The Word and the World - Peter Daniel J

8/9/2019 The Word and the World - Peter Daniel J.

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The Word and the World

J. Peter Daniel M.E.

First English Edition January 2010

Glocal Youth Vision 2010 Edition.


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Foreword

I am glad to see my younger brother following my footsteps to write. In the

cyber world, every Christian has to put his imprint or thoughts through blogs.

This book is a good model for writing blogs. The Word and the World is a

needed book for young Christians to stimulate their thoughts and provoke theirresponse.

There are three important things to understand about the Word and the World.

Real: Gods Word is real. It is the truth. In the midst of so many myths, ideologies, theories,

philosophies, dogmas, doctrines, traditions; Bible is the TRUTH. Gods Word is eternal truth and

there would be always several counterfeits resembling this, but they are not real and authentic.

Relevant: Gods Word is relevant in any contemporary situation. It is relevant for personal life,family life, social life, spiritual life, moral lifeetc. Gods word is alive and could transform the

readers and the society. Those who ignore Gods Word loose relevance in the world here and world

to come.

Relationship: Gods Word provides us the Way for relationship with God. It helps humanity to

be reconciled with God through Lord Jesus Christ. Not only that, it provides right relationship for

Christians to have with the world. The Word of God provides resources to walk in the world being

in constant communication with God.

Each generation has to interpret the Scripture for their own generation. Peter Daniel has attempted

to interpret the Word of God for his peers and youngsters. The reflection questions are good to

understand the thoughts and ideas shared. Reflection would certainly lead to action initiatives that

would benefit the Kingdom of God.

Congratulations Peter for writing this and I wish each reader may be blessed, edified and equipped

to serve God faithfully.

J.N. Manokaran

[email protected]

Website: glocalleadersnetwork.com

Author of: 1. Christ & Cities; 2. Christ & Missional Leaders;

3. Christ & Transformational Missions 4. Christ & New Generation Youth.


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Felicitations

It is my pleasure and privilege to write felicitation for this book, The Word and

the World as I am one among the many who have witnessed the authors closer

walk with the Lord and his constant persuading character for the practical

Christian life.

Jesus is the ideal model for a writer. He explained great truths from simple

parables and life incidents. Here he has related the world to the word and

challenges the believers to learn what our Lord wants us from the world and apply them according

to the word.

The author has expressed the truth simply and plainly and has given us a room for Reflection and

Discussion which will make our thought process progressive. This book requires the readers to

think critically and confront their own deeply held ideas and perceptions about incidents around the

world.

Think globally; Act locally is a famous quote. The author referred many incidents from local to

the global issues like Terrorism, Economic recession and Swine flu which are really reflecting his

global thinking.

One of the surprising aspects of the book is how the chapters have been arranged in a manner an

evangelical Christian has to have a stage of maturity in variety of areas in his life. Much of the work

in this book reflects his deep spiritual experience and yet, they have been seen fit to make it widely

executable in every readers life.

My sincere prayer and desire is that after you have had an opportunity to read this book, the way youlook at the world will change and your response to them will be rooted in the word.

May the Lord bless and shower His manifold blessings through this humble effort.

Dr. D. Pethuru, MD


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Acknowledgements

First of all I like to thank God for giving me the time and inspiration to do this great work.

I sincerely thank everyone who has encouraged me a lot in bringing out this book. Thanks for

pausing here as I acknowledge the support and help I have received from my wife Pearline Suganthy

and children Praisy Tryphena and Princy Tryphosa.

I also acknowledge the help of many highly esteemed Christian leaders and friends.

I am deeply indebted to my brother Rev. Dr. J. N. Manokaran and his family whose inspiration

motivated me to write articles in magazines, newsletters and also for his foreword. I also record my

sincere thanks to my father Mr. S. Joseph, who has supported me and gave useful ideas in this

endeavor. .

My sincere thanks are due to my beloved friends Mr Timothy, Mr. Ebenezar, Mrs. Sheeba, Mr.

Stanley and Mr. Arul Manohar, who have edited these articles from time to time .

I thank Dr. Pethuru for his felicitation.

I like to thank Mr. Rajadurai, and Mr. Jesudhasan, Mr. Stanley who has taken the responsibilities of

cover page design and all other related works to bring it in the form of Book.

J. Peter Daniel

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://glocalyouthvision.wordpress.com


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CONTENTCONTENTCONTENTCONTENT

Evangelistic Topics:

Where we went wrong (Ps. 51)

Peace in Perplexity (Math 2, Is. 9:6)

Purge Out (I cor. 5:7-8, Isa 1:25, Prov. 20:30)

9/11 and 7/7 (Gen4:1-15)

One Man (Rom 5:12-6:1)

Divine Love (John 3:16)

The Chief Physician (Math 9:9-13)

Reversible. Reversible(I cor. 15:1-19)

Discipleship Topics

Gods Gallery (2 Tim 2:20-26)

Cricket Creeping in. (Math. 4:1-11)

Slur. Slur (James 3:1-12)

Short Cut Saints (2 Chr. 14:2-6, 16:1-6. I sam 13:9-12)

Believer Uses a Blinker (Ex. 4:1-14, Jh. 4:27-38)

Spectacular Spectators (Math 26:31-35, 69-75)

DAM Believers (Acts. 109-23, Math19:13,14)

A Bad Apple (Josh. 7:1-5, Gal2:11-13, John 21:1-19)

Lame Duck Believers (Lk. 9:1-6, 13:6-9, Math23 -28)

One more Year (Lk. 13:1-9)

Grab Christians (Lk. 10, Acts. 6:1-7)

Five Precious Stones (Math 25:1-13)

Standing in the middle of the road (I Sam 20:1-14, 17,17-29)

Gods Brand Ambassador (Math 5:13-16)


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Spiritual Mirage (Math 21:18,19)

Spiritual Prominence.(Math 18:1-4, Phil 2:5-11)

Great Reward (Gen 15:1-10, 14:1-17)

Red Car(D)pet (2 Tim. 4:7,8)

Single Mind (Ph. 1:21)

Shed the Sheath (Ph. 2:5-11, Gal 2:20)

Spiritual Inheritance (Ps. 33:10-15)

Momentary Lapses (Ps. 19)

Christian Ignorance (Gal 4:8-10, Gen. 1:1-31)

Spiritual Sham(E) (Malachi)

Prisoners of the past (Phil. 3:4-9)

Seesaw Christian (Ps. 51)

Recession Economic Or Spiritual (Haggai 1:1-15, 2:15-18)

Burial Mound.. (Lk. 11:37-54)

Winer or Loser (Ex. 2:11-25, Gen. 37:1-38, 39:19-22)

You see to it? (Math. 27:3-5, 24-26)

S(w)in(e) Flu (I cor. 10:14-15)

Mission Topics:

Grooming youngsters for the Future (Josh. 1:1-18, Num 27:20-21,

Lk. 9:1-6, 10:1-12, 17-20)

White Already to Harvest (Neh. 1:1-11, 2:13,14, John 4:27-38, Rom 10:14-15)

Baton (Dt. 31:14-23)

Radical or Retreat (2Cor. 5:17-18, Heb 6:1-7)

On the move.. Acts. 18:1-6)


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WHERE WE WENT WRONG.WHERE WE WENT WRONG.WHERE WE WENT WRONG.WHERE WE WENT WRONG.

Ps. 51

Let modesty take a back seat says an advertisement displayed at a textiles show

room. Another ad on T.V. says, Neighbors envy, owners pride. We squeeze toplease is written above the price list of a juice shop. All these ad gimmicks seek to

promote their own goods. However they have blasted the basic value system in order

to selfishly attract the buyers!

The value system in India is slowly declining. People think that

education will provide a value system that would improve the

students life. This view of thought went horribly wrong when the child

of today started to use the gun to quench his anger instead of

seeking better solutions from the moral values learnt. The moral

class failed to impart the desired value system.

Some people seek values from movies stars. That also has become a

mockery. Lets take a flashback to the two prominent stars who

frequently visit the jail for their crime of indulging in terror against

humans and animals.

Some people think that riches and wealth will give them the required value system. The

sad stories of the Ambani brothers and the Mahajan

family reflect the fact that money cant even solvefights between siblings. The latter case saw brother

killing brother for the sake of money. The flow of money

can never increase the flow of values into a system.

The world evaded from providing the values which man is in need of to have a better

quality of life. When values diminish, man begins to behave like an animal, killing other

human beings without knowing the cascading effect on the victims family and the

society at large.

Many people have an opinion that the value system has to be embedded into a

person at birth or even before birth which would give a better effect. This theory lies

defeated after seeing the news splashed by the media. The value system has been

marred in the birth process itself. The child comes out of the womb crying and not

smiling! The reason behind is that the child has entered into a hopeless and helpless

world.


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In Ps 51:5, David said, surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother

conceived me. The root cause for the decay in the value system is the sin which has

entered into the human race. The value system has showed negative progress on the

chart due to the sin of man and not because of nature or fate.

The world has allotted a lot of money for safeguarding the value system for differentissues such as protection, preservation etc. The way out for this degrading value system

is to follow the Person who has lived in this world without any sin, corruption or blemish.

That Person has lived in this world already. That Person was testified by the king, high

priest and the people as a sinless man.

He said I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. He followed the rules and regulations by

giving the tax to the government and encouraged others to pay the taxes. He had

compassion on the poor, the sick and the outcasts. He had the courage to touch and

heal the lepers which was more than touching an HIV+ patient today. His values were

praised by many stalwarts.

He spoke of Godly values. He practiced those values. On the cross, He died to take

away our sin. He was buried and resurrected on the third day and ascended into

heaven. Now, He is with us to help us practice those values which He spoke about and

followed; the values which the world is still searching for. Jesus will come back again to

take all those who have accepted Him as their Lord and Savior.

The demolished value system can be restored by Jesus Christ. If you accept Him and

follow His steps, the world will become a better place!

For reflection and discussion:

1. Are we able to open our minds and see how the values have been portrayed inthe advertisements? How are you going to rebuild the values in society?

2. Jesus is the only way to restore the scattered values in this world. How and why?


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PEACE IN PERPLEXITYPEACE IN PERPLEXITYPEACE IN PERPLEXITYPEACE IN PERPLEXITY

Math. 2

Is. 9:6

Sometimes, the meaning of a word becomes applicable only when a contrary situation

happens in an individuals life. The importance of the word democracy was revealed

when an emergency was imposed in Pakistan. Iraqi people realized the value of

peace when they lost it during the tyrannical reign of Saddam Hussain in their country.

Over the recent days, I have undergone a lot of stress in and

out of the workplace and in the ministry. During those times, I

studied the book of Psalms which enabled me to identify with

Davids life which was studded with several stressful events.

The verses became more appropriate though had I read the

same passages before and it had a great impact in my life.

In the same way, the Christmas has to be seen in the light of the first Christmas.

Let us look into the following two incidents clearly and then compare them with the

birth of Jesus Christ.

A. Peace amidst Hopelessness:

The pregnant woman Mary and Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galileeto Judea, to Bethlehem to register themselves as per the decree of Caesar Augustus. In

the olden days, traveling was never easy. It was a cumbersome and painful process

which was to be endured and not enjoyed. When the couple reached the lodge to

settle in for that night, the inn keeper sent them out just as how in India we even refuse

to give place for a fellow passenger who is sick.

The hope of settling for that night in the inn had gone (Lk.2:7). They did not know where

to go. However, God had arranged a manger for them. The insignificant manger

became significant due to the birth of Jesus, the visit of the wise men, the Star which led

them, the angels and shepherds who had come to worship the Saviour.

At times, God allows hopeless situations in our life to fulfill His delightful purposes. The

manger proved to be of greater use than the inn.

The indication for the shepherd was very easy as the manger was related to hisprofession.

The star stopped on the manager which was easy for the wise men to identify.


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The place was also big enough for them to accommodate Jesus and the manyvisitors.

Often, we get depressed and sad when things dont go the way we desire them to.

God allows such situations for our own good to make us understand that Gods peace

is unbreakable and unshakeable always!

B. Peace amidst Utter Confusion:

The envious and insecure feelings crippled Herod after the Magi had outwitted him. He

ordered the killing of all the male babies under the age of two in Bethlehem and its

vicinity. The first Christmas had been a bloody event for those who were in Bethlehem. It

turned out to be a time of weeping and mourning in Ramah. No one was able to

comfort the bereaved families (Matt 2:16-18). In the midst of these horrific happenings,

the Prince of Peace was born in the manager. The message of Christs birth was

proclaimed to the shepherds and to the whole world.

In our life too, we face unacceptable situations such as accidents, natural calamities,terrorism, sudden deaths, disease, illness, poverty, problems at work, unanswered

prayers and so on. What will Christmas this year mean to those in such situations? The

celebration of Christmas will be very difficult just as it was, two thousand years ago. The

celebration of the first Christmas was for the celebration of the birth of the Prince of

Peace and not for mourning for the tragedies. .

Very often we dwell in the scars of the past and incidents which cloud out the real

peace which God wants to give to each one of us. Christmas is not just about thinking

of our bad past. Instead we need to focus on Jesus Christ who has come to this world to

give peace to the world which the world cannot offer.

Let us remember that in this world we will always have trials and tribulations. The good

news is that even in the midst of perplexity, God will give us His everlasting peace

because He is the Prince of Peace!


1. Usually the king gives beautiful material gift. But God has given peace as a giftthrough His son. Do you plan out how to face the stress and strain in your life?.

2. Have you felt the presence of peace deep down in your heart?3. Next week try to handover your problems to Jesus. And write down how you feel

in your heart.


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PURGE OUT.!!!PURGE OUT.!!!PURGE OUT.!!!PURGE OUT.!!!

I Cor. 5:7-8

Isa.1:25, Prov. 20:30

Regular housekeeping keeps a room clean. Otherwise dust amasses on the surface of

objects. This looks like a thick layer blended with the object. The cleaning of a heavy

grime takes a long time and needless to say, it will be a laborious process.

Recently, I was stuck up with an airlock in the chilled water

pipeline during the commissioning of a central air

conditioning unit. It took a long time to release the air to

make the system functional. After removing all the air, the

unit started to function satisfactorily.

In our spiritual journey too, a lot of dust such as old

incidences, scars, emotional hurt, bitterness, physical abuse, child abuse etc. piles up.

This cripples our mind and thinking. At times it makes us feel low. It comes into our mind

often to commove our day to day activities. The psychologists have named it

depression. It comes to a believer when the relationship with God soars or while

preparing the Bible study for others or during a superficial study of the Word of God.

The antidote for this is to perform the Purge Out Therapy on a daily basis. If not our lives

would be affected seriously. Moreover, it mars the joy of salvation and feigns the

ministry too. As Christian believers, let us use the Purge Therapy in a habitu to live a

happy and joyful life.

A. Purge Out the Old Leaven (I cor. 5:7-8)

The old leaven is mentioned as malice and wickedness. It has to be peeled off from our

lives and be replaced with Sincerity and Truth. The peeling off is not a one day event

since we are living in this world. This will make us dirty. It has to be subbed with new

leaven and new wine which God has given us through Jesus Christ.

B. Purge Out the Dross (Isa. 1:25)

The dross is the scum formed by oxidation at the surface of molten metals. Theformation of scoria takes place in our relationship with others. E.g. slip of tongues, slur,

hiding some things, playing politics, thinking one thing and then giving contradictory

information,.

Sometimes the slag may be an insignificant and an invisible one. To make it

conspicuous, it is better to evaluate the days happenings before going to bed and


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writing down what God has spoken through that circumstance. It helps us to clear our

impurities and look ahead for a better tomorrow.

C. Purge Out the Inmost Being (Prov. 20:30)

People of different faith try to control their physical desires by regular external self-

punishing acts. External beatings cannot purge out the inner parts. Here Solomon

instructs to punish the inward part, which produces the evil in our life. Dwelling a lot on

the self and inmost being makes us feel hurt and depressed. Thats why Paul said in Gal

2:20 not I but Jesus Christ:

Let us purge out the old leaven, dross and the inmost being and replace it with sincerity

and truth with the help of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.


1. Are we able to forgive offenders without any preconditions?2. The past resurrects then and there from our subconscious mind. Not able to

forgive our own kith and kin for their actions. The habit of lifting other personsattitude in our hearts that leads to pull you backward in your life. List out theunforgiven past and keep it before God.

3. Analyze your life whether there is any hidden agenda/sin affecting the family orsociety.


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9/11 AND 7/79/11 AND 7/79/11 AND 7/79/11 AND 7/7

Gen. 4:1-15

Suicide bombers assassinated Late Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, eminent,

energetic, enthusiastic leader. After this incident, terroristorganizations used the same strategies to destroy the fabric

structures of the country. E.g. Suicide bombers attacked twin

towers by hijacking the passengers plane on 09/11. Suicide

bombers attacked underground railway station and bus in

London on 07/07. Suicide bombers launched attack even in

Egypt and other countries also.

The world devised so many plans to combat terrorism

by waging war and making beautiful statements like

War on terrorism Global struggles with violence

extremism. The end result is failure. The root cause of

terrorism is an individual selfish motive. Terrorists are not

born but their own attitude develops them as one.

Terrorist means fulfilling his own selfish desires, murder,taking vengeance, and killing. If we think in this line, the Bible clearly reveals the

character of a terrorist in Genesis chapter 4 itself. The name of the person is Cain. Cainbrings some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the LORD. He keeps the goodportion. His brother Abel offers fat and first portion as an offering. This incident revealsCains selfishness. The slogan goes on The selfish attitude alienates us from thesociety. The disapproval of Cains offering leads him to anger and downcast. Slowlythe anger developed hatred towards his brother.

Selfish attitude and hatred made him devise a cunning plan to kill Abel. He murderedhis brother. The reward for his action was that God made him a wanderer all his life.

Terrorists are not only killing others etc. But the Bible says that those who have evil

thoughts in their hearts will also come under that category.

E.g. 1. Anyone, who is angry with his brother, will be subject to judgment.

2. Anyone, who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin.

3. Anyone, who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.

4. Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery.


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The simple and effective antidote for terrorism is the following three verses from the

Bible.

consider others better than yourselves Phil 2:3 Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and

pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, Matt 5:44-45 Jesus said the first commandment 'You shall love the LORD your God with all yourheart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' Second is like it: 'You shall love yourneighbour as yourself. Matt 22:38-40

As a glocal youth has a role in this world to combat terrorism by spreading Jesus

message to all the people. I am challenging you to spread Gods message effectively

throughout the country and win many for Christ.


1. Inner attitude is revealed in our day to day life. God sees the inner heart. Arewe able to clean it every day by His precious blood?

2. The obscene pictures or movies spoil our thought and mind. It cripples our life.How are we going to take it away? Plan it and do it with the help of God.


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ONE MAN....ONE MAN....ONE MAN....ONE MAN....

Rom 5:12-6:1

A man has the capability to change his course of action by taking proper or improper

decision. The choices are many in this world but choosing the best depends upon theindividual. A few leaders will take decisions after analyzing the pros and cons. Some

will take hastily.

Recently, Skipper Rahul Dravid had been given a chance to take a decision after

winning the toss in Test match against England. He had a choice of fielding or batting.

He took fielding which led to a great defeat. The decision of one man affected the

entire team as well as the country.

A. One man First Man:

The first man in the history made a wrong decision which affected globally. The first

deviation of the line will mar the entire picture. In the same way one man first man Adams mistake affected the beautiful world. Sin entered the world through one man,

and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned

(Rom 5:12-6:1). Adam brought condemnation, disobedience, curse and trespass to this

world. He has become a pattern for this world.

If the wrong decision of one man has to be rectified, then, one who is

sinless and able to rescue men from the curse, condemnation and sin

has to offer himself.

B. One man Last man.God gave a gift of His own son to revert the decision made by Adam.

He came to show His love in this way: while we were still sinners, Christ

died for us. He removed our iniquity and justified us by shedding His

blood on the Cross. (Without shedding blood, there is no forgiveness). He once again

restored this broken relationship by His death.

The first man Adam brought death by his wrong decision, but Jesus Christ brought

redemption from sin through His resurrection. He made the sinners righteous and

delivered man from death to eternal life. He turned Adams generation (race) to

Gods Race by His death and resurrection.

If we have faith in Him and have been justified, then we have peace with God through

our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us believe and accept Him, so that we will have a peaceful

relationship with God.


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1. One man spoils the human race. The last man restored humanity. Lets examineourselves and find out who we are following.

2. The evidence of following the last man will be revealed in your way of living. Arewe living as a witness ?


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DIVINE LOVEDIVINE LOVEDIVINE LOVEDIVINE LOVE

John 3:16

Face is the indication of what is inside the heart. This

statement is true and applicable to all. Men face anxietywhen things are now working out favourably for them. Few

people blame the fault on others. Some of them accept it

as their own fault. The attitude varies from person to

person. People like accusing others easily for their faults.

Recently the media has started to pinpoint Saddam for his mischief. Every one cast

their vote for his death. No one was willing to forgive him for his deeds. Even the

Christian society refused to pardon him.

One of my friends told me that we wouldnt forgive the person who had done a grave

mistake even if God forgives him. Gods love is different from others. If Jesus is here in

this Christmas surely He would forgive Saddam if he went to him. His love is greater than

our love. His love is divine love. Let us look out how valuable His love is!

A. Unconditional Love:

Terms and conditions are the preliminary discussion between clients and

suppliers. The human love is no exceptional in this matter.

Many relationships break due to conditional love. E.g. Ifmy wife loves me I will love her - told by a man married for

just two months.

Gods love is a voluntary one. He took the first

voluntary step by stooping down to our level to lift us to be

His child. He accepted us as we are just like the prodigal sin.

He never asks us to clean up our bad habits to have

fellowship with Him.

Let us emulate our Lords unconditional love to others by taking one step further

to help others.

B. Universal Love.

The globalization is a catch word today. The people are thinking about global

after the intervention of internet and other gadgets. Our God has uttered the word

Global when He sent His son to this world (Global) (Jn. 3:16). He didnt send His son


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especially to one region or one particular community or caste. He sent Him for His

created world.

As a follower of Jesus Christ, do we love each and every one in this world

irrespective of colour, region, language, caste, church background, denomination

background? Let us think so that our love may be a universal love

C. Unique Love.

Gods love is a unique one. He loved each and every individual. He called

them by name. He called Samuel Zacchaeus and so many. Each and every one is

precious in His sight. He lavished His love on us by shedding His blood for us.

Let us show Gods unique love to our neighbors, friends, and relatives in a unique way.

D. Uniform Love.

Gods love has no hierarchy. He loves everyone in the same degree. He loves

poor and rich, educated and illiterate, handicapped and healthy, refuge and slave,

terrorist and non terrorist, black and white in a same balance.

Let us analyze ourselves how our love differs from person to person.

It is a time for us to show our life not only in Christmas time but throughout our life.

Let us replace our nature of pointing others using U words by these Us like Universal,

Unique, Unconditional and Uniform love.


1. List out the person whom are you not able to forgive or forget. Pick up onepersons name and find out the reason for not loving him. Think about yourself.What would happen if God hadnt forgiven you?

2. Unloving people groups untouchables, socially outcast people. How wouldyou feel if you were born in that society?


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THE CHIEF PHYSICIANTHE CHIEF PHYSICIANTHE CHIEF PHYSICIANTHE CHIEF PHYSICIAN

Matt. 9:9-13

Just a tiny prick on the wound; initially, it will be painful; after that, it will be alright

the Nurse informed the patient named Maran in the treatment room. Actually, he hadcome to the Hospital with a swelling on his right thumb. The

damage had occurred when he had tried to close the main door

in his house. Initially, he didnt care about it. After a week, it

developed into swelling which was posted for operation.

While the nurse was conversing with him, a Doctor in white coat

entered the room with a stethoscope. Quickly, he explained the

procedure step by step to Maran. His heartbeat had gone up

when he listened to the words of knife, scissors, stitching, etc.

Slowly, the Doctor finished the procedure and prescribedmedicines for alleviating the pain. After a week, Maran entered

the Doctors cabin and showed his healed hand and expressed his gratitude to the

Doctor. Moreover, Maran quite forgot the prick and the pain.

This episode teaches lessons related to life. The outward appearance of the swelling is

actually indication of inward damage. The cure of the swelling

depends on the healing of inward part. For complete cure, the swelling

has to be operated to remove the pus as well as administer antibiotic

medicine to suppress the virus and bacteria.

Similarly, the world has been immersed with evils such as social injustice, casteism,

terrorism, drug addiction, immortality, debauchery, same sex marriage, rivalry among

brothers, divorce, accumulation of wealth in one place and poverty in another. The

outbursts of evils are due to the inward selfish attitude of people. For instance,

gratification of sexual desire leads a father to rape his own daughter of nine years with

a help of his wife and greed for wealth leads one to kill his own son to get rid of a curse,

and so on.

These evils are like the wound and have disturbed whole human race. People try to

undo past, present and future karma by doing a lot of outward religious activities. It

hasnt either cured their inner turmoil or delivered them from evil. It has aggravated theproblem instead of alleviating it. One of the scholars said that he wanted to do good

things but he was doing evil. He wanted to escape from this but no one can do it.

Who will help this type of a wretched person?

We have tried our best to untangle ourselves from the spiders web but ended up with

a new problem. In the end, we feel lonely and depressed because of our attitudes


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haunt us day and night. It may be a relationship problem, emotional hurt, hurting

others, cheating, etc.

We have to realize and accept our inability to deal with our own problems. The

acceptance of inadequacy helps us realize that we need a specialized physician who

can clean and transplant our heart. The human doctor cannot perform this type ofoperation because they have studied to treat the patients physically. In this operation,

we need a doctor who is flawless and sterile from all those evils.

If you are in this situation, it is better to start searching for a specialized Doctor; just we

are finding out the right Doctor for our kind of disease. The first question is how to

recognize such a person? First of all, the person should not have done any evil or sin in

ones life time on earth. Secondly, the birth of the person should be different from other

persons. Otherwise, the inborn nature of evil comes as a default. Thirdly, the person

should endure hardship and death just as we do. Fourthly, the person has to face the

consequence of death. Fifthly, the person has to resurrect from death.

Second question comes, who is that person? It is better to analyze the criteria. The fifth

point deals with the resurrection as per the sequence. The word resurrection has not

been attached with any leader. It has been credited only to Jesus Christ who has

resurrected and is living today. His tomb was left open. He came to this world with the

purpose of delivering a people from power and presence of sin. He lived and died for

us. His birth was unique and different from normal.

Third question rises, what do we have to do? For instance, the doctor should get

permission from the patients before touching them. Similarly, Jesus Christ is being

standing at the door of our life and knocking at our heart. He will not enter unless untilwe open the door because the key is with us. Once we open our heart to Jesus Christ,

then He will come and dwell and dine with us. We have to confess our sin as well as

confess that Jesus Christ is our Lord who has incarnated as human after setting aside all

His power and glory. He substituted our place on a cross. He was buried on the same

day and kept in the borrowed tomb which was guarded by the soldiers. On the third

day, the stone was rolled away and Jesus Christ was raised and revealed to many

people before going to heaven. He promised that He will come back as He has gone

up to heaven.

The following prayer, done silently, will help you feel the burden rolling away from you.Moreover, you will feel the presence of God and power of God.

Lord, I believe You came to this world to die for me and my sin. I often try to act

as though I am a saint but I am a sinner when compared with your holiness. I

accept my sinfulness. I have to die but you have died for me and paid the

penalty of my sin. Thank You, Lord Jesus for being my substitute. Lord, please

accept me as Your child and give me a new heart, new life, new thoughts, new


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purpose, new Spirit and a new vision. Do come into my heart and be the Master

of my life. Please give me a peace which cant be given by this world. Give me

a heart to seek You and know You more. I pray in the name of the Lord Jesus

Christ. Amen.

This prayer makes you feel His presence in your life. You have to continue to be intouch with God reading the Word of God (The Bible) and praying to Him about

everything going on in our minds and life, and have fellowship with like-minded people

who have accepted Him just like you.


1. Who is good doctor for Sin? Why is he good? How could he cure the sin?2. What is sin? Explain briefly and why Sinless person has to die for sinful man?


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REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...REVERSIBLE...

I Cor. 15:1-19

Irrepairable loss, critical condition, death, lost... are words which people hate and

refuse to utter. These words are mostly used when loved ones are on the verge ofdeparting or already dead.

People, who lose their dear ones, expect them to come back to

life. This is not possible unless and until God does the miracle.

Once lost is lost and there is no way of recovering it. When I was

thinking about this, I got this word Christos Anesti Christ is

raised. This word makes me think about the promise of

reversibility.

A. Resurrection reverses our sinful nature:

The moral decay, chaos, insecurity of the minority, war on

terrorism shows the real selfish nature of human beings. Selfishness

originates from sinful nature. The sinful nature was inherited from Adam. David said, In

sin did my mother conceive me (Ps.51:5). The result of sin is death (the wages of sin is

death Rom.6:23).

Our sinful nature can be reversed only through the blood of Jesus Christ. He died for our

sins and resurrected on the third day to give us power to overcome sin. He died to

release us from the fear of death.

B. Resurrection gives us hope for living:

People are dying without any hope of life after death. The resurrection of Christ gives us

hope. After death, there is eternal life. It gives us a living hope and a living faith. It

demonstrates the uniqueness of Christ. Paul clearly says in I Corinthians 15:17, If Christ

is not raised, our faith is futile and we are still in a sinful state.

C. Resurrection prepares us to meet God:

The resurrection gives a clear cut message that our God is a living God (Phil.2). Now, He

will come back to judge the world and not to save the world. During His return, all the

dead will resurrect and those who have accepted Him as their personal Saviour will

definitely meet Him. We will be changed from perishable to imperishable andcorruptible to incorruptible.

Let us rejoice that the Lord has given His one and only Son to die for us and resurrect on

third day to reverse our sinful nature. This has offered us a new hope of meeting Him

face to face when He returns to this world.


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1. Resurrection from sin is important for believers. List out the things that portray thatwe are enjoying the joy of resurrection.

2. Resurrection from the past - After Jesus resurrection, He didnt speak about pasttroubles and turmoil. He spoke about future. Are we focusing on the future?

3. Resurrection from sin is important for believers. List out the things that portray thatwe are enjoying the joy of resurrection.

4. Resurrection from the past - After Jesus resurrection, He didnt speak about pasttroubles and turmoil. He spoke about future. Are we focusing on the future?


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GODS GALLERY.GODS GALLERY.GODS GALLERY.GODS GALLERY.

2 Tim. 2:20-26

India is moving economically and technologically at par with the developed countries.

The development has increased the lifestyle of thecitizens. Moreover the financial constraint in the past

has not been faced much by the present day people.

But the task oriented, work load, fame, self satisfaction

and coming up to the top has affected their quiet

movement, enjoyment, and rest.

The same phenomenon has entered into a Christian

believers life. This is one of the strategies of Satan to divert the attention from knowing

the ultimate purpose of God in our lives in this busy world. We have to be cautious and

swim against the tide of this world by utilizing the opportunity to do His purpose in thisworld.

In Bible, God raised a lot of people in a particular situation to accomplish His purpose in

this world. God raised Ruth, a gentile woman in an appropriate time to bridge the gap

in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. He brought Esther to save His chosen people. The law

of storing food is still alive (food corporation of India) which was imposed by Joseph

during the famine in Egypt.

God shapes His people according to His will to do His task at the right time. Let us refer

2 Tim 2:20-21 to know more about this.

A. Criteria for a noble purpose:

In 2Tim 2:20, Paul mentions two type of purposes, one is noble and another one is

ignoble. The criteria for being an instrument for doing a noble purpose is that the person

has to be Holy and blameless (v.21 Eph. 1:4). Holy is a word which means the internal

where God lives in our heart. The blameless is an external word which resonance the

internal holiness to the outside world. The world has to give credit that the believers are

blameless.

We must flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace,

along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Tim 2:22-23

B. Commitment to Masters Noble Purpose:

The good work is mentioned about doing His ministry in this world. Jesus fulfilled Gods

ministry. In the same way we have to fulfill Gods calling in our lives. God sent Jesus


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Christ. In the same way Jesus sends us to this world to do a global evangelism (Mt.

28:19) and to make a mark in the history.

C. Chose to do His specific noble purpose:

A large house is filled with different articles made up of different materials. The value of

the material depends upon the material used to make it. God also wants to be in the

gallery to show how far we have eagerly sought His will in our lifves. This will be revealed

in the end when we stand before his throne.

Let us be ready to fulfill His criteria to take up His purpose, the commitment to do His

purpose and find out His specific noble purpose in our life. So that in the final judgment

God will make us to stand in the gallery according to the life that we have lived in this

world.


1. Are we being in line with Noble or ignoble purposes? What is Gods purposein your life?

2. Do you have personal vision and mission statement?3. Evaluate your spiritual life, Are you appointed to this world for the noble

purpose?4. What does God want me to be?


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CRICKET CREEPING IN....CRICKET CREEPING IN....CRICKET CREEPING IN....CRICKET CREEPING IN....

Math. 4:1-11

On 28/11/05, I tuned my television to the Doordarshan channel for news. It was a

disappointment, as the DD channel was telecasting the live cricket match of SouthAfrica and India. I looked at the bottom of the screen to read the headlines. Nothing

was being displayed. I wondered whether cricket has

become more important than whats happening

around the World. Which one has to come first?

In our personal life, in many occassions important things

have been replaced with unimportant things and vice

versa. The strategies of Satan are to deviate and distract

us from reaching the proper destination. Satans

weapon is the same that he had used 2000 years back,

to deviate Jesus Christ from His plan and purpose. Letus analyse Satans three important weapons.

A. Useless things become useful things:

The Satan is to convert useless things to become useful things in a believers life. He didthe same thing to Jesus by requesting Him to convert stone into bread. Similarly, hedistracts us by evoking to accumulate wealth and earn more money to maintain ourstatus in the society. It is not wrong to have earthly treasures. These treasures should notcloud us to worship the source of all treasures Jesus Christ. Let us store the heavenlytreasures of bringing souls to Jesus Christ. Remember Jesus word uttered to Peter,Follow me, I will make you fishers of men.

B. Sharp becomes unsharpened:

Satan slants Gods word to use it for his own purpose. He shows the one side of theBible verse and hides other verses. He tried to deceive Jesus by showing the promiseverse and hiding the verse, which Jesus stated to overcome the temptation.

The strategy of Satan is to give importance to let out our emotions by praise and

worship service not for correcting Word of God. This type of services has replaced the

importance to Gods word. People will deluge to the church where the pastor is

soothing the heart with Gods promise and prosperity messages. It is better to sharpen

our character, life and attitude by His (s)word. Let us remember 2Tim. 3:16, 17. AllScripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in

righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good

work.


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C. Temporary becomes permanent:

Satan attracts us towards temporary things to make us believe that it is permanent

happiness. He stimulated Jesus by promising to give the whole world but requested

Jesus to worship him. He uses the weapon by showing the temporary world as a

permanent one. Many times, we give excuse for permanent spiritual things like prayermeetings, fellowship, venturing for Gods work but we spend the time to watch the

cricket match etc. Let us seek the permanent and eternal things by obeying His will

and doing Gods ministry.

Let us correct our priorities by giving first place to God and His kingdom. Ida Scuddersaid He came to build Gods kingdom not a medical school. Are we willing to buildGods kingdom in


1. What is our priority in our life? What is our vision in our life? If it is not clear thenmake it clear and have proper mission statement.

2. Every day remember to dedicate your life to him for His guidance.3. Try to focus on the permanent life that is in heaven.


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SLUR...SLUR...SLUR... SLUR... SLUR...SLUR...SLUR...SLUR...

James 3:1-12

A little baby's language is neither easy to define nor easy to comprehend. However

everyone loves to listen to the joyful gurgles the baby makes and enjoys its talkthoroughly. Yet the same child-like speech is not acceptable from us "grown-up

children". We need to be responsible for every word we express. Sometimes we let out

words without our control and simply justify it as slip of tongue. It shows our inability to

control our language.

On 08th August 2006, a one-day cricket match between South Africa and SriLanka took

place at Colombo. During the match, Dean Jones, the former Australia batsman who

was on air as a commentator made a casual remark during the commercial break -

The terrorist has taken another wicket. He was talking about the South African

batsman Hashim Amla, a devout Muslim. Unfortunately for Jones it was relayed across

the world. One wrong word terrorist marred his name as well as the core values of thegame in a split second.

On 19th September 2006, Sania Mizra, the Indian tennis superstar said in Kolkata that

she had to assess every word she verbalized. An "if to but" from her lips could create a

national crisis. If a secular person is analyzing every word she speaks then how much

more careful should a spiritual person be!

In the Bible James 3:1-6 talks about the tongue using three important words.

A. Bit:

A bit is a piece of metal held in a horse's mouth by thereins and is used to control the horse while riding. For us human

beings, the origin of the word comes from inside our heart

(Matt.12:34 35). If our heart is filled with Gods presence then

pure and encouraging words will come out from our mouths. Let

us fill our heart with His word and speak His words to others. (Col.

3:16).

B. Rudder:

A rudder is just like a steering wheel which guides a vehicle or a ship to the right

direction. It equates with the tongue which leads the whole body. Thespiritual person's life should be controlled and maneuvered by His

Spirit. Isaiah 30:21 says that God guides our way by speaking to us. Let us

listen to His voice and channelize our life according to His command.


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C. Fire:

Just as a small spark destroys the whole forest our tiny tongue can muck up our

life as well as the lives of others. Instead, we need to master and steer the tongue with

the help of filling our heart with the Word of God and His guidance. If we do the above

then our words will be powerful and will bring transformation in the lives of others.

Let us control and direct our tongue with His help and spread His gospel across

the globe like a wildfire!


1. Try to find out the cause of loose words in our life.

2.

Plan strategies to avoid slur with the help of God for the next few days.3. Put bid to control the stirring how are we going to do it.


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SHORT CUT SAINTSSHORT CUT SAINTSSHORT CUT SAINTSSHORT CUT SAINTSRead: 2 Chr. 14:2-6, 12, 16:1-6

I Sam. 13:9-12

Computers have the provision of shortcut icons which help us to reach the desiredlocation by cutting short the usual procedure. These save both time and energy but

sometimes it ends up with some problems.

Recently I drove my car from Tambaram to Egmore in

Chennai. On the way there were several flyovers without

proper signboards. I took one flyover and landed up in

another lane that was leading to Avadi (in a completely

different direction). It took a few u-turns, some tensed

moments and a lot of wasted time amid the confusion to

get back to the correct lane.

Similarly in our spiritual life, we love to take shortcuts to accomplish certain tasks with our

own ways. Sometimes, we do it and then go to God for ratification or end up facing the

consequences. In just a few moments, we end up in the wrong lane and start cursing

our own actions. .

In the Bible, there are a few examples of those who took shortcuts.

A. Asa the King: 2 Chr 14:2-6

Asa was the son of Abijah who ruled Judah for ten years. Asa did what was good andright in the eyes of the Lord his God. He removed the foreign altars and the high places,

smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He commanded Judah

to seek the Lord, the God of their fathers, and to obey His laws and commands. His

nation enjoyed peace without any war as long as he relied on the Lord for all his deeds.

From 2 Chr 14:12, we see that Asa defeated the Ethiopian army by relying on God

during that time.

In the thirty sixth year of Asas reign, Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah and

fortified Ramah to prevent anyone from leaving or entering Asas territory. The

economy came to a standstill and famine crept in due to the siege (2 Chron 16:1-6).

Asa immediately took silver and gold out of the treasuries of the Lords temple and of

his palace and sent it to Benhadad, king of Aram who sent his army to fight Israel. King

Baaha heard of this and returned to his own country. God sent his seer to warn Asa for

relying on the Lords treasure and the king of Aram to send king Baaha back. He

rebuked him for taking a shortcut to complete the task without getting proper

guidance from the Lord.


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B. Saul the King: 1 Sam 13:9-12

The Israelites cried out before God for a king. God anointed Saul as the king through

Samuel the prophet. One day, the Philistines assembled for war on one side while his

own men scattered on the other side due to the late arrival of Samuel to offer the burnt

offering. Saul was in a hurry to get his people together and send his army to fight the

Philistines. He began to play the role of the priest which was against Gods

commandment. Samuel rebuked him and prophesied about the person who would

come after him.

Even in our own lives, let us wait on the Lord, get His guidance and do everything in

accordance to His will. We need not take shortcuts which will be unacceptable to the

Lord. Let us always keep in mind that Gods will done in Gods way will never lack Gods

resources!


1. Note down the area where you are not able to wait on the Lord to act. Specifyone or two incidents and analyze.

2. Next one week, try to think twice before speaking / Taking up the matter tohigher ups

3. Jolte down the benefits of going slow.


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BELIEVER USES A BLINKERBELIEVER USES A BLINKERBELIEVER USES A BLINKERBELIEVER USES A BLINKER

Es. 4:1-14

Jn. 4:27-38

A horse rider uses a leather eye-patch sewn to the side of the halter which prevents a

horse from getting distracted. It helps the rider to guide the horse in accordance to his

will. The leather piece used for this purpose is called a blinker.

Today, many cult groups / Pastors / so called evangelists use blinkers to prevent the

sheep from going away from their folds. Many teachings against

marriage propagating celibacy, treat your spouse as a sister or

brother, teachings against sporting a mustache / wearing of jewels /

propagating unkempt hair under the pretext of not conforming to the

world, prosperity theology blessings, positive confession Humanistic

psychology, etc. These trivial matters have become a leather eye

patch blocking our vision to hide the need around us. This attitude

may damage our spiritual life and cause us to loose the purpose of

being in this world to do Gods will.

Let us see some of the examples who have used the blinker in their eyes.

A. Esther uses a Blinker:

Esther was a captive from Jerusalem, living in Persia (India to Ethiopia) as a refugee.

She was also an orphan but God had brought her up through Mordecai her uncle. God

lifted her up from a small place to the kings palace after the ousting of Queen

Vashtifor her disobedience to the king. The blessings of God had become an eye

patch and made her unable to see the things distant to her room. She was not aware

of things going against her and her community even though she was at a strategic

point of origin of the law. She was unable to see the happenings inside and outside the

palace.

The silence of Esther showed that she was wearing blinkers on her eyes. For removing

the blinker, Mordecai had to send a severe warning message regarding the threat toJews community by Hamman, prime minister through Hathach. Esther woke up after

hearing the strong word from her uncle.


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In our life also, we are sleeping or pretending to sleep when the need of the people is

brought to us. We are unable to open our eyes to see the things out of our box as God

sees.

B Disciples use a Blinker:

Jesus was speaking with a woman about the living water. At the time, disciples had

gone to procure food for Jesus. When they returned back they offered the food. But

Jesus said that he had food which the disciples didnt know. Jesus meant the food

means doing the will of God. His will is to preach the Gospel to the world.

The disciples eyes were on the physical food instead of spiritual food which Jesus saw

differently. After this incidence, Jesus commanded them to open their eyes to see the

need in and around the world.

Let us remove the blinker from our eyes and open to see the need in and around the

world. Jesus is coming soon. So we need to think about preaching the gospel at everynook and corner of the world.


1. Identify the blinker that hinders you to see the truth of Gods word.2. Try to find out, why do you procrastinate to do Gods commandments3. Am I dwelling mostly on day to day need / activity oriented ministry and

forgetting the need of savior.4. God cried for Jerusalem. Are you able to cry for your city?


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SPECTACULAR SPECTATORSSPECTACULAR SPECTATORSSPECTACULAR SPECTATORSSPECTACULAR SPECTATORS

Math. 26:31-35, 69-75

If a child gazes steadily at an object sans action nor reaction for a long time, the

parents begin to worry about the growth of their child. The development of a child isgauged by his/her activities, movements, speech etc. Parents become paranoid if their

child prefers to be inactive.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, skipper and wicket keeper of Indias ODI and

Twenty20 cricket teams announced that he watched cricket only for

a few moments to see his favorite batsmen such as Sachin Tendulkar

play. He preferred to rather spend most of his time on the ground

practicing and honing his cricketing skills. A cricketer has to be in the field playing

instead of just watching others play.

Similarly, the growth of the believers depends upon their active participation in building

Gods kingdom. The silent spectators are the greatest threats to Gods ordained global

mission. God requires watchmen who are involved actively in His work. He does not

need watchers who wonder what is happening. God wants a go-er and not a sender.

God wants a performer not a talker. God wants an achiever not an assigner. God

wants a builder not a dreamer.

Let us glance at some salient points of the dangers of being spectators.

A. Peter sat in the Wrong Place:

The fiery speech of Peter in Matt 26:3535 (But Peter declared, "Even if I have to die with

you, I will never disown you." And all the other disciples said the same) had ended up in

him sitting in the wrong place among the guards at the courtyard and watching Jesus

Christ. Though, he did not dare to go near Jesus he wanted to watch the proceedings.

Many a time, we prefer to sit at a wrong place and watch wrong doings happening

around us. We remain oblivious to the evil and dont to even raise our voice against it

let alone fight against it. In the Roman Colossuem, people

loved to watch the Gladiator games which involved twowarriors fighting one another to death.

B. Telemachus, the Monk who created History!

One day when one such fight was going on, a little monk

named Telemachus (whom God had led to Rome) could not

bear it and ran down from the back of the gallery shouting In


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the name of Jesus, Stop! He came to the edge of the arena and jumped in and stood

in between the gladiators repeating In the name of Jesus, Stop!

The stronger warrior who was about to kill his rival looked at the Emperor who signaled

to kill the monk. Even as the sword pierced him, blood gushed out and he shouted one

more time, In the name of Jesus, Stop! and he died. That was the last gladiator gamewhich ever took place in Roman history (January 1, 404 AD). Three days later, the

Emperor issued a decree to stop gladiator games forever. One mans action brought to

an end a horrendous game.

Telemachus created history that day. Let us think about our life. Are we sitting and

watching or actively participating in the enhancement of Gods kingdom? Let us

commit our lives to let others know that our Savior lives!


1. Are we just sitting and watching the missionary work by giving money? Then wehave to practice to penetrate into the field to do Gods work

2. Are you sitting in the living room and commenting about the missionary work orevaluating the preacher? Then you are spectators. Now, better evaluate and planout for one week to correct it.


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DAM BELIEVERSDAM BELIEVERSDAM BELIEVERSDAM BELIEVERS

Acts 10:9-23

Matt. 19:13,14

Water is one of the natural resources that God has provided for us. It flows for the

benefit of people those who are living in the nearby areas. In addition, it fetches

income and productivity that makes people flourish

economically.

Man has erected dams across many rivers for producing

electricity as well as for irrigation. But this affects the survival of

people, who are dislocated and their irrigation facilities and

freedom are affected.

God has called us to be channels of blessing to the world. But

the flow of blessing is being stopped due to the man made

dams, such as crooked attitudes, preconceived ideas, traditions

etc. Let us see how Gods blessings are being blocked and

how it can be demolished for the effective flow of Gods

blessings through us.

A. Disciple Peter builds a dam of Tradition:

Disciple Peter had the privilege of hearing sermons directly from the Lord Saviour Jesus

Christ against keeping of Sabbath as a tradition and about keeping the other laws. In

addition, He heard the last commandment of go all over the world to preach the

Good news (Gospel). God had also given him the key for unlocking the gates of

Heaven.

Peter has forgotten all the teachings for the sake of keeping an insignificant

tradition/mindset of discriminating against Gentiles. God has demolished his mind

block by showing a vision regarding eating of unclean animals. It is a pathetic stature

of a disciple even though he was with Him for 3.5 years.

In another incident, God spent a few minutes with the Samaritan outcast woman which

changed her life as well as the lives of the villagers. The reason is that the truth has set

her free from all the bondages so that Gods blessings have flowed from her to villagers.

Let us shed the mindset that is hindering us from preaching the gospel to others.


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B. Disciples behave as a dam: (Matt 19: 13, 14):

The disciples had started behaving like a dam by refusing to allow them from coming

to Jesus Christ. But He rebuked the disciples and compared the children to the

kingdom of heaven. Jesus entertains everyone equally irrespective of age, creed,

caste religion etc.

In another place, Andrew introduced the small boy with five loaves and two fishes to

Jesus Christ. By this, Jesus Christ has done a miracle and explained the great truth of

bread of life to the crowd.

Nowadays the pastors, elders and preachers are erecting a dam to follow their

footsteps in each and every area of their life instead of guiding them towards Lord

Jesus Christ. Due to this a lot of Bible believing believers have become slaves to saints

after being freed from sin. Due to their enslavement, many potential believers have

drained their talent for the sake of obeying them.

Let us evaluate ourselves, whether are we helping others to find out the Lord and

Saviour Jesus Christ or we are erecting a dam. Let us lead people to the Lord Jesus

Christ.


1. Are we a channel blessing of bringing people to God or are we a stumblingblock for others to come to Christ.

2. List out the things which you are thinking a stumbling block for the people

to come to Christ and give as solution for removing the blocks.


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A BAD APPLEA BAD APPLEA BAD APPLEA BAD APPLE

Josh. 7:1-5

Gal. 2:11-13

John. 21:1-19

A team works when the members work with mutual understanding to reach the

earmarked goal. It leads to an upward growth of individuals and the organization. But

if one person has opposed the process then the whole team moves in a downward

trend. This affects the growth, unity and team work.

A recent survey explained that one "bad apple" can spread negative behavior like a

virus to propel officemates downward or act as a

means of destruction in a good team. Conflict in the

workplace a study conducted by California team.

Terence Mitchell, co-author, a professor of

management and organization says that the negativity

of just one individual is pervasive and destructive and

can rapidly spread. One more research scholar said

that the bad apple that spoiled the barrel and a single

"toxic" or negative team member can be the catalyst for a group's downward spiral.

The consequences of a bad apple, negative behaviour are portrayed in the Bible

vividly. Let us look at some of the passages to know about our standing.

A. Achan (Josh 7:1-5):

The Israelites captured many nations and marched towards Canaan under the

leadership of Joshua and with the help of God. When they were on the verge of

getting into Canaan, they were chased by the small country Ai from the city gate as far

as the stone quarries and were struck down on the slopes. They eventually lost a lot of

soldiers. Joshua was unable to accept the defeat. So, he tore his clothes and fell

down at Gods feet to know the reason behind the Calamities they had faced. God

revealed to him that it was due to the disobedience of one person, Gods presencehad departed from the camp.

Joshua tracked down the culprit by screening every clan, down to every individual.

Finally he found out that Achan the son of Carmi had taken the devouted things and

hidden them in his tent.


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Due to one mans mistake, the whole team of soldiers bore the consequences. Let us

analyze whether we are on the problem side or in the side of the solution.

B. Peter Gal 2:11-13, John21:3:

On two occasions, Peter led others to make a wrong direction. One incident is

portrayed in John 21 and is about taking the first step to resort to fishing. The other

apostles joined him and went fishing. God restored him and put him back on track by

asking him three different questions, all of them meaning the same. Finally he wept and

God was later able to use him mightily.

On another occasion, he simply withdrew from the Gentiles to avoid unnecessary

friction with the circumcised group. Due to this behavior, the Jews and Barnabas

followed him.

Let us analyze and see if we are withdrawing from a team due to peer pressure or

because of being unable to cope with the problems. Let us be a partaker of Godskingdom and also to be part of solution.


1. God wants you to be a channel of His blessings. Are we really a blessing toothers?

2. Analyse our life whether is there any hidden sin that is affecting the family,society.


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LAME DUCK BELIEVERSLAME DUCK BELIEVERSLAME DUCK BELIEVERSLAME DUCK BELIEVERS

Lk. 9:1-6, 13:6-9

Math. 23:23--8

The Presidents post is the highest and most poweful in America. But during the

elections in 2006, many of the powers of the president Mr. Bush were

clipped. His power went to democrats who started controlling him.

The news papers portrayed him as a lame duck president

The Christian believers also living like this, even though God has

given them power and authority to exercise them (Lk. 9:1-6). In the

Bible, Jesus Christ spelled out two words related to the word lame

duck.

A. Fig tree:

The fig tree has to produce fruit. It is the indication of its growth. If it is not producing

fruit, then it is waste for the soil and also for the place occupied by it. It is better to

throw it and use the place for some other purpose. (Ref Luke 13:6-7), Then He told this

parable. A man had a fig tree, planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on

it, but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, 'For three

years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven't found any. Cut it

down! Why should it use up the soil?

Christians have to produce fruit by His power so that the world will recognize us. This will

make others to come to Jesus Christ. Let us live up to the expectation of our Lord Savior

Jesus Christ and exercise His power in our life to bear more fruits.

B. White Washed Tomb:

Jesus used the word white washed tomb to refer to the Pharisees. They are the

people who never go or allow others to enter in to the kingdom of God. Their outside

life is decorated but inner heart never matches with that. God hates the people with

dual personalities. (Ref. Matt 23:27-28) "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees,

you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside

but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. (V.28) In the

same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous but on the inside you are full of

hypocrisy and wickedness.)


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Jesus correctly pointed out that they have a name in the society but there is no inner

life. They are just like a tomb which has name outside with no life inside.

In our lives, we are teaching, preaching, and training others to come to Christ. We

have a name in the Christian circles. Do these activities match with our inner lives? Do

our souls have life revived each day in His presence? Let us evaluate our lives today inHis presence and correct it.


1. God has given the power for utilization. Are we utilizing for His glory and tospread His gospel to this world?

2. People want to be identified by the world. So they will do according to theworlds desires. Shall we evaluate whether we are going along with the stream.

3. List out the insignificant matters which you have expected from others and notmaterialized. Compare it with the grace of God has shown to you. The issues willbecome nothing before the presence of God


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ONE MORE YEARONE MORE YEARONE MORE YEARONE MORE YEAR

Luke 13:1-9

The living room is the place where family members get together to discuss family as well

as contemporary problems and other issues. These discussions always revolve aroundeither the person who has instigated the problem or victims involved or about the

politicians (who alwaysseem to be a root cause to many problems!). Most of the time,

such discussions (sometimes lead to arguments too) end up condemning or giving a

clean chit to the particular person involved. Invariably, we all love to give our opinions

and pass judgment on everything that happens around us (irrespective of whether we

are involved in it or not!) This is a regular feature for most of us in our day to day life.

Similarly, the pre New Year week is the time during which the media reviews the

happenings of the past one year. The highs and lows are analyzed and predictions and

trends for the forthcoming year are talked about.

The last weeks of this year are ending with terrible violence. First was the mind-blowing

terrorist-based assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Next was

the horrifying episode of school students shooting their own classmate right inside the

school campus as an act of revenge for bullying them. In another incident in Noida, an

engineering college student shot his classmate who refused to hang out with him.

After hearing about the above happenings, a lot of questions popped up .What went

wrong? Where is the value system? Is it the problem of the media? Is it the problem of

improper upbringing? Is it the problem of urban and rural cultural division? Is it the

problem of minting money?

In Luke 13: 1-5, Jesus read out the news happenings of that day two thousand years

ago. Then He told that the victims were not greater

sinners than those who were living. He concluded that

the people, whether victims or the unaffected had to

repent or they too would perish.

Many times, we compare ourselves with others and say

that we are better than so and so. But God has warned

us not to do so but think and evaluate our own life in

Gods perspective. In the following verses Jesus narrates a

parable.

A. God expects fruits:

A person who had planted a fig tree expected fruits from it. When it did not give the

expected result he called it as a barren tree. It had no use to either man or to the soil. It


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only occupied space. It affected the growth of other plants. It sucked the resources of

other trees without much outcome.

The barren spiritual life of a person affects the place where he/she is planted to be a

witness. They will only fill the space without causing much impact in that area and the

purpose of being placed in that area (for instance, our work spot ( place of study)would be defeated.

God expects us to bear fruit which will be everlasting.

B. Man pleads for one more year:

A barren tree is used for firewood and not for any other purpose. In the Bible passage,

the man who had been tending the vineyard requested the owner of the garden to

give a grace period of one more year so that he could try out two things.

1. Dig around it - To make the water flow through it freely and be

absorbed by the root of the tree. This was to strengthen the

root Eph 3:17

2. Fertilize it. Luke 13:8-9 To protect it from decaying

C. Man gets one more year:

The owner gave one more year, a last chance for the tree to bear fruit. If the tree failed

then the tree would be cut down.

God has given us one more year as the extension of His grace. He is expecting us to

bear His fruit for this forth coming year. He is expecting us to bear fruit instead of

comparing and condemning others.

Let us take a resolution as a Christian believer to bear more fruits for His glory.


1. God has given us grace to find out the fruits in our life. Are we able to bear thefruit or not? What are the difficulties in bearing fruits?

2.

Read Eph. 3:17, Luke 13:8-9 and grow in Gods guidance3. Try to bear fruits in your house


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(G)RAB CHRISTIANS.?(G)RAB CHRISTIANS.?(G)RAB CHRISTIANS.?(G)RAB CHRISTIANS.?

Luke. 10

Acts. 6:1-7

A child likes to move from one direction to another to grab the things which are

scattered on the floor. The toddlers moves depends upon the

attraction of the object. The attraction of one thing wanes

when the child sees a more attractive object. This process

goes on and on till the child becomes tired.

Recently, one of my young friends was part of a team that

conducted a conference on Radiotherapy. They had

designed a logo which portrayed a crab that was partially

trapped within an atom. With great curiosity I asked him to decipher its meaning. He

explained that the crab signified cancer which can spread in all directions and destroy

the body. However the atom symbolized the radiation treatment which was a powerful

tool in destroying cancer cells. The logo showed that the battle of the crab and the

atom was an ongoing struggle and more and more innovative techniques were being

developed to defeat cancer.

Many Christian believers are also like the crab, moving aimlessly in different directions

for different types of ministry and churches depending upon their likes and dislikes.

Several crab Christians never prosper and never really allow others to prosper too.

In our Christian life, God uses each and every one according to our abilities and talents.As a Christian, we have to find out His will and Purpose for our life and move towards

the goal. Otherwise we too will be like a Crab without any proper aim.

Let us refer two passages to understand the clear direction of a Christians life.

A. Focus on Primary Aspect (Acts. 6:1-7)

During the apostles period, the Greecian Jews among them complained against the

Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution offood. These types of complaints and criticism are a part and parcel of the ministry. It is

better to use the criticism and complaints as a tool for development of the ministry

instead of going into a depressive mood.


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The disciples analyzed the complaints from different angles and brought out a beautiful

solution without compromising their stand. They formed a separate group who were

interested in this type of activity. They stuck on to their prime focus of preaching the

Word of God. They anchored to the primary aspect of taking the Gospel to whole world

which also lead them to bring the Gospel to India.

B. Focus on the Vital Aspects:

Battery charging is essential for cell phones, laptops and other equipment. The

performance reveals the level of charging. In the same way, the level of ministry

depends upon the time spent by the Christian in the presence of God.

In Luke 10th chapter, God clearly gives His expectation from the believers. He sent

seventy disciples to go to the nearby village by giving them a list of instructions to follow

(v.1-12). They went and returned with the joy of seeing demons submitting to them in

Christs name. However Jesus asked them not to rejoice about the submissive demons

but rejoice for their names were written in Heaven (v.17-20).

In the next verse, He explained the meaning of neighbor with a parable of The Good

Samaritan. He pointed out that we are the neighbors to the person who is in need. The

object of the neighbor in the question has been turned to the subject in the end of the

story (v.21-37).

At last verse of the chapter, He demonstrated another significant aspect at Lazarus

house (n the village of Bethany) where He stayed. At that time Martha who was busy

cooking, expected Jesus to send Mary to help her in the kitchen. In response, Jesus told

her that preparing meals or doing many things was not the vital stuff. The most vitalaspect was that Mary had chosen to spend time at the feet of God.

Luke 10 starts with the sending of the missionaries and ends with the central theme of

spending time with God. Without His presence the ministry and minister are in vain.

Let us focus on our calling and the vital aspect of spending time with God. Thereby we

will not end up as C(G)rab Christians


1. Could you please check your primary focus during the past one year.2. Note down the areas where you drifted away from Gods path3. Plan to come back to proper godly focus.


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FIVE PRECIOUS STONESFIVE PRECIOUS STONESFIVE PRECIOUS STONESFIVE PRECIOUS STONES

Math. 25:1-13

In the 18th century, a buyer did not have freedom to choose products according totheir desires. They had to abide by the market availability. (Sellers

market). In the 19th Century, the situation changed a bit in the

favour of buyers. In the 20th century, the options are wide open to

the need of the buyers. The buyers have a lot of choices to make.

Due to these recent changes, the business man has found it difficult

to penetrate into the market.

Similarly the 21st century students have varieties of fields, colleges and courses to select

and pursue their career. Moreover the question pattern for the examination has

changed into multiple choice questions from conventional types.

Today, many of them are living in this 21st century with the 18th century outlook. Shalini, a

believer from a staunch Christian family secured high percentage in the pre-university

exams. She wanted to pursue her career in engineering field, especially in the IIT. She

applied only to the IIT and not to any other engineering college or other degree

courses. The entrance results were published. She failed to get through the exams.

Now she can not enter into other engineering ordegree colleges since all of them had

closed their admissions.

Like Shalini, many people have damaged their careers due to the wrong teaching of

ask in faith, God will give whatever your request by some of the believers. This type of

teaching has no room for God to intervene in our life. If you refer to the Bible, we can

see lot of examples where people kept the options open.

A. David went with an option:

David ventured into the battle field with five precious stones instead of one stone, even

though God promised to handover Goliath to him. For this, we cant brand David as a

sinner or faithless person.

God has promised the victory but He hasnt given a blueprint to fight. David used three

important Ts Trust, Tools and Training to win the battle. As a believer, follow the

footsteps of this great king to face this competitive and contemporary world. Let us

keep our options open so that God can fulfill His will in our lives.


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B. Five wise virgins went with an option:

Matt 25:1-13, describes that ten virgins had gone to meet the bridegroom. Among

them, five were wise and the other five were foolish. These wise virgins kept a jar of oil

as an option to rekindle the fire. The bridegroom came and took the wise virgins for the

wedding banquet. The door was shut for the foolish virgins.

Let us go with our options open and with an open heart to God our Saviour. He will do

miraculous things in our lives.


1. Do you have the tendency for keeping options in your decision making process.

2. Is it possible to accept the failure of your own mistakes when making a choice?Otherwise do you blame others?

3. How to keep options in day to day life Take some cases and practice it.


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STANDING IN THE MSTANDING IN THE MSTANDING IN THE MSTANDING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROADIDDLE OF THE ROADIDDLE OF THE ROADIDDLE OF THE ROADI Samuel 20:1-14

I samuel 17:17-29

A media has covered the episode of beating the girls in public in a manner ofprotecting the culture. It has been broadcasted repeatedly in many channels. The crux

of the matter is that the VHP volunteers went into the pub and chased out the girls in a

violent manner. The media persons stood and covered the whole incidence without

helping the people or stopping the violence happening in the

pub. 'Standing and watching is the attitude of the

contemporary generation. These type of people are the ones

standing in the middle of the road.

The Christians have also fallen into the category of those

media men. They have also started to watch the damashaeven though the things are going wrong in front of their own

eyes. For instance, Christian believers know that the pastors

are preaching the wrong doctrine of prosperity theology.

These people never say a word against it. It is equivalent to

standing in the middle of the road or driving a car in the neutral gear. These people

are those who waste their own time as well as the time of others. In addition, some of

the followers fall into the trap by following the model.

In Bible, we see characters of this type

A. Jonathan:

Jonathan knew that his dad Saul was wrong in the way he was treating David. Even

though Jonathan helped David, he forgot to rebuke his dad for his wrong doing. It

encouraged Saul to multiply his sinful attitude in dealing with his successor David

The reason may be that Jonathan didnt want to come under the curse of his dad.

Secondly, he gave usual respect to his dad that would have been the culture those

days. Thirdly, he had a mentality of playing safe on both the sides to earn a good

name. Jonathans life ended in the battle field along with his father.

B. Davids brother :

Davids elder brothers were watching the display of Goliaths talk day after day. They

didnt step in to the battle field for fight. His brother David came to the battle field to

give food to his beloved brothers. At that time, he heard the terrible voice of Goliath

from the opponent side in the battle field. He enquired his brothers to know about the

statement of the opponent. His brothers rebuked him for coming to the battle field.


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They chased him out from the battle field. At last the story ends that David came out as

a victorious man. His brothers were also watching his brother fight from a distance.

A person standing in th

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