vv. 42 – 44 This is a clear message on the vital importance of vigilance and preparedness. This whole season of Advent is one of preparation, that we may receive God’s greatest gift to us – Jesus.

vv. 2 - 5 Although these statements are couched in poetic language they may also be taken in a literal manner, especially verses 2 - 4a. These give us the foundation for a right approach to our practice of judgement.

v. 4 We must remember that because of the unique relationship between Abraham, and his descendants through Isaac, and God, the Old testament is full of exemplary material. There we see ‘both sides of the coin’. The good that comes from following God’s law and the evil that results from following "the devices and desires of our own hearts".

vv. 5, &6 This prayer highlights the divisions that were already causing both pain and weakness in the early church. Our derogatory language for those whose worship style differs from ours - ‘smells and bells’, ‘happy clappy’, etc. is not at all helpful. The ways of praising God are as many as there are people.

vv. 7 - 9a Acceptance is one of the key features of the Christian faith. Christ is our ultimate example of acceptance, he accepted our nature that we may have the opportunity to share his nature.

vv. 9b - 12 Relevant quotations to show that we - the pagan Gentiles - also have a share in the praise of God.

v. 13 A magnificent benediction focusing on the true hope of the Christian faith.

v. 1 "In due course" (Jerusalem Bible), we can consider the difference between ‘God’s time’ and our time. The whole question of ‘time’ is absolutely fascinating, and deserves our serious study.

v. 2 The key message of both John’s and Jesus’ preaching. The key message for us too in the third millennium.

v. 3 Matthew identifies John as the promised ‘forerunner’. We must beware of associating ‘millennial fever’ with a ‘second coming’; nevertheless we must also preach a continuously challenging gospel.

vv. 4 - 6 Doubtless john was something of a ‘spectacle’, but we should shy away from ‘showmanship’. The effective worship of God and preaching the Word do not depend on stunts. They do depend on good hymns, real prayers, and honest preaching.

vv. 7 - 10 Modern generations have their own sense of the things on which to rely - education, technology, prosperity, the lottery, etc., etc. NONE of these can provide the foundation that spiritual openness, in faith, to God DOES.

vv. 11, 12 Jesus’ authority is the ultimate one, we can but offer him in faith to all who will listen. Our hearers must make up their own minds about the claims of Jesus for them.

vv. 7, 8 We too must be patient for the Lord’s coming (see the note on time under Advent 2). His time is not our time, his millennium is not our millennium.

vv. 9, 10, (11) We too should look to the examples, both of the prophets and of more recent saints of the church.

vv. 2 - 6 John. finally has doubts about his cousin. There may be times when we have some doubts. Do not be afraid to express them to God. Jesus reply will be the same for us as he gave to John.

vv. 7 - 11 Jesus’ challenge to his audience, to have reality as the basis of their expectations, comes with equal force to us today. Jesus encourages us to recognise the immense greatness of our inheritance as Christians.

vv. 1, 2 We, who are preachers, are also ‘specially chosen’. Not that this gives us some elevated ‘status’, but that we are challenged to preach nothing other than the Good News from God.

vv. 3, 4 The true nature of Christ, about whom and through whom the Good News is manifest.

vv. 5 - 7 The essential features of our religion - Grace and Faith - and their universal availability. "To you all then, who are God’s beloved in ..." the specific offering, where we are, and the call to be saints.

vv. 2 - 5 One of the inestimable values of our scriptures is their timelessness. The blackness of despair, relieved only through faith in God is as valid for us in our day as it was for them in the time of this passage, more than 700 years before Christ.

vv. 6 & 7 This is one of the lovely and powerful images that came to be identified with the Messiah which the Christians see fulfilled in Christ. "The zeal of the Lord of Hosts" is always working for our benefit (cf. Romans 8: 27).

vv. 11 - 13 A concise and concentrated reiteration of the graciousness of God for all people, and the concomitant personal disciplined life-style that goes with the acceptance of such grace.

v. 14 A statement, in a single sentence, of the nature and effectiveness of Christ’s work for all. Quoting from Psalm 130: 8 and Exodus 19: 5, Paul reminds the Jewish Christians of their expected Messianic hopes in Jesus.

vv. 1 - 7 Our God, who has consented to be contracted to our human span, also consents, through the obedience and lowly life of his parents, to be subject both to the imperial decree and the extraordinary poverty of his birth. Our god, in Christ, knows from first hand experience, the arrogance of political power and the humiliation that accompany lowliness of life.

vv. 8 - 14 The sheep were kept out on the hills from March to November, depending on the weather. The shepherds, though often rather despised, provided the essential sacrifice and food for the central festival, the Passover, of the whole Jewish faith and nation. It is to the lowliest in their society that the first general announcement of the arrival of the Messiah is made.

vv. 15 - 20 The shepherds set us the example for life - take God at his word - experience for yourself the transforming power of God. In a real sense the shepherds are the first evangelists, telling God’s message to all who will listen.

Mary treasured these happenings in her memory - could it be that Mary, in extreme old age, was Luke’s source??

The shepherds set us an example for praising God in the ordinary things of everyday

v. 13 From his earliest years Jesus’ life was fraught with danger. Who was the ‘angel’ (messenger)? A friend / relative of Joseph or someone else in Bethlehem?

vv. 16 – 18 Although there is no other account of this massacre, Herod’s ruthless cruelty was well known and feared. There has been some very recent archaeological support for such a happening.

vv. 4 & 5 God’s intention – before the creation – that those who believe should share, even his nature, the life of mutual love.

v.7 The release from the guilt and burden of sin by Christ’s sacrifice for us.

vv.8 – 10 The wisdom and insight that comes from being an active part of God’s plan for all humanity – all intelligent life in the universe?

vv.11 – 14 Our marking – by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit – with the seal (here an exposition of the significance of this imagery will be helpful to a modern congregation) of God.

vv. 1 - 4 Paul, writing powerfully from prison, has again to indicate the validity of his claims to Apostleship, and proper understanding of the real message of the Gospel. We too as preachers have been "assigned the gift of his grace". Do we use it for the benefit of our hearers?

vv. 5 - 9a Our Gospel, in this most affluent of centuries, must be to proclaim the unfathomable riches of Christ. Not the crass materialism that so grasps our civilisation, but the spiritual resources which alone can build the lasting peace and universal prosperity that all crave.

vv. 9b - 12 This is powerful reminder to us ALL that in Christ we have direct access to the very throne of grace itself!

vv. 1 – 4 The first of the ‘Servant Songs’ – the model which Christ used – our model too

vv. 5 – 7 Our calling by the Great Creator – God.

Vv 8, 9 God’s greatness, uniqueness and glory. His active interest in us.

vv. 1 – 10 Capturing the image of a great storm parallel God’s power.

v. 11 Rejoicing in the promises of strength and blessing from the Lord.

Acts 10: 34 – 43

A ‘broad brush’ may be used for the Gospel being taught to the Gentiles, the first

major breakthrough.

v. 34 God has NO favourites – neither poor nor rich, ALL can find his acceptance through faith.

v. 40 God raised Christ to life – he could not raise himself he was dead! Death was an aweful reality.

v. 43 Forgiveness of sin is for ALL who put their trust in Christ.

v.13 Jesus’ first act of identification with sinners.

v.15 Jesus’ public submission to the will of God.

v. 17 God’s recognition of Jesus.

v. 5 The mighty works of God – in the Creation, in Christ, in the gift of the Holy Spirit.

vv. 6 – 8 The importance of doing the will of God and not the vain repetition of sacrifices - -of all sorts.

1 Corinthians 1: 1 – 9 (The first of Paul’s surviving letters, possibly 45 AD.)

v. 3 The first of our Christian greetings and blessing.

v. 7 Waiting expectantly for the revelation of Christ.

v. 8 The protection of Christ for the faithful.

v. 9 God’s call to us to share in the "life of his son Jesus".

John 1: 29 – 42

Some additional material surrounding the baptism of Jesus.

vv. 29 – 34 "… the Lamb of God … who takes away the sin of the world … God’s Chosen One."

v. 39 "Come and see." Experience Jesus for yourself, not at second hand.

v. 41 Andrew’s witness – our witness too – what have we found?

v. 2 The "great light" of Christ dawning on those "that walked in darkness".

v. 3a The increase of joy that comes from God’s great gift to us.

v.1 Utter confidence arising from our trust in God.

v. 10 The need for unity of mind and thought in our fellowship.

v. 13 The folly of party divisions in the church, Christ alone is our reason for being.

v.18 The power of the Cross.

v. 12 Using ‘common sense’ when dealing with some aspects of worldly power.

v. 17 Jesus message must be our message too.

v. 19 Wee too are called to ‘fish’ for a great harvest of people.

vv. 19 – 21 The ineffectiveness of worldly wisdom and philosophy; the effectiveness of the Gospel "to save those who have faith".

vv. 22 – 24 The effectiveness of Christ’s crucifixion in the wisdom of God.

vv. 25 – 29 No place for human pride – simply humble submission in the presence of God.

vv. 30 – 31 We can "boast of the Lord" having righteousness, holiness and liberation in Jesus Christ.

John 2: 1 – 11

The wedding at Cana-in-Galilee is the first of the ‘signs’, an act of power by Jesus,

which point to the truth of his divine nature. In a broad brush treatment note Jesus’

slight irritation with his mother’s eagerness to intervene; the absence of any dramatic

action by Jesus; the effectiveness of being obedient to him.

v. 1 The unexpectedness of the appearance of God. We may equate ‘temple’ with any part of the created order.

vv. 2 – 4 The need for purity of life in the service of God.

v. 5 The need for just dealings at all levels of society.

vv. 1 – 2 The primacy of God over all created things and all people.

vv. 3 – 6 The vital necessity of honest dealings, both with people and with God. This may be paralleled with Galatians 6: 7, 8.

vv. 7 – 10 The praise and glory of God as an aid to letting God into our innermost being.

vv.14, 15 Christ’ identified with us, has conquered the last enemy – death – and released us from its power.

vv. 16 – 18 The effectiveness of Christ’s ‘High Priestly’ role in making the ultimate sacrifice, effective, because he, too, has shared our human sufferings.

Luke 2: 22 – 40. The Presentation of Christ in the Temple.

vv.22 – 24 The observance and significance of the Levitical law, Lev. 12: 1 – 8, and the obvious relative poverty of the family at that time.

vv. 25, 26 The widespread atmosphere of expectation, in Palestine, of a dramatic action by God. The religious/politico-military implications.

vv. 27 – 32 Simeon’s utter trust in and thankfulness to God expressed not in politico/military language but in the terms of Isaiah 52: 10; 42: 6; 49: 6.

vv. 33 – 35 The astonishment of the parents and the prophecy of Simeon.

vv. 36 – 38 The dedication of Anna, her dependence on the charity of the priests and worshippers, her ready witness to what she "had seen and heard".

vv. 39, 40 Christ’s growing up in a very ordinary world.

v.1 The Deep sense of joy which comes from the awe and reverence of God and his requirements (laws).

vv.1, 2 The avoidance of ‘jargon’ when telling the truth about God. The primacy of Jesus Christ for our thinking, speaking and doing.

vv.4, 5 Developing a plain, clear chain of argument based on God’s powerful acts in our history

vv. 6, 7 Where this kind of development is possible, use your technical understanding of that which has influenced – the sciences, the arts, whatever, to draw out the working of God through these human understandings.

vv. 9 – 12 The immense power of the Spirit to enable us to explore into – even to know – out own nature and something of the nature of God!

v. 13 Christians are to be the essential ingredient, in any society, which draws out the real values of life in that society.

vv. 14 – 16 Christians are to show the light of the presence of God in their lives – not by boasting – by the quality of the love they display everyday.

vv. 17 – 20 The essential foundation of God’s law for building a life of good quality, personally, in the family and in society at large.

v. 15 The free choice, which is God’s greatest gift to us, that makes us persons. The bearing of the results of our choices, which makes us responsible.

vv. 16 – 18 The contrast between the quality of life possible by following God’s way and the paucity of life which comes from following "other gods". The identity of the "other gods" will vary depending upon circumstances.

vv. 21 – 26 Only right attitudes of mind can allow right relationships to develop. To have a right relationship with God we must have a right relationship with each other.

vv. 27 – 30 Adultery and lust! How much of our modern society depends on the slogan "sex sells!"? Again right attitudes and personal discipline are vital for right living.

vv. 31, 32 Marriage is a very serious matter, so is divorce!

vv. 33 – 37 The right use of language is vital in building right relationships in society at every level.

v. 2 The importance of human behaviour being as true a reflection of God’s nature as is possible.

vv. 9, 10 Practical expression of care for the poor and strangers in society.

vv. 11 – 13 Honesty and fair dealings as a bulwark for a healthy society.

v. 14 Treat the disabled with proper respect.

v. 15 The fair and unbiased administration of justice is vital for any complex society.

v. 16 Proper care for the dignity and reputation both of others and yourself.

vv. 17, 18 Openness, honesty and loving concern for one another

v. 16 (v. 17) The person as "God’s temple" having the indwelling "Spirit of God". The need to guard the quality of our living and to aim towards holiness.

vv.18, 19 Preach the ‘plain Gospel’, guard against the false arguments of Sophistry and the ‘secret’ knowledge of Gnosticism. A first and twenty-first century problem.

vv. 20 – 23 The cult of personality is now, as then, to be avoided. The sequential logic of these verses is still very relevant.

vv. 38 – 41 The very difficult teaching to resist retaliation. Nevertheless, gentleness is one of the "fruits of the Spirit".

vv. 43 – 48 The Christian endeavour to emulate the universal love and goodness of God. As God’s love is impartial so must ours be.

v. 8a Quoted by Paul in 2 Corinthians 6: 2. The timely action of God, particularly in sending Christ for our deliverance.

vv. 1, 2 Trustworthy stewardship of the revealed secrets of God is the inestimable privilege of the Christian.

v. 5 Mature and considered judgements are a mark of a Christian

v. 24 The priority of serving God with a whole heart and mind.

v. 33 By putting the building of the kingdom of God, in the widest sense, first the rest of out secular problems will find solution.

vv. 18 – 21 The priority of learning, being reminded of and keeping god’s commands.

vv. 26 – 28 The blessing to be experienced in keeping God’s commands/way of life. The curse, well known in our modern society, for ignoring God’s commands/way of life.

vv. 1 - 5 A broad brush on the solid, saving nature of God’s love toward us. Verse five quoted by Christ on the cross.

vv. 19 – 24 Praise god for his great goodness, even when we despair.

1: 16 Justifiable pride in the Gospel as the saving power of God.

1: 17 The righteousness of God at work bringing justification through faith.

3: 22 – 31 A broad brush on God’s plan for all the human race to be offered effective salvation through the sacrificial death of Christ. More detailed, verse by verse, developments on the several items of the theme are eminently possible.

vv. 21 – 23 One of the ‘hard’ sayings of Jesus. This emphasises the priority of obedience to Christ, not attempts at personal glory by loud ‘actions’ in his name!

vv. 24 – 27 The only reliable foundation for the whole of life is the ‘Word of the Lord’.

vv. 28, 29 The astonishing authority of Christ.

v. 16 Our witness, as Christians, is not based on "clever concoctions" but on the personal experience of God in Christ down the ages.

vv. 17, 18 The divinity of Christ reiterated.

v. 19 The hope of the Lord’s coming is a real one, we must remain expectant

vv. 20, 21 The key and core of scriptural interpretation is openness to the Holy spirit.

Matthew 17: 1 – 9

A broad brush on the open confirmation of the divinity of Christ; looking again at the

images of the ‘mountain’ - closeness to God; the ‘cloud’ – the indescribability of

God’s appearance; the ‘heavenly voice’ – the personal communication from God. In

the transfiguration we have a wonderful preview of the nature that shall be the risen

Lord.

Vv1, 2 The trumpet – a very solemn warning of god’s impending presence. The locust plague – symbolising the darkening of the sun and moon – conditions for the ‘day of the Lord’. We must tremble, for our sin has caused the Lord’s suffering.

vv. 12, 13 The need for and efficacy of true repentance.

OR Isaiah 58: 1 – 12

A broad brush on the uselessness of outward show and the effectiveness of genuine

repentance shown in loving action . Alternatively:

Vv 6 – 10 The real nature of true repentance which alone is acceptable to God.

vv. 11, 12 The social and even material benefits of true repentance.

Psalm 51: 1 – 17

David’s heartfelt confession of his sin and plea for that renewal which can only come

from God.

vv 5: 20b, 21 Reconciliation to God through our inheritance of righteousness by Christ’s suffering for us.

v. 6: 1 We, too, share in God’s work; we, too, make the appeal! Receive the grace of God, let it be effective in your life.

v. 2 Now is the time of god’s favour. Now is the time of deliverance. Now is the time if decision.

v. 4(v5) The importance of ‘keeping on’ in God’s work regardless of circumstances or opposition.

vv. 6, 7 A powerful summary of Christian characteristics and behaviour. For the preacher especially the ‘grasp of truth’ and ‘declaring the truth by the power of God’ are vital.

vv. 8 – 10 The powerful paradoxes! Each verse is capable of strong effective expansion (Paul .zip)

vv. 1 – 5 Abraham, the archetype of all who are "counted as righteous" by faith. This ‘counting’ is the gift of God.

vv. 13 – 17 Abraham as the ‘ancestor’ of both Jews and Gentiles, "the father of many nations", thus enabling Gentiles to enter into the ‘Jewish’ inheritance.

v. 17 God as powerful creator, God as resurrector is the source of Abraham’s faith and, by inheritance, our faith also.

vv. 3 – 7 Spiritual rebirth enabling personal vision of the Kingdom of God. Personal vision leads to personal action.

vv. 13 – 15 The divinity and sacrifice of Christ for our new quality of life.

vv. 16, 17 god’s love in giving Jesus. God’s love for our personal salvation. God’s love for the world (whole creation).

v. 1 Praise the Lord for salvation in the wilderness; the foundation of faith and worship; for his faithfulness that gives us security.

v. 6 The worshipful attitude of humility and awe and praise for God’s care for us.

Romans 5: 1 – 11 As we have already seen, Paul’s use of language is extremely concentrated, consequently these ‘suggestions’ offer but a part of the possible expansion.

vv. 1, 2 Justification through faith in Christ. Peace with God through Christ. Access to gracious living through Christ. The exultation of hope through Christ. The promise of divine glory through Christ.

vv. 3, 4 The possibility of exulting in suffering which leads to hope.

v. 5 The reality of our hope in Christ through the love of God enabled by the Holy Spirit.

v. 6 Christ’s effective sacrificial death for us when we were helpless (unable to help ourselves).

vv. 7, 8 The enormity of God’s love toward us in Christ’s death for us while we "are yet sinners".

v. 9 The temporal and eternal effectiveness of Christ’s death.

v. 10 The reality of reconciliation with God, and ultimate salvation.

v. 11 Exultation in the loving nature of God, through Christ, in our creation, preservation and the promise of eternity.

vv. 1 - The use of subterfuge, under worldly pressures, to achieve the aims and purposes of God.

vv. 6 – 10 The importance of judging by God’s standard "into the heart" and not by superficial appearances.

vv. 11 – 13 Ensuring full coverage of all possibilities. Only in the "Spirit of the Lord" can we properly serve him.

v. 1 The image of God as shepherd whose care for us has met our every need.

v. 2 A quality of life having both material and spiritual needs fully met.

v. 3 The restoration of the human spirit through God’s guiding righteousness.

v. 4 The comforting/enabling presence of God even in life’s darkest moments.

v. 5 Proper honour for God’s servants.

v. 6 The joy and ‘goodness’ experienced in real worship carries over into the ordinary things of every day.

vv. 8, 9 The harvest of living in Christian ‘light’ – goodness, righteousness and truth.

vv. 10 – 13 By exposing the "barren deeds of darkness" we, Christians, can bring true ‘light’ into the world.

v. 14 cf. Isaiah 60: 1, the awakening of the spirit that comes from dwelling in the shining presence of Christ.

John 9: 1 – 41

A broad brush on one of the ‘signs’ in John’s Gospel – Jesus as the light that restores

more than physical sight by conferring spiritual sight.

v. 25 Personal certainty in experiencing Christ.

v. 39 The paradox of the contrasting effects of Christ’s presence.

v. 41 The aweful responsibility for preachers/teachers of the Gospel.

v. 20 Samuel, named by his mother "he who is from God", a continuing example of God’s faithfulness.

vv. 21 – 23 Practical considerations for the safety and initial development of the child – he will be able to care for himself when he is left with Eli.

vv. 24 – 28 Hannah fulfils the vow she made years before.

Psalm 34: 11 – 20

A broad brush on the importance of teaching children the "fear of the Lord" and the

benefits to be found in righteous living.

vv. 1, 2 God as the true source of security and blessing, without him all is in vain.

vv. 3, 4 The blessing of a large family – note historical, cultural and material differences with those of our time!

2 Corinthians 1: 3 – 7

A broad brush on the consolation which can come from sharing in the sufferings of Christ in faith.

vv. 3, 4 The unfailing consolation of God in Christ through all our troubles.

vv. 5 – 7 The limitless consolation which comes through Christ’s limitless suffering on our behalf.

OR Colossians 3: 12 – 17 Yet another example of Paul’s concentrated language.

v. 12 The ‘clothing’ of a Christian – compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

v. 13 Tolerance and forgiveness as ‘hallmarks’ of a Christian following Christ’s example.

v. 14 The essential ‘binding’ quality of Christian love.

v. 15 Christ’s ‘peace’ as arbiter in our relationships. The importance of thankfulness.

v. 16 Three sermons in one verse! Letting the Gospel dwell in us with the richness it brings. Teaching with the wisdom of the Gospel. Praising God "from the heart".

v. 17 Making the entire motivation of life the service of God "in the name of the Lord Jesus".

Luke 2: 33 – 35

A broad brush on the prophetic implications surrounding the nature of Jesus.

OR John 19: 25 – 27

One of a series of ‘new relationships’ that develop during the crucifixion. Jesus’ care, even in his agony, for his mother’s welfare.

Vv, 2, 11 The ‘dryness’ that comes from rejecting/ignoring the life-giving spirit of god. ‘Dryness’ of selfishness, greed, amorality.

v. 14 The new life made possible by breathing in the life-giving spirit of God.

vv. 22, 23 cf. Matthew 21: 42 and Acts 4: 11. Jesus as the rejected one on whom the hope of the world is built.

vv. 4, 5 The challenge, to all who would preach/speak the Gospel, to listen carefully to what God has to say.

Monday, 26: 17 – 19. The ‘secret’ friends of Jesus - the ‘donkey owner’ 21: 1 – 3; Joseph who ‘came out’ 27: 57 – 60.

Friday. This is the critical day for Christians. (For details of the three hour service see ‘year B’ notes) For the continuation of our sequence on ‘Jesus and his friends’, we must include 26: 69 – 75. A coward at heart exposed!

v.1 Jesus’ foreknowledge of his destiny and relevant action, a theme of John’s Gospel (see 16: 28. 18: 4, 19: 28)

vv. 12 – 17 The vital importance of proper humility – giving the glory and authority to Christ.

v.16 cf. Jeremiah 31: 33. The vital necessity of having God’s law as the key to our thinking and doing.

v.17 cf. Jeremiah 31: 34. The effectiveness of God-in-Christ cancelling our sin.

vv. 19 – 22 By faith in Christ and through his sacrifice for us, we can enter the presence of God.

vv. 24, 25 The importance of mutual support especially via communal acts of worship and fellowship.

OR Hebrews 4: 14 – 16; 5: 7 – 9

4: 14 Holding fast to the faith that Jesus is the Son of God and witnessing to that faith.

5: 7 – 9 The obedient suffering of Christ as the source of our everlasting salvation.

John 18: 1 – 19: 42

This may be presented as a dramatic reading with prayers / silent

meditation. (See notes for Year B)

vv. 22, 23 Recalling God’s creative action (Gen. 2: 7), the risen Christ empowers the church to forgive sins.

vv. 24- 29 Christ’s dealing with Thomas’ doubt, invites faith that does not depend on physical evidence.

vv. 30, 31 John’s selection of sufficient ‘signs’ that, on reading them, we, too, may have faith in Christ.

vv. 15, 16 What was it about the risen Christ that prevented so many from ‘knowing’ him instantly? Cf. John 20: 15; 21: 4.

vv. 25 – 27 Discovering Christ in the scriptures through an ‘open’ mind.

vv. 30, 31 Can every meal be a communion with Christ?

v. 32 Having your heart ‘warmed’ – "set on fire" by Christ.

vv. 33 – 35 Carrying the message with urgency.

vv. 22 – 24 The totally appropriate offering of himself, by Christ, for our sin in order that we may have the opportunity of living for righteousness.

John 10: 1 – 10 A broad brush on Jesus the archetypal ‘good shepherd’. Cf. Ezekiel 34: 23.

vv. 1 – 5 The vital importance of having trust in God as the foundation on which life is built.

vv. 2, 3 The importance of feeding mind and soul with spiritual sustenance – the Word of god. Cf. Ezekiel 2: 9 – 3: 3.

vv. 4 – 6 Christ the living foundation for all that we seek to build. Ourselves a living temple for "spiritual sacrifices".

vv. 7, 8 Christ is an obstacle to those who reject him.

v. 9 The "royal priesthood" of all believers to proclaim the Gospel.

v. 10 The universal acceptance of all who believe in Christ.

John 14: 1 – 14

These words, together with those of Psalm 23, are some of the most comforting in our

Scriptures.

vv. 1 – 4 A foundation statement for our trust in Christ, and for a continuing relationship with him after death.

v. 6 The key statement for the uniqueness of Christ – the Way to God, the Truth about god’s nature of Love, the Life available to all who believe.

vv. 10, 11 An indication of the intimacy of the relationship within the Godhead.

v. 28 The dependence of our whole existence is upon God. (Making use of secular poetry to provide helpful imagery.)

vv. 30, 31 The vital importance of repentance for facing the judgement of the risen Christ.

vv. 8 – 12 Praising the faithfulness of God even in times of trial.

vv. 13 – 15 The appropriateness of real sacrifices for God.

vv. 16 – 20 Praising God for his constant love for us.

vv. 13 – 17 Be prepared to be misunderstood; to be abused for doing right; to give courteous and strong defence of your faith.

vv. 18 – 20 The universal applicability of Christ’s salvation foe any who believe – at ANY time!

vv. 21, 22 The significance of baptism as a spiritual exercise.

John 14: 15 – 21.

A broad brush on Jesus’ promise of the gift of the Holy Spirit.

v. 15 The vital importance of obedience to Christ.

v. 16 The intimate relationship within the Godhead. The advocative effectiveness of the Holy Spirit. The eternal nature of the Holy Spirit.

v. 17 The power of the Holy Spirit to enable us ‘into the truth’. Our relationship with the indwelling Holy Spirit.

(Note: these qualities of the Holy Spirit and of spiritual living are in anticipation of Pentecost and its fruits!)

vv. 18 – 20 The foretelling of a resurrection relationship and the potential for a new quality of life.

v. 21 The saving, transforming power present in faithful obedience to Christ.

vv. 1 – 5 A broad brush on this great, second volume, of Luke’s account of the first development of the very early Christian church.

v. 8 The ‘Great commission’, cf. Matthew 28: 19, 20, to preach the Gospel throughout the world.

v. 9 The importance of the Ascension in allowing us the universal, timeless, risen Christ.

Daniel 7: 9 – 14 Although Daniel is set toward the end of the 7^th century BCE, the stories and visions reflect something of the persecutions experienced in the 2^nd century BCE. This material was composed, based upon a much earlier heroic figure, or figures, to give encouragement to the Jews.

vv. 9, 10 Something of the marvellous language used in attempting to describe -.heaven – the indescribable. This is poetry – not literal language.

vv. 13, 14 More poetic language, borrowed by Christians to give expression to the glory of Christ.

Psalm 47

A broad brush in praise of God as King over all the earth. We may, very reasonably,

extend our understanding of God’s Kingdom to the whole created universe.

OR Psalm 93

Again a broad brush in praise of god as King, emphasising that his word rules the

whole of creation.

Ephesians 1: 15 – 23.

A broad brush on Paul’s interest in thankfulness and prayer for the church he has

founded, as an example to us for ongoing prayerful thankful concern.

v. 16 The importance of continuing prayer in effective relationships.

v. 17 The power of the spiritual gifts of wisdom and vision.

v. 18 Inward enlightenment to hope and our "rich and glorious inheritance".

v. 19 The vast resources of the power of God available to all who believe.

v. 20 The proof of God’s power in raising Christ from death.

v. 21 The immeasurable superiority of Christ.

vv. 22, 23 Christ the head of the church which is his body. The universal, cosmic Christ.

Luke 24: 44 – 53

A broad brush on the continuing resurrection appearances and teachings, culminating

in the, very brief, initial statement of Christ’s parting.

vv. 44 – 47 The foundation for our reasonable search for ‘Christ’ in the Old Testament.

v. 48 We are witnesses, from our own experience of Christ.

vv. 52, 53 The joyful, praise-filled, anticipation of the disciples.

NOTE:- Where Ascension Day has not been marked with a celebration service, these readings may be used on the Sunday following.

vv. 12, 13 Taking comfort as we share our suffering for our faith with the suffering of Christ.

v. 14 Being strengthened by the "Spirit of God" when our faith is under attack.

1Peter. 5: 6, 7

The humble submission of our anxieties, in complete trust, to God’s care.

v. 8 The need for constant vigilance against the encroachment of evil.

v. 9 The need to resist evil, in all its subtle forms, knowing we are not alone.

v. 11 All real power belongs to God.

John 17: 1 – 11

A broad brush on the uniquely intimate relationship within the Godhead; far closer

than any we can imagine from our finest human experience.

vv. 1 – 8 Jesus’ extremely deep concern for his disciples, that they may glimpse the true glory of God.

vv. 9 - 11 Jesus prays for the protection, that God can give, his disciples will need.

v. 11b Jesus’ prayer for true unity among his followers.

v. 1 The importance of, occasionally, being "all together in one place" both physically and spiritually.

vv. 2, 3 Both ‘Wind’ and ‘Fire/Flame’ are ancient images of the Spirit of the living God. Poetic language is helpful in describing the indescribable.

v. 4 The Holy Spirit enables the disciples to ‘speak’. Whether "other tongues" means ecstatic speaking or different languages cf. Vv. 6, 9 - 11, is not clear.

vv. 5 – 11 The implication and reality that all the world can hear and understand the good news of the Gospel.

vv. 12, 13 The disciples first experience of ridicule. We must be as ready as Peter to defend and propagate our faith.

vv. 17 – 21 Peter quotes the Prophet Joel (Joel 2: 28 – 32a) as the great foretelling and effective introduction to his message.

v. 21 The importance of recognising Jesus as Lord as the precursor to salvation.

OR Numbers 11: 24 – 30

A broad brush on the ancient significance of the Holy Spirit and it’s wider spread to

help govern the people.

v. 29 An ancient reminder that it is best if all God’s people are empowered by the Spirit.

Psalm 104: 24 – 34, 35b

A broad brush on the praise of God for the wonder, wisdom and beauty of God’s

creation.

1 Corinthians 12: 3b – 13

A broad brush on the essential unity in the diversity of Spiritual gifts experienced

among Christians.

v. 3b The ancient importance, and ‘power’, attributed to the spoken word – hence this significant statement – still valid even in these cynical times.

v. 4 The importance of recognising the true value of any gift, however humble in worldly terms, of the Holy Spirit.

vv. 12, 13 The essential unity, regardless of fine theological or even administrative differences, of the body of Christ.

v. 19 The first day of the week became the Christian Holy Day. The disciples were a frightened and demoralised group. Jesus comes and offers them ""Peace"".

v. 20 Jesus proves his identity – the disciples are filled with new joy.

v. 21 Jesus’ "peace" is also power. Jesus commissions the disciples, and we also are his disciples.

v. 22 Jesus "breathed on them", instilling new life, this recalls the life giving breath of God in Genesis 2: 7.

v. 23 The risen Christ enables the power to forgive sins.

vv. 24 – 29 A broad brush on presenting our honest doubts in faith to Christ for his unequivocal answer.

v. 27 Jesus treats us each as individuals.

v. 28 Thomas makes the first confession of Jesus as "Lord and … God".

v. 29 Jesus confirms all of us who have believed without having ‘seen’ him.

vv. 30, 31 John makes plain that his Gospel is the essential material leading to belief in Christ and life in him.

vv. 1,2 Trust in God as we remember our inheritance and the faithfulness of God’s promise and power. (cf. Genesis 12: 1 – 3)

vv. 7, 8 Living by the powerful Word of God. The insubstantial nature of other, false, teachings.

Psalm 130

A broad brush on the ‘Penitential Psalms’ cf. Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 143, used as

an expression of our mourning for our sinfulness in confession.

vv. 4, 7 Reverence for the unfailing and forgiving love of God.

Romans 5: 1 – 11

A broad brush on the peace and reconciliation we have with God through our faith in

Christ.

v. 1 Justification by faith.

vv. 1, 2 Access to the grace of God through Christ. Hope of a share in the divine glory.

vv. 3, 4 Suffering giving endurance; endurance, approval; approval hope.

v. 5 The reality of our hope in God through the Holy Spirit.

vv. 6 – 8 The proof of God’s love for us in Christ dying for us "while we were yet sinners.2

vv. 9 – 11 God’s cancellation of our ‘enmity’, by our sinfulness, through Christ’s sacrificial death.

OR 2 Peter 1: 1 – 11

A broad brush on the development of the widest possible range of Christian virtues in

disciplined living. (In the right context, it may be apposite to comment on the,

probable, late date of this composition, about 150 C. E.)

Mark 12: 28 – 31

A broad brush on Jesus’ masterly use of the simplest language to impart deep truths.

Here all the complexity of Mosaic law and Levitical ;legal; requirements are

compressed into two sentences!

vv. 29, 30 The absolute primacy of loving God with our whole being.

v. 31 The vital importance of the practical expression of our love for God in our love for our neighbour.

vv. 18 – 21 The absolutely central importance of remembering and keeping the commandments of God, from both Old and New Testaments. (Note our modern continuation of the wearing of ‘badges’ to denote membership of or support for some specific activity.)

vv. 26 – 28 The concept of ‘blessing’ and ‘curse’ are an ancient part of the covenant ceremony (see Leviticus 26: 1 – 46). Our experience of ‘blessing’ in society when we conform to God’s ways and the ‘curse’ of ignoring God’s will for us.

v. 5 Jesus’ cry from the cross, our commitment in life.

3: 22 – 24 We all have sinned – we all can find salvation by God’s free grace – free to us – costly to Christ.

vv. 25 – 26 Our salvation through God’s eternal plan for us.

God’s self sacrificing justice against our wrong doing.

vv. 27 – 29 Proper humility – there is no great virtue in merely "keeping the letter of the law".

vv. 29 – 31 The god of and for all people – regardless of their religious background.

Matthew 7: 21 – 29

A broad brush on the remarkable authority of Jesus’ teaching.

vv. 21 – 23 The absolute imperative of having the right motive when invoking the name of Jesus.

vv. 24 – 27 The utterly reliable foundation of the words of Jesus.

vv. 14, 15 The readiness of God to acknowledge our proper thankfulness and honest obedience.

Romans 4: 13 – 25

A broad brush on faith pre-existing and overriding ‘Law’.

A broad brush on faith in God enabling the seemingly impossible.

vv. 23 – 25 Our faith, too, is ‘counted’ as righteousness.

vv.9 – 13 Jesus calls whosoever he wills, however unlikely.

v. 12 The sickness of our sin requires Jesus’ healing.

v. 13 Jesus deals mercifully with sinners.

vv. 18 – 26 A broad brush on the remarkable efficacy of faith. A broad brush on

Jesus’ meeting the real needs of all who come to him.

vv. 20 – 22 Jesus’ very gracious dealing with an ‘unclean’ woman.

vv. 23 – 26 The authority and power of Jesus demonstrated in the ‘raising of Jairus’ daughter.

vv. 5, 6 A very early covenant, we too are to become God’s holy nation as Christians.

v. 8 A challenge to obey the Word of god.

Psalm 100

A broad brush on praising God.

v.2 Our worship of God must be joy-full.

v.5 The everlasting love of God – in the creation, to us in Christ, for us in the Holy Spirit.

vv. 3 – 5 The extraordinary effectiveness of the love of God in our lives through the power of the Holy Spirit.

v. 6 The remarkably critical timing of Christ’s appearance in human history.

v. 8 The almost incredible proof of God’s love for us in Christ.

9: 35 – 38 Abroad brush on the pity of Jesus – prompting our prayers.

vv. 37, 38 The ongoing need for Christian missionary effort in EVERY place and time.

10: 1 – 8 A broad brush on the call and commission of the disciples – here called apostles = commissioned representatives, paralleling our calling by Christ.

vv. 7, 8 The close relationship between God’s rule – "the Kingdom of Heaven" and healing and wholeness cf. 12: 28 and Luke 10: 9; 11: 20

vv. 9, 10 The need for care in not being burdened by too many worldly / material considerations.

Do not try to be totally self-sufficient – let others help you, especially Christ.

vv. 11 – 15 Be gracious and practical in your evangelising.

vv. 16 – 23 Confidence in the support of the Holy Spirit in time of trial.

v. 12 Our faith IS tested – but God knows our capabilities and potentials – NOTE: Vengeance is NOT Christian objective.

vv. 6 – 9 The destruction of our "old humanity" and the belief – founded in reality – of "everlasting life" with Christ.

v. 10 Christ’s death on the cross is of eternal significance and efficacy.

vv. 24, 25 We are the pupils and servants of Christ – we too share his humility and his glory!

vv. 26, 27 Have full confidence in the Gospel of Christ to proclaim it boldly.

v. 28 The dreadful effects of ‘spiritual/moral’ death.

vv. 34 – 38 Commitment to Christ will bring divisions and persecution.

vv. 10 – 12 The revelation of god’s love for us in creation cf. Romans 1: 19, 20 – its power, beauty and purpose for us.

v. 14 The support of God for those "bowed down" by this life.

Romans 7: 15 – 25a

A broad brush on the inner struggle we all have to wage against ‘the old Adam’.

vv. 24, 25 Despair is NOT out ultimate condition – God in Christ is our rescuer.

vv. 16 – 19 The futile dissatisfaction with worldly things and standards.

The ultimate ‘rightness’ of God’s wisdom / ways.

vv. 25 – 27 The possibility of ‘knowing’ God through Christ, even for the simplest of us.

vv. 28 – 30 The perfection of the ‘fit’ of the load that Jesus asks us to carry with him.

vv. 3, 4 The ineffectiveness of ‘legality’ versus the real effectiveness of spirituality in Christ.

v. 5 – 8 The ‘death’ that comes to both humanity and our environment because ‘sin’ is the enemy of God’s way.

vv. 9 – 11 Although we are mortal yet there is an everlasting quality possible in our earthly life through the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 13: 1 – 9, 18 – 23

In addition to the very well known traditional exposition of this parable, consider its

application to our reading of God’s Word from the "Book of God’s works" i.e. the

physical creation and our responsible use of that rapidly increasing and very

challenging ‘hearing’.

v. 13 The whole universe is of concern to God – he has made it to develop its full potential.

vv. 16 – 19 As God’s justice is tempered with mercy so also must ours be.

OR Isaiah 44: 6 – 8

A broad brush on the uniqueness of YAHWEH, the Lord, the only God cf. Revelation

1: 8 – none of the gods of other religions have true validity.

Psalm 86: 11 – 17

A broad brush on trust in and praise for the faithfulness of God.

v. 11 The wisdom of having an open mind stimulated by God’s amazing truth in all things.

vv. 12, 13 The offer of real life under the discipline and power of the Holy Spirit.

v. 14 The universal family of the spiritual children (sons) of God.

vv. 16, 17 As God’s children we must look forward to sharing something of Christ’s suffering and hid glory.

vv. 18 – 25 The liberation of the whole creation – even the vastly greater one that we know as compared to Paul’s tiny one.

v. 136 Sorrow at the dread consequences we have experienced because God’s word – especially in Christ – has been ignored.

vv. 29, 30 God’s support for us through the revelation of God’s ultimate plan for us.

vv. 31 – 39 Ultimate and total trust in God’s love for us.

vv. 31 – 33 The great influence that comes, even from very small sources, when we keep on working for God.

vv. 44 – 46 The need to make real sacrifice to gain real treasure.

vv. 47 – 50 The offer of the Gospel is universal, judgement of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ is ultimately with God.

vv. 51, 52 If we who are preachers/teachers will sit humbly at God’s feet then we too can ‘produce’ for God.

vv. 2, 3a Our materialist and greedy society is failing to give the lasting satisfaction that only comes from following the word of God in Christ.

vv. 4, 5 We are the new ‘Israel’ that has a mission to the nations.

vv. 8, 9 The unique attributes of God in dealing with all humanity.

vv. 14 – 20 A broad brush on God’s prevenient attention to our needs.

v. 21 Personal and general praise of God for his goodness.

v. 5 The unique insight of ancient Israel enabling God’s action in Christ.

Matthew 14: 13 – 21

In addition to the traditional interpretation and exposition – consider developing the

theme that all the world can, and should, be fed using Christ’s principles in our

international dealings.

vv. 9, 10 A challenge to look critically at our commitment to Christ and the methods we use in following god.

vv. 11 – 13 Unless God is found within us he is not to be found outside us.

vv. 15 – 18 However isolated we may feel, we are not alone – we are part of a world-wide family.

Psalm 85: 8 – 13

A broad brush on the essential nature of real dialogue between heaven and earth – if

we are to achieve justice and peace.

vv. 5 – 10 A broad brush on righteousness coming by faith and not by works alone – which are beyond us.

v. 8 The vital importance of having the Word of God in our innermost being cf. Deuteronomy 30: 12 – 14

v. 9 Salvation is by faith in Christ alone.

v. 10 The importance of being able to confess our faith openly.

vv. 11 – 15 A broad brush on the importance of Christians realising that they are ALL sent to spread the ‘good news’ of Christ.

vv. 11 – 13 Salvation is available to ALL – regardless of previous faith or non-belief.

vv. 14, 15 The vital importance of speaking about Christ – wherever we may be.

vv. 22, 23 Jesus’ great need for intensely personal prayer.

vv. 24 – 27 Did Jesus ‘simply forget’ about his physical limitations?

Jesus’ concern to calm his disciples terror.

vv. 28 – 32 The power of faith and the power of fear.

v. 1 God’s absolute requirement of justice and "doing what is right". (Rightness is NOT determined by ‘post-modern’ relativism.

Psalm 67

A broad brush on rejoicing in the abundant goodness of God.

Romans 11: 1 – 2a, 29 – 32

A broad brush on the extraordinary long-suffering of God with our rebellion, and his

mercy for all.

Matthew 15: (10 – 20) 21 – 28

( A broad brush on the power of inner motivation and the powerlessness of ritual

action)

A broad brush on Jesus’ gracious dealing (sometimes quite pointed) with all who

come to him in faith.

vv. 1, 2 The importance of our Judeo-Christian heritage for every aspect of our culture and our hope of salvation.

vv. 4, 5 Anyone – individual or nation – who observes the Word of God will find newness of life..

Psalm 138

A broad brush on the uplifting and empowering presence of God – even for the humblest.

Romans 12: 1 – 8

A broad brush on the importance of living a life dedicated to God – whatever our

calling or station in life.

v. 1 The importance of the ‘living sacrifice’ that is the worship of ‘mind and heart’ – both together NOT either-or.

v. 2 The vital importance of having the right ‘mind-set’ – not drifting in post-modern insecurities.

vv. 3 – 5 Having a sound judgement of the worth of ALL in the light of Christ’s sacrifice for each of us.

vv. 6 – 8 Making the best use of ALL the gifts – however humble – we each of us have to build up the work of Christ where we are.

Matthew 16: 13 – 20

A broad brush on both recognising and confessing Christ’s divinity – without any

reservations.

vv. 4 – 6 The importance of not being tainted by our unavoidable contact in all manner of worldly things.

v. 8 The importance of having a physical centre for our personal and corporate spiritual/worship life.

Romans 12: 9 – 21

A broad brush on the absolute centrality of Love as the primary Christian virtue. (It

may be that this is a precursor of the great poem on love in 1 Corinthians 13)

v. 9 Sincerity of feeling must be allied to constancy in behaviour.

v. 10 Our love shows itself in loving and caring concerns.

v. 11 The Holy spirit will keep our zeal for God-in-Christ alive and active.

v. 12 Hoping and praying keeps the Christian alive and active.

v. 13 Practical expressions of love are as important as pious ones.

v. 14 This is the hardest discipline of true Christian love.

v. 15 Show that you really do care even if you do not comprehend.

v. 16 We are ALL sinners in need of repentance and salvation – give proper appreciation to others – however humble.

v. 17 "Do as you would be done by". Be straight in all things.

vv. 18, 19 "Vengeance is a dish best eaten cold". Better still, not eaten at all. Justice is another matter.

v. 20 By your boundless Love others may be shamed into right behaviour.

v. 21 Swimming against the current is very hard. The Love of God will sustain the triumph of good.

Matthew 16: 21 – 28

A broad brush on Jesus’ steely r4esolution on our behalf. A broad brush on the real

cost of discipleship.

vv. 21 – 23 Facing up to the cost that Jesus recognised and paid for us. Worldly values are false values.

vv. 24 – 26 Facing up to the potential cost to ourselves of compromising with the world.

v. 33 The importance of being both a student and a keeper of God’s statutes (laws, precepts, instructions, will ,paths)

vv. 36, 37 The everlasting nature and benefit if god’s ways as opposed to the temporality of worldly matters.

vv. 8 – 10 Christian Love sums up all the law.

vv. 11 – 14 Because we have no idea when ‘the end’ will come we should live in anticipation of its imminent arrival.

vv. 15 – 17 Loving, internal discipline, is necessary for any society – Christian Love is best of all.

v. 20 Numbers are not the ‘be-all and end-all’ for Christ is ALWAYS present in our worshipping communities.

vv. 6 – 8 On the heart of Old Testament piety showing the characteristic qualities of God’s dealing with Israel – also with us – righteous, compassionate, gracious, long-suffering, ever-faithful.

Romans 14: 1 – 12

A broad brush on dealing gently with one another.

A broad brush on not being judgmental over superficial matters.

Matthew 18: 21 – 35

A broad brush on forgiveness – we owe to Christ a debt we cannot repay – as the first

servant – it behoves us to be merciful as Christ is merciful.

vv. 27 – 30 The dual importance of both living and preaching – speaking about – the Christian faith.

v. 4 The universal truth that we all belong to God and are responsible for our own behaviour.

vv. 25 – 28 Righteousness – by God’s grace – brings ‘life; wickedness – by our own folly – brings ‘death’.

vv. 31, 32 Having a "new heart a new spirit" – by God’s grace renews the whole quality of life.

Psalm 25: 1 – 9

A broad brush on trust in the Lord leading to a right quality of life.

vv. 1 – 4 The importance of self-sacrifice in building up each other in love, warmth of affection and compassion.

vv. 5 – 11 A broad brush on Christ’s superb humility as an example for us to follow.

vv. 6 – 7a Christ’s love for us in his ‘Kenosis’ – self-emptying – of all that glory for our sake.

vv. 7b – 8 Christ’s total identifying with us - to share our humanity and bear the cost of our sin on the cross.

vv. 9 – 11 The rightful glorifying of the risen Christ and the appropriateness of our worship of him.

vv. 12, 13 Our "working out" of the meaning of our salvation here to the glory of God-in-Christ.

Matthew 21: 23 – 32

A broad brush on recognising and obeying the authority of Jesus of Nazareth as the

Son of God.

A broad brush on having the courage of our Christian conviction as opposed to the

vacillation of the "priests and elders".

vv. 28 – 32 Our actions – in obedience to Christ – are more important than our words in showing true Christian living.

v. 1 Praising God for the winder of his extraordinary far sighted love toward us – in the creation, in Christ Jesus, in the Holy Spirit.

v. 4 God has no favourites – ANYONE who approaches him in humbleness of heart will be received.

v. 5 No matter how powerful our worldly force may seem it is as fleeting as a song.

vv. 6 – 9 The vivid image of "feasting", "rejoicing" and a clear image of God – a foretaste of heaven.

Psalm 23

A broad brush on the utter confidence to be placed in God – however dark the

temporary circumstances.

Philippians 4: 1 – 9

A broad brush on recognising - and thanking God for – loyal friendship and support in

our Christian life.

v. 7 The real peace – that is possible even in strife – that comes from our relationship with Christ.

v. 8 The vital importance of the highest possible qualities in our thinking; thinking leads to speaking and doing.

v. 9 Christianity is above all a practical religion.

Matthew 22: 1 – 14

A broad brush on God’s universal invitation to us to have a share in the joy of his

kingdom – symbolised by the wedding banquet / feast – and our rejection both of the

invitation and the messengers.

vv. 34 – 40 (cf. Deuteronomy 6: 5; Leviticus 19: 18) The absolute imperative of the right order of priorities in our lives, especially in our motivation – God first, others second, sel