one another, too!

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.4.43.ESV

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.5.10-11.ESV

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.7.50.ESV

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.8.15.ESV

[16] And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd.

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.9.16.ESV

[41] But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, [42] but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.10.41-42.ESV

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.11.28.ESV

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.12.7.ESV

https://bible.com/bible/59/luk.13.20-21.ESV

Doubt plagues even the faithful (1:18). We, LG ladies shall be mature if we accept God's correction (1:64).

Jesus as our eternal King brings the ultimate comfort and confidence so we can continue to live life on mission for God

But then....Jesus was greatly unpopular at previous periods.

Jesus remained Jesus throughout it all.

He wasn't acting in an attempt to succeed.

He was motivated by a desire to be faithful.

His goal drove him, and he understood that he had to let his Heavenly Father handle the outcome.

• Time

• Effort

• Decisions

Some of the crowds follow Jesus back then had this mindset -> What's in it for me if I follow you?

They weren't prepared to accept the new covenant that Jesus was bringing about, and it was to their "disadvantage". Because of this, Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, according to Hebrews 15:15, so that those who are called might obtain the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to deliver them from the sins of the first covenant.

Jesus’ mother and brothers come to see Jesus but cannot because the crowd is so massive. Jesus declares who are truly in the family of Christ: those who hear the word of God and do it. This is the same as the good soil in the parable. The message of this text is to take care how we listen. How we listen to God’s word shows if we are truly one of Jesus’ disciples or not. How we listen shows if we are really in the family of Christ. -> Learn/train to learn little things from God.

She was too much focus on serving -> That we didnt know that it hinder/distract us to hear/listen God preach back then

On the other hand, Christ declared, Mary chosen the good part. For one thing is needful, this one thing that she has done, to give up herself to the guidance of Christ.

Putting aside one's own ambitions, carrying one's cross every day, and following Him are all part of being His disciple.

It is straightforward but extremely demanding. It is realizing that we are His property and that our goal in life is to fulfill His will.

--> Evangelism!

Pigs were dirty creatures. Even touching pigs was forbidden to Jews. The son had descended to the lowest point imaginable when he accepted a job feeding pigs, even craving their food to fill his belly. A person who lives in disobedience to God is symbolized by this son. Before we realize our sin and come to our senses, we may need to reach our lowest point.

Though the older son exemplifies the a character of a Pharisees. They have forgotten to celebrate when a sinner turns back to God and, in their self-righteousness, refuse to hang around with sinners.

When the moment of judgement comes, we won't have a valid reason to blame Jesus if we don't follow God's word. A rich man's punishment ultimately stems from his disregard for the Bible and what it teaches about our obligation to treat those in need with care and generosity, not from his wealth.

Believers like us should feel compelled to spread the good news of Jesus Christ to people who haven't heard or comprehended the gospel story, just as the rich man frantically begged for someone to warn his family. After all, those who accept the gospel and adhere to Jesus' teachings will get an eternal reward, while those who reject it will suffer an eternal penalty.

To someone like the apostle Paul, every setback is seen as a victory if it leads to a life of faithfulness and a knowledge of Christ. (Philippians 3.8-9)

The woman's request was only grudgingly granted by the unfair judge. Jesus used this tale to illustrate how God was different from the unjust judge rather than similar to him. In addition to helping us when we pray, God enjoys hearing our requests. When you pray, God is with you and not against you, like the unfair judge was with the widow.

His reign is one of servanthood and humility rather than grandeur and troops. He wins hearts and minds, not countries. His message is not one of temporal peace, but of peace with God. Jesus rules in peace and love if He has triumphantly entered our hearts. The world sees the real King living and ruling in triumph in us because we, as His disciples, display those same traits.

(P.S: Like Mayor Vico Sotto's approach during the election campaigning period)

The vineyard in this story symbolizes Israel, the proprietor is God, and the tenants are the religious leaders of Judaism.

His servants were taken by the tenants, who stoned one, murdered another, and thrashed the third. He then sent them additional staff, more than the first time, and they were treated similarly by the tenants. His son was sent to them last. He declared, "They will respect my son" (Matthew 21:35-37).

According to Jesus, the prophets were sent by God to Jerusalem, but they were mistreated and even slain. However, God sent Jesus in the hopes that He would demand the respect that the prophets were not accorded.

-> The Pharisees immediately understand Jesus parable but "due to their righteousness character", they are blind to see that "they are not these farmers/servants who kill/take advantage of their owners"

Here, Jesus demonstrates that God is not in need of our money. The amount we contribute would be more significant than our motivation if God required our money. Rather, we have the luxury of giving to Him, and we must do so for our own benefit rather than God's.

-> And not just financially. So hopefully this coming "Blessed Another Weekend (April 6-7), in just our blessings, we can give them abundantly to others" ^_^

God has given Jesus over to our free will; do we reject, ignore, or accept the human race's Savior? Each of us must decide what we want to do with Jesus, just like these high priests and teachers of the law did. What do we want, desire, or have a propensity toward Him? Are we eager to get rid of Him as these leaders are ruthlessly opposing Him and making every effort to silence Him?

Jesus grant the request of refusal with grace, though regrettably. Recall how He wept for the people in Jerusalem who refused to accept Him and how He wished to take them under His wing but they refused.

He never coerces us into accepting the free gift of abundant life in this life and eternal life in the next. In John, Jesus makes it abundantly evident that He knows what is best for us and that He is the Way to redemption.

Although we are unaware of the exact sections that Jesus utilized, He opened the Scriptures for these 11 Disciples in order to demonstrate to them how the entire Old Testament pointed to Him as its fulfillment.

Scripture attests to Jesus' identity. Today, He utilizes it to help those who don't know Him see things. -> That's why when we do our spiritual disciplines, we slowly but surely (with the Holy Spirit support), our eyes are open and we distinguish what's the scripture or not

On John 2:18-25, when the Jewish authorities assemble to meet Jesus, he discusses his impending death and resurrection rather than the temple's vandalism. Because cleaning the temple had political repercussions, the Jewish leaders asked for a sign of his power.

Jesus claims that this temple will be demolished and resurrected. Even though the disciples did not fully understand what he said at the time, they would later look back and make the connection between what he said and what would transpire on the cross and in the empty tomb. He is the meeting point of heaven and earth.

Nicodemus is a representation of the highly learned and devout individuals who visit Jesus out of curiosity and have their thinking called into question. -> Which he may not be part of the 12 disciples but Nicodemus show up and help to bring Jesus to his burial place

We cannot instruct Jesus on how to resolve our issues. All we need to do is have faith that He is aware and will arrive at the appropriate moment. Regarding his spiritual path, Brother Andrew said this. "I have never known God's care to fail in the years that I have lived this life of faith," he remarked. I sincerely hope and pray that everyone will discover that this also applies to their own lives.

The life of Jesus was not simple.

Jesus initially had no intention of going to Judea for the Feast of Booths because He had not yet completed His mission and knew that there would be those there who wanted to harm Him. But Jesus likewise chose to travel to Judea when His brothers did.

After entering the temple, Jesus started teaching. Given that there were many in the crowd who wanted to see Jesus taken prisoner and executed, Jesus had to have guts to do this.

Parts of the audience were impressed by his bravery and said:

“This certainly is the Prophet” –John 7:40,

“This is the Christ” – John 7:41,

“Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks” – John 7:41. 

Have faith in the sovereignty of God. When we are going through difficult times, keep in mind that God may utilize our situations to reveal His glory and accomplish His purposes in our life.

Look for spiritual wisdom. Put your spiritual judgment and insight ahead of your worldly or physical viewpoints.

Follow the Word of God. Follow God's instructions and have faith in His promises, just like the blind man did.

Give Your Testimony. Just like the healed man told the Pharisees, don't be afraid to share how Jesus has changed your life.

Honor Jesus as Lord and Savior. Acknowledge the authority of Jesus in your life and respond to it with devotion and adoration.

When a true Christian passes away, he simply sleeps; he rests from the struggles of the day before. No, death is preferable to sleep in this situation since sleep is merely a little respite, whereas death signifies the end of earthly worries and labors. The disciples believed that Christ's visit to Lazarus and subsequent exposure of both himself and them was unnecessary.

Jesus is the Humble King

• Jesus rode a donkey, which was connected to times of humility and peace, rather than a warhorse or chariot that was prepared for combat. Jesus did not want glory and power like other worldly leaders do. He possessed all the splendor and power in the world, but he decided to use it for the good of others. In the end, his entry into Jerusalem marked the start of the final week of his life, which ended with his death as a sacrifice for our sin. Jesus came to serve and offer his life as a ransom for many, not to be served.

Jesus is the King of the Nations, not just Israel.

• We see people from all over the world finding wholeness and peace with God through what he has done in Christ, while we look forward to the day when God rules and reigns over a New Creation. When people are pardoned and made right with God through their trust in Christ, they become new creations and enter God's kingdom, which is not restricted to any one people group.

Jesus brought Spiritual Freedom

• Jesus’ kingship is not about control but leading his people towards a flourishing life through his teaching and his ways. 

Jesus only spoke the truth; he was not being conceited nor attempting to promote "spiritual racism." The one and only God took on human form in the person of Jesus. Jesus offered us the chance to get to know him personally and demonstrated his true nature while he was on earth. There isn't another, but we can wait for someone else who is seven feet tall and has fireballs in his eyes. "I am the way, the truth, and the life," Jesus tells us plainly. I am the only way for anyone to approach the Father.

In John 15:1, Jesus proclaims, "My Father is the vinedresser, and I am the true vine." The relationship's responsibilities are thus established: God the Father is the caregiver, and Jesus is the source of life.

Abiding in Christ

Remain in Me and I will remain in you, Jesus says, emphasizing the importance of staying in Him. According to John 15:4, you cannot bear fruit unless you stay in Me, just as no branch can bear fruit on its own unless it stays in the vine. To be spiritually vibrant and prolific, one must abide in Christ.

Trust in Jesus' Sacrifice.

The crucifixion of Jesus is a reminder of his willing sacrifice for humanity's sins, which provides the option of forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Embrace faith

The resurrection of Jesus conveys a profound message: faith in him leads to eternal life.

Follow His Teachings:

Jesus' teachings and example show us how to live a life that pleases God while also benefiting others.

Share the gospel:

The resurrected Jesus sends his followers forth to preach the gospel to the world, encouraging Christians to spread the good news of his sacrifice and resurrection.

Faith

The story of Thomas emphasizes the value of faith, especially in the face of doubt.

Our Savior does not want us to act in this way!

Jesus asks us to place our trust in Him and let go of the control we desire. He desires our complete dependence on Him and our vulnerability.

Jesus values it when we treat Him with this kind of respect and faith.

There is a unique connection between the Holy Spirit and the Bible.

As God's children, we must ensure that we are making wise choices based on God's perspective, not the opinions of the world.

Thankfully, God's Word has been given to us to teach us what God wants.

Additionally, the Holy Spirit is available to assist us in times when we are unable to locate the appropriate verse to apply.

Who are we to doubt the plan that our Creator has for us? It is our responsibility to surrender to and follow His will, wherever it may lead us.

It is our responsibility to find out what that plan is and then adhere to it.

We accomplish this by consistently studying the Bible, acting on our faith, and putting what we have learned into practice.

As Christians, we must keep in mind that God operates according to His schedule rather than ours.

Additionally, we must keep in mind that God is all-knowing and that there is no other plan that will lead us to heaven.

It is not because God has forgotten about us that we feel disconnected from Him; rather, it is because we have forgotten about Him.

We must learn God's will, put it into practice, and remember Him every day.

The events of Pentecost show how the Holy Spirit may change lives by empowering the disciples to share Jesus' message.

A flourishing faith requires community and shared resources:

The value of camaraderie and generosity is demonstrated by the early church's shared resources and readiness to assist others.

Integrity and honesty are essential in the religious community:

The story of Ananias and Sapphira's deceit serves as a warning about the value of honesty and openness.

Meeting needs and providing service should be the main priorities of leadership:

The seven leaders' appointment emphasizes the value of selfless service and attending to the community's practical needs.

In Acts 7–10, the developing tension between the early church and Jewish authority is highlighted, leading to Stephen's martyrdom.

God's All-Inclusive Scheme:

The Holy Spirit's fall upon Gentiles and Cornelius' conversion reveal God's expanding plan for salvation, which goes beyond Jewish limits.

The Gospel's Universality:

Peter's vision and Cornelius and his family's baptism demonstrate that the gospel is not only for Jews but for people from all countries.

The importance of salvation through faith

Rather than following Jewish law or practices, the story promotes salvation via trust in Jesus Christ.

In Acts 7–10, the developing tension between the early church and Jewish authority is highlighted, leading to Stephen's martyrdom.

God's All-Inclusive Scheme:

The Holy Spirit's fall upon Gentiles and Cornelius' conversion reveal God's expanding plan for salvation, which goes beyond Jewish limits.

The Gospel's Universality:

Peter's vision and Cornelius and his family's baptism demonstrate that the gospel is not only for Jews but for people from all countries.

The importance of salvation through faith

Rather than following Jewish law or practices, the story promotes salvation via trust in Jesus Christ.

God's inclusive grace and the universality of His message are demonstrated by the descent of the Holy Spirit onto Gentiles.

The Church's Development:

Christianity grew as a result of the Antioch church and the dispersal of believers following Stephen's persecution.

Miracles and Persecution:

Miracles like Peter's escape from prison demonstrate God's might and protection, while persecution like that of Herod emphasizes the difficulties early Christians experienced.

Sovereignty of God:

God's involvement in Herod's and the church's affairs shows His absolute authority and the repercussions of disobeying or respecting Him.

The guidance of the Holy Spirit is essential, and believers should have faith in God's plan despite resistance.

The Gospel's Significance

Believers ought to be vigilant in spreading the gospel since it is a potent and transforming message.

The Power of the Holy Spirit:

Believers can overcome obstacles and encounter God's power in their life thanks to the Holy Spirit.