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OPENING
SCRIPTURE: Jude 17-24 KJV (The Brother of James
and Jesus according to Matthew 13:55 and Mark 6:3).
17 But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our
Lord Jesus Christ;
Who were they?
Apostle Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Apostle Peter to the “strangers” believers scattered throughout northern
Turkey, including Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, Bithynia. 2 Peter 3: 3-5.
18 How that they told you there should be mockers in the
last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.
19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having
not the Spirit.
20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most
holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the
mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
22 And of some have compassion, making a difference:
23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the
fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and
to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
"Blessed is the King
who comes in the name of the Lord!"
"Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" Luke 19:38
Blessed
is the King
This phrase acknowledges Jesus as the King, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies
about the Messiah. In Zechariah
9:9, the coming of a king riding on a donkey is foretold,
which Jesus fulfills in this passage. The term "blessed" signifies
divine favor and approval, indicating that Jesus is the chosen one of God. The
recognition of Jesus as King also connects to the Davidic Covenant, where God promised
David that his throne would be established forever (2
Samuel 7:16).
who comes in the name of the Lord!
This phrase is a direct reference to Psalm 118:26, a
messianic psalm that was often sung during Jewish festivals. It signifies that
Jesus comes with the authority and purpose of God. In the cultural context, to
come "in the name of the Lord" means to act as God's representative,
carrying His mission and authority. This also highlights Jesus' divine mission
and His role as the mediator between God and humanity.
Peace in heaven
The declaration of "peace in heaven" suggests a
reconciliation between God and humanity through Jesus. It echoes the angelic
proclamation at Jesus' birth in Luke
2:14, where peace is announced on earth. This peace is not
merely the absence of conflict but the restoration of a right relationship with
God. It signifies the heavenly approval of Jesus' mission and the ultimate
peace that His kingdom will bring.
and glory in the highest!
This phrase parallels the angelic announcement in Luke
2:14, "Glory to God in the highest." It emphasizes
the divine glory that is revealed through Jesus' actions and His fulfillment of
God's plan. The "highest" refers to the heavenly realm, indicating
that Jesus' coming brings glory to God in the most exalted sense. This glory is
a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan
through Christ.
There’s Just Something About April
April is a month that feels like a breath of fresh air, doesn’t it? It’s that perfect blend of new beginnings, blossoming hope, and an invitation to embrace transformation. But what does April signify on a deeper, spiritual level? What lessons can this month teach us about growth, resilience, and renewal? You’ve probably felt that urge to start fresh in April—to clean your home, plan new goals, or even reconsider your path in life. That’s no coincidence. April inspires us to shed the old and make space for the new. It’s like a personal spring-cleaning for our soul. For Christians, Easter is a time of resurrection and hope. It’s a reminder that no matter how dark things seem, there’s always a path to light and new life. Rainbows are a spiritual sign of hope and promise. They remind us that storms eventually pass, and brighter days are ahead. Tulips, a quintessential April flower, symbolize perfect love and new beginnings. They’re a beautiful reminder to nurture our relationships and embrace fresh starts. Butterflies often reappear in April and demonstrate the power of transformation from what was once a caterpillar, to a cocoon, to the beauty of what now is! Isaiah 61:3 “To all who mourn in Israel,[a] he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.” Ephesians 4:24 “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.”
Isaiah 61:3 “To all who mourn in Israel,[a] he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,