Curral Velho 36

Last night we got home very tired but rejoicing having preached at the 36th anniversary service of our church at Curral Velho (Old Cow Pen) which is led by Missionary Tica and her husband Ramos. Curral Velho is a small town with a population of 2,292 which is 149 km west of Patos taking a drive of 2 and a half to 3 hours to reach. It was a lovely service.

Just before we arrived at the church a local lad was drowned in their lake and a man burst into the church with the news! A minute's silence was held at the beginning of the service.

On the previous day the Curral Velho church baptized 4! 3 were young teenagers plus 1 young Mum! Praise the Lord!

Pastoral Meeting

Last night Liz and I had an excellent pastoral meeting with Pastor Rafael, Pastor Murilo and Missionary Sacha to discuss different aspects of the work in the Patos church. 

This morning I took another school on a nature trail at Green Pastures, and later I am going to preach at Curral Velho.

QPR won away to Blackburn 2 x 1 today and are in 4th place in the Championship. 😃

Acts 9 (résumé): Saul's Conversion

 Acts 9 tells us that "Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples" as he planned the further imprisonment of Christians. As he neared Damascus a light from heaven flashed, he fell to the ground, and Jesus asked why he was persecuting him? He then told him to go into the city where he would be told what to do, but Saul had to be led because the bright light left him blind for 3 days. God then organized it for Ananias, who had serious misgivings about helping Saul, to go and heal Saul and be God's instrument through which Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit and baptized. Saul then spent several days with the disciples in Damascus and he preached in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God, and people were astonished! Hence the Jews planned to kill Saul but they they lowered him to freedom through a basket in an opening in the city wall. When he got to Jerusalem many believers were afraid of him, but Barnabas took him to the apostles and told them what had happened, and Saul stayed with them and spoke boldly in the name of the Lord, and the church enjoyed a time of peace and grew in numbers. Peter travelled around and was used by the Lord to heal a paralytic named Aeneas in Lydda. In Joppa a dedicated woman always helping the poor died, but Peter went there and God used him to raise her from the dead. 

Acts 8 (résumé): The Church persecuted and scattered

Acts 8 starts by telling us that Saul was present at Stephen's death and approved it. Then a great persecution of the church broke out and Saul went from house to house putting the believers in prison. Those that were scattered by the persecution preached the word, and Philip was greatly used of God in Samaria proclaiming Christ with signs following. One man who was converted in Samaria was Simon the Sorcerer who had had a large following thanks to his magic. When the apostles realized the move of God in Samaria they sent Peter and John who prayed on those baptized so that they received the Holy Spirit. Simon then tried to buy the gift of imparting the Holy Spirit which Peter rebuked telling him to repent! Then an angel told Philip to go south to the desert road where he met an Ethiopian eunuch who had been worshipping in Jerusalem. Philip ran alongside his chariot and asked him if he understood what he was reading from the prophet Isaiah chapter 53 and he said no and welcomed Philip in the chariot so that he was able to share with him about Jesus. Soon they came to water so Philip baptized the eunuch who went on his way rejoicing after Philip had gone. 

Bible Study

Last night I led the mid-week prayer meeting and Bible Study and Pastor Rafael gave the final study on the Book of Zephaniah. The praise was led by Louisa and her husband Tiago helped by Espedita and Vasti. It was a nice service. 

I finished yesterday my summary of the first quarter of the Book of Acts covering the first 7 of 28 chapters. Stephen has just "fallen asleep" having been stoned by a violent crowd "approved by Saul/Paul".

This morning I took a group of 60 students aged 15, from the Cristo Rei Catholic School where our granddaughter Beatriz goes, on a nature trail at Green Pastures teaching them to care for creation. It was a lovely morning full of opportunity. Whilst there I both saw and heard Red-Cowled Cardinals, Caatinga Cacholotes, White-naped Jays, Campo Troupials and Chalk-browed Mockingbirds. 

Acts 7 (résumé): Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin

Stephen was asked by the Sanhedrin whether the charges against him of blasphemy were true? So Stephen commenced a long theological and Biblical reply: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me!... God appeared to our father Abraham... so he left the land of the Chaldeans... and God sent him to this land... and promised that his descendants would possess the land... and he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision... and he became the father of Isaac and circumcised him... Isaac became the father of Jacob who became the father of 12 patriarchs... because they were jealous of Joseph they sold him as a slave to Egypt... and much later in a famine our fathers sought food from Joseph... and there in Egypt our people grew a lot... and Moses was preserved by God and God revealed himself to Moses through a burning bush... and was chosen to lead Israel out of Egypt... through the Red Sea... but they ended up worshipping a golden calf... but our forefathers had the tabernacle made as God directed Moses and it remained in the land till the time of David... but it was Solomon who built the temple... but God doesn't live in houses made by men... Heaven is his throne... you stiff-necked people... you are just like your fathers... you always resist the Holy Spirit... you received the law but failed to obey it!" So the leaders "gnashed their teeth at Stephen... but he was full of the Holy Spirit and saw the glory of God... and he said I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God... and the Jews rushed at him and dragged his out of the city to stone him... and while they were stoning him Stephen prayed Lord Jesus receive my spirit... Lord don't hold this against them... and he fell asleep".

Acts 6 (résumé): The choosing of the Seven

With the growing number of believers inter-cultural tensions arose concerning the social work of the church as one group of widows felt they were being neglected in the daily food distribution. Therefore the 12 apostles organized a meeting with the believers in order to improve the administration of social action as they didn't want to neglect the preaching of the Gospel because of this. Hence they decided to chose 7 men full of the Spirit and wisdom, and they chose Stephen, Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas. Thus the number of disciples grew rapidly, including a large number of priests. Then Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, was arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin where he was accused of blasphemy, but "his face was like that of an angel".

Acts 5 (résumé): Ananias & Sapphira

Acts 5, continuing on the theme of the selling of property for the common good, tells of a man called Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, who sold a property. However with his wife's knowledge Ananias kept part of the money and put the rest at the apostles' feet. Peter however perceived what had happened and said to Ananias he had not lied to men but to God! Immediately Ananias dropped dead! 3 hours later Sapphira came in not knowing what had happened and Peter confronted her with her deceit and lies when he perceived that she was traying to sustain the lie, and she also dropped dead bringing great fear upon the whole church. Then the apostles' ministry continued with signs and wonders and many were added to the church. People lined up the sick in the streets so that at least Peter's shadow could touch them and the sick and demon possessed were brought in from neighbouring places and all were healed. This generated jealousy amongst the Jewish religious leaders and they arrested the apostles and jailed them, but during the night the angel of the Lord released them! They then went and taught the Gospel in the temple courts and the Sanhedrin was called to discuss the matter as they were shocked by the apostles' prison escape. Then the Sanhedrin complained that the apostles continued to preach Jesus so they replied, "We must obey God rather than men... Jesus, who you killed, God rose from the dead and exalted him to his right hand... and the leaders were furious and wanted to kill the apostles. However a Pharisee called Gamaliel asked for calm and advocated the apostles' release... and his speech persuaded them to release the apostles with a flogging and they left rejoicing that they had been found worthy to suffer for the Name.... and they never stopped preaching the Gospel!"

Acts 4 (résumé): Peter & John before the Sanhedrin

Then priests, the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came and put Peter and John in jail for proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus, but many believed taking their number up to 5,000. The next day they brought the apostles before the rulers, elders and teachers of the law and asked by what name they did what they did? Peter replied full of the Holy Spirit: "If all this is about the healing of a cripple then let it be known that this was done in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth whom you crucified but God raised from the dead... the stone you builders rejected, has become the capstone.... and salvation is found in no other... and the priests were astonished and could see that they had been with Jesus... and there was nothing they could say with the healed man standing there... so they commanded Peter and John not to preach in the name of Jesus... and they replied that they must obey God and speak what we have seen and heard... so they released the apostles who had healed a man who had been over 40 years a cripple". Then the apostles went back to the Christians and reported all that had happened and they prayed remembering Psalm 2:1-2 "Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?... Now Lord, they prayed, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness... and do signs and wonders in the name of Jesus... and after they prayed the place was shaken and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit". Then all the believers were united and shared their possessions... and with great power they continued to testify to the resurrection of Jesus... and there were no needy people among them because they sold land and houses and put the money at the apostles' feet and it was distributed to the needy".

Acts 3 (résumé): Peter heals a crippled beggar

One day Peter and John were going to the temple when a man crippled from birth asked them for money. Peter said they didn't have money but "what I have I give you... in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk! He jumped to his feet and walked... and he went with them into the temple walking, jumping and praising God! The people were amazed that the temple beggar had been healed and many gathered around them. Peter said: "Why do you stare at us... this wasn't done by our power but God has glorified his servant Jesus!... you preferred a murderer to the author of life who you killed, but God raised him from the dead... so this healing came in the name of Jesus... repent then and turn to God... so that your sins might be wiped out... but anyone that doesn't listen to Jesus will be cut off.... the prophets foresaw these days!"

Acts 2 (résumé): The Day of Pentecost

All Jesus' followers were together on the Day of Pentecost and suddenly there was a violent wind sound and tongues of fire fell on each of them as they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. A crowd gathered to watch and heard people speaking in their languages and they were amazed, though some said that they had had too much to drink! Then Peter stood to address the crowd: "Let me explain this to you... nobody here is drunk but this is what Joel prophesied when God said... I will pour out my Spirit and they will prophesy and have visions and dreams... I will show wonders in heaven and on earth... and everyone that calls on the name of the Lord will be saved... you know Jesus did many miracles... but you crucified him... but God raised him from the dead... and David said about him... you will not abandon me to the grave or let me see decay... seeing what was ahead he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ... God raised Jesus and we are witnesses to this... and he is exalted to the right hand of God... and poured out the promised Holy Spirit... so rest assured that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ... so the people asked what to do?... and Peter replied repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ... and you will receive the Holy Spirit... and about 3,000 were baptized... and they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer... and they had everything in common... and they sold their possessions and shared... and they met together daily... and their number grew daily".

Projects Team

Our Projects Team has delivered all the building materials for another toilet/shower unit this time in the Riacho do Meio Community in the municipality of Diamante. Then further to this pipes have been delivered for the latest well to be drilled in the California Community of the Municipality of Curral Velho where I will be preaching at the weekend. The projects press on for the glory of God and for the blessing of poor and needy communities. 

Yesterday I completed my writing of the syntheses of the 4 Gospels which means I have finished 1,018 chapters of the Bible which is nearly 86%. Now it's on to the 28 chapters of the Book of Acts. 

Today is our grandson Arthur's 25th birthday. Arthur is the grandson that loves travelling round the world. He has been to Africa, Japan, South Korea, Iceland, Italy, England, USA etc. He is a lawyer and travel consultant. Happy Birthday Arthur! 😀

Acts 1 (résumé): Jesus taken up into Heaven

The Book of Acts is the second book written by Luke and covers the coming of the Holy Spirit, the growth of the church in Jerusalem, the spread of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, Paul's missionary journeys and Paul going to Rome.

Acts 1 tells initially of Jesus being taken up into heaven. Proof of Jesus' resurrection is emphasized in that he appeared "over a period of 40 days" and told his followers not to leave Jerusalem but "to wait for the gift my Father promised... and you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit... and you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses... to the ends of the earth... and after he said this he was taken up before their very eyes... and one day he will return in the same way he went". And there were about 120 of them that stayed in Jerusalem in prayer including Jesus' mother and brothers. Then Peter addressed the group about Judas Iscariot's demise and the need to replace him as an apostle. They chose 2 candidates: Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias, and after prayer they drew lots which chose Matthias as the replacement apostle.

John 21 (résumé): Jesus and the miraculous catch of Fish

The disciples went fishing all night and caught nothing, but in the morning Jesus was on the shore and told them just where to cast their nets. The haul was gigantic yielding 153 large fish! Jesus had a fire going on the shore so he cooked fish for them and bread. "Come and have breakfast", Jesus said, "and they knew it was the Lord". This was the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead. When they had finished breakfast Jesus took the opportunity to reinstate Peter's ministry and discipleship. Jesus asked Peter: "Do you love me more than these? (these fish or these disciples?)... Peter answered you know I love you... so Jesus said feed my lambs... then Jesus again asked if Peter truly loved him... and Peter again answered in the affirmative to which Jesus said take care of my sheep...then for the third time Jesus asked the same question... and Peter was again affirmative... and Jesus said feed my sheep... and follow me".

John 20 (résumé): The Resurrection

Early on Sunday morning Mary of Magdala saw that the stone had been removed from Jesus' tomb so she ran to Peter and John to tell them! They hurtled to the tomb, with John outsprinting Peter, and saw the linen burial cloths lying there. Mary stayed there crying and saw 2 angels who asked her why she was crying? She said it was because the Lord's body had gone. Then Jesus appeared but she didn't recognize him thinking he was the gardener, but when he pronounced her name the penny dropped and she cried out "Teacher!" Then Mary of Magdala went and told the disciples: "I have seen the Lord!" Then in the evening Jesus appeared to the disciples and he said "peace be with you", and he showed them his hands and side, and they were overjoyed. Then Jesus said "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you... receive the Holy Spirit... if you forgive sins they are forgiven". Thomas then turned up late, and when they told him about the resurrection he said he wouldn't believe unless he saw the marks on his body and felt them. When Jesus eventually met up with Thomas he showed him his hands and side and said: "Stop doubting and believe!" Thomas reacted saying: "My Lord and my God!" 

John 19 (résumé): The Crucifixion

Pilate had Jesus flogged and the soldiers put mockingly a crown of thorns on his head saying: "Hail king of the Jews". However Pilate knew Jesus was innocent and looked for a way to free him, but finally after immense pressure from the Jews he handed him over to be crucified. They crucified him in the middle of two criminals... he bowed his head and gave up his spirit... and Jesus saw his mother and John the beloved so he commended Mary into John's care. Then Jesus said: "It is finished". Then they pierced his side with a spear from where flowed blood and water. Following this Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for Jesus' body as he was a secret disciple of Jesus. He took the body together with Nicodemus and together they prepared the Lord's body wrapping it with linen and spices brought by Nicodemus. Then they buried Jesus in a brand new tomb. 

John 18 (résumé): Jesus arrested and before Pilate

Then Jesus was arrested by a detachment of soldiers guided by Judas the traitor. Peter reacted violently cutting off the high priest servant Malchus's ear, but Jesus told him to put his sword away. Then Peter made his first denial of being a disciple of Jesus. Meanwhile the high priest questioned Jesus and an official struck Jesus in the face when he didn't like an answer Jesus gave. Then Peter denied Jesus twice further and then the cock began to crow. Then the Jews led Jesus bound to the Roman Governor Pilate who asked if he was the king of the Jews and what he had done? Jesus said his kingdom was not of this world... I am a king born for this purpose and I came into this world to testify to the truth. Then Pilate said he found no basis for charges against Jesus, but in accordance with custom Pilate offered them the choice of releasing the criminal Barabbas or the king of the Jews Jesus and they chose Barabbas. 

John 17 (résumé): Jesus Prays

 Jesus looked to heaven and prayed: "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you... I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do... I have revealed you... and given them the words you gave me... so I pray for them... and all I have is yours... Holy Father protect them the disciples by the power of your name so that they may be one as we are one... none has been lost except the one doomed to destruction... I have given them your word and the world has hated them for not being of the world as nor am I... my prayer is not to take them out of the world but to protect them in it...sanctify them by your truth... but I don't just pray for the disciples... I pray for all those who will believe that all of them may be one... that the world may know that you have sent me... Father may those you have given me be with you where I am and see my glory... I will continue to make you known so that your love for me may be in them".

John 16 (résumé): The Work of the Holy Spirit

Jesus now warns his followers that it will not always be easy to be a Christian and there will be those who think killing disciples is service to God! Then Jesus speaks of the coming work of the Holy Spirit saying: "It is for your good that I am going away... because unless I go the Counsellor won't come... and he will convict the world... when he the Spirit of Truth comes he will guide you into all truth... and he will tell you what is yet to come... in a little while you will see me no more". The disciples didn't understand but Jesus prophesied that "You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy... and no-one will take away your joy... ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete... the Father has loved you because you have loved me... you believe at last Jesus said... but you will leave me alone... yet the Father is with me... and I have shared these things so that you may have peace".

John 15 (résumé): The Vine and the Branches

Jesus then says: I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener... he prunes fruitless branches... remain in me, and I will remain in you... I am the vine and you are the branches so if you remain linked to me you will produce much fruit... this is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit... As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Now remain in my love... greater love has no-one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends... and you are my friends if you do my commands... you did not chose me but I chose you to go and bear fruit... this is my command: Love one another... but if the world hates you... remember it hated me first and no servant is greater than his master... and he who hates me hates the Father as well... and they hated me without reason... when the Counsellor comes the Spirit of Truth will testify of me".

John 14 (résumé): Jesus the Way to the Father

Jesus comforts his disciples telling them that he is going to prepare a place for them in his Father's house and he says: "I am the way, the truth and the life. No-one comes to the Father except through me... anyone who has seen me has seen the Father... I am in the Father and the Father is in me... and you may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it". He then goes on to say: "If you love me you will obey what I command... and the Father will give you another Counsellor to be with you forever - The Spirit of Truth... I will not leave you orphans... and because I live you will live also... if anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching... and the Counsellor, The Holy Spirit... will teach you all things... Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you... don't let your hearts be troubled, don't be afraid".

John 13 (résumé): Jesus washes his disciples' feet

 Just before the Passover Jesus and his disciples were being served an evening meal when Jesus wrapped a towel round his waist, poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet. When Jesus got to Peter he refused to have his feet washed, so Jesus said: "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me... so Peter changed his mind!" Then Jesus said: "I have set you an example... you also should wash one another's feet... for no servant is greater than his master... so blessed you will be if you do this". Then Jesus said: "Whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me... but I tell you that one of you is going to betray me... and Jesus showed that he knew that this would be Judas Iscariot... and Satan entered into him".

John 12 (résumé): Jesus' triumphal entry to Jerusalem

6 days before the Passover Jesus went to Bethany for a dinner given in his honour by Martha, and Mary poured half a litre of expensive perfume on his feet and wiped his feet with her hair, but Judas Iscariot complained about the waste of money yet Jesus defended Mary telling Judas to "leave her alone". The next day a great crowd heard that Jesus was going to Jerusalem so they took palm branches and went out to meet him shouting: "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Jesus came riding a young donkey. Then Jesus declared: "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified... if an ear of wheat falls and dies it produces many seeds... now is the time for judgement on this world... but when I am lifted up I will draw all men to myself... walk while you have light, before darkness overtakes you". Still many would not believe in Jesus fulfilling Isaiah 53: "Lord, who has believed our report?... and Isaiah 6:10 which says He has blinded their eyes". Then Jesus said: "There is a judge for the one who rejects me... that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day".

Flights

Our son Philip, his wife Gylmara and their sons Lucas (19) and Luis (10) fly back to England tonight. They all go together to Lisbon, and then Lucas goes to Gatwick whereas the rest go to Heathrow. Please pray for their flights.

Last night I travelled to São Mamede with the Men's Fellowship and I preached on 'A Prophet without Honour' from Mark 6:1-6.

I am half way through the Gospel of John, with my summaries of the Bible, having completed over one thousand chapters of the Word of God. 

Out team, led by Pastor Rafael, is taking a very needy case to drug rehab today. Please pray. 

John 11 (résumé): The death and resurrection of Lazarus

 Lazarus was the brother of Mary and Martha at Bethany and he was very ill so they sent word to Jesus who was very close to Lazarus, but Jesus was slow in coming. Jesus said: "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going to wake him up". When Jesus finally arrived at Bethany Lazarus had been buried for 4 days but Jesus said to Martha that he would rise again. Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life". Then Mary joined Jesus and Martha weeping, and Jesus wept. Then they went to the tomb and they took away the stone and Jesus called out with a loud voice: "Lazarus, come out!" And when he came out Jesus told them to take off his grave clothes and let him go. Following this miracle the high priest and religious leaders increased their plotting against Jesus because many were believing in the Lord and they feared the momentum of faith would become unstoppable. 

John 10 (résumé): The Shepherd and his Flock

Jesus now teaches that the man who doesn't enter the sheep pen by the gate is a thief, but the shepherd enters by the gate and calls his sheep by name. The sheep follow the shepherd because they know his voice and Jesus says I am the gate for the sheep and whoever enters through me will be saved. "I am the good shepherd" said Jesus "and I lay down my life for the sheep". Then the Jews insisted on a plain answer as to whether Jesus was the Christ. Jesus said he had already answered by his works because "the miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, but you don't believe... because you aren't my sheep... but believe the miracles that you may learn that the Father is in me, and I in the Father".

John 9 (résumé): Jesus heals a man born blind

Then Jesus healed a man born blind by spitting and making mud pancakes and putting them on his eyes so that when he washed off the mud in the Pool of Siloam he regained his sight. The disciples asked about the cause of the blindness and whether it was his sin or his parents? Jesus said neither was the case but so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. However the Pharisees felt provoked by the healing especially as it was done on a Sabbath. They also raised questions about the genuineness of the healing and whether Jesus was in fact a sinner. So the man answered "Whether he's a sinner or not I don't know. But one thing I do know. I was blind but now I see". Then Jesus explained the Gospel to the man who had been healed yet had been ill-treated by the Pharisees as a consequence, and the man said: "Lord, I believe, and he worshipped Jesus". Jesus said "For judgement I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who will see will become blind!" 

John 8 (résumé): The validity of Jesus' Testimony

(John 7:53 to 8:11 is not found in the earliest and most reliable manuscripts)

A woman caught in adultery was bought before Jesus to see whether he would apply the law to her and have her stoned. (Where the man was I have no idea!) Jesus called those present without sin to cast the first stone, and as nobody did this Jesus said neither did he condemn her. "Go now and leave your life of sin" Jesus concluded. Then Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness... I stand with the Father who sent me... my witness is the Father who sent me... I am going away... where I go you cannot come... you are from below and I am from above... when you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know who I am... the one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone... and many put their faith in him". Then Jesus said to the believing Jews "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free... for everyone who sins is a slave of sin... but if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed". The non-believing Jews however were angry because Jesus said they needed setting free. Then Jesus went on to say that "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out his desire to murder... and he is a liar and the father of lies... I am telling you the truth. Why don't you believe me? He who belongs to God hears what God says". Then the Jews said that Jesus was a demon-possessed Samaritan... Jesus replied that he was not demon-possessed... I tell you the truth, if a man keeps my word, he will never see death... and the Jews asked if he was greater that Abraham who died?... Jesus answered that the Father glorifies him... but before Abraham was born, I am!... so they tried to stone Jesus!"

Old Cow Pen

I have been preparing my sermon for this coming Saturday at Curral Velho (Old Cow Pen) which is about a two and a half hours drive west of Patos. The church there is led by Tica and her husband Ramos. Sacha will take the service at the Green Pastures church in my absence. Ramos is an excellent cook! 😋

I have finished my summary of Luke's Gospel, chapter by chapter, thus completing 997 chapters of the Bible which is 84%. Now it's on to the 21 chapters of John's Gospel to complete the gospels. The 1000th chapter of the Bible is "You must be born again... God so loved the world"! 

Our toilet/shower project is going ahead well. The new toilet in the Tamandua Community is greatly appreciated by Damião, Márcia and their 5 children. The second recent toilet was built at the Barra de Oitis Community for Raimundo, Felícia and their 3 children. The third recent toilet was built at Patuscada Community for Deusimar, Camila and their little boy Antonio aged 2. Deusimar is away orange picking in the south of Brazil now in order to survive. 

John 7 (résumé): Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles

 Jesus' brothers went to the Feast of Tabernacles but Jesus went secretly alone and the Jews were looking out for him. Only half way through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple and begin to teach. The Jews were amazed and Jesus said: "My teaching is not my own. It comes from him who sent me". Then some questioned if Jesus was the Christ and others tried to seize him unsuccessfully because his time had not yet come. On the other hand "many in the crowd declared their faith in him" amazed at his miraculous signs. Then Jesus said: "I am with you for a short time... you will look for me and not fine me, and where I am you cannot come". Then on the last day of the Feast Jesus stood up and said in a loud voice: "If a man is thirsty let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me streams of living water will flow from within him". Such declarations by Jesus generated conflicting opinions with some in favour and some against. 

John 6 (résumé): Jesus feed 5,000 and walks on Water

Jesus saw a great crowd and questioned how to feed them and the disciples said it would cost a fortune! However Andrew presented a boy with 5 loaves of barley bread and 2 fish so Jesus gave thanks and then proceeded to distribute to all 5,000 men, and 12 basketfuls were left over at the end! After this the disciples went across the lake in a boat and had gone 5 or 6 kilometers when Jesus caught them up walking on the water, and the disciples were terrified! The crowds then went after Jesus and he said they wanted more loaves and fishes, but they should rather focus on "food that endures to eternal life... for the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world... give us this bread they said... Jesus answered I am the bread of life...  he who comes to me will never go hungry... and everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life... everyone that listens to the Father comes to me... I am the living bread that came down from heaven... and whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life... this is the bread from heaven which makes you live forever". Many disciples deserted Jesus because they found his teaching hard but Jesus said "the words I have spoken are spirit and they are life". In the face of many deserting Jesus he asked the 12 disciples if they wanted to leave also? Peter replied: To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life".

John 5 (résumé): The Pool Legend

John 5 tells the unusual story of a legendary pool which was said to have healing powers "when the water is stirred" and first in the pool after this was healed. However a man who had been an invalid for 38 years was healed by Jesus by the pool and was criticized for having picked up his mat on the Sabbath! The Jews persecuted Jesus for doing things on the Sabbath and because he referred to God as his own father. But Jesus said: "whatever the Father does the Son does also... and the Father has entrusted all judgement to the Son... and he who does not honour the Son does not honour the Father, who sent him... I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life... and I seek not to please myself but him who sent me". Then Jesus said that "the very work that the Father has given me testifies that the Father has sent me... the Scriptures testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life... if you believed Moses you would believe me".

John 4 (résumé): The Woman at the Well

Jesus went through Samaria and stopped for water at Jacob's well. He asked a Samaritan woman for a drink which she found strange as Jews don't normally associate with Samaritans. Jesus said he could give her living water which was again odd as he didn't have anything to draw water with from the well. Where can you get this living water, she asked? Jesus said: "Whoever drinks the water I give will never thirst again... so the woman requested this water... but he told her to call her husband which she didn't have although she had had 5 and Jesus knew all about her! She said I can see your are a prophet... and Jesus said God is spirit, and his worshippers must worship him in spirit and in truth. Then the woman went to the town and called people to come and see a man who knew all about her. Jesus said look at the fields which are ripe unto harvest. Then many Samaritans from the town believed in him and Jesus stayed two days with them and many more got saved and said they realized that Jesus was the saviour of the world. Next Jesus healed a royal official's son at a distance, and this was Jesus' second miracle.

John 3 (résumé): Jesus teaches Nicodemus

Jesus received a discreet night-time visit from a leading Pharisee called Nicodemus and Jesus told him straight that "unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God... Nicodemus questioned this and Jesus said... unless a man is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter the kingdom of God... so it is with everyone born of the Spirit... and Jesus laments Nicodemus's lack of spiritual understanding... saying that just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up so that everyone who believes might have eternal life in him... for God so loved the world that he gave his only son... to save the world through him... and whoever lives by the truth comes into the light". Then John the Baptist repeated that he was not the Christ and "he (Jesus) must become greater; I must become less... the one who comes from above is above all... the friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice... the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God... to him God gives the Spirit without limit... and whoever believes in the Son has eternal life".

John 2 (résumé): Water into Wine!

 Jesus, his mother and disciples went to a wedding at Cana in Galilee and at the banquet they ran out of wine. When Mary told Jesus about the embarrassing situation Jesus initially didn't want to get involved but eventually he did by changing at least 120 gallons of water into wine, and it was commented by the guests that they had kept the best wine till last! Hence this was Jesus' first miracle. Then nearing the Passover Jesus went to Jerusalem and he was horrified seeing all the commerce going on in the temple court and he made a whip and drove the animals and people out and the disciples remembered Psalm 69:9 - "Zeal for your house will consume me". Then the Jews demanded a sign to authenticate his authority and he said: "Destroy this temple (his body) and I will raise it again in 3 days". After the resurrection the disciples recalled these words. 

John 1 (résumé): The Word became Flesh

John 1 introduces Jesus as the eternal Word of God who became flesh. "Through him all things were made... in him was life... John (the Baptist) was sent from God to be a witness of Jesus... so that men might believe... but the world didn't recognize Jesus... his own didn't receive him... but to those who believe he gave the right to become children of God... we have seen his glory... full of grace and truth... the law was given through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ". Then John the Baptist says "I am not the Christ... who are you then they asked? John said I am the voice of one calling in the desert, prepare the way for the Lord... so they asked why he baptized if he wasn't the Christ?... and he answered I baptize with water but the one coming after me I am not worthy to untie his sandals!" The next day John saw Jesus and declared: "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!... and John saw the Spirit come down on Jesus like a dove.... I baptize with water but he will baptize with the Holy Spirit!" Then the next day Jesus called Andrew and his brother Simon, whom Jesus called Peter, and they were Jesus' first disciples. Then Jesus called Philip to follow him, and he passed on the word about Jesus to Nathanael but he questioned about Jesus being from Nazareth, but soon his eyes were open and he declared: "You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel". 

Luke 24 (résumé): The Resurrection

Very early on the Sunday morning after the crucifixion women took spices to the tomb but found the stone rolled away and no body! Two men/angels appeared and asked them why they were looking for the living among the dead? "He is not here. He is risen!" The women remembered Jesus' prediction of this. Then the women went and told the disciples but they didn't believe it, and Peter ran to the tomb! Then 2 of the disciples were on their way to Emmaus and Jesus joined them though they didn't recognize him. They discussed all that had happened with Jesus, and when they stopped to eat and Jesus gave thanks the men realized who he was... but then Jesus disappeared... and the disciples commented how their hearts had burned within them listening to Jesus. Then in Jerusalem Jesus appeared to all the disciples and he said; "Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself!" Then Jesus ate fish with the disciples... and "opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures... but he said stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high". Then Jesus "lifted up his hands and blessed them... and he was taken up into heaven... and they worshipped him with great joy".

Luke 23 (résumé): The Crucifixion

Jesus was now led before Pilate who asked him if he was the king of the Jews and Jesus said yes, but this was not a basis for a charge against the Lord, but as he was from Galilee he was sent before Herod who sent him back to Pilate. Neither Herod nor Pilate found anything against Jesus but the crowd insisted on his crucifixion and the release of the murderer Barabbas in his place, so Pilate "surrendered Jesus to their will". Then Jesus was crucified together with 2 criminals and Jesus prayed: "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing". The rulers "sneered at Jesus... and the soldiers mocked him... with a written notice above him that he was the king of the Jews". One criminal on one of the crosses insulted Jesus, but the other said: "remember me when you come into your kingdom... and Jesus answered that today you will be with me in paradise". Then there was a period of darkness for 3 hours after which Jesus committed his spirit to the Father and breathed his last, and then Jesus was buried. 

Luke 22 (résumé): The Last Supper

With the Passover fast approaching the Jewish leadership sought ways to get rid of Jesus and Judas Iscariot agreed to betray Jesus to them for money and so he looked for an opportunity to do this. Then Jesus and his disciples met in a large upper room to celebrate the Passover. Then Jesus took the cup, gave thanks, and said this was the last time he would drink it until the kingdom of God comes. Then he broke the bread saying "this is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me". Then he said "woe to the man who betrays me. The disciples even argued about who would be the greatest and Jesus said, "the one who rules is the one who serves... Simon I have prayed for you that your faith will not fail... Simon Peter said he would die for the Lord... but Jesus said he would deny him 3 times before the cock crowed... it is written he was numbered with the transgressors, and I tell you that this will be fulfilled in me". Then Jesus went to pray on the Mount of Olives where he prayed a stone's throw from his disciples for the Father to take "this cup from him... but that God's will should be done". Then an angel came and strengthened him but Jesus continued in earnest prayer sweating drops of blood in the process. Then Judas betrayed Jesus and one of the disciples cut off the high priest's servant's right ear, but Jesus healed him. Then Jesus was seized and three times following this Peter denied association with him, but then the cock crowed and he wept bitterly. Meanwhile the soldiers guarding Jesus mocked and beat him, and at daybreak the chief priests and teachers of the law questioned Jesus as to him being the Son of God which Jesus didn't deny.

Led & Preached

Last night I led the main service of the week in Patos and I preached on Revelation 22 + Ezekiel 47. Philip brought a nice word too prior to his return to England with his family on Wednesday. Their plan is to definitively return to Brazil next summer once their youngest son Luis has finished Primary School at Chalk Ridge School in Basingstoke. It was a lovely service. 

Luke 21 (résumé): Signs of the End of the Age

First of all in Luke 21 Jesus compares the rich contributing out of their wealth to the temple treasury with a poor widow who gave two copper coins which was all she had. Jesus says the widow contributed more! Jesus then made reference to the destruction of the temple and the disciples asked when this would be? Jesus answered talking about false Christs appearing and wars and revolutions before the end would come. Other signs before the end will include "nations rising against nations, earthquakes, famines, pestilences, fearful events and signs from heaven... you will be persecuted... and speak to kings and governors... all men will hate you because of me... and when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies the desolation is near... and pregnant women will suffer... and many will be taken prisoners... there will also be signs in the sun, moon and stars... men will faint from terror... and at that time they will see the Son of Man coming with power and glory... then stand up because your redemption is drawing near... and like the fig tree sprouts leaves in summer so you will know that the kingdom is near... that day will come unexpectedly... so watch and pray!"

Luke 20 (résumé): The Authority of Jesus questioned

In Luke 20 the chief priests questioned Jesus' authority so Jesus replied with another question about John the Baptist and they dodged the answer. Hence Jesus also dodged the original query in exchange. Then Jesus told the Parable of the Tenants in which a landowner rented out his vineyard, but when he sent his servants to collect the rent the farmers beat them up and on one occasion killed them. So the landowner send his son to sort it out and they killed him too. So the man killed the tenants and rented it to others, and the chief priests were angry and sought to kill Jesus because they know the parable was against them. Next came a trick question about whether is was right to pay tax and Jesus said: "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's... they were astonished by his answer". Then the Sadducees asked Jesus who would a woman be wife of in eternity if she had married 7 times? Jesus answered none of them because in the resurrection we are like the angels. Jesus then quoted Psalm 110:1 "The Lord said to my Lord; sit at my right hand". This was to show that as David calls the Christ Lord, the Christ cannot just be David's son. He then goes on warn against the teachers of the law who are just for show and "will be severely punished".

Luke 19 (résumé): Zacchaeus the Tax Collector

Jesus was passing through Jericho and there a wealthy chief tax collector called Zacchaeus wanted to see him but couldn't because of the crowd as he was short. Zacchaeus ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree but Jesus spotted him and told him to come down because he was going to stay at his house! Zacchaeus immediately declared that he would give half his possessions to the poor and repay fourfold anyone he had cheated. Then Jesus declared: "Today salvation has come to this house... for the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost". Then Jesus told the Parable of the Ten Minas. (a mina was about 3 months' wages) Jesus said a man was to be appointed king in a different county but he faced opposition. He left minas (10, 5 and 1) with his servants to invest in his absence and rewarded them according to their success, but he punished the one who did nothing and took everything away from him. He then had the opposition to his kingship executed. Then Jesus made a joyful and triumphant entrance into Jerusalem mounted on a borrowed colt. People spread their cloaks on the road before him and joyfully praised God saying: "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord"! The Pharisees objected to this, but Jesus said: "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out". Jesus however wept over Jerusalem because destruction was imminent because they "did not recognize the time of God's coming". Then Jesus entered the temple driving out those selling there and making it a "den of thieves" and not "a house of prayer". Jesus then carried on teaching in the temple, but the leaders plotted to kill him.

Seventy-Five Percent

I have now concluded 75% of Luke's 24 chapters. Luke is the longest of the Gospels as the chapters are long. I especially love the exclusive Parable of the Good Samaritan in chapter 10 with the Jewish religious priest and the Levite doing nothing for the neighbour-victim, but a non-Jewish Samaritan cared for him, saved him, put him on his own donkey, and paid for all his treatment! 🙌Then the one leper who returned to thank Jesus out of the 10 healed was a Samaritan too in chapter 17!

Yesterday we held our monthly sports morning at our Pastor Frank Dyer School led my Michael and Michelle. There were over 30 teenagers there who used to be our pupils at the primary school and we pray for the salvation of all of them. 

QPR drew at home to Bolton yesterday 0 x 0 and so are now in 5th place in the Championship. Rangers had a lots of chances but didn't take them.

Alex Souto, our site technical man, has now brought all my résumés of the Bible published up-to-date on the EAB website. Please take a took at my hard work: www.eabrazil.org which I hope to complete in the next few months having finished 83% of the Bible to date. I am thoroughly enjoying the work for the glory of God. 

Liz went to the Pastor Frank Dyer School yesterday evening's special monthly service and says it was really good. I was busy preparing to preach in Patos tonight.

Edson and Camila at Queimadas Community in the municipality of Tavares are very happy with their new chicken run and 20 chickens which gives a boost to their income. This is part of our 2-Wings Project. (Camila gets around doesn't she?! 😉)

Luke 18 (résumé): More Parables

 Jesus starts Luke 18 with the Parable of the Persistent Widow which shows that people "should always pray and not give up". The Parable tells of a judge who didn't fear God or care about man, and a widow  kept coming to him asking for justice but he couldn't care less! However she kept coming so much that he granted her wish just to get some peace. So Jesus says "God will bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night". Next comes the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. In the Parable the Pharisee prayed exalting himself... I'm not a robber or an adulterer... and I pay my tithes and fast... whereas the tax collector humbly cried God, have mercy on me a sinner... this man went home justified, said Jesus, for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled". Then people were bringing babies to Jesus for a blessing, but the disciples rebuked them. Jesus however welcomed the children because "of such is the kingdom of heaven". Then a rich young ruler enquired about eternal life and Jesus told him to keep the commandments which he said he already did. Then Jesus added that he should sell everything and give to the poor. This saddened the man as he was wealthy. Jesus then remarked how difficult it was for the rich to enter the kingdom of God... but all things are possible for God... but those who leave all for the kingdom will be rewarded. Jesus then explained to the 12 about his imminent mocking, insulting, killing and rising from the dead, but they could not take it in. Finally Jesus healed a blind man sitting by the road near Jericho. The man became a follower of Jesus and praised God profusely.

Luke 17 (résumé): Sin, Faith, Duty

Jesus said "watch yourselves... and don't cause one of these little ones to sin... if your brother sins , rebuke him, if he repents, forgive him... seven times in a day... the apostles asked for an increase in faith... and Jesus said they needed faith the size of a mustard seed... we are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty". Then Jesus healed 10 lepers but only one of them came to thank him and he was a foreigner... a Samaritan. Jesus then taught that "the kingdom of God doesn't come visibly... the kingdom of God is within you... and the Son of Man must be rejected by this generation... but will be like flashing lightening... just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man... so it was too in the days of Lot with everything normal till came the destruction of Sodom... but remember Lot's wife and don't go back after anything on the day of the Son of Man... one person will be taken and the other left behind... and where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather".

Luke 16 (résumé): The Parable of the Shrewd Manager

Now Jesus tells the Parable of the Shrewd Manager who was accused of wasting the possessions of his rich boss and was to be sacked. The manager thought quickly what to do to make his jobless life viable and proceeded to give discounts on people's debts so as to gain their favour for the future. "The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly... but no servant can serve two masters... and you cannot serve both God and money". Money is a tool to be managed faithfully and not a master to be worshipped. The manager was commended for shrewdness and not for his dishonesty. Then Jesus tells the story of two men who both died. Lazarus, the beggar, had laid at the gate of the rich man who had lived in luxury. The rich man went to hell and Lazarus went to be with Abraham, and the rich man asked for help from Abraham. Abraham said here was an unsurmountable gap between him and hell, so the rich man asked that a messenger be sent to his 5 brothers, but Abraham said they had Moses and the Prophets and that is sufficient.

Luke 15 (résumé): 3 Parables

Jesus was being criticized by the Pharisees for welcoming sinners and eating with them, so he told the Parable of the Lost Sheep in which a man loses one of his flock of 100 sheep and goes searching for it until he finds it. (1%) Then he rejoices with his friends as there is rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner. Next Jesus tells the Parable of the Lost Coin in which a woman had 10 coins and lost one of them. (10%) So the woman searched everywhere until she found it and rejoiced with her friends upon finding it. Such will be the rejoicing over one repentant sinner. Finally Jesus tells the Parable of the Lost Son in which the prodigal son went away leaving his father with his only other son. (50%) Eventually the lost son returned and there was great rejoicing and a banquet (about which the faithful son wasn't happy) for which the fatted calf was slaughtered. The father said we had to celebrate because my son was dead and is alive again, was lost and is found.

Luke 14 (résumé): Jesus at a Pharisee's House

Jesus went to have a meal at a prominent Pharisee's house and was being closely observed as he was faced with a man with dropsy or fluid retention. Jesus preempted their question asking them if healing on the sabbath was permittable, and they remained silent. So Jesus healed the man saying that if your son falls into a well on the sabbath don't you rescue him? Then Jesus criticized the vying for seats of honor in the banquet saying that people should humbly take lower seats "because everyone who exalts himself will be humbled". Jesus said don't just invite the rich to your dinners, but invite the poor, crippled, lame and blind... and you will be blessed". Then Jesus told about a banquet with many invited guests, but when the time approached the guests all started making excuses not to go. So the master sent out his servant to the streets and alleys and invited the poor, crippled, blind and lame. When there was still space he sent out again to compel people in the country lanes to come in "so that my house will be full". Finally Jesus said that to be his disciple you had to be willing to abandon your family... because if you're going to build you work out the budget first... and if you're going to war you assess the enemy first... so salt without flavour is worthless". 

Luke 13 (résumé): Repent or Perish!

Luke 13 commences with Jesus' call to the people to repent or perish! Jesus reacts to news of the tragic deaths of some Galileans who "were not worse sinners because they suffered in this way... but unless you repent you too will perish". He then told a parable of a fig tree given a 4th chance to produce fruit! So repent or perish! Then Jesus healed a woman who had been crippled and bent over for 18 years and the synagogue ruler was irate because he had done it on a sabbath! Don't you give water to your donkey on a sabbath, asked Jesus? So this woman could be set free from Satan's bondage on a sabbath. Then with the Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast Jesus showed that the kingdom of God's silent small beginnings had dramatic far-reaching effects and results. Jesus went on to teach that the door of salvation was a narrow door and "many will try to enter but will not be able to... and once the owner of the house closes the door there will be no entry... and there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth... though many will come to the kingdom from east, west, north and south... but the first will be last and the last first". Then the Pharisees told Jesus that Herod wanted to kill him so Jesus said: "Go tell that fox... I will reach my goal... O Jerusalem who kills the prophets... I have longed to gather you under my wings but you were not willing... you won't see me again till you say blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord".

Luke 12 (résumé): Warnings & Encouragements

Jesus starts Luke 12 warning the disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees saying: "There is nothing concealed that won't be disclosed". "Fear him who can send you to hell... and he who disowns me will be disowned before God... and he who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven". Then Jesus told the Parable of the Rich Fool who after a good harvest decided to "take life easy, eat, drink and be merry... without realizing that "this night your life will be demanded from you". Jesus then went on to say that "Life is more than food... why do you worry about what you need in life... God provides for the ravens and cares for the lilies... so trust God, sell your possessions and give to the poor... for where your treasure is there will your heart be also". Jesus then goes on to speak about watchfulness. "It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night... you must be ready... because the Son of Man will come at an unexpected hour... the servant who knows his master's will and doesn't get ready will be beaten with many blows". Jesus then declares that he hasn't come to bring peace, but division. This division will be seen within families. Then the chapter closes with Jesus criticizing people for perceiving signs of the weather yet failing "to interpret (the signs of) this present time".

Luke 11 (résumé): Prayer + Beelzebub + 6 Woes

One of Jesus' disciples asked the Lord to teach them to pray and Jesus said they should ask God the Father for the kingdom to come, for daily bread, for forgiveness, for distance from temptation and the disposition to forgive. Jesus taught persistence in prayer, "ask and it will be given to you" because if you ask for fish you will not be given a snake, so God will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask. Next came accusations that Jesus was driving out demons by Beelzebub after he had delivered a mute. Jesus of course refuted this showing that  "Satan divided against himself would not stand". Then Jesus said, "He who is not with me is against me". He then warned about post-deliverance care which can produce a situation where "the final condition is worse than the first". Jesus then criticized "this wicked generation for asking for a miraculous sign" whereas the only sign that would be given was "the sign of Jonah". Jesus says Jonah's generation would condemn the current one and "one greater than Jonah was here". Jesus then says that no-one lights a lamp to hide it... so "if your whole body is full of light... it will be completely lighted, as when the lamp shines on you". Finally Jesus is criticized by a Pharisee for non-ceremonial washing but Jesus criticizes the man for external ritual lacking in internal virtues. Woe to you Pharisees, declares Jesus, who pay tithes but neglect justice and love; who covet the best seats in the synagogue; who burden the people with insupportable rules; who build tombs for the prophets that your own forefathers killed; and "have taken away the key to knowledge". 

Chess

Yesterday early in the evening we went out to Green Pastures where Philip, Gylmara and family are for the weekend with Gyl's parents, and her sister and her son, from João Pessoa. Philip and I then enjoyed eating hotdogs together prior to launching into a duel of two games of chess which we won one a piece. It was a lovely evening with Luis scaring his sister with a nice toad he found! 

Luke 10 (résumé): Jesus send out 72 + the Parable of the Good Samaritan

 Now Jesus sent out 72 followers two by two saying "the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few... I am sending you like lambs among wolves... heal the sick... and shake the dust off your feet when rejected... but "the kingdom of God is near you" should be your message... and judgement will be ruthless like at Sodom for such towns that reject the Gospel. "He who listens to you listens to me"". So the 72 returned from mission with joy and thrilled that evil spirits submitted to them. However Jesus told them not to rejoice about that, but rather that their names are written in heaven. Then Jesus praised God for having revealed the truth to little children and he also rejoiced over his intimate relationship with God the Father. Then Jesus said to the disciples: "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see". Jesus was then tested by a legal expert as to "who is my neighbour?" after they had agreed that to inherit eternal life you should love God with everything and love your neighbour as yourself. To answer the query on "neighbour" Jesus told the Parable of the Good Samaritan in which a man was left half dead by robbers on the road between Jerusalem and Jericho. A priest came past and ignored the man. Next came a Levite who looked and avoided getting involved too. However then came a Samaritan who took pity on the man, bandaged his wounds, poured in oil and wine, and put him on his donkey and took him to an inn for him to be taken care of. He even paid for his care and promised to pay for any expenses incurred! Who was the neighbour? asked Jesus, and the legal expert replied: "The one who had mercy on him". Jesus then told him: "Go and do likewise". Finally Jesus and the disciples were cared for at Mary and Martha's house. Mary was enthralled by Jesus and sat at his feet listening to him. However Martha complained that Mary wasn't helping her with the work, but Jesus took Mary's side saying she had "chosen what was better".

Luke 9 (résumé): Jesus sends out the 12 + Feeds 5,000

Luke 9 starts telling us that Jesus sent out the 12 with authority to drive out demons, cure diseases and preach the kingdom. They were to take nothing with them for their travels and to shake the dust off their feet if they were rejected. Herod became inquisitive about Jesus as he heard about Jesus's exploits. Jesus then fed 5,000 men with 5 loaves and 2 fishes after teaching them about the kingdom, and they even collected 12 baskets of left-overs afterwards. Next Jesus asked the disciples who people were saying he was and they answered John the Baptist, Elijah or another of the prophets. "But what about you?" Jesus asked, and Peter said that Jesus was "the Christ of God". Jesus told them to repeat this to nobody, and proceeded to repeat to them that he was going to die and then rise again. And he said that to follow him would demand taking up the cross daily... and that some of them wouldn't die before seeing the kingdom. 8 days later Jesus took Peter, James and John up a high mountain where his clothes became as bright as lightening and Moses and Elijah appeared. Then a cloud enveloped them and a voice told them to listen to Jesus. Following this a man asked Jesus to heal his son suffering with constant convulsions as the disciples had tried unsuccessfully. Jesus rebuked the evil spirit, healed him and returned him to his father, before again warning the disciples of his impending betrayal, but they didn't grasp what he was saying. Then the disciples argued about which of them would be the greatest and Jesus said that "he who is least among you is the greatest". Then they told Jesus how they had tried to stop someone driving out a demon because he wasn't a disciple. Jesus stood against this saying he who isn't against us is for us. Then there was a clash in a Samaritan village and Jesus rebuked the disciples' intended aggression against the people. Then a man promised to follow Jesus wherever it takes, but Jesus said "foxes have holes, birds have nests, but the Son of Many has nowhere to lay his head... then Jesus called another man to follow him but he asked for time to bury his father first... so Jesus said let the dead bury the dead". Then Jesus called another to follow him and he asked to go and bid farewell to his family first. Jesus said "no-one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for service in God's kingdom!"

Sacha's Birthday

Last night we had a family get-together for our youngest daughter Sacha's 40th birthday with her husband Biba and their two daughters Alice and Bia. We took the opportunity to get a photo of us with all 4 of our children and all 9 of our grandchildren. It was a lovely evening together around a light meal.

Yesterday our church band guitar player Rogaciano and his wife Monyque had their first baby which was a lovely little girl called Allana. 

Our late EAB supporter Sid Wilder's celebration of his life will be held at 1 pm on Friday, September 11th, at the St John's Church, Southend-On-Sea, SS1 2AL. Sid was 93. 

Luke 8 (résumé): The Parable of the Sower & more miracles

 Jesus went from place to place proclaiming the Gospel, the 12 were with him and so were some supportive women such as Mary Magdalene, Joanna and Susanna. Then Jesus told the Parable of the Sower to the crowd saying a farmer went out to sow, and some seed fell on the path where the birds ate it (Jesus says the birds represent the devil's opposition to his word), other seed fell on rocky ground and soon withered for lack of roots (Jesus says this represents those who initially accept the Gospel but don't last), further seed fell on thorny land and the thorn choked the plants (Jesus said they represent those who accept the words but then get choked by the pressures of life), and finally seeds fell on good soil which produced much fruit (Jesus says this represents those who receive the word and persevere). After this Jesus says nobody lights a lamp and puts it under a bed. Rather they put it on a stand. So Jesus says that "there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed". Then Mary and the family came to visit Jesus, but couldn't reach him because of the crowd, but when someone told Jesus his family was there he dismissed this saying that his mother and brothers are those who practice God's word. Then Jesus and his disciples were crossing the lake in a boat and Jesus dropped off to sleep as he was very tired. However a storm came putting them in danger so they woke Jesus telling him they were going to drown! Jesus immediately calmed the storm and asked the disciples what had happened to their faith? Next Jesus set free a demon-possessed unstoppably-strong man possessed by a "legion" of spirits. These spirits fled into a herd of pigs and killed them! However the man now sat peacefully at Jesus' feet, dressed and in his right mind. Finally a synagogue leader called Jairus asked Jesus to go and cure his 12-year-old daughter, but on the way Jesus got delayed curing a woman who suffered from non-stop bleeding. By the time Jesus got to Jairus's daughter she had died, but Jesus said to him, "don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed". Jesus then said to the girl, "My child, get up! Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up".

Luke 7 (résumé): The Faith of the Centurion

A centurion sent a request for Jesus to heal his servant at a distance because he said that he didn't deserve his presence under his roof. Jesus remarked that he hadn't seen such faith in Israel and he healed the servant. Jesus then raised from the dead the only son of a widow that was passing at Nain in a funeral procession. All the people "were filled with awe and praised God". Then John the Baptist sent some of his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the expected one or not, and Jesus answered with his miraculous works rather than with his words. Then Jesus spoke to the crowd about John saying: "This is the one about whom it is written: I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you". Then Jesus went and had dinner at a Pharisee's house and "a woman who had lived a sinful life" wet Jesus' feet with her tears, wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. The Pharisee was skeptical and thought that if Jesus were a prophet he would realize who was doing these things to him. But Jesus said to him that he who is forgiven most loves the most, and proceeded to say to the woman that her sins were forgiven, and yet said to the woman: "Your faith has saved you; go in peace". 

Twenty-five percent

Having written the summaries of the complete Old Testament texts (929 chapters) I have moved on to the Gospels, completing the 28 chapters of Matthew on August 12th, and the 16 chapters of Mark by August 18th, and I am now a quarter of the way through Luke's 24 chapters with 6 completed yesterday. Highlights for me thus far in Luke have been Mary's and Zechariah's songs in chapter 1, the shepherds and the angels in chapter 2, the calling of the first disciples in chapter 5 and the blessings and woes of chapter 6. We press on now towards the half-way mark in Luke. 

The Life Squad was in action again yesterday at the Men's Prison with Pastor Rafael and Iara, and two men made commitments to Christ. At night the weekly street service in front of our school was held and a nice little crowd gathered to hear the Gospel.

Today is our youngest daughter Sacha's birthday! Happy Birthday Sacha! 💖

Luke 6 (résumé): Lord of the Sabbath

Jesus and his disciples were criticized by the Pharisees for having picked some corn when they were hungry on the Sabbath and Jesus pointed out that David had taken similar measures with consecrated bread centuries earlier. Then Jesus healed a man with a shrivelled hand on a Sabbath and answered criticism asking was it lawful to do good or evil on the Sabbath? Then after a night of prayer Jesus designated the following 12 disciples as apostles: 1) Simon Peter. 2) Andrew. 3) James. 4) John. 5) Philip. 6) Bartholomew. 7) Matthew (Levi). 8) Thomas. 9) James son of Alphaeus. 10) Simon the Zealot. 11) Judas son of James. 12) Judas Iscariot. Then Jesus taught an enormous crowd and healed many saying, "blessed are you who are poor... and you who hunger... and weep... for you will laugh, be satisfied and receive the kingdom of God... and when hated... rejoice because great is your reward in heaven... but woe to the rich... and to those that laugh now... and are spoken well of... for you have received your comfort... and will mourn and weep". Jesus said "love your enemies... bless those who curse you... if someone hits you give the other cheek... do to others what you would have them do to you... lend to your enemies without expecting return... be merciful just as your Father in merciful". "Don't judge and you won't be judged... give and it will be given to you... don't look at the speck in your brother's eye and ignore the plank in your own eye... no good tree bears bad fruit... the good man brings out the good stored in his heart". "Don't call me Lord if you don't put my word into practice... he who builds his house on rock survives the storm... but he who builds without foundation is destined to complete destruction". 

Luke 5 (résumé): The Calling of the First Disciple

Jesus taught the people from Simon's borrowed boat, and when he had finished Jesus told Simon to put down the nets in the deep. He shrugged that he would do what was asked, but they'd just worked there all night for nothing! The result was phenomenal with a net-breaking catch which needed extra hands to cope with. Simon Peter fell on his knees saying "Lord, I am a sinful man". Jesus said "don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men"! So Peter, James and John left everything and followed Jesus. Next Jesus healed a man covered with leprosy. One day when Jesus was teaching some men brought a paralytic on a mat for healing, but they couldn't get to Jesus owing to the crowd so they went up on the roof and lowered the man in front of Jesus. When the Lord say their faith he forgave the paralytic his sin which angered the Pharisees as it was a prerogative of God. So Jesus proved his authority healing the man too and people were amazed. Jesus then went on to call tax collector Levi (Matthew) to follow him. When there were complaints about Jesus' friendship and links to publicans Jesus retorted: "It's not the healthy that need a doctor, but the sick". Jesus was than questioned as to why his disciples didn't fast. Jesus said that their time for fasting would come, but not whilst they had the bridegroom with them. Things were changing and "new wine must be poured into new wineskins". 

Luke 4 (résumé): The Temptation of Jesus

Following his baptism Jesus was temped by the devil to be sidetracked from his divine mission and initially he suggested that Jesus should change stone in to bread to satisfy his intense hunger, but Jesus fired back Bible at Satan saying: "Man does not live on bread alone". The devil then showed Jesus the kingdoms of the world from a high vantage point and offered them all to Jesus (without suffering) is he would worship him. Jesus replied: "Worship the Lord your God and serve him only". Finally the devil challenged Jesus to jump off a high spot and trust God! Jesus reacted: "Don't put the Lord your God to the test!" Jesus then went teaching in the synagogues of Galilee and he read Isaiah 61:1-2 saying the Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to preach the Gospel... and Jesus said that that day this scripture had been fulfilled. Jesus then clearly pointed to the Gospel being for the gentiles referring to the widow in Zarepath and Naaman the Syrian and this infuriated the people and they wanted to push him from a cliff, but he got away. Jesus then set free a demon possessed man in a synagogue and amazed the people. He than healed Simon Peter's mother-in-law and healed many other people. Then Jesus "kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea".

Luke 3 (résumé): John the Baptist prepares the way

John the Baptist "went preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins" and Luke quotes Isaiah 40:3-5 linked to this saying "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him". John called the crowds coming to him: "You brood of vipers... produce fruit in keeping with repentance... every tree that doesn't produce good fruit will be cut down and burnt". John told them to share what they have with others... tax collectors do it correctly... soldiers don't extort money from people. Then John said, "I baptize with water... but one is coming to baptize with the Holy Spirit... and John preached the Gospel"! However John was thrown into jail because he had rebuked Herod for having an affair with his brother's wife. But prior to this Jesus was baptized and the Holy Spirit came down on him like a dove and God confirmed Jesus as his son in whom he was well pleased, and Jesus commenced his ministry at the age of 30. Finally Luke presents a genealogy of Jesus back through David and Abraham to Adam showing his fully human roots.

Lucas 2 (résumé): The Birth of Jesus

Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem to comply with census requirements, and there Mary gave birth to her first son whom she "placed in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn". Then angels appeared to nearby shepherds watching over their flocks at night and announced the birth of the Saviour. They sang "glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men". The shepherds went to Bethlehem and saw Jesus lying in a manger and they praised and glorified God. Then at 8-days-old Jesus was circumcised and officially named Jesus, and they offered a pair of doves as a sacrifice. A devout man named Simeon took Jesus in his arms and declared "my eyes have seen your salvation... a light for the gentiles and for glory to Israel". Also an old prophetess named Ana "gave thanks to God... and spoke about the redemption of Jerusalem" and then Joseph, Mary and Jesus went to Nazareth where Jesus grew in wisdom and in grace. Then when he was 12-years-old Jesus went to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem and Jesus' parents lost track of him until they found him in the temple courts listening to the teachers and asking them questions. When his parents complained about his disappearance Jesus replied: "Didn't you know that I had to be in my Father's house?" Back in Nazareth "Jesus grew in wisdom and stature".

Men's Fellowship

Last night both Philip and I took part in the weekly men's fellowship meeting which was held at our school on the south side of Patos where we are seeking to establish a second Patos church. We had a very interesting speaker talking about the dangers of excessive mobile phone usage. It was encouraging to see 2 men taking part from the local community of Jatobá. The meeting was led by the chief of the chief's of Police and Deacon Esaú. There were a good number present and it was a blessing. 

Luke 1 (résumé): The Birth of Jesus and John the Baptist foretold

Luke starts Luke 1 stating that he had "carefully investigated" matters so that Theophilus could "know the certainty of the things he had been taught". An angel of the Lord told priest Zechariah that his wife Elizabeth would have a son whom they should name John, who will minister "in the spirit and power of Elijah... to make ready a people prepared for the Lord". However John doubted this as they were advanced in years and without children, so Zechariah was struck dumb for his unbelief, but his wife did become pregnant. After this the angel Gabriel went to a virgin called Mary and told her that she was going to have a son who should be called Jesus and who will reign over the house of Jacob forever... and all this will be by the power of the Holy Spirit... and he will be the Son of God... for nothing is impossible for God. Mary went and visited her relative Elizabeth and her baby John leapt in her womb and she blessed Mary. Then Mary sang: "My soul praises the Lord... for he has been mindful of my humble state... the Mighty One has done great things for me... he has performed mighty deeds... he has filled the hungry with good things... he has helped his servant Israel". So Mary stayed for 3 months at Elizabeth's. Then the time came for John the Baptist to be born whom family members wanted to name after his father, but through Elizabeth's insistence and Zechariah's confirmation their son was named John, and immediately his voice returned as he praised God. Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied: "Praise be to the Lord... because he has come and redeemed his people... he has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of David... to remember his holy covenant... to rescue us... and to enable us to serve him... and you my child will be called a prophet... and you will prepare the way for the Lord... to give the people the knowledge of salvation... to shine on those living in darkness". And John the Baptist grew, became strong in spirit and lived in the desert".

Another Gospel finished

I have now completed my writing of the synthesis of Mark's Gospel meaning that I have finished 973 chapters of the Bible, 41 books, and 82% of scripture. Now it's on to Luke which is the largest book in the New Testament in number of words and verses, though not in the total number of Chapters. Luke also wrote the Book of Acts which I have yet to cover. 

Mark 16 (résumé): The Resurrection

On the Sunday morning after the crucifixion bright and early 3 women went to the tomb where they saw that the large stone had been rolled away from the entrance and they saw a white-robed young man sitting inside. He told the women not to be alarmed because Jesus had risen from the dead, so he told them to go and tell the disciples that Jesus will meet them in Galilee, and the women fled trembling and bewildered!

(The final part of Mark 16 from verses 9-16 is not in the most reliable early manuscripts)

When the disciples heard that Jesus was alive they didn't believe it. Then Jesus appeared to 2 on a country road, but when they told the disciples they didn't believe them either, so when Jesus appeared to them eating later on he rebuked their lack of belief. Then Jesus said to the disciples: "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.... and signs will follow your ministry such as the driving out of demons and speaking in new tongues... and picking up deadly snakes and being unharmed when drinking poison... and healing the sick". Then Jesus was taken into heaven and the disciples went out preaching with signs following.

Mark 15 (résumé): Jesus before Pilate + the Crucifixion

"The Sanhedrin turned Jesus over to Pilate... he asked are you the king of the Jews and Jesus answered yes... so Pilate gave the people a choice of a popular release of a prisoner between Jesus and criminal Barabbas and the people chose to have Barabbas released and Jesus crucified... then the soldiers led him away and put a crown of thorns on his head... saying hail, king of the Jews... and mocking him... and they took Jesus to Golgotha where they crucified him together with 2 robbers... and everyone mocked Jesus saying he saved others but can't save himself... and between the 6th and 9th hour there was a total eclipse of the sun at the end of which Jesus asked God why he had forsaken him?... then with a loud cry Jesus breathed his last... and the temple veil was torn from top to bottom... and the nearby centurion said surely this man was the son of God... and many women watched at a distance... and Pilate gave Jesus' body for burial to Joseph of Arimathea... and he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb where he buried Jesus... and Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid".

Mark 14 (résumé): Jesus anointed at Bethany and the Lord's Supper

Mark 14 relates how in Bethany a woman poured lots of expensive perfume on Jesus' head much to the criticism of the disciples for "wasting money which could have gone to the poor". However Jesus halted the criticism saying she was in fact preparing him for his burial and her beautiful gesture would always be remembered. Then Judas Iscariot agreed betrayal terms for Jesus with the chief priests! Next Jesus celebrated the Last Supper with the disciples and Jesus predicted his betrayal by one of the 12. Then Jesus broke bread and said: "Take it, this is my body". He then shared the cup saying, "this is the blood of the covenant which is poured out for many". Then they sang a hymn and went to the Mount of Olives. Jesus predicted the falling away of all the disciples, but Peter swore allegiance which Jesus contradicted saying Peter would deny him three times before the cock crowed twice. Then they went to Gethsemane where Jesus went to pray having Peter, James and John near at hand. Jesus battled with the stress of his imminent death and prayed that "if possible the hour might pass from him". 3 times Jesus withdrew for agonizing prayer only to find the disciples sleeping on his return. Then Judas appeared with a motley crowd to arrest Jesus and Judas kissed Jesus as the sign to the mob that he was the one they wanted. They took Jesus before the Sanhedrin but the witnesses against him didn't agree. The High Priest asked if Jesus was the Christ and he said "I am". "They all condemned his as worthy of death". They spat on Jesus and punched him, and then the guards took him and beat him. Peter, meanwhile, was below in the courtyard and 3 times he was questioned as to his links with Jesus which he denied... then the cock crowed twice... and Peter broke down and wept. 

Mark 13 (résumé): Signs of the End of the Age

Then Jesus said of the temple that "not one stone would be left on another". When, asked by some of the disciples, what will be the signs of this happening? Jesus told them to watch out for fraudsters... and "there will be wars and rumours of war... earthquakes and famines... be on your guard... you will be flogged in the synagogues... you will stand before governors and kings... and the Holy Spirit will give you what to say... brother will betray brother... all men will hate you because of me... when you see the abomination of desolation flee to the mountains... it will be dreadful for pregnant women... there will be days of unequalled distress... and if the Lord didn't cut short those days then nobody would survive... false Christs and prophets will appear... and the sun will be darkened and the stars fall... then men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory... and he will gather the elect from the four winds... learn the lesson of the fig tree and know that summer is near when the twigs are tender and the leaves appear... and this generation won't pass until these things have happened... no one knows the day or the hour... be alert... keep watch... for you don't know at what time the owner of the house will return... so don't let him find you sleeping!

Mark 12 (résumé): The Parable of the Tenants

With the Parable of the Tenants a landowner rented out his vineyard and at harvest time he sent servants to receive his part of the fruit, but the tenants beat them up! This sorry scene was repeated many times so the landowner decided to send his own son as he felt surely they would respect him... but they killed him! So the owner of the vineyard, said Jesus will kill the tenants for: "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone!" Then the Pharisees and Herodians sought to trap Jesus on the question of tax asking if we should pay tax? Jesus said "give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's". Then came a question from the Sadducees about what would happen to a woman in eternity who had had 7 husbands. "Whose wife would she be at the resurrection?" Jesus replied none of them, because in eternity "we will be like the angels". Next came a question from a teacher of the law concerning the most important commandment which was to love God with everything, said Jesus, and love your neighbour as yourself. Then Jesus pointed out that David declared in Psalm 110:1 "The Lord said to my Lord... how then can he be his son?" So Jesus is asking how the Messiah can be merely David's son when David himself calls him his Lord? Finally Jesus talked about offerings at the temple. A poor widow gave 2 coins which was all she had and so gave proportionally more than the rich that gave out of their wealth. 

Mark 11 (résumé): The Triumphal Entry

In Mark 11 Jesus enters Jerusalem riding a young colt, and many people cast cloaks and branches on the road before him and cried out: "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Then Jesus cursed a fruitless fig tree before clearing the temple of money changers and salespeople saying: "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves". Then Jesus taught on prayer saying, "whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours". Then the chief priests questioned Jesus' authority so Jesus asked whether John the Baptist's authority had been heaven or men? The priests refused to answer so Jesus said he wouldn't answer their question either concerning his authority! 

Mark 10 (résumé): Divorce, children etc.

Once again Jesus teaches on the matter of divorce in Mark 10. Jesus says that Moses' permission for divorce "was because your hearts were hard" and that any divorcee commits adultery if they remarry. Then the disciples rebuked people for bringing children for Jesus' blessing, but Jesus was fine with the children and told the disciples not to hinder them "because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these... and then he took the children in his arms and blessed them". Then a rich young man asked what to do to inherit eternal life? Jesus referred him to obedience to the law, which the man assured him he kept. Then Jesus told him to sell his goods and give to the poor which left the man sad as he was wealthy. So Jesus commented about how hard it was for the rich to enter the kingdom of God... but all things are possible with God... and all those that have left all for Jesus, like the disciples, will receive a hundred times in this life plus eternal life. Jesus then again tells the disciples of his imminent betrayal, condemnation, killing and resurrection. Following this James and John asked to sit either side of Jesus in glory, but Jesus said this wasn't up to him and anyway "whoever wants to become first must be slave of all". Then Jesus went to Jericho where he healed Blind Bartimaeus telling him that his faith had healed him, so Bartimaeus started following Jesus. 

Mark 9 (résumé): The Transfiguration

Mark 9 commences with Jesus stating that some there present wouldn't die before seeing the Kingdom of God coming with power (which is probably a reference to the transfiguration or resurrection). Then Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a mountain and his clothes became dazzling white and Elijah and Moses appeared there. Then a cloud enveloped them and God the Father said, "This is my son, whom I love. Listen to him!" Jesus told them to say nothing about their experience till after the resurrection. They asked Jesus about Elijah coming first, and Jesus said that had already happened. Then a boy was brought to Jesus with a deaf and dumb spirit whom the disciples had been unsuccessful in healing because Jesus said it needed more prayer. The boy's father asked Jesus if he could do anything? Jesus answered that "everything is possible for him who believes"... and the boy's father said "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief". Then Jesus healed the boy convulsing the boy in the process. At Capernaum Jesus perceived that the disciples were discussing who was the greatest, and Jesus said that to be the first you need to be the servant of all... and care for the little children. Then John told Jesus that the disciples had told a non-disciple to stop casting out demons, but Jesus told them not to do that because "whoever is not against us is for us". Jesus then reprimanded anyone who caused another to sin saying they should always take strong measures to avoid sin or to avoid causing others to sin, seeking always to "be at peace with each other".

Half-way

I am now half-way through the Gospel of Mark with a synthesis of 8 of its 16 chapters done. Chapter 8 is a watershed one with Peter's confession in John 8:29. Now we go on to the transfiguration, triumphal entry into Jerusalem, The Lord's supper, Gethsemane, the crucifixion and resurrection. 

Last night I led the main service in Patos and Pastor Murilo preached very well on "An Anchor for the Soul" (Hebrews 6:19). The sermon brought back to me the old hymn we used to sing at Peniel Chapel when I was a child: "We have an anchor that keeps the soul steadfast and sure when the billows roll". A beautiful song! 🙌

Pastor Rafael was preaching in Imaculada.

Mark 8 (résumé): Jesus feed 4,000

Jesus had been teaching a crowd of 4,000 men for 3 days and had compassion on their hunger multiplying 7 loaves and some small fish to feed them (with fish sandwiches like at McDonald's!) There were 7 basketfuls left over at the end. Jesus went on to warn saying: "Be careful... watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and of Herod". Jesus then questioned if they were understanding his message and asked how many basket's were left over after the feeding of the 5,000. They answered "twelve", and after the 4,000?, and they said "seven". (i.e. don't worry about bread because Jesus will provide is the message!) Then comes an interesting healing of a blind man. Jesus spat on his eyes and laid hands on him. However the man was initially only partially healed, so Jesus laid hands on him again and his sight was fully restored. Jesus then asked the disciples whom people were saying he was, and they said Elijah, John the Baptist or one of the prophets. "But what about you... what do you say?... and Peter answered You are the Christ". Jesus then warned them not to tell everyone. Jesus, in the light of Peter's confession, told them that he would be killed and after 3 days rise again. Peter rebuked this so Jesus told him that he was lacking having the things of God in mind. Then he said that anyone who wanted to follow him should deny himself and take up his cross. 

Mark 7 (résumé): Clean & Unclean

 Now the Pharisees complain that Jesus' disciples are eating without ceremonially washing their hands. Jesus replied: "You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men". For "Nothing outside a man can make him unclean by going into him. Rather, it is what comes out of a man that makes him unclean... All evils (sexual immorality, evil thoughts, theft, murder, greed etc.) come from within and make a man unclean". Then came an incident with a Greek woman imploring deliverance for her devil-possessed daughter. Jesus said, "first let the children (Jews) eat what they want and not toss it to the dogs (Gentiles)". The woman said yes, but the dogs eat the crumbs from under the table! This brilliant answer triggered action from Jesus and she was set free of the demon. Finally the people brought a deaf and partially dumb man to Jesus. Jesus put his fingers in the man's ears and spat on the man's tongue and touched it, saying "Be opened"! The man was completely healed. 

Mark 6 (résumé): A Prophet without honour

 Jesus went to Nazareth with his disciples and the people were "amazed" by his teaching as they all knew his family well. Jesus commented "that among his relatives a prophet is without honour". Then Jesus sent out the 12 to teach from village to village taking virtually nothing with them, but to trust God. They preached repentance, drove out demons and healed the sick. When King Herod heard about all Jesus was doing he thought it was John the Baptist raised from the dead. For Herod had been tricked into beheading John after having made a rash promise to the daughter of Herodias. Then Jesus performed another miracle feeding 5,000 men from 5 loaves and 2 fish, and there were still 12 baskets of food left over. Jesus then went for a time of prayer alone whilst the disciples went ahead in a boat. Then Jesus caught up with them walking on the water, but they thought it was a ghost! Jesus then said: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid". 

Mark 5 (résumé): Healings

Jesus went to the Gerasenes region and was encountered by a spirit-possessed man who lived in the tombs and was unchainable. He told Jesus his name "Legion" but Jesus delivered him and sent the evil spirits from him into a herd of 2,000 pigs which committed suicide, but the man ended up "sitting, dressed and in his right mind". Then a synagogue ruler called Jairus asked Jesus to go with him to heal his 12-year-old daughter, but on the way he was delayed healing a woman "who had been subject to bleeding for 12 years". The woman touched the hem of Jesus' garment and received her healing. When Jesus finally arrived at Jairus's house his daughter had already died, but Jesus said to him: "Don't be afraid. Just believe!" Then Jesus took the girl by the hand and told her to "get up". Immediately she got up and walked around so that people "were completely astonished".

Mark 4 (résumé): Parables

Mark 4 begins with the Parable of the Sower in which a farmer sowed seeds in 4 different locations. In the first the seed fell on a path and birds came and ate it (the birds, represent Satan, says Jesus, who takes away the seed of the sown word); the second place the seed fell was on rocky soil so the plants had no roots and quickly withered (represents people who receive the word with joy, says Jesus, but without roots they soon give up); The third place the seed fell was among thorns which choked the plants (typifies people who receive the word but the care and wealth of this life choke it); the fourth place is good soil which produces abundant fruit. Then Jesus goes on to ask who puts a lamp under the bed? For light is given to reveal that which is hidden... "and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you - and even more!" Then comes the Parable of the Growing Seed telling of seed which grows come what may implying that the seed of the kingdom will produce fruit no matter what. This is followed by the Parable of the Mustard Seed "which is the smallest seed" yet planted "it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants". Finally Jesus calms a storm for the disciples in a boat on Lake Galilee and they were amazed that "even the wind and waves obey him!"