth my Father also.

[24] If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they

had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my

Father.

[25] But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is

written in their law, They hated me without a cause.

[26] But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the

Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall

testify of me:

[27] And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the

beginning.



John 16

1 (Mt 11:6) "I have spoken these things to you so that you will not fall away.

2 (Jn 9:22; Ac 26:9-11) They will put you out of the synagogues. Yes, the time

is coming that whoever kills you will think that he is offering

a service to God.

3 (Jn 15:21; 17:25) They will do these things to you, because they have not

known the Father nor Me.

4 (Jn 13:19; Mt 9:15) I have told you these things, so that when the time

comes, you may remember that I told you about them.



[1] These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended.

[2] They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that

whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

[3] And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the

Father, nor me.

[4] But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may

remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at

the beginning, because I was with you.



The Work of the Spirit



"I did not tell you these things at the beginning, because I was with you.

5 (Jn 13:36; 7:33) But now I am going to Him who sent Me, and none of you

asks Me, 'Where are You going?'

6 (Jn 14:1) Rather, sorrow has filled your heart because I have told you

these things.

7 (Jn 14:26; 15:26; 7:39) Nevertheless I tell you the truth:

It is expedient for you that I go away. For if I do not go away,

the Counselor will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you.

8 (Jn 8:46) When He comes, He will convict the world of sin

and of righteousness and of judgment:

9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me;

10 (Jer 23:5-6; Ac 3:14) of righteousness, because I am going to My Father,

and you will see Me no more;

11 (Jn 12:31; 14:30; 2Co 4:4) and of judgment, because the ruler of this

world stands condemned.

12 (Mk 4:33) "I have yet many things to tell you,

but you cannot bear them now.

13 (Jn 14:17; 14:26; 15:26) But when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide

you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own authority. But He will

speak whatever He hears, and He will tell you things that are to come.

14 (1Jn 4:13-14) He will glorify Me, for He will receive from Me

and will declare it to you.

15 (Jn 17:10) All that the Father has is Mine. Therefore I said that

He will take what is Mine and will declare it to you.



[5] But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me,

Whither goest thou?

[6] But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your

heart.

[7] Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go

away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I

depart, I will send him unto you.

[8] And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of

righteousness, and of judgment:

[9] Of sin, because they believe not on me;

[10] Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;

[11] Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

[12] I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

[13] Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into

all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear,

that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

[14] He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it

unto you.

[15] All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he

shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.



Sorrow Will Turn Into Joy



16 (Jn 7:33; 16:17-19) "In a little while you will not see Me. And then after

a little while you will see Me, because I am going to the Father."

17 (Jn 16:5; Mk 9:10) Then some of His disciples said among themselves,

"What is this He is telling us: 'In a little while you will not see Me;

and then after a little while you will see Me,' and, 'because I am going

to the Father'?"

18 Then they said, "What is this He is telling us: 'In a little while'?

We do not know what He is saying."

19 (Jn 2:24-25; 16:30) Then Jesus knew that they wanted to ask Him.

So He said to them, "Do you inquire among yourselves concerning what I said:

'In a little while you will not see Me;

and then after a little while you will see Me'?

20 (Mk 16:10; Mt 5:4) Truly, truly I say to you that you will weep and lament,

but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will

be turned into joy.

21 (1Th 5:3) When a woman is giving birth, she has pain, because her hour

has come. But as soon as she delivers the child, she no longer remembers

the anguish for joy that a child is born into the world.

22 (Jn 16:6; 1Pe 1:8) Therefore you now have sorrow. But I will see you

again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.

23 (Jn 16:19; Mt 7:7) On that day you will ask Me nothing. Truly, truly I say

to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give it to you.

24 (Jn 15:11) Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will

receive, that your joy may be full.



[16] A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and

ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.

[17] Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he

saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little

while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?

[18] They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we

cannot tell what he saith.

[19] Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them,

Do ye inquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall

not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?

[20] Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the

world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be

turned into joy.

[21] A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come:

but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the

anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.

[22] And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your

heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

[23] And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto

you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.

[24] Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive,

that your joy may be full.



I Have Overcome the World



25 (Jn 16:2) "I have told you these things in proverbs. But the time is coming

when I will no longer speak to you in proverbs, for I will speak to you

plainly about the Father.

26 On that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying to you that

I shall ask the Father on your behalf.

27 (Jn 14:21; 14:23) For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved

Me, and have believed that I came from God.

28 (Jn 13:3; 8:14) I came from the Father and have come into the world.

As I said, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father."

29 (Jn 16:25) His disciples said to Him, "Yes! Now You are speaking plainly

and with no figure of speech.

30 (Jn 21:17) Now we know that You know everything and do not need anyone

to question You. By this we believe that You came from God."

31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe?

32 (Mt 26:31; Jn 8:29) Listen, the hour is coming. Yes, it has now come that

you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave Me alone.

Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with Me.

33 (Jn 14:27; 1Jn 4:4; Jn 14:1) "I have told you these things so that in Me

you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But be of good

cheer. I have overcome the world."



[25] These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh,

when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you

plainly of the Father.

[26] At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I

will pray the Father for you:

[27] For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have

believed that I came out from God.

[28] I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I

leave the world, and go to the Father.

[29] His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and

speakest no proverb.

[30] Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any

man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God.

[31] Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?

[32] Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered,

every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone,

because the Father is with me.

[33] These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In

the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome

the world.



John 17



The Prayer of Jesus



1 (Jn 11:41; 7:39) When Jesus spoke these words, He lifted His eyes toward

heaven and said:

"Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son,

that Your Son may also glorify You.

2 (Jn 6:37; 6:39) As You have given Him authority over all flesh,

He will give eternal life to all whom You have given Him.

3 (1Jn 5:20; Jn 3:17; 17:25) This is eternal life: that they may know You,

the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.

4 (Jn 4:34; 19:30) I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work

You have given Me to do.

5 (Jn 17:24; Php 2:6) And now, O Father, glorify Me in Your own presence

with the glory which I had with You before the world existed.

6 (Jn 17:2; 17:26) "I have revealed Your name to the men whom You have given

Me out of the world. They were Yours, and You gave them to Me, and they have

kept Your word.

7 Now they know that all things You have given Me are from You.

8 (Jn 16:27; 17:14) For I have given them the words which You gave Me.

They have received them and certainly know that I came from You,

and they have believed that You sent Me.

9 (Lk 22:32; Jn 14:16) I pray for them. I do not pray for the world,

but for those whom You have given Me. For they are Yours.

10 (2Th 1:10) All that are Mine are Yours, and all that are Yours are Mine.

And I am glorified in them.

11 (Jn 13:1; 17:21-22) I am to be no longer in the world, though these are

in the world, for I am coming to You. Holy Father, through Your name keep

those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are one.

12 (Jn 13:18; 18:9; 2Th 2:3) While I was with them in the world, I kept them

in Your name. I have kept those whom You have given Me. And none of them

is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

13 (Jn 3:29; 15:11) "But now I am coming to You, and I say these things

in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.

14 (Jn 8:23; 17:16) I have given them Your word. And the world has hated them

because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.

15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world,

but that You should keep them from the evil one.

16 (Jn 17:14) They are not of the world even as I am not of the world.

17 (Jn 15:3; 2Sa 7:28) Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

18 (Jn 20:21) As You sent Me into the world, so I sent them into the world.

19 (Jn 10:36; 1Co 1:2) For their sakes I sanctify Myself,

that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

20 "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me

through their word,

21 (Jn 10:38; 17:8) that they may all be one, as You, Father, are in Me,

and I in You. May they also be one in Us, that the world may believe that

You have sent Me.

22 (Jn 1:14; 14:20) I have given them the glory which You gave Me, that they

may be one even as We are one:

23 (Jn 16:27; 17:21) I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfect in

unity, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved

them as You have loved Me.

24 (Jn 12:26; 17:5) "Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me,

be with Me where I am, that they may see My glory which You have given Me.

For You loved Me before the creation of the world.

25 (Jn 7:29; 15:21) "O righteous Father, the world has not known You,

but I have known You, and these have known that You sent Me.

26 (Jn 15:9; 17:6) I have declared Your name to them, and will declare it,

that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."



[1] These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said,

Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify

thee:

[2] As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal

life to as many as thou hast given him.

[3] And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God,

and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

[4] I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou

gavest me to do.

[5] And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory

which I had with thee before the world was.

[6] I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the

world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy

word.

[7] Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of

thee.

[8] For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have

received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they

have believed that thou didst send me.

[9] I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast

given me; for they are thine.

[10] And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.

[11] And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I

come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast

given me, that they may be one, as we are.

[12] While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that

thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of

perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

[13] And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that

they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

[14] I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they

are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

[15] I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that

thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

[16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

[17] Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

[18] As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into

the world.

[19] And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be

sanctified through the truth.

[20] Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe

on me through their word;

[21] That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee,

that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast

sent me.

[22] And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be

one, even as we are one:

[23] I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and

that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou

hast loved me.

[24] Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me

where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for

thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

[25] O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known

thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.

[26] And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the

love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

Day 361 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 27 December 2023 reflections

Day 361, 27 December 2023



1) Mark 14:3-9, Matthew 26:6-13, John 12:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11,

Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19, Luke 19:41-44, John 12:20-36



Mark 14:3-9



The Anointing at Bethany

Mt 26:6-13; Jn 12:1-8



3 (Mt 21:17; Lk 7:37-39) While He was in Bethany in the house of Simon

the leper, as He sat at supper, a ­woman came with an alabaster jar

of ointment, a very costly spikenard. She broke the jar and poured

the ointment on His head.

4 There were some with indignation within themselves, saying,

"Why was this ointment wasted?

5 (Jn 13:29) It might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii

(A year's wages.) and given to the poor." And they grumbled against her.

6 Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done

a good work for Me.

7 (Dt 15:11; Mt 26:11) You always have the poor with you, and whenever

you wish, you may do good to them. But you will not always have Me.

8 (2Co 8:12) She has done what she could. She has come beforehand

to anoint My body for burial.

9 (Mk 16:15) Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel will be preached

throughout the whole world, what she has done will also be spoken of

as a memorial to her."



[3] And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat,

there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very

precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head.

[4] And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said,

Why was this waste of the ointment made?

[5] For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have

been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

[6] And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a

good work on me.

[7] For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do

them good: but me ye have not always.

[8] She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to

the burying.

[9] Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached

throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of

for a memorial of her.



Matthew 26:6-13



The Anointing at Bethany

Mk 14:3-9; Jn 12:1-8



6 (Mt 21:17) When Jesus was in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper,

7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster jar of very expensive ointment

and poured it on His head as He sat at supper.

8 When His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, "For what purpose

is this waste?

9 This ointment might have been sold for a large sum and given to the poor."

10 When Jesus perceived it, He said to them, "Why do you trouble the woman?

She has done a good work for Me.

11 (Dt 15:11; Mk 14:7) For you have the poor always with you,

but you do not always have Me.

12 In pouring this ointment on My body, she did it for My burial.

13 (Mt 24:14; Mk 14:9) Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel shall

be preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will be told

in memory of her."



[6] Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,

[7] There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious

ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.

[8] But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what

purpose is this waste?

[9] For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.

[10] When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman?

for she hath wrought a good work upon me.

[11] For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.

[12] For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my

burial.

[13] Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the

whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a

memorial of her.



John 12:1-11



John 12



The Anointing at Bethany

Mt 26:6-13; Mk 14:3-9

1 (Jn 11:55; Mt 21:17) Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany,

where Lazarus was, who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead.

2 (Lk 10:38-42) They prepared a supper for Him there. Martha served,

but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him.

3 (Jn 11:2; Lk 7:37-38) Then Mary took a pint

(Gk. a litra, or half a liter.) of very costly ointment made

from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet

with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment.

4 (Mt 10:4) But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son,

who would betray Him, said,

5 "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii

(About a year's wages.) and given to the poor?"

6 (Jn 13:29) He said this, not because he cared for the poor, but because

he was a thief. And having the money box, he used to steal what was put in it.

7 But Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She has kept this for the day of My

burial.

8 (Dt 15:11; Mt 26:11) For you always have the poor with you,

but you do not always have Me."



[1] Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus

was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.

[2] There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of

them that sat at the table with him.

[3] Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and

anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house

was filled with the odour of the ointment.

[4] Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which

should betray him,

[5] Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the

poor?

[6] This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a

thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

[7] Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she

kept this.

[8] For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.



The Plot Against Lazarus



9 When many of the Jews learned that He was there, they came, not for Jesus'

sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He had raised from

the dead.

10 (Lk 16:31) So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also,

11 (Jn 11:45; 12:18) because on account of him many of the Jews went away

and believed in Jesus.



[9] Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came

not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had

raised from the dead.

[10] But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to

death;

[11] Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed

on Jesus.



Mark 11:1-11



Mark 11



The Triumphant Entry Into Jerusalem

Mt 21:1-11; Lk 19:28-40; Jn 12:12-19



1 (Zec 14:4; Mt 21:17) When they drew near Jerusalem and came to Bethphage

and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, He sent out two of His disciples

2 and said to them, "Go into the village opposite you. As soon as you enter

it, you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it

and bring it here.

3 If anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' say 'The Lord has need

of it,' and immediately he will send it here."

4 They went their way and found the colt tied by the door outside

on the street. And they untied it.

5 Some of those who stood there said to them,

"What are you doing untying the colt?"

6 They answered just as Jesus had commanded. And they let them go.

7 (Mt 21:4-5; 21:7-8) They brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments

on it. And He sat upon it.

8 Many spread their garments on the street. And others cut down branches off

the trees and scattered them on the street.

9 (Ps 118:25-26; Mt 23:39) Those who went before

and those who followed cried out, saying:

"Hosanna!

'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!'(Ps 118:26.)

10 (Lk 2:14; Ps 148:1) Blessed is the kingdom of our father David

that is coming in the name of the Lord!

Hosanna in the highest!"

11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple. When He had looked

around at everything, as the hour was now late,

He went out to Bethany with the twelve.



[1] And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the

mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples,

[2] And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you: and

as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never

man sat; loose him, and bring him.

[3] And if any man say unto you, Why do ye this? say ye that the Lord hath

need of him; and straightway he will send him hither.

[4] And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without in

a place where two ways met; and they loose him.

[5] And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing

the colt?

[6] And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them

go.

[7] And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and

he sat upon him.

[8] And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches

off the trees, and strawed them in the way.

[9] And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying,

Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord:

[10] Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of

the Lord: Hosanna in the highest.

[11] And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and when he had

looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come, he went

out unto Bethany with the twelve.



Matthew 21:1-11



The Triumphant Entry Into Jerusalem

Mk 11:1-11; Lk 19:28-38; Jn 12:12-19



1 (Mt 24:3; 26:30) When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage,

on the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,

2 saying to them, "Go over into the village opposite you,

and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her.

Untie them and bring them to Me.

3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them.'

And he will send them immediately."

4 (Mt 1:22; Jn 12:15) All this was done to fulfill

what was spoken by the prophet, saying:

5 (Isa 62:11; Ge 49:10) "Tell the daughter of Zion,

'Look, your King is coming to you,

humble, and sitting on a donkey,

and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'Zec 9:9."

6 The disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them.

7 They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their garments on them,

and He sat on them.

8 (2Ki 9:13) A very large crowd spread their garments on the road.

Others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road.

9 (Lk 2:14; Mt 23:39) The crowds that went before Him

and that followed Him cried out:

"Hosanna to the Son of David!

'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' (Ps 118:26.)

Hosanna in the highest!"

10 When He entered Jerusalem, the entire city was moved,

saying, "Who is He?"

11 (Lk 7:16; Jn 6:14) The crowds said, "This is Jesus,

the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee."



In Jerusalem



Triumphal Entry



1 And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto

the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,

2 saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway

ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them

unto me.

3 And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of

them; and straightway he will send them.

4 All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken

by the prophet, saying,

5 Tell ye the daughter of Sion,

Behold, thy King cometh unto thee,

Meek, and sitting upon an ass,

And a colt the foal of an ass.

6 And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them,

7 and brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes,

and they set him thereon.

8 And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way;

others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way.

9 And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying,

Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the

Lord; Hosanna in the highest.

10 And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying,

Who is this?

11 And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.



Luke 19:28-40



The Triumphant Entry in Jerusalem

Mt 21:1-11; Mk 11:1-11; Jn 12:12-19



28 (Lk 9:51) When He had said this, He went before them,

ascending up to Jerusalem.

29 (Ac 1:12; Zec 14:4) When He came near to Bethphage and Bethany,

at the mountain called the Mount of Olives, He sent two of His disciples,

30 saying, "Go over into the village opposite you, where, as you enter,

you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever yet sat.

Untie it and bring it here.

31 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' you shall say to him,

'Because the Lord has need of it.' "

32 Those who were sent went and found it just as He had told them.

33 As they were untying the colt, its owners said to them,

"Why are you untying the colt?"

34 They said, "The Lord has need of it."

35 (Mt 21:7; Mk 11:7-8) They brought it to Jesus. And they threw

their garments on the colt, and they set Jesus on it.

36 As He went, they spread their clothes in the street.

37 When He was coming near the descent of the Mount of Olives,

the whole crowd of the disciples began to rejoice

and praise God with loud voices for all the mighty works that they had seen,

38 (Lk 13:35; Mt 21:9) saying:

'Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!'(Ps 118:26.)

Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"

39 Some of the Pharisees from the crowd said to Him,

"Teacher, rebuke Your disciples."

40 (Hab 2:11) He answered them, "I tell you, if these should be silent,

the stones would immediately cry out."



[28] And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.

[29] And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at

the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples,

[30] Saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your

entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him,

and bring him hither.

[31] And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto

him, Because the Lord hath need of him.

[32] And they that were sent went their way, and found even as he had said

unto them.

[33] And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them,

Why loose ye the colt?

[34] And they said, The Lord hath need of him.

[35] And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the

colt, and they set Jesus thereon.

[36] And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way.

[37] And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of

Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God

with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;

[38] Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace

in heaven, and glory in the highest.

[39] And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him,

Master, rebuke thy disciples.

[40] And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should

hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.



John 12:12-19



The Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem

Mt 21:1-11; Mk 11:1-11; Lk 19:28-40



12 On the next day a great crowd that had come to the feast heard

that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem.

13 (Jn 1:49; Ps 118:25-26) They took branches of palm trees,

and went out to meet Him, and cried out:

"Hosanna!

'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!(Ps 118:25-26.)

The King of Israel!"

14 Then Jesus, having found a young donkey, sat on it. As it is written:

15 (Zec 9:9) “Fear not, daughter of Zion;

see, your King is coming,

sitting on a donkey's colt." (Zec 9:9).

16 (Jn 2:22; 7:39) His disciples did not understand these things at first.

But when Jesus was glorified, they remembered that these things

were written about Him and that they had done these things to Him.

17 Now the crowd that was with Him when He called Lazarus out of the tomb

and raised him from the dead bore witness.

18 (Jn 12:11) The crowd went and met Him for this reason: They heard that

He had performed this sign.

19 (Jn 3:26) So the Pharisees said among themselves, "See, you are gaining

nothing! Look, the world has followed Him!"



[12] On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they

heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,

[13] Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried,

Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.

[14] And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is

written,

[15] Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an

ass's colt.

[16] These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus

was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him,

and that they had done these things unto him.

[17] The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of

his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.

[18] For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had

done this miracle.

[19] The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye

prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.



Luke 19:41-44



41 (Lk 13:34-35; Jn 11:35) When He came near, He beheld the city

and wept over it,

42 (Dt 32:29) saying, "If you, even you, had known even today what things

would bring you peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.

43 (Eze 4:2; 26:8) For the days will come upon you when your enemies

will build an embankment around you and surround you,

and press you in on every side.

44 (Lk 21:6; 1Pe 2:12) They will dash you, and your children within you,

to the ground. They will not leave one stone upon another within you,

because you did not know the time of your visitation."



[41] And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,

[42] Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the

things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.

[43] For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a

trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side,

[44] And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee;

and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou

knewest not the time of thy visitation.



John 12:20-36



Some Greeks Seek Jesus



20 (Jn 7:35; 1Ki 8:41-43) Now there were some Greeks among those who went

up to worship at the feast.

21 They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him,

"Sir, we want to see Jesus."

22 Philip came and told Andrew, and in turn Andrew and Philip told Jesus.

23 (Jn 13:31-32) Jesus answered them, "The hour has come for the Son of Man

to be glorified.

24 Truly, truly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground

and dies, it remains alone. But if it dies, it bears much fruit.

25 (Mt 10:39; Lk 14:26) He who loves his life will lose it.

And he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

26 (Jn 14:3; 17:24) If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me. Where I am,

there will My servant be also. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.



[20] And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the

feast:

[21] The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee,

and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.

[22] Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell

Jesus.

[23] And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man

should be glorified.

[24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the

ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much

fruit.

[25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in

this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

[26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall

also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.



The Son of Man Must Be Lifted Up



27 (Lk 22:53; Jn 13:21) "Now My soul is troubled. What shall I say?

'Father, save Me from this hour'? ­Instead, for this reason I came

to this hour.

28 (Mt 3:17; 17:5) Father, glorify Your name."

Then a voice came from heaven, saying, "I have glorified it, and will glorify

it again."

29 The crowd that stood by and heard it said that it had thundered.

Others said, "An angel has spoken to Him."

30 (Jn 11:42) Jesus answered, "This voice came not for My sake,

but for your sakes.

31 (Jn 14:30; 2Co 4:4; Eph 6:12) Now judgment is upon this world.

Now the ruler of this world will be cast out.

32 (Jn 6:44; 3:14; 8:28) And if I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw

all men to Myself."

33 (Jn 18:32; 21:19) He said this to signify by what kind of death

He would die.

34 (Ps 110:4; Isa 9:7) The crowd answered Him, "We have heard from the law

that the Christ remains forever. Why do You say, 'The Son of Man must be

lifted up'? Who is this Son of Man?"

35 (Jn 12:46; Eph 5:8) Then Jesus said to them, "Yet a little while the light

is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you.

He who walks in darkness does not know where he is going.

36 (Lk 16:8; Jn 8:59) While you have light, believe in the light that

you may become sons of light." Jesus said these things, and departed

and hid Himself from them.



[20] And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the

feast:

[21] The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee,

and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.

[22] Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell

Jesus.

[23] And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man

should be glorified.

[24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the

ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much

fruit.

[25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in

this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

[26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall

also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.



2) Our Daily Bread for 27 December 2023 Titled



God's Wisdom Saves Lives




Proverbs 11:24-31



24 (Ps 112:9; Pr 19:17) There is one who scatters, yet increases;

and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty.

25 (Mt 5:7) The generous soul will be made rich,

and he who waters will be watered also himself.

26 (Job 29:13) The people will curse him who withholds grain,

but blessing will be upon the head of him who sells it.

27 (Est 7:10; Ps 7:15-16) He who diligently seeks good procures favour,

but he who seeks mischief, it will come to him.

28 (Jer 17:8; Ps 1:3) He who trusts in his riches will fall,

but the righteous will flourish as a branch.

29 (Ecc 5:16) He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind,

and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.

30 (Jas 5:20; Pr 3:18) The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,

and he who wins souls is wise.

31 (Jer 25:29) If the righteous will be recompensed in the earth,

how much more the wicked and the sinner.



24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth;

And there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

25 The liberal soul shall be made fat:

And he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him:

But blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.

27 He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour:

But he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.

28 He that trusteth in his riches shall fall:

But the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

29 He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind:

And the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life;

And he that winneth souls is wise.

31 Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth:

Much more the wicked and the sinner.



A mail carrier became concerned after seeing one of her customers' mail pile

up. The postal worker knew the elderly woman lived alone and usually picked up

her mail every day. Making a wise choice, the worker mentioned her concern to

one of the woman's neighbours. This neighbor alerted yet another neighbour,

who had a spare key to the woman's home. Together they entered their friend's

home and found her lying on the floor. She had fallen four days earlier and

couldn't get up or call for help. The postal worker's wisdom, concern, and

decision to act likely saved her life.



Proverbs says, "the one who is wise saves lives" (11:30). The discernment that

comes from doing right and living according to God's wisdom can bless not only

ourselves but those we encounter too. The fruit of living out what honours Him

and His ways can produce a good and refreshing life. And our fruit also

prompts us to care about others and to look out for their well-being.



As the writer of Proverbs asserts throughout the book, wisdom is found in

reliance on God. Wisdom is considered "more precious than rubies, and nothing

you desire can compare with her" (8:11). The wisdom God provides is there

to guide us throughout our lives. It just might save a life for eternity.



By: Katara Patton



Reflect & Pray



How can you use wisdom to help someone today? How much do you value wisdom?



Heavenly Father, please give me wisdom

to follow Your path and directions. Help me to look out for others

as You guide me.



Learn more about your God-given calling.




3) Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 4 - Giving and Receiving



Luke 6:38



38 "Give, and it will be given to you: Good measure, pressed down,

shaken together, and running over will men give unto you.

For with the measure you use, it will be measured unto you."



38 give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down,

and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.

For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured

to you again.



"Just give the Lord", the voice on the radio declared. "Give, and he will

give back to you, a hundredfold." The preacher went on to explain how

an old woman on social security had sent her last $10 to support his

ministry, and the next day she got an anonymous money order for

a $1000 . "The Lord will be faithful to his Word," the preacher

concluded. "You give, and you'll receive."

The Lord is, of course, faithful to his Word. But many well-meaning Christians

have interpreted Luke 6:38 as a "payment in kind" bargain with God:

if I give God my dollar, he's obliged to return it to me with interest.

This "seed-sowing" fallacy, where $20 supposedly becomes $2000 by

an act of divine, multiplication, has caused much

disappointment and frustration.

The "giving and receiving" principle is a valid one; the Lord does, indeed say

"Give, and it will be given to you," but he does not specify what the "return"

will be. The verse appears in the context of forgiveness, of not judging; the

principle is not investment, in any material sense, but generosity.

As we give, as few are compassionate with others, we take on the

character of the Lord himself. He is generous and giving, and he gives

to us as we give ourselves in love to others.



Application



a) Have I ever "given" to God to others as a bribe, to get something

in return?



b) What is God's concept of giving, as demonstrated

in the gift of Jesus Christ?



c) How can this verse help me to give more selflessly?



4) Prosperity verses from Kenneth Copeland



Deut 8:18



18 But you must remember the Lord your God,

for it is He who gives you the ability to get wealth,

so that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers,

as it is today.



18 But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth

thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant

which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are lonely



PSALMS 25:15-21



15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord,

for He will lead my feet from the net.

16 Turn to me, and be gracious to me,

for I am isolated and afflicted.

17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged;

bring me out of my distresses.

18 Look on my pain and misery,

and forgive all my sins.

19 Consider my enemies, for they are many,

and they hate me with violent hatred.

20 Watch over my life, and deliver me!

Let me not suffer shame,

for I seek refuge in You.

21 Truth and integrity will preserve me

while I wait for You.



Ain

15 Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD;

For he shall pluck my feet out of the net.

Pe

16 Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me;

For I am desolate and afflicted.

Zade

17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged:

O bring thou me out of my distresses.

(Qoph)

18 Look upon mine affliction and my pain;

And forgive all my sins.

Resh

19 Consider mine enemies; for they are many;

And they hate me with cruel hatred.

Shin

20 O keep my soul, and deliver me:

Let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.

Taw

21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me;

For I wait on thee.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 27 of the Month



a) Pray that God's Spirit will melt the pride that causes many to

hold to wrong opinions of Christ and His Salvation.



(



2 Cor 10:4-5



4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal,

but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds,

5 casting down imaginations and every high thing

that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,

bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,



4 (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal,

but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing

that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,

and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;



)



b) Pray that the Lord will awaken a desire in the hearts of those who

are lost to seek Him and to seek The Truth.



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as the King victorious.



Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, please give me wisdom

to follow Your path and directions. Help me to look out for others

as You guide me."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be a generous giver.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him who gives you wealth.



Pray to the Lord and pray for Truth and integrity to preserve you.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that God's Spirit will melt the pride that causes many to

hold to wrong opinions of Christ and His Salvation.



Pray that the Lord will awaken a desire in the hearts of those who

are lost to seek Him and to seek The Truth.



Pray that love and boldness of the Church in Bangladesh will draw

non-believers to Christ.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 360 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 26 December 2023 reflections - Boxing Day

Day 360, 26 December 2023



1) Jesus Christ coming onto the world as a baby





Mark 1:1



1 (Mt 14:33) The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.



[1] The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;



Luke 1:1-4



The Prologue



1 Whereas many have undertaken to write a narrative of those things

which are most surely believed among us,

2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning

were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word,

3 it seemed good to me also, having accurately investigated all things

from the very beginning, to write to you an orderly account,

most excellent Theophilus,

4 that you might know the certainty of the things which you have been told.



[1] Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration

of those things which are most surely believed among us,

[2] Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were

eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;

[3] It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all

things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent

Theophilus,

[4] That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast

been instructed.



John 1:1-18



The Word Became Flesh



1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

2 He was in the beginning with God.

3 All things were created through Him, and without Him nothing

was created that was created.

4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of mankind.

5 The light shines in darkness, but the darkness has not overcome it.

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John.

7 This man came as a witness in order to testify concerning the Light,

that all men through Him might believe.

8 He was not this Light, but was sent in order to testify

concerning the Light.

9 The true Light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

10 He was in the world, and the world was created through Him,

yet the world did not know Him.

11 He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him.

12 Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,

to those who believed in His name,

13 who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man, but of God.

14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory,

the glory as the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.

15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, "This was He of whom I said,

'He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.' "

16 We have all received from His fullness grace upon grace.

17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came

through Jesus Christ.

18 No one has seen God at any time. The only Son, who is at the Father's side,

has made Him known.





[1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the

Word was God.

[2] The same was in the beginning with God.

[3] All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made

that was made.

[4] In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

[5] And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

[6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

[7] The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all

men through him might believe.

[8] He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

[9] That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into

the world.

[10] He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world

knew him not.

[11] He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

[12] But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the

sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

[13] Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of

the will of man, but of God.

[14] And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his

glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace

and truth.

[15] John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I

spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.

[16] And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.

[17] For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus

Christ.

[18] No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in

the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.



Matthew 1:1-17



The Genealogy of Jesus Christ



Lk 3:23-38



1 (Ge 22:18; Isa 11:1; Ro 1:3) The book of the genealogy

of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the son of Abraham:

2 (Ge 25:26; Ac 7:8) Abraham was the father of Isaac,

Isaac the father of Jacob,

and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.

3 (Ge 46:12; 38:29-30) Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar,

Perez the father of Hezron,

and Hezron the father of Ram.

4 Ram was the father of Amminadab,

Amminadab the father of Nahshon,

and Nahshon the father of Salmon.

5 (Heb 11:31; Jas 2:25) Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab,

Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth,

and Obed the father of Jesse.

6 (1Sa 16:1; 17:12) Jesse was the father of David the king.

David the king was the father of Solomon,

by her who had been the wife of Uriah.

7 Solomon was the father of Rehoboam,

Rehoboam the father of Abijah,

and Abijah the father of Asa.

8 (1Ch 3:11) Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat,

Jehoshaphat the father of Joram,

and Joram the father of Uzziah.

9 Uzziah was the father of Jotham,

Jotham the father of Ahaz,

and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah.

10 Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh,

Manasseh the father of Amon,

and Amon the father of Josiah.

11 (Jer 27:20; Da 1:2) Josiah was the father of Jeconiah

and his brothers about the time they were exiled to Babylon.

12 (1Ch 3:17; Ezr 3:2) And after they were brought to Babylon,

Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,

and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel.

13 Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud,

Abiud the father of Eliakim,

and Eliakim the father of Azor.

14 Azor was the father of Zadok,

Zadok the father of Akim,

and Akim the father of Eliud.

15 Eliud was the father of Eleazar,

Eleazar the father of Matthan,

and Matthan the father of Jacob.

16 (Mt 27:17; Lk 3:23) And Jacob was the father of Joseph,

the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations,

from David until the exile to Babylon are fourteen generations,

and from the exile in Babylon to Christ are fourteen generations.



[1] The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the

son of Abraham.

[2] Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas

and his brethren;

[3] And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom;

and Esrom begat Aram;

[4] And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson

begat Salmon;

[5] And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and

Obed begat Jesse;

[6] And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of

her that had been the wife of Urias;

[7] And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa;

[8] And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias;

[9] And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat

Ezekias;

[10] And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat

Josias;

[11] And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they

were carried away to Babylon:

[12] And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel;

and Salathiel begat Zorobabel;

[13] And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim

begat Azor;

[14] And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud;

[15] And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat

Jacob;

[16] And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who

is called Christ.

[17] So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations;

and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen

generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are

fourteen generations.



Luke 1:5-38



The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold



5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest

named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And his wife was

of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.

6 They were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments

and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly.

7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren,

and they both were now well advanced in years.

8 Now while he served as priest before God, when his division was on duty,

9 according to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn

incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

10 And the whole crowd of people were praying outside at the hour of incense.

11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side

of the altar of incense.

12 When Zechariah saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

13 But the angel said to him, "Do not fear, Zechariah, for your prayer

has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son,

and you shall call his name John.

14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.

15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink

neither wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit,

even from his mother's womb.

16 He will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God.

17 And he will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah,

to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children

and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready

a people prepared for the Lord."

18 Zechariah said to the angel, "How shall I know this?

For I am an old man and my wife well advanced in years."

19 The angel answered him, "I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God.

And I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news.

20 And now you will be silent and unable to speak until the day

that these things happen, because you did not believe my words,

which will be fulfilled in their season."

21 The people waited for Zechariah, and wondered why he waited

so long in the temple.

22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They perceived

that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he made signs to them

and remained speechless.

23 As soon as the days of his service were fulfilled,

he departed to his own home.

24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months

she hid herself, saying,

25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,

to take away my reproach among men."



The Birth of Jesus Foretold



26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God

to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,

27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph,

of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.

28 The angel came to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favuored.

The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women."

29 When she saw him, she was troubled by his words, and considered

in her mind what kind of greeting this might be.

30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found

favour with God.

31 Listen, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son

and shall call His name JESUS.

32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.

And the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,

33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.

And of His kingdom there will be no end."

34 Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?"

35 The angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you,

and the power of the Highest will overshadow you.

Therefore the Holy One who will be born will be called the Son of God.

36 Listen, your cousin Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age.

And this is the sixth month with her who was declared barren.

37 For with God nothing will be impossible."

38 Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. May it be unto me according

to your word." Then the angel departed from her.



[5] There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest

named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of

Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.

[6] And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments

and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

[7] And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both

were now well stricken in years.

[8] And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before

God in the order of his course,

[9] According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn

incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

[10] And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time

of incense.

[11] And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right

side of the altar of incense.

[12] And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

[13] But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is

heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his

name John.

[14] And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his

birth.

[15] For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither

wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from

his mother's womb.

[16] And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.

[17] And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn

the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom

of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

[18] And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am

an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.

[19] And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the

presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad

tidings.

[20] And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day

that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words,

which shall be fulfilled in their season.

[21] And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so

long in the temple.

[22] And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived

that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and

remained speechless.

[23] And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were

accomplished, he departed to his own house.

[24] And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five

months, saying,

[25] Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me,

to take away my reproach among men.

[26] And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city

of Galilee, named Nazareth,

[27] To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of

David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

[28] And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly

favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

[29] And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her

mind what manner of salutation this should be.

[30] And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour

with God.

[31] And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son,

and shalt call his name JESUS.

[32] He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the

Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

[33] And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom

there shall be no end.

[34] Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a

man?

[35] And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come

upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore

also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of

God.

[36] And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her

old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

[37] For with God nothing shall be impossible.

[38] And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according

to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:39-80



Mary Visits Elizabeth



39 In those days Mary arose and quickly went into the hill country,

to a city of Judah,

40 and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.

41 When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped

in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

42 She spoke out with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women,

and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

43 But why is this granted to me,

that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

44 Indeed, as soon as the sound of your greeting came to my ears,

the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion

to those things which were told her by the Lord."



The Song of Mary



46 And Mary said:

"My soul magnifies the Lord,

47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

48 For He has regarded

the low estate of His servant;

surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.

49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,

and holy is His name.

50 His mercy is on those who fear Him

from generation to generation.

51 He has shown strength with His arm;

He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones

and exalted those of low degree.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things,

and the rich He has sent away empty.

54 He has helped His servant Israel,

in remembrance of His mercy,

55 as He spoke to our fathers,

to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

56 Mary remained with her about three months

and returned to her own house.



The Birth of John the Baptist



57 Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.

58 Her neighbours and cousins heard how the Lord had shown her great mercy,

and they rejoiced with her.

59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child.

And they were calling him Zechariah, after the name of his father.

60 But his mother answered, “Not so! He shall be called John.”

61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives

who is called by this name."

62 They made signs to his father, asking what he would have him called.

63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."

And they all were amazed.

64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed,

and he spoke and praised God.

65 Fear came on all who lived around them. And all these facts

were talked about throughout all the hill country of Judea.

66 All those who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying,

"What kind of child will he be?" For the hand of the Lord was with him.



The Prophecy of Zechariah



67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit

and prophesied, saying,

68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,

for He has visited and redeemed His people,

69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of His servant David,

70 as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets of long ago,

71 that we should be saved from our enemies

and from the hand of all who hate us,

72 to perform the mercy promised to our fathers

and to remember His holy covenant,

73 the oath which He swore to our father Abraham,

74 to grant us that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies,

might serve Him without fear,

75 in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our lives.

76 "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest;

for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,

77 to give knowledge of salvation to His people

by the remission of their sins,

78 through the tender mercy of our God,

whereby the sunrise from on high has visited us;

79 to give light to those who sit in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace."

80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit,

and he remained in the wilderness until the day of his appearance to Israel.



[39] And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with

haste, into a city of Juda;

[40] And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

[41] And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary,

the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

[42] And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among

women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

[43] And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

[44] For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears,

the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

[45] And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of

those things which were told her from the Lord.

[46] And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,

[47] And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

[48] For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold,

from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

[49] For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his

name.

[50] And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.

[51] He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in

the imagination of their hearts.

[52] He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low

degree.

[53] He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent

empty away.

[54] He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;

[55] As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

[56] And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own

house.

[57] Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she

brought forth a son.

[58] And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great

mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.

[59] And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the

child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.

[60] And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.

[61] And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by

this name.

[62] And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.

[63] And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John.

And they marvelled all.

[64] And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he

spake, and praised God.

[65] And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings

were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.

[66] And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What

manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

[67] And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and

prophesied, saying,

[68] Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his

people,

[69] And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his

servant David;

[70] As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since

the world began:

[71] That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that

hate us;

[72] To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy

covenant;

[73] The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,

[74] That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of

our enemies might serve him without fear,

[75] In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

[76] And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou

shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;

[77] To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of

their sins,

[78] Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high

hath visited us,

[79] To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace.

[80] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts

till the day of his shewing unto Israel.



Matthew 1:18-25



The Birth of Jesus Christ



Lk 2:1-7



18 (Ge 3:15) Now the birth of Jesus Christ happened this way:

After His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, before they came together,

she was found with child by the Holy Spirit.

19 (Dt 22:21-24; 24:1-4 )Then Joseph her husband, being a just man

and not willing to make her a public example, had in mind to divorce

her privately.

20 (Mt 1:18; 2:13) But while he thought on these things, the angel

of the Lord appeared to him in a dream saying,

"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife,

for He who is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

21 (Lk 1:31; Ac 4:12) She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS,

for He will save His people from their sins."

22 (Mt 2:15; 2:23) Now all this occurred to fulfill what the Lord

had spoken through the prophet, saying,

23 (Isa 7:14; 9:6-7; Mt 28:20) "A virgin shall be with child,

and will bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,"

[Isa 7:14.] which is interpreted, "God with us."

24 Then Joseph, being awakened from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord

had commanded him, and remained with his wife,

25 (Mt 1:21; Lk 2:7) and did not know her until she had given birth

to her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS.



[18] Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary

was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child

of the Holy Ghost.

[19] Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her

a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.

[20] But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord

appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to

take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the

Holy Ghost.

[21] And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people from their sins.

[22] Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of

the Lord by the prophet, saying,

[23] Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and

they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

[24] Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had

bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

[25] And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he

called his name JESUS.



Luke 2:1-38



The Birth of Jesus



Mt 1:18-25



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



The Shepherds and the Angels



8 And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 (2Co 3:18) And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.

10 (Ge 12:3; Isa 40:9) But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people.

11 (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:43; Mt 16:16) For unto you is born this day

in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 (1Sa 2:34; 2Ki 19:29) And this will be a sign to you:

You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

13 (Ge 28:12; 32:1-2) Suddenly there was with the angel a company

of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 (Lk 1:79; 19:38) "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, and good will toward men."

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said

to each other, "Let us now go to Bethlehem and see what has happened,

which the Lord has made known to us."

16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,

and the Baby lying in a manger.

17 When they had seen Him, they made widely known the word

which was told them concerning this Child.

18 And all those who heard it marveled at what the shepherds told them.

19 (Lk 2:51; Ge 37:11) But Mary kept all these things and pondered them

in her heart.

20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things

they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.



The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple



21 (Lk 1:31; 1:59) When eight days had passed and the Child was circumcised,

He was named ­JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived

in the womb.

22 When the days of her purification according to the Law of Moses

were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord

23 (Ex 13:2; Nu 3:13)(as it is written in the law of the Lord,

"Every firstborn male shall be called holy to the Lord"

Ex 13:2, 12; Nu 3:13; 8:17.)

24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord,

"a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons." Lev 5:11; 12:8.

25 (Lk 1:6; 2:38) Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon,

and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel,

and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

26 (Jn 8:51; Heb 11:5) It was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit

that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

27 (Lk 2:41; 2:48) Led by the Spirit, he came into the temple. And when

the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according

to the custom of the law,

28 (Lk 1:64) he received Him in his arms and blessed God and said:

29 (Ge 15:15; Lk 2:26) "Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace,

according to Your word;

30 (Lk 3:6; Isa 52:10) for my eyes have seen Your salvation

31 which You have prepared in the sight of all people,

32 (Isa 49:6; 9:2; 60:19) a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and the glory of Your people Israel."

33 Joseph and His mother were amazed at those things which were spoken

about Him.

34 (1Co 1:23; Mt 21:44; Ac 28:22) Then Simeon blessed them

and said to Mary His mother, "Listen, this Child is destined to cause the fall

and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign which will be spoken against,

35 so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

And a sword will pierce through your own soul also."

36 (Ac 21:9; Ex 15:20) And there was Anna a prophetess, a daughter of Phanuel,

of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age and had lived

with her husband seven years from her virginity.

37 (1Ti 5:5; Ac 14:23) And she was a widow of about 84 years of age

who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fasting

and prayer night and day.

38 (Lk 2:25; 1:68) Coming at that moment she gave thanks to the Lord

and spoke of Him to all those who looked for the redemption of Jerusalem.



[1] And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from

Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

[2] (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

[3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

[4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into

Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was

of the house and lineage of David:)

[5] To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

[6] And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished

that she should be delivered.

[7] And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling

clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the

inn.

[8] And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

[9] And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord

shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

[10] And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good

tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

[11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is

Christ the Lord.

[12] And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in

swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

[13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host

praising God, and saying,

[14] Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

[15] And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into

heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto

Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath

made known unto us.

[16] And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe

lying in a manger.

[17] And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was

told them concerning this child.

[18] And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told

them by the shepherds.

[19] But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

[20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the

things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

[21] And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the

child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he

was conceived in the womb.

[22] And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses

were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the

Lord;

[23] (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the

womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

[24] And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of

the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

[25] And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and

the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and

the Holy Ghost was upon him.

[26] And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see

death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

[27] And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought

in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

[28] Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

[29] Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy

word:

[30] For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

[31] Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

[32] A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

[33] And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken

of him.

[34] And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this

child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign

which shall be spoken against;

[35] (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the

thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

[36] And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the

tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven

years from her virginity;

[37] And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed

not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

[38] And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and

spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.



Matthew 2



The Visit of the Wise Men



1 (Lk 2:4-7; Mic 5:2) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea

in the days of Herod the king, wise men came from the east to Jerusalem,

2 (Nu 24:17; Jer 23:5; Zec 9:9) saying, "Where is He who was born King

of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east and have come

to worship Him."

3 When Herod the king heard these things, he was troubled,

and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he inquired of them where Christ should be born.

5 (Ge 35:19) They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is

what the prophet wrote:

6 (Mic 5:2; Jn 7:42) 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are no longer least among the princes of Judah;

for out of you shall come a Governor,

who will shepherd My people Israel.'[Ps 91:11-12.]"

7 Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men,

carefully inquired of them what time the star appeared.

8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said,

"Go and search diligently for the young Child, and when you have found Him,

bring me word again, so that I may come and worship Him also."

9 When they heard the king, they departed. And the star which they saw

in the east went before them until it came and stood over where the young

Child was.

10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with great excitement.

11 (Ps 72:10; Mt 14:33) And when they came into the house,

they saw the young Child with Mary, His mother, and fell down

and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures,

they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

12 (Mt 2:22; 27:19) But being warned in a dream that they should

not return to Herod, they returned to their own country

by another route.



The Escape to Egypt



13 (Ac 5:19; Mt 1:20) Now when they departed, the angel of the Lord

appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying,

"Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and escape to Egypt,

and stay there until I bring you word.

For Herod will seek the young Child to kill Him."

14 When he rose, he took the young Child and His mother by night,

and departed into Egypt,

15 (Hos 11:1; Ex 4:22) and remained there until the death of Herod,

to fulfill what the Lord had spoken through the prophet,

"Out of Egypt I have called My Son."

A talent was worth several hundred pounds.



The Killing of the Infants



16 (Isa 59:7) Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked

by the wise men, was utterly furious and sent forth and killed

all the male children who were in Bethlehem and the surrounding region,

from two years old and under, based on the time which he had diligently

inquired of the wise men.

17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet:

18 (Jer 31:15; Ge 42:36) "In Ramah a voice was heard,

grieving and weeping and great mourning,

Rachel weeping for her children,

and she would not be comforted,

because they are no more."[-21 Isa 42:1-4].



The Return From Egypt



19 (Mt 1:20) But when Herod was dead, an angel of the Lord appeared

in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,

20 (Ex 4:19) saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother,

and go into the land of Israel, for those who sought

the young Child's life are dead."

21 And he rose, took the young Child and His mother,

and came into the land of Israel.

22 (Lk 2:39) But when he heard that Archelaus reigned in Judea

instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Nevertheless,

being warned by God in a dream, he withdrew to the region of Galilee.

23 (Jn 1:45-46; Jdg 13:5) And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth,

that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled,

"He shall be called a Nazarene."



[1] Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the

king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

[2] Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his

star in the east, and are come to worship him.

[3] When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all

Jerusalem with him.

[4] And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.

[5] And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written

by the prophet,

[6] And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the

princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my

people Israel.

[7] Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them

diligently what time the star appeared.

[8] And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for

the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may

come and worship him also.

[9] When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which

they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where

the young child was.

[10] When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

[11] And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with

Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened

their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and

myrrh.

[12] And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to

Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

[13] And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to

Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother,

and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod

will seek the young child to destroy him.

[14] When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and

departed into Egypt:

[15] And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled

which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I

called my son.

[16] Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was

exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in

Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under,

according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.

[17] Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

[18] In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great

mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted,

because they are not.

[19] But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a

dream to Joseph in Egypt,

[20] Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the

land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.

[21] And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into

the land of Israel.

[22] But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his

father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of

God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:

[23] And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be

fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.



Luke 2:39-52



The Return to Nazareth



39 (Lk 2:4) When they had performed everything according to the law

of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth.

40 (Lk 2:52; 1:80) And the Child grew and became strong in spirit,

filled with wisdom. And the grace of God was upon Him.



The Boy Jesus in the Temple



41 (Dt 16:1-8; 1Sa 1:3) Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year

at the Feast of the Passover.

42 When He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according

to the custom of the feast.

43 When the days of the feast were complete, as they returned,

the Child Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem.

And Joseph and His mother did not know of it.

44 But supposing Him to be in their company, they went a day's journey.

Then they searched for Him among their relatives and acquaintances.

45 When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for Him.

46 (Lk 5:17) After three days they found Him in the temple, sitting

in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.

47 (Mt 7:28; Mk 1:22) All who heard Him were astonished

at His understanding and His answers.

48 When they saw Him, they were amazed. And His mother said to Him,

"Son, why have You dealt with us like this?

Look, Your father and I have anxiously searched for You."

49 (Jn 4:34) He said to them, "How is it that you searched for Me? Did you

not know that I must be about My Father's business?"

50 (Lk 18:34; Mk 9:32) But they did not understand the word which

He spoke to them.

51 (Lk 2:19; Mk 6:3) Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth

and was obedient to them. But His mother kept all these words in her heart.

52 (1Sa 2:26; Lk 2:40) And Jesus increased in wisdom

and in stature and in favor with God and men.



[39] And when they had performed all things according to the law of the

Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

[40] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and

the grace of God was upon him.

[41] Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the

passover.

[42] And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the

custom of the feast.

[43] And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus

tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.

[44] But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's

journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.

[45] And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem,

seeking him.

[46] And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the

temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking

them questions.

[47] And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and

answers.

[48] And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him,

Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought

thee sorrowing.

[49] And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I

must be about my Father's business?

[50] And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

[51] And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto

them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

[52] And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and

man.



2) Our Daily Bread for 26 December 2023 titled



The Day after Christmas




Luke 2:15-20



15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said

to each other, "Let us now go to Bethlehem and see what has happened,

which the Lord has made known to us."

16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,

and the Baby lying in a manger.

17 When they had seen Him, they made widely known the word

which was told them concerning this Child.

18 And all those who heard it marveled at what the shepherds told them.

19 (Lk 2:51; Ge 37:11) But Mary kept all these things and pondered them

in her heart.

20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things

they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.



[15] And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into

heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto

Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath

made known unto us.

[16] And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe

lying in a manger.

[17] And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was

told them concerning this child.

[18] And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told

them by the shepherds.

[19] But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

[20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the

things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.



After all the joy of Christmas Day, the following day felt like a letdown.

We'd stayed overnight with friends but hadn't slept well. Then our car broke

down as we were driving home. Then it started to snow. We had abandoned the

car and taxied home in the snow and sleet feeling blah.



We're not the only ones who've felt low after Christmas Day. Whether it's from

excessive eating, the way carols suddenly disappear from the radio, or the

fact that the gifts we bought last week are now on sale half price, the magic

of Christmas Day can quickly dissipate!



The Bible never tells us about the day after Jesus' birth. But we can imagine

that after walking to Bethlehem, scrambling for accommodation, Mary's pain in

giving birth, and having shepherds drop by unannounced (Luke 2:4-18), Mary and

Joseph were exhausted. Yet as Mary cradled her newborn, I can imagine her

reflecting on her angelic visitation (1:30-33), Elizabeth's blessing

(vv. 42-45), and her own realization of her baby's destiny (vv. 46-55). Mary

"pondered" such things in her heart (2:19), which must've lightened

the tiredness and physical pain of that day.



We'll all have "blah" days, perhaps even the day after Christmas. Like Mary,

let’s face them by pondering the One who came into our world, forever

brightening it with His presence.



By: Sheridan Voysey



Reflect & Pray



When are you prone to feeling a "low" after a "high"? How can you ponder

today all that Jesus has brought into the world?



Dear Jesus, I praise You for entering our

dark world, forever brightening my days with Your presence.







3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 3 - All I need



Phil 4:19



19 But my God shall supply your every need according

to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.



19 But my God shall supply all your need according

to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.



"But Mom, I really need these!" The strident voice of a teenage girl

rose above the hum of voices in the department store. The item in question

was a pair of $80 blue Jeans, faded, bleached, and torn in the right knee.

Style . Fashion. Self-Image. The girl may not have needed the jeans to

enhance her wardrobe, but she obviously felt she needed then to

enhance her acceptability among her peers.

Phillippains 4:19 promises that God "shall supply your every need according

to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." But just what needs does this

promise cover? My need for a bigger house? A better job?

An $80 pair of Calvin Kleins?

Certainly God knows and cares about the physical, superficial need of our

lives, and he provides what we need to sustain life. But God's priority

goes much deeper than the kind of radial tires we buy or the brand name on

our back pockets. God is interested in eternal values, in spiritual needs, and

he knows what we need in our lives to draw us closer to him.

"Out of his glorious riches in Christ Jesus," God will enrich us spiritually.

The application of Phil 4:19 involves trusting God to know and care about our

real needs, the deep needs of our souls, and allowing him the freedom to

order our circumstances so that those needs are met. When we are bold

enough to pray, "Lord, do whatever is necessary to make me more like

Jesus Christ," our Father delights to answer that prayer and supply our needs.



Application



a) What is the difference between my "Needs" and my "wants"?



b) What spiritual needs can I identify in my life?



c) How can this verse help me keep my own priorities

in line with God's value system?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Luke 12:21



21 "So is he who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."



21 So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Impatient



James 5:7-11



Patience and Prayer



7 Therefore be patient, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.

Notice how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth

and is patient with it until he receives the early and late rain.

8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts,

for the coming of the Lord is drawing near.

9 Do not grumble against one another, brothers, lest you be condemned.

Look, the Judge is standing at the door.

10 My brothers, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord,

as an example of suffering and patience.

11 Indeed we count them happy who endure.

You have heard of the patience of Job

and have seen the purpose of the Lord,

that the Lord is very gracious and merciful.



7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold,

the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long

patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord

draweth nigh.

9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned:

behold, the judge standeth before the door.

10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord,

for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.

11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience

of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful,

and of tender mercy.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



Day 26 of the Month



a) Pray that Christians in the marketplace will demonstrate exemplary

work ethics and shine as witnesses of Christ (Matt 5:16



16 Let your light so shine before men that they may

see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.



16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your

good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.



)



b) Pray for the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut



I) Pray for the leaders of Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut,

that God's Spirit would influence then to act justly,

serve with integrity

and honour high moral standards. ( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4



1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,

3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good

and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,

4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved

and to come to the knowledge of the truth.



1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2 for kings, and for all that are in authority;

that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

4 who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge

of the truth.



II) Pray for the churches of the province,

that they would be lighthouses

beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.



III) Pray that the Lord would use

the Finding the Hope Campaign

and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for coming in the world

humbly in a manger.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, I praise You for entering our

dark world, forever brightening my days with Your presence."



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to know He will provide your needs.



Pray to the Lord and pray no to be a hoarder.



Pray to the Lord and pray for patience as the Lord demonstrated.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that Christians in the marketplace will demonstrate exemplary

work ethics and shine as witnesses of Christ



Pray for believers' efforts in Mozambique to rebuild churches that were

destroyed in attacks by militant Islamists.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 359 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 25 December 2023 reflections - Christmas Day

Day 359, 25 December 2023 Merry Christmas!



1)Revelation 19-22



Revelation 19 - 22



Revelation 19



1 (Rev 11:15; 19:6; 12:10) After these things I heard a great sound

of many people in heaven, shouting:

"Alleluia!

Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God!

2 (Dt 32:43; Rev 6:10) For true and righteous are His judgments,

because He has judged the great prostitute

who corrupted the earth with her sexual immorality;

and He has avenged on her the blood of His servants.-

3 (Isa 34:10; Rev 14:11) Again they said:

"Alleluia!

Her smoke rises forever and ever."

4 (Rev 5:14; Ps 106:48) The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures

fell down and worshipped God who sat on the throne, saying:

"Amen! Alleluia!"



[1] And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven,

saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord

our God:

[2] For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great

whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged

the blood of his servants at her hand.

[3] And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.

[4] And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and

worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia.



The Marriage Supper of the Lamb



5 (Ps 134:1; 135:1) Then a voice came from the throne, saying:

"Praise our God,

all you His servants

and those who fear Him,

both small and great!"

6 (Rev 14:2; Ps 97:1) Then I heard something like the sound like a great

multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunderings,

saying:

"Alleluia!

For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns!

7 (Mt 22:2; Eph 5:32) Let us be glad and rejoice

and give Him glory,

for the marriage of the Lamb has come,

and His wife has made herself ready.

8 (Ps 45:13-14; 132:9) It was granted her to be arrayed in fine linen,

clean and white."

Fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.

9 (Rev 21:5; 22:6) Then he said to me, "Write: Blessed are those who are

invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb." And he said to me,

"These are the true sayings of God."

10 (Rev 12:17; 22:8-9) I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me,

"See that you not do that. I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers

who hold the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus

is the spirit of prophecy."



[5] And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his

servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great.

[6] And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice

of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia:

for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.

[7] Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of

the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.

[8] And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean

and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

[9] And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the

marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true

sayings of God.

[10] And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do

it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony

of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.



The Rider on the White Horse



11 (Rev 3:14; 6:2) I saw heaven opened. And there was a white horse.

He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness

He judges and wages war.

12 (Rev 1:14; 6:2) His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on His head

are many crowns. He has a name written, that no one knows but He Himself.

13 (Jn 1:1) He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood. His name

is called The Word of God.

14 (Rev 19:8; 7:9 ) The armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen,

white and clean, followed Him on white horses.

15 (Isa 11:4; 2Th 2:8) Out of His mouth proceeds a sharp sword,

with which He may strike the nations.

"He shall rule them with an iron scepter."(Ps 2:9.)

He treads the winepress of the fury and wrath of God the Almighty.

16 (Rev 17:14) On His robe and on His thigh He has a name written:

KING OF KINGS

AND LORD OF LORDS.

17 (Rev 19:21; Jer 12:9) And I saw an angel standing in the sun,

and he cried with a loud voice to all the birds flying in the midst

of heaven, "Come and gather for the supper of the great God,

18 (Eze 39:18-20; Rev 6:15) to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh

of commanders, the flesh of strong men, the flesh of horses

and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave,

both small and great!"

19 (Rev 16:16; 16:14) Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth

with their armies gathered to wage war against Him who sat on the horse

and against His army.

20 (Rev 20:10; 21:8; 14:10) But the beast was captured and with him

the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which

he deceived those who received the mark of the beast

and those who worshipped his image. These two were thrown alive

into the lake of fire that burns with brimstone.

21 The remnant were slain with the sword which proceeded

out of the mouth of Him who sat on the horse.

And all the birds gorged themselves with their flesh .



[11] And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon

him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and

make war.

[12] His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and

he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.

[13] And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is

called The Word of God.

[14] And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses,

clothed in fine linen, white and clean.

[15] And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite

the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the

winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

[16] And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF

KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

[17] And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice,

saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather

yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;

[18] That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the

flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them,

and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, both small and great.

[19] And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies,

gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against

his army.

[20] And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought

miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark

of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive

into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

[21] And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the

horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled

with their flesh.



(Collaborators of Anti-Christ and False Prophet will meet a dreadful end)



Revelation 20



The Thousand Years



1 (Rev 1:18; 10:1) And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven,

having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand.

2 (2Pe 2:4; Rev 12:9) He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent,

who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.

3 (Da 6:17; Mt 27:66) He cast him into the bottomless pit,

and shut him up, and set a seal on him, that he should deceive

the nations no more, until the thousand years were ended.

After that he must be set free for a little while.

4 (Da 7:9; 7:18) I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and the authority

to judge was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been

beheaded for their witness of Jesus and for the word of God.

They had not worshipped the beast or his image, and had not received

his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. They came to life

and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.

5 The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years

were ended. This is the first resurrection.

6 (Rev 1:6; 2:11; 5:10) ­Blessed and holy is he who takes part

in the first resurrection. Over these the second death has no power,

but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with

Him a thousand years.



[1] And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the

bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand.

[2] And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil,

and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,

[3] And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal

upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand

years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.

[4] And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto

them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of

Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast,

neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in

their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

[5] But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were

finished. This is the first resurrection.

[6] Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such

the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of

Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.



( PLease note on Lucifer aka Satan is in jail, but not the rest of the demons)



The Defeat of Satan



7 (Rev 20:2) When the thousand years are ended, Satan will be set free from

his prison

8 (Rev 16:14; 20:3) and will go out to deceive the nations which are

in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle.

Their number is like the sand of the sea.

9 (Eze 38:9; 38:16) They traveled the breadth of the earth and surrounded

the camp of the saints and the beloved city. But fire came down from God

out of heaven and devoured them.

10 (Rev 19:20; 20:2-3; 20:14-15) The devil, who deceived them, was cast

into the lake of fire and brimstone

where the beast and the false prophet were. They will be tormented day

and night forever and ever.



[7] And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of

his prison,

[8] And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters

of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number

of whom is as the sand of the sea.

[9] And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of

the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of

heaven, and devoured them.

[10] And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and

brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented

day and night for ever and ever.



The Great White Throne Judgment



11 (Da 2:35; Rev 12:8) Then I saw a great white throne

and Him who was seated on it. From His face the earth

and the heavens fled away, and no place was found for them.

12 (Da 7:10; Mt 16:27) And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before

God. Books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the Book

of Life. The dead were judged according to their works as recorded

in the books.

13 (Rev 6:8; 20:12) The sea gave up the dead who were in it,

and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them.

And they were judged, each one by his works.

14 (1Co 15:26; Rev 20:6) Then Death and Hades were cast into

the lake of fire. This is the second death.

15 (Mt 25:41; Mk 9:43-48) Anyone whose name was not found written

in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.



[11] And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face

the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

[12] And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books

were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the

dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books,

according to their works.

[13] And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell

delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man

according to their works.

[14] And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second

death.

[15] And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into

the lake of fire.



Revelation 21



The New Heaven and the New Earth



1 (Isa 66:22; 2Pe 3:13) Then I saw "a new heaven and a new earth."(Isa 65:17.)

For the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no

more sea.

2 (Heb 11:10; Rev 3:12) I, John, saw the Holy City, the New Jerusalem,

coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned

for her husband.

3 (2Co 6:16; Rev 7:15) And I heard a loud voice from heaven, saying,

"Look! The tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them.

They shall be His people, and God Himself will be with them

and be their God.

4 (Isa 25:8; 35:10; 1Co 15:26) 'God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

There shall be no more death.'(Isa 25:8.) Neither shall there be any more

sorrow nor crying nor pain, for the former things have passed away."

5 (Rev 4:9; 20:11) He who was seated on the throne said,

"Look! I am making all things new." Then He said to me,

"Write, for these words are faithful and true."

6 (Rev 1:8; 22:13; Jn 4:10) He said to me, "It is done. I am the Alpha

and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the spring

of the water of life to him who thirsts.

7 (Rev 21:3; Mt 25:34) He who overcomes shall inherit all things,

and I will be his God and he shall be My son. (2Sa 7:14; Ps 89:26.)

8 (Rev 19:20; Gal 5:19-21) But the cowardly, the unbelieving,

the abominable, the murderers, the sexually immoral, the sorcerers,

the idolaters, and all liars shall have their portion

in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone. This is the second death."



[1] And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the

first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

[2] And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of

heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

[3] And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle

of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his

people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

[4] And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no

more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more

pain: for the former things are passed away.

[5] And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And

he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

[6] And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and

the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water

of life freely.

[7] He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and

he shall be my son.

[8] But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and

whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their

part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second

death.



The New Jerusalem



9 (Rev 19:7; 21:2) One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full

of the seven last plagues came to me and said to me,

"Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb."

10 (Rev 17:3; 1:10) And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great

and high mountain, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, descending

out of heaven from God,

11 (Rev 4:6; 22:5) having the glory of God, her light like a most

precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.

12 (Eze 48:31-34; Rev 21:25) It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates,

and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve

tribes of the sons of Israel were written:

13 three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates

on the south, and three gates on the west.

14 (Heb 11:10; Mt 16:18) The wall of the city had twelve foundations,

and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

15 He who talked with me had a golden rod to measure the city

and its gates and wall. 16The city lies as a square,

its length as long as its width. He measured the city with the rod:

one thousand four hundred miles.(Gk. 12,000 stadia, or 2,200 kilometers.)

Its length and breadth and height are equal.

17 He then measured its wall: two hundred feet(144 cubits, or 65 meters.)

by the measurement of a man, that is, of an angel.

18 (Rev 21:11; 21:21) The wall was built of jasper and the city was pure gold,

as clear as glass.

19 (Isa 54:11-12) The foundations of the wall of the city were garnished

with all kinds of precious jewels. The first foundation was jasper;

the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth, emerald;

20 the fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite;

the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprase;

the eleventh, jacinth; and the twelfth, amethyst.

21 (Rev 21:18; 17:4; 22:2) The twelve gates were twelve pearls,

each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city

was pure gold, transparent as glass.

22 (Jn 4:23; Rev 1:8) I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty

and the Lamb are its temple.

23 (Rev 21:11; Isa 60:19-20; Rev 22:5) The city has no need of sun

or moon to shine in it, for the glory of God is its light,

and its lamp is the Lamb.

24 (Rev 22:2) And the nations of those who are saved shall walk in its light,

and the kings of the earth shall bring their glory and honour into it.

25 (Isa 60:11; Zec 14:7) Its gates shall never be shut by day, for there

shall be no night there. 26They shall bring into it the glory and the honor

of the nations.

27 (Isa 52:1; Joel 3:17) No unclean thing shall ever enter it, nor shall anyone

who commits abomination or falsehood, but only those whose names are written

in the Lamb's Book of Life.



[9] And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials

full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I

will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.

[10] And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and

shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from

God,

[11] Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most

precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;

[12] And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates

twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve

tribes of the children of Israel:

[13] On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three

gates; and on the west three gates.

[14] And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names

of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

[15] And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and

the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.

[16] And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the

breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs.

The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.

[17] And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits,

according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.

[18] And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure

gold, like unto clear glass.

[19] And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all

manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second,

sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;

[20] The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the

eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh,

a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.

[21] And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one

pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent

glass.

[22] And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are

the temple of it.

[23] And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in

it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

[24] And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it:

and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.

[25] And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be

no night there.

[26] And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.

[27] And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth,

neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are

written in the Lamb's book of life.



Revelation 22



1 (Zec 14:8; Rev 7:17) Then he showed me a pure river of the water of life,

clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb

2 (Rev 2:7; Ge 2:9) in the middle of its street. On each side of the river

was the tree of life, which bore twelve kinds of fruit,

yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were

for the healing of the nations.

3 (Zec 14:11; Ps 17:15) There shall be no more curse. The throne of God

and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.

4 (Mt 5:8; Rev 14:1) They shall see His face, and His name shall

be on their foreheads.

5 (Da 7:27; 7:18) Night shall be no more. They need no lamp

nor the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light.

And they shall reign forever and ever.



[1] And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal,

proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.

[2] In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was

there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her

fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the

nations.

[3] And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb

shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

[4] And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.

[5] And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither

light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign

for ever and ever.



The Coming of Christ



6 (Rev 1:1; 21:5; 19:9) The angel said to me, "These words are faithful

and true. The Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show

to His servants the things which must soon take place."

7 (Rev 1:3; 3:11; 22:12) "Look, I am coming soon. Blessed is he who keeps

the words of the prophecy of this book."

8 (Rev 19:10; 1:1) I, John, am he who saw and heard these things.

When I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel

who showed me these things.

9 (Rev 19:10) But he said to me, "See that you not do that.

For I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers the prophets,

and of those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!"

10 (Rev 10:4; Da 8:26) Then he said to me, "Do not seal the words

of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand.

11 (Eze 3:27; Da 12:10) He who is unjust, let him be unjust still.

He who is filthy, let him be filthy still. He who is righteous,

let him be righteous still. He who is holy, let him be holy still."

12 (Isa 40:10; Rev 22:7) "Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with Me

to give to each one according to his work.

13 (Rev 1:8; 21:6; 1:17) I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning

and the End, the First and the Last."

14 (Rev 21:27; 22:2) Blessed are those who do His commandments,

that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter

through the gates into the city.

15 (Rev 21:8; Gal 5:19-21; Php 3:2) Outside are dogs and sorcerers

and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters

and everyone who loves and practices a lie.

16 (Rev 1:1; 5:5; Mt 2:2) "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to you

with this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring

of David, the Bright and Morning Star."

(The Bright and Morning Star, esp The Morning Star is not fallen)

17 (Rev 21:6; Isa 2:5) The Spirit and the bride say, "Come."

Let him who hears say, "Come." Let him who is thirsty come.

Let him who desires take the water of life freely.

18 (Dt 4:2; Pr 30:6) I testify to everyone who hears the words

of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things,

God shall add to him the plagues that are written in this book.

19 (Rev 22:2; 13:8) And if anyone takes away from the words

of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part

out of the Book of Life and out of the Holy City

and out of the things which are written in this book.

20 (Rev 22:7; 1Co 16:22) He who testifies to these things says,

"Surely I am coming soon."

Amen. Even so, come Lord Jesus!

21 (Ro 16:20) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.



[6] And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord

God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things

which must shortly be done.

[7] Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the

prophecy of this book.

[8] And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and

seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me

these things.

[9] Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant,

and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this

book: worship God.

[10] And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this

book: for the time is at hand.

[11] He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let

him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still:

and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

[12] And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every

man according as his work shall be.

[13] I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the

last.

[14] Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to

the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

[15] For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers,

and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

[16] I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the

churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and

morning star.

[17] And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say,

Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the

water of life freely.

[18] For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of

this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him

the plagues that are written in this book:

[19] And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this

prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of

the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

[20] He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen.

Even so, come, Lord Jesus.



2) Our Daily Bread for 25 December 2023 Titled



The Promise of Christ's Birth




Luke 2:1-7



The Birth of Jesus



Mt 1:18-25



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



[1] And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from

Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

[2] (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

[3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

[4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into

Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was

of the house and lineage of David:)

[5] To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

[6] And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished

that she should be delivered.

[7] And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling

clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the

inn.



Micah 5:2



2 (Zec 9:9; Mt 2:6) But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,

although you are small among the tribes of Judah,

from you will come forth for Me

one who will be ruler over Israel.

His origins are from of old,

from ancient days.



[2] But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands

of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in

Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.



In November 1962, physicist John W. Mauchly said, "There is no reason to

suppose the average boy or girl cannot be master of a personal computer."

Mauchly's prediction seemed remarkable at the time, but it proved

astonishingly accurate. Today, using a computer or handheld device is one

of the earliest skills a child learns.



While Mauchly's prediction has come true, so have much more important

predictions-those made in Scripture about the coming of Christ. For example,

Micah 5:2 declared, "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little

among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me

that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old,

from everlasting." God sent Jesus, who arrived in tiny Bethlehem-marking him

as from the royal line of David (see Luke 2:4-7).



The same Bible that accurately predicted the first coming of Jesus also

promises His return (Acts 1:11). Jesus promised His first followers that

He would come back for them (John 14:1-4).



This Christmas, as we ponder the accurately predicted facts surrounding the

birth of Jesus, may we also consider His promised return, and allow Him to

prepare us for that majestic moment when we see Him face to face!



By: Bill Crowder



Reflect & Pray



How might you respond in worship to the truth of the prophecies of Christ's

birth? How does His promise to return for us impact your decision-making?



Loving Father, I'm so grateful for the birth

of Jesus and His mission of rescue and redemption.

Thank You for His certain return for me.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 2 - Due Season



Gal 6:9



9 And let us not grow weary in doing good,

for in due season we shall reap, if we do not give up.



9 And let us not be weary in well doing:

for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.



Jackie's preschool class took on an exciting project: they were going to grow

flowers from seeds, Each child took the seed, planted it carefully in the

bedding soil, watered, and waited. But Jackie couldn't wait. Every day

for a week he ran to the window box, looked for his plants, poked, prodded,

unplanted the seeds and then planted them again. "It's no use,"

he pouted after the first week. "Nothing's gonna grow in there."

We live in an instant society - microwave dinners, quick fixes, easy answers.

We are conditioned by our environment to expect - even to demand -

immediate response, and when we have to wait,

we become impatient and irritable.

Paul's exhortation to the Galatians, "Let us not become weary in doing good,"

is as appropriate for twentieth-century believers as it was for the new church

at Galatia. We lose motivation when we don't see results,

and weariness sets in.

If our work does not seem to be producing as we hope, we want to abandon it

and move on to a new project.

But God says, "You will reap a harvest if you don't give up." We give up too

soon in our prayers for a loved one's salvation. We abandon hope too readily

when we don't see spiritual growth in our own lives, when our investment in

another's spiritual maturity seems to have no return. The Lord says,

"The harvest is coming; be patient; trust me."

In due season the harvest comes; when it's the right time. When the seed has

had time to germinate, when the roots are string enough, when the conditions

are right, the reaping time will come. But we must be willing to wait for

the due season, the moment of ripeness, when our labor brings its return.



Application



a) Have I ever felt that my spiritual labours have produced no harvest at all?



b) What does it mean to my own spiritual growth that there is a "due season"

for reaping the harvest?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Proverbs 22:7



7 The rich rules over the poor,

and the borrower is servant to the lender.



7 The rich ruleth over the poor,

And the borrower is servant to the lender.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Saddened by Loss



John 14:1 - 7



1 "Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in Me.

2 In My Father's house are many dwelling places.

If it were not so, I would have told you.

I am going to prepare a place for you.

3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again

and receive you to Myself,

that where I am, you may be also.

4 You know where I am going, and you know the way."

5 Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know

where You are going. How can we know the way?"

6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth,

and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

7 If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also.

From now on you do know Him and have seen Him."



1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so,

I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,

and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest;

and how can we know the way?

6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also:

and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 25 of the Month



a) Pray that there will be a growing number of people in your city or

community trusting in Christ as Saviour and Lord.



(Acts 2: 41,47b



41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized,

and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.

47 ... And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.



41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized:

and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

47 ... And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

)



b) Pray that those who serve in the justice system will be agents of true

justice for all.



( Prov 11:1



1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,

but a just weight is His delight.



1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:

But a just weight is his delight.



)



Christmas Day

From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle Joel Heck



Saturday, Fourth Week of Advent



"That time He was creating not simply a man but the Man

who was to be Himself: was creating Man anew: was beginning,

at this divine and human point, the New Creation of all things.

The miraculous conception is one more witness that here is Nature's Lord.

He is doing now, small and close, what He does in a different fashion

for every woman who conceives." - C. S. Lewis



(Read this and more in Miracles, p. 182.)



The New Creation



Most of us like new things. We like new cars, new houses, new clothes,

a new day. We like the new things we receive at Christmas, a new outlook

on life, a new baby. We like the newness of spring, the freshness

of the morning, and the originality of a new piece of art.



The ultimate purpose of God's Grand Miracle-becoming one of us-was

to make all things new, including us. This is our greatest Christmas gift,

if we can see it. Jesus came for us and became one of us, so that we might

become like him. We mentioned that earlier when Lewis wrote,

"The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God."



In today's last quotation for these devotions, Lewis makes it clear

that through the Grand Miracle Jesus became human to show us what we could

be like. He came not only as an example. He also became a man in order

to recreate humankind, to start all over again. That is, he came in power

to reshape us. A miracle! A Grand Miracle!



Jesus, the Creator of the Universe, came to create all things anew,

as John writes, "He who was seated on the throne said,

'I am mak­ing everything new!"' (Rev. 21:5).

This Christmas Day, and every day, it starts in us, one by one,

as we sing with the hymn-writer,



Ah, dearest Jesus, holy Child, Make thee a bed, soft, undefiled,

Within my heart, that it may be A quiet chamber kept for Thee.



(Martin Luther, From Heaven Above, stanza 13)



May God grant it for Jesus' sake.



Son of the Father, now in flesh appearing!

0 come, let us adore you, Christ, the Lord. Amen.



Therefore, if any man is in Christ,

he is a new creature.

Old things have passed away. Look, all things have

become new.



2 Cor 5:17





From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn



CHRISTMAS DAY



News of Great Joy



But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people. "



-Luke 2:10



Composers in this world cannot envision music magisterial enough!

Oh, how I wish we could have joined the shepherds to hear the regal

angel choir sing, "Glory to God in the highest heaven,

and on earth peace ..."!



Oddly, God deigned to present this fabulous concert to the outcasts

of that society and to grant unpretentious shepherds the privilege

of being the first to visit the Christ Child and to carry the news

of his birth to those around them. No wonder everyone was flabbergasted

at what the shepherds told them! No wonder Mary treasured all these words

and pondered them in her heart!





That is why I capitalize the word Joy and employ it exclusively

for divine gifts! When we declare the Joy of Christmas (and of Easter),

there is no greater. The euphoria of Christ's birth (and resurrection)

overwhelms all human infatuations and electrifies us with a heavenly

exhilaration that can't be shackled!



prayer



Oh, Jesus, how we love and revere you! May we always cherish

and broadcast the Joy of your birth! Amen.



Read Luke 2:8-20.



8 And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 (2Co 3:18) And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.

10 (Ge 12:3; Isa 40:9) But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people.

11 (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:43; Mt 16:16) For unto you is born this day

in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 (1Sa 2:34; 2Ki 19:29) And this will be a sign to you:

You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

13 (Ge 28:12; 32:1-2) Suddenly there was with the angel a company

of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 (Lk 1:79; 19:38) "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, and good will toward men."

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said

to each other, "Let us now go to Bethlehem and see what has happened,

which the Lord has made known to us."

16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,

and the Baby lying in a manger.

17 When they had seen Him, they made widely known the word

which was told them concerning this Child.

18 And all those who heard it marveled at what the shepherds told them.

19 (Lk 2:51; Ge 37:11) But Mary kept all these things and pondered them

in her heart.

20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things

they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.



From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler



FOURTH SATURDAY

AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AMEN!

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory,

the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. JOHN 1:14



Christmas has come to you and all of your AH-HA family and friends!

We are all ambassadors of health, hope and amen because of Christ's

birth, death and resurrection!



We say amen because the "Word became flesh and lived among us!"

Amen, of course. does not mean "the end," but rather it means "Yes,"

and 'Hooray." and "So be it," and even "You betcha!" And so Christmas

is not the end of our AH-HAing. It's only the beginning!



Once I was looking at one of the manger scenes in our home. As I

focused on each character individually, like Mary and Joseph and the

shepherds and even the animals, each one of them seemed lonely and

way too serious. But when l looked more closely at each of them, I noticed

that they all were focused on one main point--God in the Flesh, Jesus!

Once l knew that they all were focused on Jesus, their faces became

not lonely. but lovely. and were not too serious, but reverent.



A little child was asked to finish the Scripture sentence, 'And the Word

became ...' He was puzzled for a while, but then all of a sudden he

shouted out. 'And the Word became FRESH!" And he was right!

The Word, Jesus Christ. became Flesh for us so that his Word would

be FRESH in and through our lives! That's the AH-HA of Christmas!



Lord. we greet thee. born on Christmas morning! Jesus, to thee be glory

given, Word of the Father now in flesh(and fresh!) appearing!



Amen and amen ... and, of course, AH-HA!





Read John 1:14-18



11 He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him.

12 Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,

to those who believed in His name,

13 who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man, but of God.

14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory,

the glory as the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.

15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, "This was He of whom I said,

'He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.' "

16 We have all received from His fullness grace upon grace.

17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came

through Jesus Christ.

18 No one has seen God at any time. The only Son, who is at the Father's side,

has made Him known.



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to endure in Faith.



Pray to the Lord: "Loving Father, I'm so grateful for the birth

of Jesus and His mission of rescue and redemption.

Thank You for His certain return for me."



Pray to the Lord and pray for patience

and endurance for your rewards will pay off.



Pray to the Lord and pray to be neither a borrower nor a lender.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know He is preparing a place for you in Heaven.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that there will be a growing number of people in your city or

community trusting in Christ as Saviour and Lord.



Pray that those who serve in the justice system will be agents of true

justice for all.



Pray to Give me a heart, Lord, that gives as you gave. Amen.



Pray: Son of the Father, now in flesh appearing!

0 come, let us adore you, Christ, the Lord. Amen.



Pray: Oh, Jesus, how we love and revere you! May we always cherish

and broadcast the Joy of your birth! Amen.



Pray: Lord. we greet thee. born on Christmas morning! Jesus, to thee be glory

given, Word of the Father now in flesh(and fresh!) appearing!

Amen and amen ... and, of course, AH-HA!



Pray that God will provide for the many Christians in Iraq who have been

forced to flee their homes.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 358 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 24 December 2023 reflections - Christmas Eve Part 2



2) Our Daily Bread for 24 December 2023 Titled



Entitled "The Christmas Star"




Matthew 2:1-5,7-12



1 (Lk 2:4-7; Mic 5:2) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea

in the days of Herod the king, wise men came from the east to Jerusalem,

2 (Nu 24:17; Jer 23:5; Zec 9:9) saying, "Where is He who was born King

of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east and have come

to worship Him."

3 When Herod the king heard these things, he was troubled,

and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he inquired of them where Christ should be born.

5 (Ge 35:19) They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is

what the prophet wrote:

7 Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men,

carefully inquired of them what time the star appeared.

8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said,

"Go and search diligently for the young Child, and when you have found Him,

bring me word again, so that I may come and worship Him also."

9 When they heard the king, they departed. And the star which they saw

in the east went before them until it came and stood over where the young

Child was.

10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with great excitement.

11 (Ps 72:10; Mt 14:33) And when they came into the house,

they saw the young Child with Mary, His mother, and fell down

and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures,

they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

12 (Mt 2:22; 27:19) But being warned in a dream that they should

not return to Herod, they returned to their own country

by another route.



[1] Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the

king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

[2] Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his

star in the east, and are come to worship him.

[3] When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all

Jerusalem with him.

[4] And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.

[5] And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written

by the prophet,

[7] Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them

diligently what time the star appeared.

[8] And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for

the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may

come and worship him also.

[9] When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which

they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where

the young child was.

[10] When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

[11] And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with

Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened

their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and

myrrh.

[12] And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to

Herod, they departed into their own country another way.



"If you find that star, you can always find your way home." Those were my

father's words when he taught me how to locate the North Star as a child. Dad

had served in the armed forces during wartime, and there were moments when his

life depended on being able to navigate by the night sky. So he made sure I

knew the names and locations of several constellations, but it was being able

to find Polaris that mattered most of all. Knowing that star's location meant

I could gain a sense of direction wherever I was and find where I was supposed

to be.



Scripture tells of another star of vital importance. "Magi from the east,"

learned men (from an area encompassed by Iran and Iraq today) had been

watching for signs in the sky of the birth of the One who was to be God's king

for His people. They came to Jerusalem asking "Where is the one who has been

born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship

him" (Matthew 2:1-2).



Astronomers don't know what caused the star of Bethlehem to appear, but the

Bible reveals that God created it to point the world to Jesus-"the bright

Morning Star" (Revelation 22:16). Christ came to save us from our sins

and guide us back to God. Follow Him, and you’ll find your way home.



By: James Banks



Reflect & Pray



In what practical way will you follow Jesus today?

What can you do this week to share His love with others?



Dear Jesus, thank You for being the Way

to my forever-home in heaven. Please help guide me by Your light today!



For further study, read Why Should I Trust God?



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 1 Hard Bargain



Mark 11:24



24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray,

believe that you will receive them, and you will have them.



24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray,

believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.



"I've been praying." Jennifer declared confidently. " I told God I'd give him

a tithe of that $5000000 when I win the sweepstakes."

Her friend Cindi laughed. "Well, then, you don't have a chance. I told him

I'd give him half!"

Can we, as in Mark 11:24 seems to imply , pray for anything, absolutely

anything, and expect that the Lord will come through? Can we pray with

assurance for new cars, mink coats, or trips to the Caribbean? The verse

seems to be a troublesome one, especially when we try it and our prayers

aren't answered in the way we expected.

But seen in context, Mark 11:24 gives us a much broader picture of the

kind of prayer Jesus meant. The verse appears in the framework of

Jesus' ministry - cleansing the temple, correcting the Pharisees,

commanding forgiveness, discussing his authority. The condition for

the fulfillment of Mark 11:24, if Jesus' actions are any indication,

is fulfilling the will and purpose of God.

Such a condition for powerful prayers involves much more than attaching

am "If it be Thy will" clause onto the end of our prayers. We need to know

God's will and walk in it, seeking his kingdom first, and drawing close to

him. Then , as our hearts are right with him, what we ask in prayer

is likely to be congruent with the mind and purposes of Christ. We are

less likely to pray selfishly, and more likely to share God's priorities,

as we get to know him. And as we deepen in our knowledge of him,

as his will becomes our will, his promise for answered prayer takes

on new dimensions.



Application



a) What is the connection betweeen know God's will and praying effectively?



b) What changes need to take place in my life

so that I might pray with greater power?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Proverbs 10:22



22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich ,and He adds no sorrow with it.



22 The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, And he addeth no sorrow with it.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are Saddened by Loss



1 Cor 15:35-38,51-57



35 But someone will say, "How are the dead raised up?

With what body do they come?"

36 You fool! What you sow is not made alive unless it dies.

37 When you sow, you do not sow the body that shall be, but a bare kernel,

perhaps of wheat or of some other grain.

38 Then God gives it a body as He pleases, and to each seed its own body.



51 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall

all be changed.

52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet,

for the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed.

53 For tis corruptible will put on incorruption,

and this mortal will put on immortality.

54 When this corruptible will have put on incorruption,

and this mortal will have put on immortality,

then the saying that is written shall come to pass:

"Death is swallowed up in victory."

55 "O death, where is your sting?

O grave, where is your victory?"

56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law.

57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through

our Lord Jesus Christ!



35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up?

and with what body do they come?

36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die:

37 and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be,

but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain:

38 but God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him,

and to every seed his own body.



51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall

all be changed,

52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:

for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed.

53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption,

and this mortal must put on immortality.

54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption,

and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought

to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through

our Lord Jesus Christ.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 24 of the Month



a) Pray that the Lord will open a door for the message for the Gospel

at every level of Canadian Society. (



Col 4:3



3 while praying also for us, that God would open to

us a door of utterance to speak the mystery of Christ,

for which I am also in chains,



3 withal praying also for us, that God would open unto

us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ,

for which I am also in bonds:



)



b) Pray for the Province of Saskatchewan



I) Pray for the leaders of Saskatchewan,

that God's Spirit would influence

then to act justly,

serve with integrity

and honour high moral standards. ( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4



1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,

3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good

and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,

4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved

and to come to the knowledge of the truth.



II) Pray for the churches of the province,

that they would be lighthouses

beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.



III) Pray that the Lord would use

the Finding the Hope Campaign

and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus



)



Christmas Eve



From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck



Friday, Fourth Week of Advent



"Charity-giving to the poor-is an essential part of Christian morality....I do not believe one can settle how much we ought to give. I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare," - C. S. Lewis



(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 86.)



Give Because God Gave



The best giving happened on the first Christmas, when God gave his Son. He gave out of love to a world in need of love, but deserving none of it. When John writes that "God is love" (1 John 4:8), he is saying that God is a giver, who thinks outside of himself, selflessly taking care of the needs of others. Mark wrote, "For even the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45). That is true servanthood, suffering servanthood.



Financial guru and popular radio talk show host Dave Ramsey says that Christians are closer to the nature of God when they give. "God so loved the world that he gave," and we show our love for one another when we give. Our motivation comes from the Gospel, which is the story of God's giving his Son. "We love because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19). Loving and giving are bound together like two peas in a pod.



When we give, we often ask how much we should give. This is where Lewis helps us, saying bluntly that giving is essential Christian morality. While he admits that he can't specify how much we ought to give, he suggests that comfortable giving is not the rule. Uncom­fortable giving is. That is, we should give more than we can spare. Then it is a sacrifice to give, and that's how God gave. Sacrificially.



Give me a heart, Lord, that gives as you gave. Amen.



For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son,

that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.



John 3:16



From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn



CHRISTMAS EVE



Stratchy Straw



And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



-Luke 2:7





My favorite portrayal of Christ's birth took place in a congregation's

dramatisation of the event. A mentally­ handicapped child had been given

the part of the innkeeper because all he had to say was "No room!"

On Christmas Eve, he repeatedly shouted "No room!" as he had been

instructed, but when the couple turned away-she obviously expecting

soon-a tear splashed on the child's face, and abruptly he blurted,

"Wait! Come back! I'll find you a place."



We all want things to have been less complicated for Mary and her child.

Giving birth in a stable, with perhaps some strange attendants

(like an ox or a donkey, as some paintings of the Nativity depict),

couldn't have been easy, but perhaps this, too, should be understood

as part of the sufferings of Christ. A manger with abrasive hay must

not have been exceedingly comfortable. Chiefly, Christ gave up his home

with the Father to humble himself in becoming flesh.

As one pastor said in a sermon forty years ago,

"Imagine if the shoemaker would become a shoe!"





prayer



Jesus, we glorify your breathtaking condescension! Amen.



Read Luke 2:1-14.



Luke 2



The Birth of Jesus



Mt 1:18-25



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



The Shepherds and the Angels



8 And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 (2Co 3:18) And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.

10 (Ge 12:3; Isa 40:9) But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people.

11 (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:43; Mt 16:16) For unto you is born this day

in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 (1Sa 2:34; 2Ki 19:29) And this will be a sign to you:

You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

13 (Ge 28:12; 32:1-2) Suddenly there was with the angel a company

of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 (Lk 1:79; 19:38) "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, and good will toward men."



From The AH-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler



FOURTH FRIDAY

AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ANGELS!



The angel said to them, "But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people. " LUKE 2:10



The AH-HAs of angels are all around us--not just at Christmas, but always

Who has been an angel to you lately? Who has brought you the good

news of Jesus' love through winsome words. assuring smiles. holy hugs?



And who have you been an angel to lately? With whom have you shared

the "Don't be afraid!" messaged Remember hearing from your mom or

dad the comforting words of "Don't be afraid"? They were not words of

judgment or despair but rather words of comfort and hope. And that's

what angels do, whether they have wings or not.



A little girl was so proud to be picked to be the Christmas angelic the

Christmas pageant. She repeated today's lesson from Luke 2 over and

over and over. But during the worship service, as she proudly started to

wiggle her wings above the holy cardboard box (aka. manger), she saw

her family and friends watching her and sine suddenly forgot the lines.

Yet. even though she couldn't recall the words. she did remember

the message. As she boldly kept fluttering about, she shouted out.

"Wow. do I have good news for you!"

That's what angels do. They did it in the shepherds' field of Bethlehem.

and they continue to share the good news of Christ's love and forgiveness

in Boston, Bloomingdale and Birmingham. Angels cannot undo the UH-OHs

of our lives, but they can point us to the One who brings us to his

embrace of grace.

"Don't be afraid," we say to each other: the AH-HA of Christmas has arrived!



Lord. Keep showing us how to be angels so that we can love and serve

you, on a "wing and a prayer" In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Read Luke 2:8-14



8 And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 (2Co 3:18) And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.

10 (Ge 12:3; Isa 40:9) But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people.

11 (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:43; Mt 16:16) For unto you is born this day

in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 (1Sa 2:34; 2Ki 19:29) And this will be a sign to you:

You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

13 (Ge 28:12; 32:1-2) Suddenly there was with the angel a company

of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 (Lk 1:79; 19:38) "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, and good will toward men."



From On Eagle's Wings



Walking in the Light by Robin Abrol (Ecumenical)

Executive Director On Eagle’s Wings

Edmonton, Alberta



(Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness

have seen a great light;

those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,

upon them the light has shined.



The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that

dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.

Isaiah 9:2



In June I travelled to Grise Fiord, Canada’s most northern

civilian settlement, home to 147 Inuit. During the summer

months at 76° North, the sun never sets and the community is

flooded in glorious light 24 hours a day.

Last January, I spoke with Jimmy, our community contact, who

described the frigid cold and 24-hour darkness swallowing the

land. As we made plans for a summer Bible Camp, anticipation

and excitement began to grow.

I thought of Isaiah 9, a prophecy about the Messiah: the “time

of darkness and despair will not go on forever...The people

who walk in darkness will see a great light.”

We may have known times of darkness; times that felt they

might last forever. Perhaps we find ourselves there today, but

the Messiah does not leave us enveloped in darkness. He bursts

onto the scene, flooding our world with a light so bright “the

darkness can never extinguish it” (John 1:5).

So tonight we take heart, anticipating the arrival of “The one

who is the true light...coming into the world” (John 1:9).



Conclusion:





Pray to the Lord to understand why Christ is the reason for the season.





Pray to the Lord and pray to keep His Commandments and be a witness

to Christ.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, thank You for being the Way

to my forever-home in heaven. Please help guide me by Your light today!"



Pray to the Lord and pray to His Will to be an effective prayer warrior.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Blessings of the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know what is the Rapture of the Church.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that the Lord will open a door for the message for the Gospel

at every level of Society in your country.



Pray: Jesus, we glorify your breathtaking condescension! Amen.



Pray: Jesus Christ, your afflictions for us were more than we can

conceive. How can we ever thank you appropriately? Amen.



Pray: Lord. Keep showing us how to be angels so that we can love and serve

you, on a "wing and a prayer" In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Messiah, thank you for being the Light who illuminates our

world. Pierce any darkness in our hearts, and flood our

lives and communities with the hope that comes from you

alone. Amen.



Pray that the government of Algeria will cease its church closures

and permit Christians to worship freely.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 358 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 24 December 2023 reflections - Christmas Eve Part 1

Day 358, 24 December 2023 - Christmas Eve



Today at

Calvary Community Church
PAstor Barry REgier spoke on IS it

a Wondergul life?



Genesis 1:27



27 So God created man in His own image;

in the image of God He created him;

male and female He created them.



[27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he

him; male and female created he them



John 10:10



10 (Jn 6:33; Heb 7:25) The thief does not come, except to steal and kill

and destroy. I came that they may have life, and that they may have it

more abundantly.



[10] The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I

am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more

abundantly.



Matthew 11:28-30



28 (Jn 7:37; 6:37) "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened,

and I will give you rest.

29 (Jer 6:16; Jn 13:15) Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me.

For I am meek and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

[Jer 6:16. ]

30 (1Jn 5:3) For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”



[28] Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give

you rest.

[29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in

heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

[30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.



1 John 1:9



9 (Ps 32:5; Pr 28:13) If we confess our sins, He is faithful

and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.



[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,

and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.



1) Revelation 12,13,14,15,16,17,18



Revelation 12



The Woman and the Dragon



1 (Rev 12:3; Mt 24:30) A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed

with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown

of twelve stars.

2 (Gal 4:19; Isa 53:11) She was with child and cried out in labor

and in pain to give birth.

3 (Rev 17:12; Isa 27:1) Then another sign appeared in heaven: There was

a great red dragon with seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems

on his heads.

4 (Jn 8:44; Rev 8:7) His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven,

and threw them to the earth. The dragon stood before the woman

who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as He was born.

5 She gave birth to a male Child,

"who was to rule all nations with an iron scepter." (Ps 2:9.)

And her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.

6 (Rev 11:2-3; 12:4) The woman fled into the wilderness where

she has a place prepared by God, that they may ­nourish her there

for one thousand two hundred and sixty days.

7 (Jude 1:9; Da 10:13) Then war broke out in heaven. Michael

and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon

and his angels fought,

8 but they did not prevail, nor was there a place for them

in heaven any longer.

9 (Lk 10:18; Jn 12:31; Ge 3:1) The great dragon was cast out,

that ancient serpent called the Devil and Satan, who deceives

the whole world. He was cast down to the earth, and his angels

were cast down with him.

10 (Rev 11:15; Job 1:9) Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying:

"Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God

and the authority of His Christ have come,

for the accuser of our brothers,

who accused them before our God day and night,

has been cast down.

11 (Lk 14:26; Jn 16:33) They overcame him

by the blood of the Lamb

and by the word of their testimony,

and they loved not their lives

unto the death.

12 (Rev 8:13; 10:6) Therefore rejoice, O heavens,

and you who dwell in them!

Woe unto the inhabitants of the earth and the sea!

For the devil has come down to you in great wrath,

because he knows that his time is short."

13 When the dragon saw that he was cast down to the earth,

he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child.

14 (Rev 12:6; Ex 19:4; Da 7:25) The woman was given two wings of a great

eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is

to be nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence

of the serpent.

15 (Isa 59:19) Then the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood

after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.

16 But the earth helped the woman. The earth opened its mouth and swallowed

the flood which the dragon spewed out of his mouth.

17 (Rev 14:12; Ge 3:15; Rev 1:2) Then the dragon was angry with the woman,

and he went to wage war with the remnant of her offspring,

who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.



[1] And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the

sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

[2] And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be

delivered.

[3] And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red

dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.

[4] And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast

them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to

be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

[5] And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a

rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.

[6] And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared

of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and

threescore days.

[7] And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the

dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

[8] And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.

[9] And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil,

and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth,

and his angels were cast out with him.

[10] And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and

strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the

accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day

and night.

[11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of

their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

[12] Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the

inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you,

having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

[13] And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted

the woman which brought forth the man child.

[14] And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might

fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time,

and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

[15] And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman,

that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.

[16] And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and

swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.

[17] And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the

remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the

testimony of Jesus Christ.



Revelation 13



The Two Beasts



1 (Rev 12:3; 17:3; Da 11:36) I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast

rising out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, with ten crowns

on his horns, and blasphemous names on his heads.

2 (Rev 16:10) The beast which I saw was like a leopard. His feet were like

those of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave

him his power and his throne and great authority.

3 (Rev 17:8; 13:14; 17:13) I saw one of his heads as if it was mortally

wounded, but his deadly wound was healed, and the whole world marveled

and followed the beast.

4 (Rev 13:2; 18:18) They worshipped the dragon who gave authority

to the beast. And they worshipped the beast, saying,

"Who is like the beast? Who is able to wage war with him?"

5 (Da 7:8; 7:11) He was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies.

And he was given authority to wage war for forty-two months.

6 (Rev 12:12) He opened his mouth to speak blasphemies against God,

to blaspheme His name and His tabernacle and those who dwell in heaven.

7 (Da 7:21; Rev 11:7; Da 7:25) It was granted to him to wage war with

the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe

and tongue and nation.

8 (Rev 3:5; 17:8; Php 4:3) All who dwell on the earth will worship him,

all whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb

who was slain from the foundation of the world.

9 (Rev 2:7) If anyone has an ear, let him hear:

10 (Rev 14:12; Isa 33:1) "He who is to be taken captive,

into captivity he shall go;

he who kills with the sword,

with the sword he must be killed."(Jer 15:2.)

Here is a call for the patience and the faith of the saints.

11 Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. He had two horns

like a lamb and he spoke like a dragon.

12 He exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence

and causes the earth and those who dwell on it to worship the first beast,

whose deadly wound was healed.

13 (1Ki 18:38; Mt 24:24) He performs great signs, making fire come down

from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.

14 (Rev 12:9; 19:20) He deceives those who dwell on the earth by the signs

which he was granted to do in the presence of the beast, telling those who

dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by a sword

and lived.

15 (Rev 16:2; 19:20) He was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast,

that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not

worship the image of the beast to be killed.

16 (Rev 19:18; 7:3) He causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor,

both free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand

or on their forehead,

17 (Rev 14:11; 15:2) so that no one may buy or sell, except he who has

the mark or the name of the beast or the number of his name.

18 (Rev 17:9; 21:17) Here is a call for wisdom: Let him who has

understanding calculate the number of the beast.

It is the number of a man. His number is six hundred and sixty-six.



[1] And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the

sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and

upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

[2] And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as

the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon

gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

[3] And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly

wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.

[4] And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they

worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to

make war with him?

[5] And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and

blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.

[6] And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name,

and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

[7] And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome

them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

[8] And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not

written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the

world.

[9] If any man have an ear, let him hear.

[10] He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth

with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the

faith of the saints.

[11] And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two

horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

[12] And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and

causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast,

whose deadly wound was healed.

[13] And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from

heaven on the earth in the sight of men,

[14] And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those

miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them

that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which

had the wound by a sword, and did live.

[15] And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the

image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not

worship the image of the beast should be killed.

[16] And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,

to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

[17] And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the

name of the beast, or the number of his name.

[18] Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the

beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred

threescore and six.



Revelation 14



The Lamb and the 144000



1 (Rev 3:12; Ps 2:6) Then I looked. The Lamb was standing on Mount Zion

and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand having His Father's name

written on their foreheads.

2 (Rev 1:15; 5:8) And I heard a sound from heaven, like the sound of many

waters and like the sound of a great thunder. I heard the sound of harpists

playing their harps.

3 (Rev 5:9; 2:17; 14:1) They sang a new song before the throne

and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn

that song except the one hundred and forty-four thousand who were redeemed

from the earth.

4 (Rev 3:4; 2Co 11:2; Jas 1:18) These are those who were not defiled

with women, for they are virgins. These are those who follow the Lamb

wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, as first fruits

to God and to the Lamb.

5 (Ps 32:2; Zep 3:13) No lie was found in their mouths, for they are

without fault before the throne of God.



[1] And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an

hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their

foreheads.

[2] And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the

voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with

their harps:

[3] And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the

four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the

hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.

[4] These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins.

These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were

redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb.

[5] And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before

the throne of God.



The Messages of the Three Angels



6 (Rev 8:13; 3:10) Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven,

having the eternal gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth,

to every nation and tribe and tongue and people.

7 (Rev 15:4; 4:11; 11:18) He said with a loud voice, "Fear God and give

Him glory, for the hour of His judgment has come. Worship Him who made

heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water."

8 (Isa 21:9; Jer 51:7-8) Another angel followed, saying, "'Fallen! Fallen

is Babylon, that Great City,'(Isa 21:9.) because she made all the nations

drink of the wine of the wrath of her sexual immorality."

9 (Rev 14:11) A third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice,

"If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark

on his forehead or on his hand,

10 (Isa 51:17; Rev 18:6; Ps 11:6) he also shall drink of the wine

of the wrath of God, which is poured out in full strength

into the cup of His anger. He shall be tormented with fire

and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels

and in the presence of the Lamb.

11 (Isa 34:10; Rev 19:3) The smoke of their torment will ascend forever

and ever. They have no rest day or night, who worship the beast

and his image and whoever receives the mark of his name."

12 (Rev 12:17; 13:10) Here is the patience of the saints; here are those

who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

13 (1Co 15:18; 1Th 4:16) Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me,

"Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on."

"Yes," says the Spirit, "that they may rest from their labors,

for their works follow them."



[6] And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the

everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every

nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

[7] Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour

of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and

the sea, and the fountains of waters.

[8] And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen,

that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath

of her fornication.

[9] And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man

worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in

his hand,

[10] The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured

out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be

tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in

the presence of the Lamb:

[11] And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they

have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and

whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

[12] Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the

commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

[13] And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the

dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they

may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.



The Harvest of the Earth



14 (Rev 1:13; 6:2) I looked. And there was a white cloud, and on the cloud

sat One like a Son of Man, having on his head a golden crown, and in His hand

a sharp sickle.

15 (Jer 51:33; Joel 3:13) Then another angel came out of the temple,

crying with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud,

"Thrust in Your sickle and reap. The time has come for You to reap,

for the harvest of the earth is ripe."

16 So He who sat on the cloud thrust His sickle on the earth,

and the earth was harvested.

17 Another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven.

He also had a sharp sickle.

18 (Joel 3:13; Rev 16:8) Yet another angel who had authority over fire

came out from the altar. He cried with a loud voice to him who had

the sharp sickle, saying, "Thrust in your sharp sickle

and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for her grapes

are fully ripe."

19 The angel thrust his sickle into the earth and gathered the vintage

of the earth, and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

20 (La 1:15; Rev 11:8) The winepress was trampled outside the city,

and blood came out of the winepress, up to the horses' bridles,

for one hundred and eighty-six miles.

(Gk. 1,600 stadia or 300 kilometers.)



[14] And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like

unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a

sharp sickle.

[15] And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to

him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is

come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe.

[16] And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the

earth was reaped.

[17] And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also

having a sharp sickle.

[18] And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire;

and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust

in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for

her grapes are fully ripe.

[19] And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the

vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

[20] And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of

the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and

six hundred furlongs.



Revelation 15



The Angels With the Last Plagues



1 (Rev 21:9; 15:6-7) I saw another great and marvelous sign in heaven:

seven angels having the seven last plagues, for in them the wrath of God

is complete.

2 (Rev 4:6; 5:8; 12:11) And I saw what looked like a sea of glass mixed

with fire, and those who have the victory over the beast, over his image

and over his mark and over the number of his name, standing on the sea

of glass, having harps of God.

3 (Ps 111:2; 139:14) They sang the song of Moses, the servant of God,

and the song of the Lamb, saying:

"Great and marvelous are Your works,

Lord God Almighty!

Just and true are Your ways,

O King of saints!

4 (Ps 86:9; Jer 10:7) Who shall not fear You, O Lord,

and glorify Your name?

For You alone are holy.

All nations shall come

and worship before You,

for Your judgments have been revealed."(Isa 25:8.)

5 (Nu 1:50; Rev 11:19) After this I looked. And now

the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened.

6 (Rev 1:13; 15:1) The seven angels came out of the temple

with the seven plagues. They were clothed in pure, bright linen,

having their chests wrapped with golden sashes.

7 (Rev 5:8) Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels

seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever.

8 (Isa 6:4; 1Ki 8:10-11) And the temple was filled with smoke

from the glory of God and from His power. No one was able to enter

the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed.



[1] And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels

having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

[2] And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had

gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark,

and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps

of God.

[3] And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the

Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just

and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.

[4] Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art

holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments

are made manifest.

[5] And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of

the testimony in heaven was opened:

[6] And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues,

clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden

girdles.

[7] And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials

full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.

[8] And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his

power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues

of the seven angels were fulfilled.



Revelation 16



The Seven Bowls of God's Wrath



1 (Rev 15:1; 16:2-12) Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to

the seven angels, "Go, pour out the bowls of the wrath of God on the earth."

2 (Rev 8:7) The first went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and foul

and grievous sores came on the men who had the mark of the beast

and those who worshipped his image.

3 (Ex 7:17-21; Rev 8:8-9) The second angel poured out his bowl on the sea.

It became like the blood of a dead man, and every living creature

in the sea died.

4 (Ex 7:17-20) The third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers

and springs of water, and they became blood.

5 (Rev 1:4; 11:17) Then I heard the angel of the waters saying:

"You are righteous, O Lord,

who is and was and who is to be,

because You have judged these things.

6 (Isa 49:26; Rev 18:24) For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets,

and You have given them blood to drink. It is what they deserve!"

7 (Rev 6:9; 19:2) And I heard another from the altar saying:

"Yes, Lord God Almighty,

true and righteous are Your judgments."

8 (Rev 14:18; 6:12) The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun,

and power was given to him to scorch men with fire.

(Say goodbye to the Val Ellen belts)

9 (Rev 2:21; 11:13) Men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed

the name of God who has power over these plagues, and they did not repent

and give Him glory.

10 (Rev 9:2) The fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast,

and his kingdom was filled with darkness. They gnawed their tongues

because of the anguish,

11 (Rev 16:9; 16:2; 16:21) and blasphemed the God of heaven because of their

pains and their sores, and did not repent of their deeds.

12 (Rev 9:14; Isa 11:15) The sixth angel poured out his bowl

on the great Euphrates River, and its water was dried up,

to prepare the way for the kings from the East.

13 (Rev 19:20; 20:10) Then I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming

out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast,

and out of the mouth of the false prophet.

14 (1Ti 4:1; Rev 17:14) For they are spirits of demons, performing signs,

who go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world,

to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.

15 (Rev 3:18; Mt 24:42-43) "Look, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who

watches and keeps his garments on,

lest he walk naked and his shame be exposed."

16 (Jdg 5:19; Zec 12:11) They gathered them together to the place which

in Hebrew is called Armageddon.

17 (Eph 2:2; Rev 21:6) The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air,

and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying,

"It is done!"

18 (Da 12:1; Rev 4:5) And there were noises and thundering and lightning

and a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake, as had never

occurred since men were on the earth.

19 (Rev 18:5; 17:18) The great city was divided into three parts,

and the cities of the nations fell. Babylon the Great was remembered

before God, to give to her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.

20 (Rev 6:14; 20:11) Every island fled away,

and the mountains were not found.

21 (Rev 11:19; 16:9) Great hail, about the weight of a hundred pounds,

(Or 45 kilograms.) fell from heaven upon man. Men blasphemed God

because of the plague of the hail, because that plague was so severe.



[1] And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels,

Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

[2] And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there

fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the

beast, and upon them which worshipped his image.

[3] And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as

the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea.

[4] And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of

waters; and they became blood.

[5] And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou art righteous, O Lord,

which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus.

[6] For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given

them blood to drink; for they are worthy.

[7] And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty,

true and righteous are thy judgments.

[8] And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was

given unto him to scorch men with fire.

[9] And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God,

which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him

glory.

[10] And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and

his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,

[11] And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their

sores, and repented not of their deeds.

[12] And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates;

and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east

might be prepared.

[13] And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the

dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false

prophet.

[14] For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth

unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the

battle of that great day of God Almighty.

[15] Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his

garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

[16] And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue

Armageddon.

[17] And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came

a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is

done.

[18] And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a

great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty

an earthquake, and so great.

[19] And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the

nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto

her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath.

[20] And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found.

[21] And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about

the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the

hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.



(Looks like nuclear fallout on a huge scale)



Revelation 17



The Great Harlot and the Beast



1 (Jer 51:13; Rev 19:2) One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls

came and talked with me, saying to me, "Come, I will show you the judgment

of the great prostitute who sits on many waters,

2 (Rev 14:8; 18:3) with whom the kings of the earth committed adultery,

and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine

of her sexual immorality."

3 (Rev 12:3; 12:6; 12:14) Then he carried me away in the Spirit

into the wilderness. I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full

of blasphemous names, having seven heads and ten horns.

4 (Jer 51:7; Rev 18:16) The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet,

and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand

a golden cup full of abominations and the filth of her sexual immorality.

5 (Rev 14:8; 2Th 2:7) On her forehead a name was written:

MYSTERY,

BABYLON THE GREAT,

THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES

AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

6 (Rev 16:6; 2:13) I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints

and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus.

When I saw her, I marveled greatly.

7 Then the angel said to me, "Why do you marvel? I will tell you the mystery

of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads

and the ten horns.

8 (Rev 11:7; 17:11) The beast, which you saw, was, and is not,

and is to ascend out of the bottomless pit and go to destruction.

Those who dwell on the earth whose names are not written

in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world will marvel

when they see the beast that was, and is not, and is to come.

9 (Rev 13:18; 17:3) "Here is the mind which has wisdom: The seven heads

are seven mountains on which the woman sits.

10 They are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, the other

has not yet come; and when he comes, he must remain a little while.

11 (Rev 17:8) Concerning the beast who was, and is not, he is the eighth,

and is of the seven, and is going to destruction.

12 (Da 7:24; Rev 12:3) "The ten horns which you saw are ten kings

who have received no kingdom yet, but they will receive authority

as kings for one hour with the beast.

13 (Rev 17:17) These are of one mind and will give their power

and authority to the beast.

14 (1Ti 6:15; Rev 16:14; 1:5) These will wage war with the Lamb,

but the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings.

Those who are with Him are called and chosen and faithful."

15 (Rev 17:1) Then he said to me, "The waters which you saw, where

the prostitute sits, are peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues.

16 (Rev 18:8; 18:16-17) These ten horns and the beast which you saw will

hate the prostitute; they will make her desolate and naked,

and devour her flesh, and burn her with fire.

17 (Rev 10:7; 17:13) For God has put in their hearts to fulfill His will,

and to be of one mind, and to give their kingdom to the beast,

until the words of God are fulfilled.

18 (Rev 16:19) The woman whom you saw is that great city,

which reigns over the kings of the earth."





[1] And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and

talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the

judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters:

[2] With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the

inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her

fornication.

[3] So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a

woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having

seven heads and ten horns.

[4] And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with

gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of

abominations and filthiness of her fornication:

[5] And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT,

THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

[6] And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the

blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great

admiration.

[7] And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell

thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which

hath the seven heads and ten horns.

[8] The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the

bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth

shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the

foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not,

and yet is.

[9] And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven

mountains, on which the woman sitteth.

[10] And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other

is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space.

[11] And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of

the seven, and goeth into perdition.

[12] And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received

no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast.

[13] These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the

beast.

[14] These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them:

for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are

called, and chosen, and faithful.

[15] And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore

sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.

[16] And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate

the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh,

and burn her with fire.

[17] For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and

give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be

fulfilled.

[18] And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over

the kings of the earth.



Revelation 18



The Fall of Babylon



1 (Eze 43:2; Rev 17:1) After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven,

having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory.

2 (Rev 14:8; Jer 51:37) He cried out mightily with a loud voice, saying:

"'Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!'(Isa 21:9.)

She has become a dwelling place of demons,

a haunt for every unclean spirit,

and a haunt for every unclean and hateful bird.

3 (Rev 14:8; 17:2) For all the nations have drunk

of the wine of the wrath of her sexual immorality,

the kings of the earth have committed adultery with her,

and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the

abundance of her luxury."

4 (2Co 6:17; Isa 48:20) Then I heard another voice from heaven saying:

"'Come out of her, my people,'(Jer 51:45.)

lest you partake in her sins,

and lest you receive her plagues.

5 (Jer 51:9; Rev 16:19) For her sins have reached up to heaven,

and God has remembered her iniquities.

6 (Ps 137:8; Jer 50:15) Render to her as she has rendered to you,

and repay her double for her deeds;

in the cup which she has mixed, mix a double portion for her.

7 (Zep 2:15) To the extent that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously,

so give her torment and sorrow;

for in her heart she says,

'I sit as a queen, and am no widow,

and will see no sorrow.'(Isa 47:7-8.)

8 (Jer 50:31; 50:34) Therefore her plagues will come in one day-

death and mourning and famine.

And she will be utterly burned with fire,

for strong is the Lord God who judges her.

9 (Rev 17:2; 18:3) "The kings of the earth, who have committed adultery

and lived luxuriously with her, will weep and mourn over her when they

see the smoke of her burning.

10 (Rev 18:19; 18:8; 14:8) Standing far off for the fear of her torment,

they will say:

'Alas, alas for that great city,

that mighty city, Babylon!

In one hour your judgment has come.'

11 (Rev 18:3; 18:15) "The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her,

for no one buys their merchandise any more:

12 (Rev 17:4) the merchandise of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls,

fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet, all kinds of scented wood,

all artifacts of ivory, all merchandise of costly wood, bronze, iron,

and marble;

13 (Eze 27:13; 1Ti 1:10) and cinnamon and incense, myrrh and frankincense,

wine, oil, fine flour and wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and chariots,

and slaves and souls of men.

14 'The fruit that your soul lusted after

has departed from you,

and all the things which graceful and exquisite

have departed from you,

and you shall never find them.'

15 (Rev 18:3; Eze 27:31) "The merchants of these things, who gained wealth

by her, will stand far off for fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,

16 (Rev 17:4) and saying:

'Alas, alas, that great city,

that was arrayed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet,

and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls!

17 (Rev 17:16) In one hour such great riches came to nothing!'

"All sea captains and seafaring men, sailors and all who trade by sea,

stood far off,

18 (Rev 13:4; 18:9-10) and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning,

saying, 'What city is like this great city?'

19 (Jos 7:6; Rev 18:10) They threw dust on their heads and cried out,

weeping and wailing, and saying:

'Alas, alas, that great city,

in which all who had ships in the sea

grew rich from her wealth!

In one hour she has been laid waste!'

20 (Lk 11:49-50; Rev 6:10) "Rejoice over her, O heaven

and saints and apostles and prophets,

for God has avenged you against her."

21 (Jer 51:63-64; Eze 26:21) Then a mighty angel took up a stone like

a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying:

"With such violence

shall that great city Babylon be thrown down,

and shall be found no more.

22 (Jer 25:10; Eze 26:13) The sound of harpists and musicians, flute players

and trumpeters,

shall not be heard in you any more.

No craftsman of any craft

shall be found in you any more,

and the sound of a millstone

shall not be heard in you any more.

23 (Isa 23:8; Na 3:4) The light of a lamp

shall shine in you no more,

and the voice of bridegroom and of bride

shall be heard in you no more.

For your merchants were the great men of the earth,

and all nations were deceived by your sorcery.

24 (Rev 17:6; Jer 51:49) In her was found the blood of prophets and of saints

and of all who were slain on the earth."



[1] And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having

great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.

[2] And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is

fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of

every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.

[3] For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication,

and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the

merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her

delicacies.

[4] And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my

people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her

plagues.

[5] For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her

iniquities.

[6] Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double

according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double.

[7] How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much

torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and

am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.

[8] Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and

famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord

God who judgeth her.

[9] And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived

deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall

see the smoke of her burning,

[10] Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas, that

great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is thy judgment come.

[11] And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no

man buyeth their merchandise any more:

[12] The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of

pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine

wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most

precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble,

[13] And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine,

and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and

chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.

[14] And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and

all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou

shalt find them no more at all.

[15] The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand

afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,

[16] And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine

linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones,

and pearls!

[17] For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every

shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade

by sea, stood afar off,

[18] And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is

like unto this great city!

[19] And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing,

saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had

ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made

desolate.

[20] Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for

God hath avenged you on her.

[21] And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it

into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be

thrown down, and shall be found no more at all.

[22] And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters,

shall be heard no more at all in thee; and no craftsman, of whatsoever craft

he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone shall

be heard no more at all in thee;

[23] And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the

voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in

thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy

sorceries were all nations deceived.

[24] And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all

that were slain upon the earth.

Day 357 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 23 December 2023 reflections - 28th Day of Advent

Day 356, 23 December 2023 - 27th Day of Advent



1) Revelation 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11



Revelation 6



The Seals



1 (Rev 5:1; 5:5-7) I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals. Then I heard

one of the four living creatures saying, with voice like thunder, "Come

and see."

2 (Rev 14:14; Zec 1:8) And I looked, and there before me was a white horse.

He who sat on it had a bow. And a crown was given to him,

and he went forth conquering that he might overcome.

3 (Rev 4:7) When He opened the second seal, I heard the second

living creature say, "Come and see."

4 (Zec 6:2; 1:8) Then another horse that was red went forth.

Power was given to him who sat on it to take peace from the earth,

causing people to kill one another. Then a great sword was given to him.

5 (Zec 6:2; Eze 4:16) When He opened the third seal, I heard the third

living creature say, "Come!" I looked, and there was a black horse,

and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand.

6 (Rev 9:4) Then I heard a voice in the midst of the four living

creatures saying, "A quart (Gk. choenix, or a kilogram.) of wheat

for a day's wages, and three quarts of barley for a day's wages,

(Gk. denarius.) and do not harm the oil and the wine."

7 (Rev 4:7; 6:3) When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice

of the fourth living creature say, "Come!"

8 (Hos 13:14; Zec 6:3) So I looked, and there was a pale horse,

and the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed him.

Power over a fourth of the earth was given to them, to kill with sword,

with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth.

9 (Rev 14:18; 20:4) When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar

the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God

and for the testimony they had held.

10 (Zec 1:12; Rev 3:7) They cried out with a loud voice,

"How long, O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until You judge

and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?"

11 (Heb 11:40; Rev 7:9) Then a white robe was given to each of them,

and they were told to rest a little longer, until the number of their

fellow servants and brothers should be completed, who would be killed

as they were.

12 (Mt 24:29; Rev 16:18) I watched as He opened the sixth seal.

And suddenly there was a great earthquake. The sun became black,

like sackcloth made from goat hair, and the moon became like blood.

13 (Rev 9:1; Isa 34:4) And the stars of heaven fell to the earth,

as a fig tree drops its unripe figs when it is shaken by a strong wind.

14 (Rev 16:20; Isa 34:4) Then the heavens receded like a scroll

when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed

from its place.

15 (Isa 2:19; 2:10) Then the kings of the earth and the great men

and the rich men and the commanding officers and the strong and everyone,

slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and

in the rocks of the mountains.

16 (Hos 10:8; Lk 23:30) They said to the mountains and rocks,

"Fall on us, and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne,

and from the wrath of the Lamb,

17 (Ps 76:7; Jer 30:7) for the great day of His wrath has come.

Who is able to withstand it?" (144 cubits, or 65 meters.)



[1] And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were

the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

[2] And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow;

and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to

conquer.

[3] And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say,

Come and see.

[4] And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to

him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill

one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

[5] And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come

and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a

pair of balances in his hand.

[6] And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of

wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou

hurt not the oil and the wine.

[7] And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth

beast say, Come and see.

[8] And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was

Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the

fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with

death, and with the beasts of the earth.

[9] And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls

of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which

they held:

[10] And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and

true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the

earth?

[11] And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto

them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their

fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were,

should be fulfilled.

[12] And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a

great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the

moon became as blood;

[13] And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth

her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.

[14] And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and

every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

[15] And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and

the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free

man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

[16] And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the

face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

[17] For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?



Revelation 7



The 144 000 of Israel Sealed



1 (Da 7:2; Mt 24:310 Then I saw four angels standing at the four corners

of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind would

not blow on the earth or on the sea or on any tree.

2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal

of the living God. He cried out with a loud voice to the four angels

who had been given power to harm the earth and the sea,

3 (Rev 14:1; 6:6; 22:4) saying, "Do not harm the earth or the sea

or the trees, until we have sealed the servants

of our God on their foreheads."

4 (Rev 9:16; 14:1) Then I heard the number of those who were sealed,

one hundred and forty-four thousand

out of every tribe of the children of Israel:

5 Twelve thousand from the tribe of Judah were sealed,

twelve throusand from the tribe of Reuben were sealed,

twelve thousand from the tribe of Gad were sealed,

6 twelve thousand from the tribe of Asher were sealed,

twelve thousand from the tribe of Naphtali were sealed,

twelve thousand from the tribe of Manasseh were sealed,

7 (Ge 35:23) twelve thousand from the tribe of Simeon were sealed,

twelve thousand from the tribe of Levi were sealed,

twelve thousand from the tribe of Issachar were sealed,

8 twelve thousand from the tribe of Zebulun were sealed,

twelve thousand from the tribe of Joseph were sealed,

and twelve thousand from the tribe of Benjamin were sealed.



[1] And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of

the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not

blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree.

[2] And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the

living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it

was given to hurt the earth and the sea,

[3] Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have

sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.

[4] And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed

an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of

Israel.

[5] Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben

were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve

thousand.

[6] Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of

Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed

twelve thousand.

[7] Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi

were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve

thousand.

[8] Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of

Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed

twelve thousand.



The Multitude From Every Nation



9 (Rev 5:9; Lev 23:40) Then I looked. And there was a great multitude

which no one could count, from all nations and tribes and peoples

and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb,

clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands.

10 (Ps 3:8; Rev 19:1) They cried out with a loud voice:

"Salvation belongs to our God

who sits on the throne,

and to the Lamb!"

11 (Rev 4:6; 4:10) All the angels stood around the throne

and the elders and the four living creatures and fell on their faces

before the throne and worshipped God,

12 (Rev 5:12-14; 19:4) saying:

"Amen!

Blessing and glory

and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor

and power and might

be to our God forever and ever!

Amen."

13 (Rev 7:9) Then one of the elders asked me, "Who are these clothed in white

robes, and where did they come from?"

14 (1Jn 1:7; Zec 3:3-5) I said to him, "Sir, you know."

He said to me, "These are those who came out of great tribulation

and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

15 (Rev 22:3; Isa 4:5-6) Therefore,

they are before the throne of God,

and serve Him day and night in His temple.

And He who sits on the throne

will dwell among them.

16 (Isa 49:10; Ps 121:6) 'They shall neither hunger any more,

nor shall they thirst any more;

the sun shall not strike them,' (Isa 49:10.)

nor any scorching heat;

17 (Isa 25:8; Jn 10:11) for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne

will shepherd them

and 'He will lead them to springs of living water.'(Isa 49:10.)

'And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.' "



[9] After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could

number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before

the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in

their hands;

[10] And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth

upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.

[11] And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders

and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and

worshipped God,

[12] Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and

honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

[13] And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which

are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?

[14] And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are

they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and

made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

[15] Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and

night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among

them.

[16] They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the

sun light on them, nor any heat.

[17] For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and

shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all

tears from their eyes.



Revelation 8



The Seventh Seal



1 (Rev 6:1; 5:1) When He opened the seventh seal,

there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.

2 (Rev 11:15; Lk 1:19) And I saw the seven angels who stand before God,

and seven trumpets were given to them.

3 (Rev 9:13; 5:8; Heb 9:4) Another angel, having a golden censer,

came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer

with the prayers of allthe saints on the golden altar

which was before the throne.

4 (Ps 141:2) The smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints,

ascended before God from the angel's hand.

5 (Rev 4:5; 11:19) Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire

from the altar, and threw it onto the earth. And there were noises,

thundering, lightning, and an earthquake.



[1] And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven

about the space of half an hour.

[2] And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were

given seven trumpets.

[3] And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer;

and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the

prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.

[4] And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints,

ascended up before God out of the angel's hand.

[5] And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire of the altar, and

cast it into the earth: and there were voices, and thunderings, and

lightnings, and an earthquake.



The Trumpets



6 (Rev 8:2) Then the seven angels who had the seven trumpets

prepared themselves to sound them.

7 (Rev 9:4; Eze 38:22; Rev 9:15) The first angel sounded,

and there followed hail and fire mixed with blood,

and they were thrown upon the earth.

A third of the trees and all the green grass were burned up.

8 (Jer 51:25; Ex 7:17-21) Then the second angel sounded,

and something like a great mountain, burning with fire,

was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea became blood,

9 (Isa 2:16; Rev 8:7) a third of the living creatures in the sea died,

and a third of the ships were destroyed.

10 (Isa 14:12; Rev 9:1) The third angel sounded, and a great star from heaven,

burning like a torch, fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs

of waters.

11 (Jer 9:15; 23:15) The name of this star is Wormwood. A third of the waters

became wormwood, and many men died from the waters,

because they were made bitter.

12 (Isa 13:10; Joel 2:10; 2:31) The fourth angel sounded,

and a third of the sun was struck, and a third of the moon,

and a third of the stars, so that a third of them were darkened.

A third of the day had no light, and likewise a third of the night.

13 (Rev 11:14; 9:12; 14:6) Then I watched, and I heard an angel flying

through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice,

"Woe, woe, woe to the inhabitants of the earth,

because of the other trumpet blasts of the three angels, who are yet to sound!"



[6] And the seven angels which had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to

sound.

[7] The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with

blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was

burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.

[8] And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning

with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood;

[9] And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life,

died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.

[10] And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven,

burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers,

and upon the fountains of waters;

[11] And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the

waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were

made bitter.

[12] And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was

smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so

as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third

part of it, and the night likewise.

[13] And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven,

saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by

reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet

to sound!



Revelation 9



1 (Rev 8:10; Lk 8:31; Rev 1:18) The fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star

fallen from heaven to the earth. The star was given the key to the bottomless

pit.

2 (Ge 19:28; Joel 2:10) He opened the bottomless pit, and smoke ascended

from the pit, like the smoke of a great furnace. The sun and the air

were darkened by the smoke from the pit.

3 (Eze 2:6; Rev 9:5) And out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth.

Power was given them as the scorpions of the earth have power.

4 (Rev 6:6; 8:7) They were commanded not to harm the grass of the earth,

or any green thing, or any tree, but only those men who did not have

the seal of God on their foreheads.

5 (Rev 9:10; 9:3) They were given authority, not to kill them,

but to torment them for five months. Their torment was like

the torment of a scorpion when it stings a man.

6 (Jer 8:3; Rev 6:16) In those days men will seek death but will not find it.

They will desire to die, but death will elude them.

7 (Da 7:8; Na 3:17) The shape of the locusts was like horses prepared

for battle. On their heads were something like crowns of gold,

and their faces were like faces of men.

8 (Joel 1:6) They had hair like the hair of women,

and their teeth were like the teeth of lions.

9 (Job 39:25) They had breastplates like breastplates of iron,

and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots

with many horses running to battle.

10 (Rev 9:5; 9:3) They had tails like scorpions and stings in their tails.

Their power was to hurt men for five months.

11 (Eph 2:2) They had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit,

whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek his name is Apollyon.

(Or Destroyer.)

12 (Rev 11:14) The first woe is past. Now, two more woes are yet to come.

13 The sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns

of the golden altar which is before God,

14 (Rev 16:12) saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet,

"Release the four angels who are bound at the great Euphrates River."

15 (Rev 8:7; 9:18) And the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour

and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind.

16 (Rev 7:4; Ps 68:17) The army of horsemen numbered two hundred million.

I heard their number. (Currently The People's Army of the Republic of China

has such a great number)

17 (Rev 9:18; 14:10) Thus I saw the horses in the vision: Those who sat

on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow.

The heads of the horses were like the heads of lions, and out of their

mouths came fire and smoke and brimstone.

18 (Rev 9:15; 9:17) A third of mankind was killed by these three plagues-by

the fire and by the smoke and by the brimstone,

which came out of their mouths.

19 The power of the horses is in their mouths and in their tails.

For their tails are like serpents, with heads by which they inflict injury.

20 (Da 5:23; Dt 31:29) The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these

plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands. They did not cease

to worship demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood,

which cannot see nor hear nor walk.

21 (Rev 17:2; 17:5) Nor did they repent of their murders or their

magical arts or their sexual immorality or their thefts.



[1] And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the

earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit.

[2] And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the

pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened

by reason of the smoke of the pit.

[3] And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them

was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.

[4] And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the

earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which

have not the seal of God in their foreheads.

[5] And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they

should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a

scorpion, when he striketh a man.

[6] And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall

desire to die, and death shall flee from them.

[7] And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto

battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces

were as the faces of men.

[8] And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the

teeth of lions.

[9] And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the

sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of many horses running to

battle.

[10] And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their

tails: and their power was to hurt men five months.

[11] And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless

pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue

hath his name Apollyon.

[12] One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter.

[13] And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of

the golden altar which is before God,

[14] Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels

which are bound in the great river Euphrates.

[15] And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a

day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men.

[16] And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand

thousand: and I heard the number of them.

[17] And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them,

having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of

the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire

and smoke and brimstone.

[18] By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by

the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths.

[19] For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails

were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt.

[20] And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet

repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship

devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood:

which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:

[21] Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of

their fornication, nor of their thefts.



Revelation 10



The Angel and the Little Scroll



1 (Mt 17:2; Rev 1:15-16) Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from

heaven, clothed with a cloud and a rainbow on his head. His face was

like the sun, and his feet like pillars of fire.

2 (Rev 10:5) He had a little scroll open in his hand. He set his right foot

on the sea and his left foot on the land,

3 (Isa 31:4; Joel 3:16) and cried out with a loud voice, like a lion roaring.

When he cried out, seven thunders sounded their voices.

4 (Da 8:26; 12:4) And when the seven thunders sounded their voices,

I was about to write, but I heard a voice from heaven saying to me,

"Seal up those things which the seven thunders said, and do not write them."

5 (Da 12:7; Ge 14:22; Dt 32:40) The angel whom I saw standing on the sea

and on the earth lifted up his hand to heaven

6 (Rev 4:11) and swore by Him who lives forever and ever,

who created heaven and the things that are in them, and the earth

and the things that are in it, and the sea and the things that are

in it, that there should be no more delay.

7 (Ro 16:25) But in the days when the seventh angel is about to sound,

the mystery of God will be fulfilled, as He has declared to His servants

the prophets.

8 Then the voice which I heard from heaven spoke to me again and said,

"Go, take the little scroll which is open in the hand of the angel

who is standing on the sea and on the earth."

9 (Jer 15:16; Eze 2:8) So I went to the angel and said to him,

"Give me the little scroll." He said to me, "Take it and eat it.

'It will turn your stomach sour,

but in your mouth it will be as sweet as honey.'(Eze 3:3.)"

10 I took the little scroll from the angel's hand and ate it.

It was as sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it,

my stomach turned sour.

11 (Eze 37:4) Then he said to me, "You must prophesy again about many peoples

and nations and tongues and kings."



[1] And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a

cloud: and a rainbow was upon his head, and his face was as it were the sun,

and his feet as pillars of fire:

[2] And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot

upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth,

[3] And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roareth: and when he had

cried, seven thunders uttered their voices.

[4] And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to

write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things

which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not.

[5] And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted

up his hand to heaven,

[6] And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and

the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are,

and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no

longer:

[7] But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin

to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his

servants the prophets.

[8] And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said,

Go and take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel which

standeth upon the sea and upon the earth.

[9] And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book.

And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly

bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.

[10] And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and

it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly

was bitter.

[11] And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and

nations, and tongues, and kings.



Revelation 11



The Two Witnesses



1 (Rev 21:15; Eze 42:15-20) I was given a reed like a measuring rod.

The angel stood, saying, "Rise and measure the temple of God and the altar,

and those who worship in it.

2 (Lk 21:24; Rev 12:6; Da 7:25) But exclude the court which is outside

the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the nations.

They will trample on the Holy City for 42 months.

3 (Ge 37:34; Rev 11:2) And I will give power to my two witnesses,

and they will prophesy for 1260 days, clothed in sackcloth."

4 (Ps 52:8; Jer 11:16) These are the two olive trees

and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth. (Jer 51:45.)

5 (Jer 5:14; 2Ki 1:10-12) If anyone desires to harm them, fire proceeds

out of their mouth and devours their enemies. If anyone desires to harm them,

he must be killed in this way.

6 (1Ki 17:1; Lk 4:25) They have power to shut heaven, that it may not rain

during the days of their prophecy. They have power over waters to turn them

into blood and to strike the earth with every plague as often as they desire.

7 (Rev 13:7; Da 7:25) When they have finished their testimony, the beast

that ascends from the bottomless pit will wage war against them

and overcome them and kill them.

8 (Jer 23:14; Heb 13:12) Their dead bodies will lie in the street

of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt,

where also our Lord was crucified.

9 (Ps 79:2-3; Rev 10:11) Those from every people and tribe and tongue

and nation will see their dead bodies for three and a half days,

and will not allow their dead bodies to be put in graves.

10 (Rev 3:10; 1Ki 18:17) Those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over

them and make merry and send gifts to one another,

because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth.

11 (Ge 2:7) After the three and a half days, the breath

(Eze 37:5-14.) of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet,

and great fear fell on those who saw them.

12 (Ac 1:9; 2Ki 2:11; Rev 4:1) Then they heard a loud voice from heaven

saying to them, "Come up here!" And they ascended to heaven in a cloud,

while their enemies watched them.

13 (Rev 6:12; 14:7) At that same hour there was a great earthquake,

and a tenth of the city fell. Seven thousand men were killed

in the earthquake, and the remnant were frightened and gave glory

to the God of heaven.

14 (Rev 8:13; 9:12) The second woe is past.

Listen, the third woe is coming quickly.



[1] And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood,

saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that

worship therein.

[2] But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not;

for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under

foot forty and two months.

[3] And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a

thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

[4] These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before

the God of the earth.

[5] And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and

devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this

manner be killed.

[6] These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their

prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the

earth with all plagues, as often as they will.

[7] And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that

ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall

overcome them, and kill them.

[8] And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which

spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

[9] And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see

their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead

bodies to be put in graves.

[10] And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make

merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets

tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

[11] And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered

into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them

which saw them.

[12] And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up

hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld

them.

[13] And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of

the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and

the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.

[14] The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.



The Seventh Trumpet



15 (Rev 12:10; Da 7:14; 7:27) The seventh angel sounded,

and there were loud voices in heaven, saying:

"The kingdoms of the world have become

the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ,

and He shall reign forever and ever.”

16 (Rev 4:4; 4:10) And the twenty-four elders, who sat before God on

their thrones, fell on their faces and worshipped God,

17 (Rev 1:8; 19:6; 1:4) saying:

"We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty,

who is and was and who is to come,

because You have taken Your great power

and begun to reign.

18 (Rev 19:5; 20:12) The nations were angry,

and Your wrath has come,

and the time has come for the dead to be judged,

and to reward Your servants the prophets

and the saints and those who fear Your name,

small and great,

and to destroy those who destroy the earth."

19 (Rev 16:21; 4:5) Then the temple of God was opened in heaven,

and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple.

And there came lightning, noises, thundering, an earthquake, and great hail.



[15] And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven,

saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and

of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

[16] And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats,

fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,

[17] Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast,

and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast

reigned.

[18] And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the

dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto

thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name,

small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.

[19] And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his

temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and

thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.



2) Our Daily Bread for 23 December 2023 titled



Fellowship in Jesus




1 Thessalonians 5:11-15



11 (Eph 4:29; Heb 10:25) So comfort yourselves together,

and edify one another, just as you are doing.

Final Exhortations and Greetings



12 (Heb 13:17; 1Co 16:16; 16:18) We ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those

who labor among you, and are appointed over you in the Lord, and instruct you.

13 (Mk 9:50) Esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake.

And be at peace among yourselves.

14 (Ro 14:1; Ac 20:35) Now we exhort you, brothers, warn those who are unruly,

comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, and be patient toward everyone.

15 (1Pe 3:9; Gal 6:10) See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone.

But always seek to do good to one another and to all.



[11] Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as

also ye do.

[12] And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and

are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

[13] And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at

peace among yourselves.

[14] Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the

feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

[15] See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that

which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.



I'm not sure who's responsible for turning out the lights and locking up the

church after our Sunday morning service, but I know one thing about that

person: Sunday dinner is going to be delayed. That's because so many people

love to hang around after church and talk about life decisions, heart issues

and struggles, and more. It’s a joy to look around twenty minutes after the

service and see so many people still enjoying each other's company.



Fellowship is a key component of the Christlike life. Without the connectivity

that comes from spending time with fellow believers, we'd miss out on many

benefits of being a believer.



For instance, Paul says we can "Wherefore comfort yourselves together,

and edify one another, even as also ye do." (1 Thessalonians 5:11). The author

of Hebrews agrees, telling us not to neglect getting together, because we need

to be "encouraging one another" (10:25). And the writer also says that when

we're together, we "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" (v. 24).



As people dedicated to living for Jesus, we prepare ourselves for faithfulness

and service as we "comfort the feebleminded, support the weak," and are "be

patient toward all" (1 Thessalonians 5:14). Living that way, as He helps us,

allows us to enjoy true fellowship and “ut ever follow that

which is good, both among yourselves, and to all” (v. 15).



By: Dave Branon



Reflect & Pray



What benefits do you gain from being with believers?

How can you help others experience fellowship in Christ?



Dear God, please help me to be a "fellowshiper"-one

who generously encourages others in love and compassion.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 7 Our God reigns!



Is 52:7



7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news,

who proclaims peace, who brings good news of happiness,

who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reigns!"



7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good

tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that

publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!



A messenger has a single duty: to carry information. During World War II, many

parents dreaded the arrival of the Western Union messenger, believing that

delivery of a telegram meant that their son has been wounded or killed.

Isaiah 52:7, however, indicates that a messenger's word is not always

unwelcome. "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring

good news ..." the prophet says. The "Good news"? Peace , salvation,

and the resultant message: "Your God reigns!"

Our God reigns - in forgiveness, in reconciliation, bringing peace and freedom

and joy. Our God reigns, controlling our lives with a loving hand, ordering

our experiences for our good, and his glory. Our God reigns in relationships,

in professional circumstances, in families, in churches. The good news is

proclaimed: Life is not unmanageable. Our God Reigns!

When we know that God reigns in our lives, we can relax, let go of the reins

of control, and live in peace. We can forgive those who have hurt us, knowing

that God will reveal to them what they need to know. We can live

with good times and bad, recognising that God uses every circumstance

of our lives to conform us to the image of his Son. We can rejoice in his

grace, free from the compulsion to earn his love and acceptance, and

we can live in the peace that comes only through his lordship in our lives.

Our God reigns - that is , indeed "Good news".



Application



a) Have I ever felt that life was "out of control"? Why?



b) What does it mean in practical terms to know that "Our God reigns"?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Ps 37:25-26



25 I have been young, and now am old;

yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,

nor their offspring begging bread.

26 The righteous are gracious and lend,

and their offspring are a source of blessing.



25 I have been young, and now am old;

Yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken,

nor his seed begging bread.

26 He is ever merciful, and lendeth;

And his seed is blessed.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are ill or injured



Matthew 8:14-17



The Healing of Many People



Mk 1:29-34; Lk 4:38-41



14 When Jesus entered Peter's house, He saw his wife's mother,

lying sick with a fever.

15 He touched her hand, and the fever left her. And she rose and served them.

16 When the evening came, they brought to Him many

who were possessed with demons.

And He cast out the spirits with His word, and healed all who were sick,

17 to fulfill what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet,

"He Himself took our infirmities

and bore our sicknesses."



[14] And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother

laid, and sick of a fever.

[15] And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and

ministered unto them.

[16] When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed

with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that

were sick:

[17] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet,

saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 23 of the Month



a) Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those

who have committed crimes.



b) Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ

across Canada.



(



John 13:34-35



34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another,

even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples,

if you have love for one another."



34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another;

as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,

if ye have love one to another.



Rom 12:10



10 Be devoted to one another with brotherly love; prefer one another in honour



10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love;

in honour preferring one another;



Heb 10:24



24 And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works.



24 and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:



1 Peter 3:8



8 Finally, be all of one mind, be loving toward one another, be gracious,

and be kind.



8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another,

love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:



1 John 3:23



23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name

of His Son ­Jesus Christ and love one another as He commanded us.



23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name

of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.



)

Advent Day 27



FRIDAY, FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT



Early Offering



to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.



-Luke 2:5



Luke mentions that Mary was "great with child" (KJV) so candidly that we don't pause to ponder how difficult it



must have been for her to travel all the way (about 70 miles!) from Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea. Even more significant, the Christ Child she carried must have been jostled and jarred by the movement, Loo.





Those of us who use statements of faith in our worship services declare



in the Apostles' Creed that Jesus "suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified ... " I believe instead we should say, "suffered, under Pontius Pilate was crucified" to be more accurate to the original. Jesus suffered all his life, not just under Pilate. When we reflect on the appalling journey that he endured in the womb, we might imagine that his sufferings on our behalf began even before he was born. What amazing love that Christ sustained such adversity for us!





prayer



Jesus Christ, your afflictions for us were more than we can

conceive. How can we ever thank you appropriately? Amen.





Read Luke 2:1-7.



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the power of His judgments and His Word.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, please help me to be a "fellowshiper"-one

who generously encourages others in love and compassion."



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Good News of the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to establish a generation of righteousness .



Pray to the Lord and pray for healing from Him.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those

who have committed crimes.



Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ

across Canada.



Jesus Christ, your afflictions for us were more than we can

conceive. How can we ever thank you appropriately? Amen.



Praise God for the Christians in Southern Burkina Faso who boldly continue

to worship despite attacks on their churches.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

Day 356 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 22 December 2023 reflections - 27th Day of Advent

Day 356, 22 December 2023 - 26th Day of Advent



1) Revelation 1 , 2 , 3 ,4 ,5



Revelation 1



Introduction and Salutation



1 (Rev 22:6; 22:16; Jn 8:26) The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave

to Him to show to His servants things which must soon take place. He sent

and signified it by His angel to His servant John,

2 (Rev 12:17; 1Co 1:6; Rev 6:9) who bears record of the word of God,

and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

3 (Lk 11:28; Ro 13:11) Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words

of this prophecy and keep those things which are written in it,

for the time is near.

4 (Rev 3:1; 4:5; 5:6) John,

To the seven churches which are in Asia:

Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was

and who is to come and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne,

5 (Rev 3:14; 17:14) and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness,

the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.

To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,

6 (Rev 5:10; 20:6) and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father,

to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

7 (Da 7:13; Zec 12:10) Look! He is coming with clouds,

and every eye will see Him,

even those who pierced Him.

And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him.

Even so, Amen.

8 (Rev 21:6; 22:13; Isa 41:4) "I am the Alpha and the Omega,

the Beginning and the End," says the Lord,

"who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."



[1] The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto

his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and

signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

[2] Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus

Christ, and of all things that he saw.

[3] Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this

prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is

at hand.

[4] John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and

peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the

seven Spirits which are before his throne;

[5] And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first

begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him

that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

[6] And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be

glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

[7] Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they

also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of

him. Even so, Amen.

[8] I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord,

which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.



A Vision of Christ



9 (Php 4:14; Rev 1:2) I, John, both your brother and companion

in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ,

was on the isle that is called Patmos on account of the word of God

and the testimony of Jesus Christ.

10 (Ac 20:7; Rev 4:1-2) I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day,

and I heard behind me a great voice like a trumpet,

(This must mean an out of body Divine appointment with the Lord )

11 (Rev 1:4; 3:1) saying, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First

and the Last," and "What you see, write in a book, and send it

to the seven churches which are in Asia:

to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea."

(The order is important)

12 (Ex 25:37; Zec 4:2) I turned to see the voice that spoke with me.

And when I turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks,

13 (Da 7:13; 10:16) and in the midst of the seven candlesticks

was one like a Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet

and with a golden sash wrapped around the chest.

14 (Da 7:9; 10:6; Rev 19:12) The hair on His head was white like wool,

as white as snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire.

15 (Eze 43:2; Da 10:6) His feet were like fine brass, as if refined

in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters.

16 (Isa 49:2; Heb 4:12) He had in His right hand seven stars,

and out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword.

His appearance was like the sun shining brightly.

17 (Isa 44:6; Rev 22:13; Isa 41:4) When I saw Him, I fell at His feet

as though I were dead. Then He laid His right hand on me, saying to me,

"Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.



[9] I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in

the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called

Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

[10] I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great

voice, as of a trumpet,

[11] Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou

seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in

Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira,

and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.

[12] And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I

saw seven golden candlesticks;

[13] And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of

man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a

golden girdle.

[14] His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his

eyes were as a flame of fire;

[15] And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and

his voice as the sound of many waters.

[16] And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a

sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his

strength.

[17] And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right

hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:



18 (Ro 6:9; Heb 7:25) I am He who lives, though I was dead. Look! I am alive

forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.

[18] I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for

evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.



(This is Jesus Christ talking)

19 "Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are,

and the things which will take place after this.

[19] Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and

the things which shall be hereafter;

( Jesus says will take place after this. Jesus transcends time)

20 (Rev 2:1; Zec 4:2) The mystery of the seven stars which you saw

in My right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks:

The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches,

and the seven candlesticks which you saw are the seven churches.

[20] The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and

the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven

churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven

churches.

( The order is important as it reflects Church History from

1st Century AD to the point of the Rapture of the Church)



Revelation 2

The Message to Ephesus

1 (Rev 1:16; 1:11-13) "To the angel of the church of Ephesus write:

"He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst

of the seven golden candlesticks, says these things:

2 (1Jn 4:1; Rev 3:1; 3:8) I know your works, your labour and your patience,

and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who

say they are apostles, but are not, and have found them to be liars.

3 (Jn 15:21) You have endured, and have been patient,

and for My name's sake have laboured and have not grown weary.

4 "But I have something against you, that you have abandoned the love

you had at first.

5 (Rev 2:16; 3:19) Remember therefore from where you have fallen.

Repent, and do the works you did at first, or else I will come to you

quickly and remove your candlestick from its place, unless you repent.

6 But this you have: You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

7 (Rev 2:11; 2:17; Ge 2:9) "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit

says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give permission to eat

of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.



[1] Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he

that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of

the seven golden candlesticks;

[2] I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst

not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are

apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:

[3] And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured,

and hast not fainted.

[4] Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy

first love.

[5] Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the

first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy

candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

[6] But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which

I also hate.

[7] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the

churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life,

which is in the midst of the paradise of God.



(Remember the time you accepted Jesus Christ as Saviour?

Always relive that moment of love and do not lose that moment.

Imagine a Whole Church losing its first love?

Do not abandon the love you had at first)



The Message to Smyrna



8 (Rev 1:17-18; 1:11) "To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

"The First and the Last, who was dead and came to life, says these things:

9 (Rev 3:9; 2Co 6:10; 8:9) I know your works and tribulation and poverty

(but you are rich). And I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews

and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.

(Beware the synagogue of Satan to this very day!)

10 (Mt 10:22; Jas 1:12) Do not fear any of those things which you are

about to suffer. Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison,

that you may be tried, and you will have tribulation for ten days.

Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.

11 (Rev 2:7; 20:6; 20:14) "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit

says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.



[8] And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the

first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;

[9] I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and

I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are

the synagogue of Satan.

[10] Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil

shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have

tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a

crown of life.

[11] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the

churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.



(Early evangelism that did succeed despite persecution of non-believers)



The Message to Pergamum



12 (Rev 1:16; 1:11) "To the angel of the church in Pergamum write:

"He who has the sharp two-edged sword says these things:

13 (Ac 22:20; 1Ti 5:8) I know your works and where you live, where Satan's

throne is. Yet you hold firmly to My name, and did not deny My faith even

in the days of Antipas, My faithful martyr, who was killed among you,

where Satan dwells.

14 (Rev 2:20; 2Pe 2:15; Nu 31:16) "But I have a few things against you:

You have there those who hold the teaching of Balaam,

who taught Balak to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel,

to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality.

15 (Rev 2:6) So you also have those who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans.

16 (2Th 2:8; Rev 2:5) Repent, or else I will come to you quickly

and will war against them with the sword of My mouth.

17 (Rev 2:7; Isa 65:15) "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit

says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give the hidden manna

to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name

written, which no one knows except he who receives it.



[12] And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he

which hath the sharp sword with two edges;

[13] I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is:

and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those

days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where

Satan dwelleth.

[14] But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that

hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock

before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to

commit fornication.

[15] So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which

thing I hate.

[16] Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against

them with the sword of my mouth.

[17] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the

churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and

will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no

man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.



(Never let in false teachers IN as seen in 1,2,3 John and 1,2 Peter and Jude)



The Message to Thyatira

18 (Rev 1:11; 1:14-15) "To the angel of the church in Thyatira write:

"The Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet

are like fine brass, says these things:

19 I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience,

and that your last works are more than the first.

20 (Rev 2:14; 1Ki 16:31; 2Ki 9:7) "But I have a few things against you:

You permit that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess,

to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality

and eat food sacrificed to idols.

21 (Ro 2:4-5; 2Pe 3:9) I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality,

but she did not repent.

22 (Rev 17:2; 18:9) Look! I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who

commit adultery with her into great tribulation,

unless they repent of their deeds.

23 (Ro 8:27; Ps 7:9) I will put her children to death, and all the churches

shall know that I am He who searches the hearts and minds.

I will give to each one of you according to your deeds.

24 (Ac 15:28) "Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira,

as many as do not have this teaching, who have not known what

some call the 'depths of Satan,' I will put on you no other burden.

25 (Rev 3:11) But hold firmly what you have until I come.

26 (Rev 3:21; 2:7; 20:4) "To him who overcomes and keeps My works to the end,

I will give authority over the nations-

27 (Rev 12:5; 19:15) He 'shall rule them with a rod of iron;

like the vessels of a potter they shall be broken in pieces'(Ps 2:9.)-

even as I myself have received authority from My Father.

28 (Rev 22:16; 2Pe 1:19) And I will give him the morning star.

29 (Rev 2:7) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says

to the churches.



[18] And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith

the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet

are like fine brass;

[19] I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy

patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first.

[20] Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou

sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach

and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things

sacrificed unto idols.

[21] And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented

not.

[22] Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with

her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.

[23] And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall

know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto

every one of you according to your works.

[24] But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not

this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak;

I will put upon you none other burden.

[25] But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.

[26] And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will

I give power over the nations:

[27] And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter

shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

[28] And I will give him the morning star.

[29] He that



( This Church exists today. Thanks to Emperor Constantine at 4th Century,

The Church is the Modern Day Roman Catholic Church. The Idol and Mother-son

worship comes from Satanic Paganism!



From https://amazingdiscoveries.org/S-deception_end-time_paganism_Catholic_Mary





As we have already seen,
Catholic customs stem from ancient pagan

practices and beliefs. Pagan priests were celibate, tonsured,

and received the power of sacrificing for the living and the dead.

The same power is given to



Roman Catholic priests.


Pagan celibate priests are dedicated to the mother goddess,

and Catholic priests to Mary the mediatrix.



{ Gaia comes to mind?}



Elevating Mary



Public Domain https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Madonna_Benois.jpg



In 1854, the Papacy declared Mary sinless, and in 1951,

they declared that she had ascended unto heaven, where she was crowned

as the



"Queen of heaven."
{No human has that power!} This was called the



Assumption of Mary.


Since then, the complete system of Babylonian worship,

with Mary taking the role of the mediatrix,

has thus been established within Catholicism.



The goddess in ancient religions was worshiped as the life giver

and nurturer and, as such, this religion was full of sexual undertones.

Phallic symbols, as well as symbols of femininity and divine intercourse,

were common in ancient temples, as they are in modern temples,

particularly in India.

These symbols are equally common in Roman Catholic cathedrals.



The breasts of the goddess formed a prominent part of the goddess cult,

goddesses often being depicted with many breasts to nurture the world.

Even the sun god was depicted nurturing at the goddess' breast.



Catholicism carries the same mythology. Take for example the



Magharet Sitti Mariam, or “Milk Grotto” as it is commonly known,


where Catholic tradition has it that Mary spilt milk from her breast

while feeding Jesus. This milk supposedly squirted onto the walls

of the cave and formed white markings. The grotto has become a shrine,

revered today as a place of pilgrimage for healing and fertility.



"The sinner that ventures directly to Christ may come with dread

and apprehension of his wrath; but let him only employ the mediation

of the Virgin with her Son and she has only to show that Son

the breasts that gave him suck and his wrath will immediately be appeased."



Pope John Paul II believed that Mary

intercedes for the faithful who honour her during mass:



"As they listen to the word proclaimed in the Sunday assembly,

the faithful look to the Virgin Mary...From Sunday to Sunday,

the pilgrim people follow in the footsteps of Mary,

and her maternal intercession gives special power

and fervour to the prayer which rises from the Church

to the Most Holy Trinity."



Read more about the Catholic worship of Mary



And That is https://amazingdiscoveries.org/S-deception_paganism_Catholic_Nimrod_Mary/



The pagan system of sun worship had three main aspects: the father, mother,

and the son. In ancient Chaldean times, these were the god Bel or Merodach,

Ninus the son who was also worshiped as Tammuz, and the female goddess Rhea

who was also worshiped as Ishtar, Astarte, or Beltis. She was also referred

to as the “queen of heaven,” and the “wrath subduer.”



Mary has received these same names in Catholicism.




A statue of Mary and Jesus at Westminster Abbey. Notice the globe Jesus is holding.



Source:Flickr.



Mother and child worship was the basis of the ancient religions.

In the various religions of the world, the same system of worship

was perpetuated under different names.

In Egypt , the mother and child were worshiped as Isis and Osiris or Horus,

in India as Isi and Iswara, in China and Japan as the mother goddess

Shing-moo with child, in Greece as Ceres or Irene and Plutus,

in Rome as Fortuna and Jupitor-puer, or Venus and Adurnis,

and in Scandinavia as Frigga and Balder. The mother and child

were worshiped in Babylon as Ishtar {And that is where

the word Easter comes from} and Tammuz,

and in Phoenicia, as Ashtoreth and Baal.

Moreover, the child was worshiped as both husband

and son of the mother goddess.

The male component is a counterfeit of Jesus Christ.

The Biblical names used for Jesus were also used for the child

in ancient religions. Zoroaster was referred to as the seed,

Mithra the Persian sun god was referred to as the Saviour,

Dionysus as the sin-bearer, Bacchus as the branch,

Vishna as the victim-man, and Osiris as the king of kings.



The Legend of Nimrod



The system of worship has its origin in the legend of Nimrod

and his wife Semiramus. Nimrod (the great-grandson of Noah)

rebelled against God, like his father Cush.

Eventually Nimrod was put to death for his evil deeds,

and according to the ancient patriarchal system,

parts of his body were sent to various cities as a warning.



His wife Semiramus fled, but spread the rumour that

he had ascended to heaven, where he had become one with the sun.

When Semiramus later gave birth to a son, she claimed that

it was the reincarnation of her deified husband,

and that he had returned to save the human race.



She was later deified as the mother of the sun god,

and it was supposed she had ascended into heaven

as the queen of heaven. In the various cultures

throughout history and around the world,

the same basic deities have been worshipped under different names.



Read about Mary, the mother of the true Saviour,

and how paganism has twisted the truth about her identity



.These articles interlink but as you seen The Modern

Roman Catholic Church is The Church of Thyatira of Revelation.

)



Revelation 3



The Message to Sardis



1 (Rev 1:4; 1Ti 5:6; Rev 1:16) "To the angel of the church in Sardis write:

"He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars says these things:

I know your works, that you have a reputation of being alive,

but you are dead.

2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain but are ready to die,

for I have not found your works perfected before God.

3 (Rev 2:5; 2Pe 3:10; 1Th 5:2) Remember therefore how you have received

and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch,

I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour

I will come upon you.

4 (Jude 1:23; Rev 6:11) "You have a few names even in Sardis

who have not soiled their garments. They shall walk with Me in white,

for they are worthy.

5 (Mt 10:32; Rev 13:8) He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments.

I will not blot his name out of the Book of Life, but I will confess

his name before My Father and before His angels.

6 (Rev 2:7) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says

to the churches.



[1] And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he

that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works,

that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.

[2] Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to

die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.

[3] Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and

repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief,

and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

[4] Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their

garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.

[5] He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I

will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his

name before my Father, and before his angels.

[6] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the

churches.



( I ponder if the Lutheran Church and the Anglican Church with latent

Catholic practices falls in the category of being Sardisian)



The Message to Philadelphia



7 (Rev 6:10; Isa 22:22; Mt 16:19) "To the angel of the church

in Philadelphia write:

"He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David,

He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens, says these things:

8 (Rev 2:13; Ac 14:27) I know your works. Look! I have set before you an open

door, and no one can shut it. For you have a little strength,

and have kept My word, and have not denied My name.

9 (Rev 2:9; Isa 49:23; 60:14) Listen! I will make them of the synagogue

of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie. Listen!

I will make them come and worship before your feet

and to know that I have loved you.

10 (2Pe 2:9; Mt 24:14) Because you have kept My word of patience,

I also will keep you from the hour of temptation which shall come

upon the entire world, to test those who dwell on the earth.

11 (Rev 2:10; 2:25) "Look, I am coming quickly. Hold firmly what you have,

so that no one may take your crown.

12 (Rev 22:4; 21:2; Gal 2:9) He who overcomes will I make a pillar

in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him

the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem,

which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My own new name.

13 (Rev 2:7) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says

to the churches.



7] And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith

he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that

openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;

[8] I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no

man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and

hast not denied my name.

[9] Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are

Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship

before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

[10] Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee

from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try

them that dwell upon the earth.

[11] Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man

take thy crown.

[12] Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and

he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and

the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down

out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

[13] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the

churches.



( Many of the "Conservatives" Church fit this description from Quakers,

to Pentecostal, to Baptists and strong Evangelicals. Please note verse 9,

that if hold strong, even the synagogue of Satan will acknowledge you.

You have to firmly hold on to what you have. Do not let humanistic

or secularistic adherents deceive you or you can end up

as Thyatiran, or even Laodicean. Laodicean you say?)



The Message to Laodicea



14 (Rev 1:5; 3:7) "To the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write:

"The Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation

of God, says these things:

15 (Rev 3:1) I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot.

I wish you were cold or hot.

16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot,

I will spit you out of My mouth. (I feel that way about lukewarm water as well)

17 (Hos 12:8; Zec 11:5) For you say, 'I am rich, and have stored up goods,

and have need of nothing,' yet do not realise that you are wretched,

miserable, poor, blind, and naked.

18 (Rev 16:15; Isa 55:1; Mt 13:44) I counsel you to buy from Me gold

refined by fire, that you may be rich, and white garments,

that you may be dressed, that the shame of your nakedness

may not appear, and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.

19 (Rev 2:5; Jer 31:18) "Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline.

Therefore be zealous and repent.

20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice

and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

21 (Mt 19:28; Jn 16:33) "To him who overcomes will I grant to sit with Me

on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

22 (Rev 2:7) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit

says to the churches."



[14] And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things

saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation

of God;

[15] I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert

cold or hot.

[16] So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will

spue thee out of my mouth.

[17] Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need

of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor,

and blind, and naked:

[18] I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be

rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of

thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou

mayest see.

[19] As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and

repent.

[20] Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and

open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

[21] To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even

as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

[22] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the

churches.



( Laodicean churches or "Liberal" churches like The united church of Canada ,

The Presbyterians, the Congressationalists, the Methodists in North America.

Very Laodecian. Verse 20 is quoted out context. Why ? You need to understand

vv. 17-19 why the Lord is knocking on your Heart)



Revelation 4



The Heavenly Worship



1 (Rev 1:19; 1:10; 11:12) After this I looked. And there was an open door

in heaven. The first voice I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me,

saying, "Come up here, and I will show you things

*which must take place after this.*"

2 (Isa 6:1; Rev 1:10; Eze 1:26) Immediately I was in the Spirit.

And there was a throne set in heaven with One sitting on the throne!

3 (Eze 1:28; Rev 10:1; Eze 28:13) And He who sat there appeared like

a jasper and a sardius stone. There was a rainbow around the throne,

appearing like an emerald.

4 (Rev 4:10; 11:16) 24 thrones were around the throne. And I saw 24 elders

sitting on the thrones, clothed in white garments. They had crowns of gold

on their heads.

5 (Rev 1:4; Zec 4:2; Rev 8:5) Lightnings and thunderings and voices proceeded

from the throne. Seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne,

which are the seven Spirits of God.

6 (Rev 5:6; 15:2) Before the throne was a sea of glass like crystal.

(A picture of people at peace, beleivers at peace, most like just after

the Rapture)

In the midst of the throne, and around the throne,

were four living creatures covered with eyes in front and in back.

7 (Eze 1:10; 10:14) The first living creature was like a lion,

the second living creature like a calf, the third living creature

had a face like a man, and the fourth creature was like a flying eagle.

8 (Rev 1:8; 4:6) The four living creatures had six wings each,

and they were covered with eyes all around. All day and night,

without ceasing, they were saying:

"'Holy, holy, holy,

Lord God Almighty,'(Isa 21:9.)

who was, and is, and is to come."

9 (Rev 15:7; 1:18) When the living creatures give glory and honour

and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever,

10 (Rev 4:4; 5:8; 5:14) the 24 elders fall down before Him who sits

on the throne, and worship Him, who lives forever and ever.

Then they cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

11 (Rev 5:12; 10:6) "You are worthy, O Lord,

to receive glory and honor and power;

for You have created all things,

and by Your will they exist

and were created."



[1] After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the

first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which

said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

[2] And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in

heaven, and one sat on the throne.

[3] And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and

there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

[4] And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the

seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and

they had on their heads crowns of gold.

[5] And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:

and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the

seven Spirits of God.

[6] And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in

the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full

of eyes before and behind.

[7] And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf,

and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a

flying eagle.

[8] And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were

full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy,

holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

[9] And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat

on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

[10] The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne,

and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before

the throne, saying,

[11] Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for

thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were

created.



( A beautiful scene of Worship!)



Revelation 5



The Scroll and the Lamb



1 (Isa 29:11; Eze 2:9-10) Then I saw in the right hand of Him

who sat on the throne a scroll written within and on the back,

sealed with seven seals.

2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice,

"Who is worthy to open the scroll and to break its seals?"

3 (Rev 5:13) But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth

was able to open the scroll or to look in it.

4 I began to weep loudly, because no one was found worthy to open

and read the scroll, or to look in it.

5 (Isa 11:1; 11:10) Then one of the elders said to me,

"Do not weep. Look! The Lion of the tribe of Judah,

the Root of David, has triumphed.

He is able to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals."

6 (Zec 4:10; Jn 1:29) I saw a Lamb in the midst of the throne

and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders,

standing as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes,

which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth.

7 (Rev 5:1) He came and took the scroll out of the right hand

of Him who sat on the throne.

8 (Ps 141:2; Rev 4:10) When He had taken the scroll, the four living

creatures and the 24 elders fell down before the Lamb,

each one having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense,

which are the prayers of saints.

9 (Rev 14:6; Ps 33:3; 40:3) And they sang a new song, saying:

"You are worthy to take the scroll,

and to open its seals;

for You were slain,

and have redeemed us to God by Your blood

out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,

10 (Rev 1:6; 20:6) and have made us kings and priests unto our God;

and we shall reign on the earth."

11 (Da 7:10; Heb 12:22) Then I looked, and I heard around the throne

and the living creatures and the elders the voices of many angels,

numbering ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands,

(That is a huge number of souls/believers!)

12 (Rev 4:11; Zec 13:7) saying with a loud voice:

"Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,

to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength

and honor and glory and blessing!"

13 (Php 2:10; Rev 5:3) Then I heard every creature which is in heaven

and on the earth and under the earth and in the sea,

and all that are in them, saying:

"To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb

be blessing and honor and glory and power,

forever and ever!"

14 (Rev 19:4; 5:8) The four living creatures said, "Amen."

And the 24 elders fell down and worshipped Him who lives forever and ever.



[1] And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written

within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.

[2] And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to

open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?

[3] And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to

open the book, neither to look thereon.

[4] And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the

book, neither to look thereon.

[5] And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the

tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to

loose the seven seals thereof.

[6] And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four

beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain,

having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent

forth into all the earth.

[7] And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon

the throne.

[8] And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty

elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden

vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

[9] And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and

to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God

by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

[10] And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on

the earth.

[11] And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the

throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten

thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

[12] Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive

power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and

blessing.

[13] And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the

earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying,

Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon

the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

[14] And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell

down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.



2) Our Daily Bread for 22 December 2022 Titled



https://odb.org/2023/12/22/a-wall-torn-down




Ephesians 2:11-22



One in Christ



11 (Col 2:11; 1Co 12:2; Eph 5:8) Therefore remember that formerly you,

the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called the "uncircumcision"

by the so-called "circumcision" in the flesh by human hands,

12 (1Th 4:13; Gal 4:8) were at that time apart from Christ,

alienated from the citizenship of Israel and strangers to the covenants

of promise, without hope and without God in the world.

13 (Ac 2:39; Isa 57:19) But now in Christ Jesus you who were formerly

far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

14 (Gal 3:28; Mic 5:5) For He is our peace, who has made both groups one

and has broken down the barrier of the dividing wall,

15 (Col 2:14; 2:20) by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, that is,

the law of the ­commandments contained in ordinances, that in Himself

He might make the two into one new man, thus making peace,

16 (Eph 2:15; Col 1:20-22) and that He might reconcile both to God

into one body through the cross, thereby slaying the enmity.

17 (Ps 148:14; Dt 4:7) And He came and preached peace to you who were

far away and peace to those who were near.

18 (1Co 12:13; Eph 3:12) For through Him we both have access by one

Spirit to the Father.

19 (Gal 6:10; Php 3:20) Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers

and foreigners, but are fellow citizens with the saints and members

of the household of God,

20 (Mt 16:18; Isa 28:16; Rev 21:14) having been built upon

the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself

being the chief cornerstone,

21 (1Co 3:16-17) in whom the entire building, tightly framed together,

grows into a holy temple in the Lord,

22 (1Co 3:16) in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling

place of God through the Spirit.



[11] Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh,

who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in

the flesh made by hands; without Christ, being aliens from the

commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having

no hope, and without God in the world:

[13] But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by

the blood of Christ.

[14] For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the

middle wall of partition between us;

[15] Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments

contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so

making peace;

[16] And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross,

having slain the enmity thereby:

[17] And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them

that were nigh.

[18] For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

[19] Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but

fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

[20] And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus

Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

[21] In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy

temple in the Lord:

[22] In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through

the Spirit.



Since 1961, families and friends had been separated by the Berlin Wall.

Erected that year by the East German government, the barrier kept its citizens

from fleeing to West Germany. In fact, from 1949 to the day the structure was

built, it's estimated that more than 2.5 million East Germans had bolted to

the West. US President Ronald Reagan stood at the wall in 1987 and famously

said, "Tear down this wall." His words reflected a groundswell of change that

culminated with the wall being torn down in 1989-leading to Germany's joyous

reunification.



Paul wrote of a "hath broken down the middle wall of partition between

us" (Ephesians 2:14). The wall had existed between Jews (God's chosen people)

and gentiles (all other people). And it was symbolized by the dividing wall

(the soreg) in the ancient temple erected by Herod the Great in Jerusalem. It

kept gentiles from entering beyond the outer courts of the temple, though they

could see the inner courts. But Jesus brought "peace" and reconciliation

between the Jews and gentiles and between God and all people. He did so by

"hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us" by "that he might

reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross" (vv. 14, 16) . And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

(vv. 17–18 ).



Today, many things can divide us. As God provides what we need,

let's strive to live out the peace and unity found in Jesus (vv. 19-22).



By: Tom Felten



Reflect & Pray



What dividing walls do you see?

How can you help remove them in Jesus' strength?



God of peace, please help me tear down walls that deny Your truth and love.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 6 Reconciliation



2 Cor 5:18-19



18 All this is from God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ

and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation,

19 that is, that God was

in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their sins

against them, and has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation.



18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus

Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.



When Paul writes in 2 Cor 5:17 that we become a "new creation" in Christ

Jesus, the story does not end there. The verses following give us direction

for tht new life in Christ. "All This", Paul says, referring to the miracle of

new life in Christ, "is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ

and gave us the ministry of reconciliation."

Reconciliation means to bring back together what was once separated. Man was

separated from God by sin, and God took the initiative to reconcile man to

himself. Our "ministry of reconciliation" as Christians is twofold: to draw

others to the Lord and to work for reconciliation between individuals.

Reconciliation is the ultimate goal of forgiveness. God, through his grace ,

extends forgiveness to us when we are still sinners, unrepentant,

undeserving. When we respond, we come into reconciliation with him

and are brought back into oneness. Likewise, when we extend the grace

of forgiveness to another, we are set free by the act of forgiving, but we

hope that the ultimate outcome will be reconciliation.

God shows us the pattern: he is the wronged party, yet he does not wait for

the offender to come to him, hat in hand. He takes a bold initiative, offering

forgiveness freely with out regard to merit. The pattern applies to us;

as the new life in Christ takes hold of us, we must reach out, and reach,

and keep on reaching, breaking down the barriers, taking the risk of

rejection so that we may come to reconciliation.



Application



a) What barriers stand between me and reconciliation with another person?



b) How can I take a risk and reach out to offer forgiveness and

reconciliation to them?



c) What kind of attitude do I need to be a "minister of reconciliation"?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Is 55:11



11 (Isa 45:23; 46:10) so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;

it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,

and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.



11 so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:

it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,

and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



When you are ill or injured



James 5:13-16



13 (Ps 50:15; Eph 5:19) Is anyone among you suffering?

Let him pray. Is anyone merry? Let him sing psalms.

14 (Mk 6:13; 16:18; Ac 14:23) Is anyone sick among you?

Let him call for the elders of the church,

and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil

in the name of the Lord.

15 (Isa 33:24; Jas 1:6) And the prayer of faith will save

the sick, and the Lord will raise him up.

And if he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.

16 (Ge 20:17; 18:23-32) Confess your faults to one another

and pray for one another, that you may be healed.

The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much.



13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray.

Is any merry? let him sing psalms.

14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church;

and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:

15 and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise

him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another,

that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man

availeth much.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.





6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



22 Day of the Month



a) Pray for the Province of Quebec



I) Pray for the leaders of Quebec,

that God's Spirit would influence

then to act justly,

serve with integrity

and honour high moral standards. ( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4



1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,

3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good

and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,

4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved

and to come to the knowledge of the truth.



II) Pray for the churches of the province,

that they would be lighthouses

beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.



III) Pray that the Lord would use

the Finding the Hope Campaign

and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus



b) Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve

every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge

of God.



(



2 Cor 10: 3 - 5



3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God

to the pulling down of strongholds,

5 casting down imaginations and every

high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every

thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,



3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

4(for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God

to the pulling down of strong holds;)

5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself

against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought

to the obedience of Christ;



)



Advent Day 27



FRIDAY, FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT



Early Offering



to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.



-Luke 2:5



Luke mentions that Mary was "great with child" (KJV) so candidly that we don't pause to ponder how difficult it



must have been for her to travel all the way (about 70 miles!) from Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea. Even more significant, the Christ Child she carried must have been jostled and jarred by the movement, Loo.





Those of us who use statements of faith in our worship services declare



in the Apostles' Creed that Jesus "suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified ... " I believe instead we should say, "suffered, under Pontius Pilate was crucified" to be more accurate to the original. Jesus suffered all his life, not just under Pilate. When we reflect on the appalling journey that he endured in the womb, we might imagine that his sufferings on our behalf began even before he was born. What amazing love that Christ sustained such adversity for us!





prayer



Jesus Christ, your afflictions for us were more than we can

conceive. How can we ever thank you appropriately? Amen.





Read Luke 2:1-7.



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to spiritual Philadelphian and to know

the future judgments on humanity.



Pray to the Lord: "God of peace, please help me tear down walls

that deny Your truth and love."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be minister of reconciliation and forgiveness.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know His word does not go void.



Pray to the Lord and pray for healing and confession.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve

every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge

of God.



Jesus Christ, your afflictions for us were more than we can

conceive. How can we ever thank you appropriately? Amen.



Pray that Christians in Eritrea will continue to worship together despite

the threat of arrest and imprisonment.





Christ is the reason for the season
.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

The Story of Christmas

Mark 1:1



1 (Mt 14:33) The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.



[1] The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;



Luke 1:1-4



The Prologue



1 Whereas many have undertaken to write a narrative of those things

which are most surely believed among us,

2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning

were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word,

3 it seemed good to me also, having accurately investigated all things

from the very beginning, to write to you an orderly account,

most excellent Theophilus,

4 that you might know the certainty of the things which you have been told.



[1] Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration

of those things which are most surely believed among us,

[2] Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were

eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;

[3] It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all

things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent

Theophilus,

[4] That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast

been instructed.



John 1:1-18



The Word Became Flesh



1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

2 He was in the beginning with God.

3 All things were created through Him, and without Him nothing

was created that was created.

4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of mankind.

5 The light shines in darkness, but the darkness has not overcome it.

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John.

7 This man came as a witness in order to testify concerning the Light,

that all men through Him might believe.

8 He was not this Light, but was sent in order to testify

concerning the Light.

9 The true Light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

10 He was in the world, and the world was created through Him,

yet the world did not know Him.

11 He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him.

12 Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,

to those who believed in His name,

13 who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man, but of God.

14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory,

the glory as the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.

15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, "This was He of whom I said,

'He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.' "

16 We have all received from His fullness grace upon grace.

17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came

through Jesus Christ.

18 No one has seen God at any time. The only Son, who is at the Father's side,

has made Him known.





[1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the

Word was God.

[2] The same was in the beginning with God.

[3] All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made

that was made.

[4] In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

[5] And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

[6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

[7] The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all

men through him might believe.

[8] He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

[9] That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into

the world.

[10] He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world

knew him not.

[11] He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

[12] But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the

sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

[13] Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of

the will of man, but of God.

[14] And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his

glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace

and truth.

[15] John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I

spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.

[16] And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.

[17] For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus

Christ.

[18] No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in

the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.



Matthew 1:1-17



The Genealogy of Jesus Christ



Lk 3:23-38



1 (Ge 22:18; Isa 11:1; Ro 1:3) The book of the genealogy

of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the son of Abraham:

2 (Ge 25:26; Ac 7:8) Abraham was the father of Isaac,

Isaac the father of Jacob,

and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.

3 (Ge 46:12; 38:29-30) Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar,

Perez the father of Hezron,

and Hezron the father of Ram.

4 Ram was the father of Amminadab,

Amminadab the father of Nahshon,

and Nahshon the father of Salmon.

5 (Heb 11:31; Jas 2:25) Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab,

Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth,

and Obed the father of Jesse.

6 (1Sa 16:1; 17:12) Jesse was the father of David the king.

David the king was the father of Solomon,

by her who had been the wife of Uriah.

7 Solomon was the father of Rehoboam,

Rehoboam the father of Abijah,

and Abijah the father of Asa.

8 (1Ch 3:11) Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat,

Jehoshaphat the father of Joram,

and Joram the father of Uzziah.

9 Uzziah was the father of Jotham,

Jotham the father of Ahaz,

and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah.

10 Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh,

Manasseh the father of Amon,

and Amon the father of Josiah.

11 (Jer 27:20; Da 1:2) Josiah was the father of Jeconiah

and his brothers about the time they were exiled to Babylon.

12 (1Ch 3:17; Ezr 3:2) And after they were brought to Babylon,

Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,

and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel.

13 Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud,

Abiud the father of Eliakim,

and Eliakim the father of Azor.

14 Azor was the father of Zadok,

Zadok the father of Akim,

and Akim the father of Eliud.

15 Eliud was the father of Eleazar,

Eleazar the father of Matthan,

and Matthan the father of Jacob.

16 (Mt 27:17; Lk 3:23) And Jacob was the father of Joseph,

the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations,

from David until the exile to Babylon are fourteen generations,

and from the exile in Babylon to Christ are fourteen generations.



[1] The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the

son of Abraham.

[2] Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas

and his brethren;

[3] And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom;

and Esrom begat Aram;

[4] And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson

begat Salmon;

[5] And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and

Obed begat Jesse;

[6] And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of

her that had been the wife of Urias;

[7] And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa;

[8] And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias;

[9] And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat

Ezekias;

[10] And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat

Josias;

[11] And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they

were carried away to Babylon:

[12] And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel;

and Salathiel begat Zorobabel;

[13] And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim

begat Azor;

[14] And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud;

[15] And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat

Jacob;

[16] And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who

is called Christ.

[17] So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations;

and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen

generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are

fourteen generations.



Luke 1:5-38



The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold



5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest

named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And his wife was

of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.

6 They were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments

and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly.

7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren,

and they both were now well advanced in years.

8 Now while he served as priest before God, when his division was on duty,

9 according to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn

incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

10 And the whole crowd of people were praying outside at the hour of incense.

11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side

of the altar of incense.

12 When Zechariah saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

13 But the angel said to him, "Do not fear, Zechariah, for your prayer

has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son,

and you shall call his name John.

14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.

15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink

neither wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit,

even from his mother's womb.

16 He will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God.

17 And he will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah,

to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children

and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready

a people prepared for the Lord."

18 Zechariah said to the angel, "How shall I know this?

For I am an old man and my wife well advanced in years."

19 The angel answered him, "I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God.

And I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news.

20 And now you will be silent and unable to speak until the day

that these things happen, because you did not believe my words,

which will be fulfilled in their season."

21 The people waited for Zechariah, and wondered why he waited

so long in the temple.

22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They perceived

that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he made signs to them

and remained speechless.

23 As soon as the days of his service were fulfilled,

he departed to his own home.

24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months

she hid herself, saying,

25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,

to take away my reproach among men."



The Birth of Jesus Foretold



26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God

to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,

27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph,

of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.

28 The angel came to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favuored.

The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women."

29 When she saw him, she was troubled by his words, and considered

in her mind what kind of greeting this might be.

30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found

favour with God.

31 Listen, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son

and shall call His name JESUS.

32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.

And the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,

33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.

And of His kingdom there will be no end."

34 Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?"

35 The angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you,

and the power of the Highest will overshadow you.

Therefore the Holy One who will be born will be called the Son of God.

36 Listen, your cousin Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age.

And this is the sixth month with her who was declared barren.

37 For with God nothing will be impossible."

38 Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. May it be unto me according

to your word." Then the angel departed from her.



[5] There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest

named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of

Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.

[6] And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments

and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

[7] And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both

were now well stricken in years.

[8] And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before

God in the order of his course,

[9] According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn

incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

[10] And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time

of incense.

[11] And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right

side of the altar of incense.

[12] And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

[13] But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is

heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his

name John.

[14] And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his

birth.

[15] For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither

wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from

his mother's womb.

[16] And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.

[17] And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn

the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom

of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

[18] And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am

an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.

[19] And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the

presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad

tidings.

[20] And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day

that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words,

which shall be fulfilled in their season.

[21] And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so

long in the temple.

[22] And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived

that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and

remained speechless.

[23] And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were

accomplished, he departed to his own house.

[24] And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five

months, saying,

[25] Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me,

to take away my reproach among men.

[26] And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city

of Galilee, named Nazareth,

[27] To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of

David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

[28] And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly

favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

[29] And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her

mind what manner of salutation this should be.

[30] And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour

with God.

[31] And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son,

and shalt call his name JESUS.

[32] He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the

Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

[33] And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom

there shall be no end.

[34] Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a

man?

[35] And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come

upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore

also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of

God.

[36] And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her

old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

[37] For with God nothing shall be impossible.

[38] And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according

to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:39-80



Mary Visits Elizabeth



39 In those days Mary arose and quickly went into the hill country,

to a city of Judah,

40 and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.

41 When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped

in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

42 She spoke out with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women,

and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

43 But why is this granted to me,

that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

44 Indeed, as soon as the sound of your greeting came to my ears,

the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion

to those things which were told her by the Lord."



The Song of Mary



46 And Mary said:

"My soul magnifies the Lord,

47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

48 For He has regarded

the low estate of His servant;

surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.

49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,

and holy is His name.

50 His mercy is on those who fear Him

from generation to generation.

51 He has shown strength with His arm;

He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones

and exalted those of low degree.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things,

and the rich He has sent away empty.

54 He has helped His servant Israel,

in remembrance of His mercy,

55 as He spoke to our fathers,

to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

56 Mary remained with her about three months

and returned to her own house.



The Birth of John the Baptist



57 Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.

58 Her neighbours and cousins heard how the Lord had shown her great mercy,

and they rejoiced with her.

59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child.

And they were calling him Zechariah, after the name of his father.

60 But his mother answered, “Not so! He shall be called John.”

61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives

who is called by this name."

62 They made signs to his father, asking what he would have him called.

63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."

And they all were amazed.

64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed,

and he spoke and praised God.

65 Fear came on all who lived around them. And all these facts

were talked about throughout all the hill country of Judea.

66 All those who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying,

"What kind of child will he be?" For the hand of the Lord was with him.



The Prophecy of Zechariah



67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit

and prophesied, saying,

68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,

for He has visited and redeemed His people,

69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of His servant David,

70 as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets of long ago,

71 that we should be saved from our enemies

and from the hand of all who hate us,

72 to perform the mercy promised to our fathers

and to remember His holy covenant,

73 the oath which He swore to our father Abraham,

74 to grant us that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies,

might serve Him without fear,

75 in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our lives.

76 "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest;

for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,

77 to give knowledge of salvation to His people

by the remission of their sins,

78 through the tender mercy of our God,

whereby the sunrise from on high has visited us;

79 to give light to those who sit in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace."

80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit,

and he remained in the wilderness until the day of his appearance to Israel.



[39] And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with

haste, into a city of Juda;

[40] And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

[41] And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary,

the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

[42] And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among

women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

[43] And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

[44] For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears,

the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

[45] And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of

those things which were told her from the Lord.

[46] And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,

[47] And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

[48] For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold,

from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

[49] For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his

name.

[50] And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.

[51] He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in

the imagination of their hearts.

[52] He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low

degree.

[53] He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent

empty away.

[54] He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;

[55] As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

[56] And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own

house.

[57] Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she

brought forth a son.

[58] And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great

mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.

[59] And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the

child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.

[60] And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.

[61] And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by

this name.

[62] And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.

[63] And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John.

And they marvelled all.

[64] And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he

spake, and praised God.

[65] And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings

were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.

[66] And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What

manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

[67] And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and

prophesied, saying,

[68] Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his

people,

[69] And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his

servant David;

[70] As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since

the world began:

[71] That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that

hate us;

[72] To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy

covenant;

[73] The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,

[74] That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of

our enemies might serve him without fear,

[75] In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

[76] And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou

shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;

[77] To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of

their sins,

[78] Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high

hath visited us,

[79] To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace.

[80] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts

till the day of his shewing unto Israel.



Matthew 1:18-25



The Birth of Jesus Christ



Lk 2:1-7



18 (Ge 3:15) Now the birth of Jesus Christ happened this way:

After His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, before they came together,

she was found with child by the Holy Spirit.

19 (Dt 22:21-24; 24:1-4 )Then Joseph her husband, being a just man

and not willing to make her a public example, had in mind to divorce

her privately.

20 (Mt 1:18; 2:13) But while he thought on these things, the angel

of the Lord appeared to him in a dream saying,

"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife,

for He who is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

21 (Lk 1:31; Ac 4:12) She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS,

for He will save His people from their sins."

22 (Mt 2:15; 2:23) Now all this occurred to fulfill what the Lord

had spoken through the prophet, saying,

23 (Isa 7:14; 9:6-7; Mt 28:20) "A virgin shall be with child,

and will bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,"

[Isa 7:14.] which is interpreted, "God with us."

24 Then Joseph, being awakened from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord

had commanded him, and remained with his wife,

25 (Mt 1:21; Lk 2:7) and did not know her until she had given birth

to her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS.



[18] Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary

was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child

of the Holy Ghost.

[19] Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her

a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.

[20] But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord

appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to

take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the

Holy Ghost.

[21] And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people from their sins.

[22] Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of

the Lord by the prophet, saying,

[23] Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and

they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

[24] Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had

bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

[25] And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he

called his name JESUS.



Luke 2:1-38



The Birth of Jesus



Mt 1:18-25



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



The Shepherds and the Angels



8 And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 (2Co 3:18) And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.

10 (Ge 12:3; Isa 40:9) But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people.

11 (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:43; Mt 16:16) For unto you is born this day

in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 (1Sa 2:34; 2Ki 19:29) And this will be a sign to you:

You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

13 (Ge 28:12; 32:1-2) Suddenly there was with the angel a company

of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 (Lk 1:79; 19:38) "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, and good will toward men."

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said

to each other, "Let us now go to Bethlehem and see what has happened,

which the Lord has made known to us."

16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,

and the Baby lying in a manger.

17 When they had seen Him, they made widely known the word

which was told them concerning this Child.

18 And all those who heard it marveled at what the shepherds told them.

19 (Lk 2:51; Ge 37:11) But Mary kept all these things and pondered them

in her heart.

20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things

they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.



The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple



21 (Lk 1:31; 1:59) When eight days had passed and the Child was circumcised,

He was named ­JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived

in the womb.

22 When the days of her purification according to the Law of Moses

were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord

23 (Ex 13:2; Nu 3:13)(as it is written in the law of the Lord,

"Every firstborn male shall be called holy to the Lord"

Ex 13:2, 12; Nu 3:13; 8:17.)

24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord,

"a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons." Lev 5:11; 12:8.

25 (Lk 1:6; 2:38) Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon,

and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel,

and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

26 (Jn 8:51; Heb 11:5) It was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit

that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

27 (Lk 2:41; 2:48) Led by the Spirit, he came into the temple. And when

the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according

to the custom of the law,

28 (Lk 1:64) he received Him in his arms and blessed God and said:

29 (Ge 15:15; Lk 2:26) "Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace,

according to Your word;

30 (Lk 3:6; Isa 52:10) for my eyes have seen Your salvation

31 which You have prepared in the sight of all people,

32 (Isa 49:6; 9:2; 60:19) a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and the glory of Your people Israel."

33 Joseph and His mother were amazed at those things which were spoken

about Him.

34 (1Co 1:23; Mt 21:44; Ac 28:22) Then Simeon blessed them

and said to Mary His mother, "Listen, this Child is destined to cause the fall

and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign which will be spoken against,

35 so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

And a sword will pierce through your own soul also."

36 (Ac 21:9; Ex 15:20) And there was Anna a prophetess, a daughter of Phanuel,

of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age and had lived

with her husband seven years from her virginity.

37 (1Ti 5:5; Ac 14:23) And she was a widow of about 84 years of age

who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fasting

and prayer night and day.

38 (Lk 2:25; 1:68) Coming at that moment she gave thanks to the Lord

and spoke of Him to all those who looked for the redemption of Jerusalem.



[1] And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from

Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

[2] (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

[3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

[4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into

Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was

of the house and lineage of David:)

[5] To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

[6] And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished

that she should be delivered.

[7] And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling

clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the

inn.

[8] And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

[9] And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord

shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

[10] And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good

tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

[11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is

Christ the Lord.

[12] And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in

swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

[13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host

praising God, and saying,

[14] Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

[15] And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into

heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto

Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath

made known unto us.

[16] And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe

lying in a manger.

[17] And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was

told them concerning this child.

[18] And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told

them by the shepherds.

[19] But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

[20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the

things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

[21] And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the

child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he

was conceived in the womb.

[22] And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses

were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the

Lord;

[23] (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the

womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

[24] And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of

the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

[25] And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and

the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and

the Holy Ghost was upon him.

[26] And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see

death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

[27] And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought

in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

[28] Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

[29] Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy

word:

[30] For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

[31] Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

[32] A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

[33] And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken

of him.

[34] And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this

child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign

which shall be spoken against;

[35] (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the

thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

[36] And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the

tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven

years from her virginity;

[37] And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed

not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

[38] And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and

spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.



Matthew 2



The Visit of the Wise Men



1 (Lk 2:4-7; Mic 5:2) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea

in the days of Herod the king, wise men came from the east to Jerusalem,

2 (Nu 24:17; Jer 23:5; Zec 9:9) saying, "Where is He who was born King

of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east and have come

to worship Him."

3 When Herod the king heard these things, he was troubled,

and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he inquired of them where Christ should be born.

5 (Ge 35:19) They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is

what the prophet wrote:

6 (Mic 5:2; Jn 7:42) 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are no longer least among the princes of Judah;

for out of you shall come a Governor,

who will shepherd My people Israel.'[Ps 91:11-12.]"

7 Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men,

carefully inquired of them what time the star appeared.

8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said,

"Go and search diligently for the young Child, and when you have found Him,

bring me word again, so that I may come and worship Him also."

9 When they heard the king, they departed. And the star which they saw

in the east went before them until it came and stood over where the young

Child was.

10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with great excitement.

11 (Ps 72:10; Mt 14:33) And when they came into the house,

they saw the young Child with Mary, His mother, and fell down

and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures,

they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

12 (Mt 2:22; 27:19) But being warned in a dream that they should

not return to Herod, they returned to their own country

by another route.



The Escape to Egypt



13 (Ac 5:19; Mt 1:20) Now when they departed, the angel of the Lord

appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying,

"Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and escape to Egypt,

and stay there until I bring you word.

For Herod will seek the young Child to kill Him."

14 When he rose, he took the young Child and His mother by night,

and departed into Egypt,

15 (Hos 11:1; Ex 4:22) and remained there until the death of Herod,

to fulfill what the Lord had spoken through the prophet,

"Out of Egypt I have called My Son."

A talent was worth several hundred pounds.



The Killing of the Infants



16 (Isa 59:7) Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked

by the wise men, was utterly furious and sent forth and killed

all the male children who were in Bethlehem and the surrounding region,

from two years old and under, based on the time which he had diligently

inquired of the wise men.

17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet:

18 (Jer 31:15; Ge 42:36) "In Ramah a voice was heard,

grieving and weeping and great mourning,

Rachel weeping for her children,

and she would not be comforted,

because they are no more."[-21 Isa 42:1–4].



The Return From Egypt



19 (Mt 1:20) But when Herod was dead, an angel of the Lord appeared

in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,

20 (Ex 4:19) saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother,

and go into the land of Israel, for those who sought

the young Child's life are dead."

21 And he rose, took the young Child and His mother,

and came into the land of Israel.

22 (Lk 2:39) But when he heard that Archelaus reigned in Judea

instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Nevertheless,

being warned by God in a dream, he withdrew to the region of Galilee.

23 (Jn 1:45-46; Jdg 13:5) And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth,

that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled,

"He shall be called a Nazarene."



[1] Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the

king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

[2] Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his

star in the east, and are come to worship him.

[3] When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all

Jerusalem with him.

[4] And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.

[5] And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written

by the prophet,

[6] And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the

princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my

people Israel.

[7] Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them

diligently what time the star appeared.

[8] And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for

the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may

come and worship him also.

[9] When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which

they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where

the young child was.

[10] When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

[11] And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with

Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened

their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and

myrrh.

[12] And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to

Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

[13] And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to

Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother,

and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod

will seek the young child to destroy him.

[14] When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and

departed into Egypt:

[15] And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled

which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I

called my son.

[16] Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was

exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in

Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under,

according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.

[17] Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

[18] In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great

mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted,

because they are not.

[19] But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a

dream to Joseph in Egypt,

[20] Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the

land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.

[21] And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into

the land of Israel.

[22] But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his

father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of

God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:

[23] And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be

fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.



Luke 2:39-40



The Return to Nazareth



39 (Lk 2:4) When they had performed everything according to the law

of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth.

40 (Lk 2:52; 1:80) And the Child grew and became strong in spirit,

filled with wisdom. And the grace of God was upon Him.



[39] And when they had performed all things according to the law of the

Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

[40] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and

the grace of God was upon him.