Rev 2:18-3:6

• words from Jesus to church in Thyatira:
  
• all the good deeds and yet still one thing against you->
• tolerance for false prophets
• I am he who searches hearts and minds
• not only actions and deeds;
• to those who did not hold to the false teachings
  
• hold on to what you have until I come
• Jesus knows and discriminates;
  
• to angle of the church in Sardis
• alive but also dead, and need to be waken
  
• the day of Jesus is like a thief
• alert and be prepared!
  

James 5

• rich people's woe
  
• wages failed to pay are crying out against you
• be patient
• let your yes be yes, and your no, no
• Eljah was a man just like us
• prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective;
• 
  

Heb 12:14-29

• holiness is a necessary condition to see the Lord;
• Esau -> godless;
• We've come not to a mountain that ca be touched;
• but to Mount Zion
• the heavenly Jerusalem
• the city of the living God
• At that time -> his voice shook the earth;
• Now -> shake the earth and heavens
  

Heb 3

• Jesus the high priest;
• the Holy Spirit says (v7)
• through Psalm 95
• to the audience today
  
• God's words last forever
• speaks to generations after generations;
  
• today, before it's too late
• hold firm the confidence we had at first to the end
• at first we were confident
• over time the confident may fade, even lost;
  
• but we have the power to hold firm and renew it today, any day
  
• their unbelief has cost them the blessing of entering God's rest;
  

Titus 2

• Paul instructed Titus how to teach;
  
• say "No" to
• ungodliness
• worldly passions
• we need to separate our worldly passions from the godly ones, and say "No" to the former;
• Soundness:
• in doctrine (v1) to teach;
  
• in faith (v2) for older men;
• of speech (v8) in your teaching;
• Self-control:
• to older men (v2);
• to younger women (v4);
• to young men (v6);
• God's teaching (v12);
• integrity/upright:
• in your teaching (v7);
• God's teaching (v12);
• subject:
• wives to their husbands (v5);
• slaves to their masters in everything (v9);
• pure:
• younger women (v5);
• Jesus purified us to be his people (v14);
  

1 Tim 3

• overseer -> noble task
• to be one:
• above reproach
• one wife
• temperate
• self-controlled
• respectable
• hospitable
• able to teach
• no drunkenness
  
• gentle
• not quarrelsome
• not a lover of money
• must manage his own family well
• must not be a recent convert
• have good reputation with outsiders
  
• Deacons
  
• respectable
  
• sincere
• not indulging in much wine
  
• not pursuing dishonest gain
• keep hold of deep truth of faith
• with clear conscience
  
• must be tested first
• Deaconesses
• 
  

1 Tim 2

• one God;
• one mediator between God and men--Jesus Christ;
• v8: for men;
• v9-15: for women;
  

2 Th

• not busy; but busybody;
• do the right thing always (v13);
• no association, but still as brother and not as an enemy;
• Paul's handwriting (v17);
  

1 Th 5:4-28

• Respect the workers in the Lord,
• hold them in the highest regard in love
• Paul urged
• the idle -> be warned
• the timid -> be encouraged
• the weak -> be helped
• with everyone -> be patient
• God's will for us:
  
• Always be joyful;
  
• Continually pray;
  
• In all circumstances give thanks;

1 Th 4:1-5:3

• God's will:
• be sanctified
• avoid sexual immoralities;
  
• control his own body (or live with his own wife);
• in a way that is holy and honorable
• not in passionate lust
• no one should wrong or take advantage of others
• God called us to live a holy life;
• try to:
• lead a quiet life;
• mind your own business;
• work with your own hands;
• results->win the respects of others and be independent;
• meet the Lord in the air (v17);
• the day of the Lord-> like a thief in the night;
  

1 Th 2:10-3:13

• apart in person, but not in thought (v17);
• stopped by Satan
• what could it be? Illness? Weather? Financial? (probably some opposition-- distress, persecution 2:7)
  
• sometimes Gods stops us from doing things, too. What's the difference?
• sent Timothy to them instead, and he came back with good news (vv2&6);
• faith, love, and prayers;
  
• destined for trials (v3);
• Paul's worry -> unsettled by trials (v3); Timothy's good news -> stood firm in the Lord;
• love to increase and overflow!
  

Phil 3:4-21

• Paul
• tribe of Benjamin
• Pharisee
• profit -> loss; all things -> rubbish;
• forget what's behind, strain towards what's ahead;
  
• live up to what we have already attained
• 
  

Eph 3

• Mystery:
• through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel
• not made known to men in other generations
• Paul's personal calling:
  
• preach to the Gentiles

Gal 5:13-26

• freed but in control; serve
• the entire law summed up in one: Love your neighbor as yourself;
• Spirit vs. the "sinful nature"
• they oppose each other
• mutually exclusive
• we probably cannot get rid of our sinful nature all together, but we can counter it with the Spirit--if and when we live by the Spirit;
• live by the Spirit -> keep in step with the Spirit (v25);
  
• on a cross-road: follow our "feelings" or the Spirit?
  
• the "fruit" of the Spirit (LJ-PPK-GFGS):
• Love
• Joy
• Peace
• Patience
• Kindness
• Goodness
• Faithfulness
• Gentleness
• Self-control
• crucify the "sinful nature" + its passions and desires;
  

Gal 2:1-16

• God does not judge by external appearance
• Paul -> gentiles; Peter -> Israelites
• confrontation with Peter

Gal 1

• there were problems with "other gospel"
• which is no gospel at all;
• Paul spoke of how God has led him to serve
• trying to establish the gospel is revelation from Jesus directly;
• v15: set me apart/separated
• ἀφορίζω (G837)
• 3 interesting uses:
• at birth (Gal 1:15) - separated from mother's womb;
  
• to follow Christ (Rom 1:1) - separated from old way of living;
  
• for his own calling (Acts 13:2) - separated from others with different callings;
  

2 Cor 9

• service to the saints
• Paul meant the gifts
  
• from Achaians to the Macedonians
• Paul sent several co-workers to the churches in Corinth
• to make final arrangements of the gifts
• for he didn't want them unprepared when he arrives with anyone from Macedon
• this is how thoughtful he was as a leader
  
• think in advance (always anticipate)
  
• take preventive measures to avoid undesirable outcome
• give according to what's decided in ones heart
• not reluctantly
  
• not under compulsion
• God loves a cheerful giver
• same with a servant
• God loves a cheerful servant
• not reluctantly
• not under compulsion
• rich in every way -> give generously on every occasion
• blessed to bless
• saved to serve
• received freely, and to freely give
• some things aren't, but salvation certainly is;

2 Cor 3:1-18

• theme: glory, spirit, & veil
  
• ministers of a new covenant--not of the letter but of the Spirit
• in Paul's days, he can say that; but can we still say the same today? Is the new covenant now of the letter or of the Spirit?
• how to carry on Paul's spirit to minister the new covenant of the Spirit, not the letter?
• the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life;
• the veil has been taken away in Christ (and only in Christ)
• whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away
• the Lord is the Spirit
• wherever He is, there is freedom;

2 Cor 2:12-17

• the fragrance of knowing Christ;
• in Gr it's οσμην, meaning odour or savour, which can be pleasant or unpleasant per se;
  
• we are to God the aroma of Christ;
• ευωδια, good savour;
  

1 Cor 14:18-40

• Paul speaks in tongues, too
• and even more than all of you
• but he rather speaks intelligible words in the church
• tongues are for unbelievers (v22)
• so Paul is referring 'tongues' to 'foreign languages' or 'dialects'?
  
• only that would make sense?
• a good article here
• a key is verses 10 & 13: languages have meaning; and let it be interpreted;
• v28: otherwise, just quietly speak directly to God;
  
• think like an adult
• be infants when in regard to evil
• during worship
• when you come together
• strengthen the church
• in a fitting and orderly way (v40)
  
• in conclusion -> be eager to prophesy
• do not forbid speaking in tongues

1 Cor 14:1-17

• follow the way of love (v1)
• eagerly desire spiritual gifts
• probably not much one can do besides desiring
• because only God can provide
• especially the gift of prophecy
• because tongues is between one and God
• but prophecy can edify the church
• example, a trumpet needs to sound a clear call
  
• for everyone to understand and get ready for battle
• be fruitful with the mind (v14) as well
• so do it both ways
• with my spirit
• with my mind

1 Cor 11:17-34

• meetings could do more harm than good (v17)
  
• it all depends on the person and the organization
  
• how the Lord served the last supper
• in remembrance of me
• v33: wait for each other!
  

1 Cor 11:3-16

• head
  
• God->Christ->man->woman (singular form)
  
• when praying or prophesying
  
• women should cover their head
• uncovered head is as disgraceful as shaving the head
• Paul appeals to the common sense of the reader (at their time);
• the common sense may have changed today, but the principle is still the same;

1 Cor 10:14-11:12

• v24: seek the good of others not ones own;
• v33: Paul seeks the good of many, so they may be saved;
• v31: do things for the glory of God;
  

1 Cor 9:1-18

• Paul has met Jesus (v1)
• on the day he went to Damascus
• An apostle he is
• at least to the Corinthians (v2)
• the right to get support from their work
• examples
• soldiers gets paid
• works of vineyard eat the grapes
• shepherds drink the milk
• the Law
• Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain
• those work at the temple gets their food from the temple
• those serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar
• the Lord's command
• those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel
• Paul and others did not exercise their rights, so that
  
• the gospel of Christ not be hindered (v12)
  
• boast about it (v15)
• of which he'd rather died than have someone deprive him
• but not to boast when preaching the gospel
• because he was compelled to do it (woe to me if I don't preach the gospel)
  
• offer gospel preaching free of charge (v18)
• which is his reward
  

1 cor 7:1-24

• Paul did not want to impost to others (v17)
• One can be called in all situations (v20);
  
• one could be slave or a master;
• or maybe only one in a family is saved (vv12,13)
  

1 Cor 6

• one day the saints will judge the world
• and the angles
• resolve dispute within church
• why not rather be wronged (than to ask for the ungodly)
• why not rather be cheated?
• Paul challenges us to reset the priorities
• everything is permissible for me, but
• not everything is beneficial
• I will not be mastered by anything
• Sexual immorality
• prostitution
• it's against one's own body
• and our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit
• You're not your own, but bought at a price
  

Rom 15:1-22

• the strong bear with the failings of the weak (v1)
  
• accept one another (v7)
  
• Paul would only preach the gospel where Christ was not known (v20)
  

Rom 14

• if we live we live to the Lord
• do not judge others for
• the food they eat
  
• sacred days they regard
  
• For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit;
• So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves;
• everything that does not come from faith is sin;

Rom 12

• be transformed
• by the renewal of the mind;
• do not think of ourselves more highly than we ought
• but with sober judgment
• in accordance with the measure of faith
  
• God has given you
• --> in our heart, God has given us the measure of faith;
• one only need to ask our heart whether it's
• too much
  
• too little
  
• or just about right
  
• Love must be sincere
• it's a requirement within our heart;
• our heart must first reach that level; if not, then it's better not to take a certain action;
  
• Do not take revenge
• that's God's job;
  
• leave it and move on;
• God will heal our wound;
• He will make it just;
  
• never go back and take it on;
  
• 
  

Rom 11:13-36

• we are the wild olive shoot
• grafted in among others (the original)
• -> do not boast
• it is not us who supports the root, but the other way around
• for if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either
• Do not be arrogant, but be afraid
• God's kindness vs. sternness:
• kind to those who believe
• stern to those who fall
• -> this applies to Israelites and Gentiles alike
• All Israel will be saved
• when the full number of the Gentiles has come in
• Appreciate the depth and riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
• Who has known the mind of the Lord?
• or who has been his counselor?
• Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?
• all things are
• from him
• through him
• to him
• To him be the glory forever!
  
• 
  

Rom 9:22-10:13

• the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame (9:33, 10:11)
• believe in the truth, and truth will set you free
• Christ is the end of the law
• root?
• the word is near you
• in your mouth
• in your heart
• you will be saved -
• confess with your mouth -> 'Jesus is Lord'
  
• believe in your heart -> God raised him from the dead
  
• everyone who calls on the name of the Lord
  

Rom 1:1-17

• Paul felt indebted to all
• Greeks, Gentiles
• the wise, the foolish
• Paul is not ashamed of the gospel
• why does one feel ashamed?
• sometimes it's not shame, but afraid that it would end a conversation or relationship if I bring up the topic
• would it be appropriate to talk about it in every social or private settings?
• is it better not to talk about it in some situations, such as a work place?
• after all, action speaks louder than words
• but without words how can the news be spread? Words is a must. Timing is the question here.

Acts 27:21-44

• Paul comforted fellow travelers with God's vision
• an angel appeared to Paul the night before
• assuring Paul he will be standing before Caesar
• everyone on board the ship will be safe
• the assurance came at the time when no hope was left for survival of all of them
• take courage and cheer up!
• God will do exactly what He promises
  
• Paul also warned greater loss-- the boat
• 276 people on board and 14 days
• Paul encourage others to eat something
• for this is for your health
• they ate and were satisfied
• the next day they saw land
• and everyone was able to get on the land
• some soldiers wanted to kill the prisoners, including Paul
• but the centurion kept them from killing
  

Acts 27:1-20

• Paul set sail for Rome
• they board on one boat and later switched to another freight boat for Rome
• Paul warned the captain for dangers ahead
• but they went ahead anyways
• A gentle breeze began to blow from the south
• they thought they obtained their purpose (at first)
• so they lifted the anchor and started sailing
• Before long the gentle breeze became violent storm
• the ship was caught by the wind and they had to let her drive by the wind
• sometimes the circumstance is so powerful that we have very little control
• the key is to listen to early warnings (or warning signs) to avoid such situation
• and so it went on for 3 days and more
  
• on the 2nd day they threw the cargo overboard
• on the 3rd equipment and furniture
• for many more days the storm wouldn't let up
• and despair overruled
• it certainly looked like that was the end of the story
• in crisis like such, leadership is called for
  

Acts 25

• Paul before Festus
• the Jews wanted Paul killed or murdered (v3)
• Paul is unafraid of justice, because justice is on his side (v11)
• Paul requested to appeal to Caesar
• that a bold move, and a smart one
• God is behind it and has His plan
• Festus agreed
  
• King Agrippa wanted to hear Paul

Acts 22:17-23:10

• Paul fell into a trance
• he saw the Lord speaking to him
• quick! leave Jerusalem immediately
  
• because they will not accept your testimony about me
• but Paul felt he was indebted to people of Jerusalem
• because they saw how he persecuted the believers
• Jesus said, Go, I'll send you to the Gentiles
• what does Jesus mean?
• go ahead, stay here?
• leave?
• why didn't Paul leave at once?
• Paul almost flogged by the soldiers
• but since he was a Roman citizen, they wouldn't dare
• Paul was born Roman citizen (v28)
  
• the next day, Paul was taken to the Sanhedrin
• the high priest order others to strike Paul on the mouth
• Paul called him whitewashed wall
• Paul didn't realize he was the high priest (v5)
• Paul caused a divide among the audience
• half Sadducees
• half Pharisees
• then Paul was taken back to the barracks
  

Acts 21:17-36

• Paul was well received in Jerusalem (v17)
• Paul went to see James and the other elders
• v23-24: what did they mean?
• have made a vow?
• who are 'they'?
  
• purification rite?
• pay their expenses?
• shave their head?
• for gentiles
• a letter is ready
• Paul arrested
• the whole city was aroused
  
• bound with 2 chains
• away with him
  

Acts 21:1-16

• Paul warned not to go to Jerusalem
• through the Spirit the disciples urged Paul not to go
• in contrast to Peter, who spoke against Jesus' prediction of his death in Jerusalem (Mt 16:23)
• but one is through the Spirit, the other from Satan
• what makes it so different?
• through a prophet, the Holy Spirit says, in this way...in Jurusalem
  
• hands and feet tied
• handed over to Gentiles
  
• everyone pleaded with Paul not to go
• this is probably through human
• Paul willing to give up his life for the name of the Lord Jesus (v13)
• even though resolved, Paul's attitude towards others was gentle
  
• the rest gave up their plead
• the Lord's will be done
• in this way they submitted to the Lord
  

Acts 20

• Paul headed for Macedonia
• he raised a young man from dead
• Paul didn't want to stay at Ephesus (v16), but want to go to Jerusalem
• knowing that he would meet with hardship (v23) in Jerusalem
  
• he summoned the elders in Ephesus to come meet with him
• Paul's farewell to the elders of Ephesus
• warned them that he would never meet again
• encouraged them to
  
• watch over themselves, and
  
• the flock (28)
  
• be on your guard (v31)
  
• warned that where will be
  
• savage wolves from outside and
  
• false teachers from inside
• Paul and the rest prayed together
• they all wept
• it is more blessed to give than to receive
  

Acts 19:13-41

• Some Jews would invoke the name of Jesus but on their own
• they tried to drive out evil spirits
  
• evil spirit answered
• Jesus I know
• Paul I know about
• but who are you?
• the evil possessed man jumped on them and overpowered them
• Many people in Ephesus believed and the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power
• Paul planned to return to Jerusalem, and wanted to visit Rome
• he sent Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia
  
• A silversmith stirred a riot against Paul
• they made silver shrines of Artemis (i.e. Diana Goddess)
  
• because Paul said 'man-made gods are no gods at all'
• the people were in an uproar and assembled in the theater
• Paul wanted to go but was held back by the disciples
• most people at the theater didn't know why there were there
• the city clerk persuaded the crowd to stop the assembly
  

Acts 18:23-19:12

• Paul began his 3rd missionary trip
• Apollos at Ephesus
  
• a Jew born in Alexandria
• he was learned and knowledgeable of the scripture
• spoke with great fervor
• knew only baptism of John
• Priscilla and Aquila invited him home and explained the way of God
• Apollos went to Achaia to
  
• debate with the Jews and refuted them
• proving from the scripture that Jesus was the Christ
• When Apollos was in Corinth, Paul arrived at Ephesus
• he noticed that the disciples had not received the Holy Spirit
• Paul baptized them again in the name of Jesus
• Paul placed his hands on them
• the Holy Spirit came on them
• the spoke in tongues and prophesied
• there were 12 of them
• for 3 months Paul preached in the synagogue
• then some became obstinate and maligned the Way
• so Paul left them and went to lecture in the hall of Tyrannus
• for 2 years he preached in Achaia
• to both Jews and Gentiles
  

Acts 18:1-22

• Paul in Corinth
• met Aquila and Priscilla,
  
• both came from Rome, Italy
• Aquila was a tentmaker
• so was Paul
• Paul stayed and work with them
• during weekdays
• at weekend (Sabbath) he reasoned in the synagogue
  
• the Jews opposed and became abusive
• Paul left the synagogue and went next door
• to the house of Titius Justus
  
• from then on he preached to Gentiles
• God encouraged Paul in a vision that he had at night
• Do not be afraid;
  
• keep on speaking,
  
• do not be silent.
• For I am with you, and
  
• no one is going to attack and harm you,
  
• because I have many people in this city
• Paul stayed there for 1.5 years
• Paul was brought to the court
• Gallio was the proconsul of Achaica
• he would not hear the case (threw the case out)
• so they beat Paul in front of the court
• Paul left Corinth for Syria
• Aquila and Priscilla went along
• first they arrived in Ephesus
• Paul reasoned with the Jews in the synagogue
• Paul left Ephesus for Caesarea and Jerusalum
• this ended Paul's second missionary trip
  

Acts 17

• Paul reasoned with the Jews in the synagogue in Thessalonica
• Christ had to suffer
• rise from the dead
• Jesus is the Christ
• the audience were divided
• some joined Paul and Silas
• others opposed them
• round up bad characters from the marketplace
  
• formed a mob
• started a riot in the city
• rushed to Jason's house
• where Paul and Silas stayed
• dragged Jason and others to the city officials
• Jason and others posted bond and was released
• In Berea they had a better time
• the Bereans were more noble
• they examined the Scriptures every day
  
• to see if what Paul said was true
• When the Jews in Thessalonica came after them,
  
• Paul left for Athens
• Silas and Timothy stayed at Berea
• In Athen
• Paul was greatly distressed to see the city full of idols
• Paul was a spiritual man
• he cared deeply the spiritual aspects of others
• he reasoned
• he disputed
• Epicurean - 纵欲主义
  
• Stoic - 禁欲主义
  
• Paul spoke to the Athenians in Areopagus
• an unknown God
• creator of world and everything in it
• does not live in temples build by man
  
• he is not served by human hand
• give all men life
• determined the times and places where they should live
• in him we live and move and have our being
• some believed
• Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus
• a woman named Damaris
• some others
• apparently Paul kept the names of the new believers
  

Acts 16:16-40

• The possessed slave girl
• crying the words
• but distracting/disturbing
• Paul ordered the spirit leave the girl
• Paul and Silas were flogged and thrown into prison
• at midnight an earthquake strike
  
• save the jailer
• what must I do to be saved
  
• Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household
• the believed and was baptized (v33)
  
• in the morning they were officially released (vv35,36)
• but Paul wouldn't leave and demanded an explanation!
• so they were escorted out of prison, and asked to leave the city
  

Acts 15:1-35

• Jerusalem Council
• the cause
• argument about circumcision
• Peter and James spoke to support Paul and Barnabas
• should not make it difficult for the Gentiles
• Paul and Barnabas
• risk their lives
• for Jesus Christ
• a letter was written for those back in Antioch
• minimum requirements:
• abstain from
  
• food sacrificed to idols
• blood
• meat of strangled animals
• sexual immorality
• 4 'bottom line' requirements: 3 for food 1 for moral standard;
• for all the moral standards they narrowed down to one: sexual morality;
• that shows how important that one single commandment is;
  

Acts 14:8-28

• We too are only men
• human like you!
• Paul was stoned by the crowd
• to the point they they thought he was dead
• when he got up, he went back into the city
• why go back to the tiger's mouth??
• surely he was not afraid of death!
• Paul went back to Antioch of Syria
• along the same route they came
• Lystra
• Iconium
• Antioch
• strengthening and encouraging the disciples
• at home they report how God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles
  

Acts 13:42-14:7

• Paul and Barnabas
• urge the listeners to continue in the grace of God
• all who were appointed for eternal life believed
• only the chosen ones will be saved
• yet no one knows who are chosen
• not even ourselves
• only God
• Paul and Barnebas forced out of the region
• In Iconium
• people divided
• some sided with the Jews
• others with the apostles
• Paul and Barnabas were called a apostles (with a small "a")
• the opposition was to mistreat the apostles and stone them
• they fled to Lystra
• continued to preach the good news
  

Acts 12:1-23

• King Herod arrested some and persecuted them
• James, brother of John, died
• he was killed with a sword
• first Disciple (11+1) killed
• not the James who wrote the Book of James (that was brother of Jesus)
  
• Peter was arrested, too
  
• probably facing the same fate as James
• Peter saved by an angle
• quick, get up!
• even with help of an angle, the window of opportunity might be narrow
• hurry, don't waste any time
• seize the moment
• and the opportunity
• Peter went to the house of Mary, mother of Mark
  
• Mark was the author of the Book of Mark
• where many gathered and were praying for him
• he told them to spread the news, then he left
• for safety reasons, probably
• The guards who guarded Peter was executed
• Herod's Death
• because he did not give praise to God
• he was eaten by warms and died
  

Acts 11

• Peter's Vision at Jappa
  
• praying in the city of Jappa, Peter was in a trance and saw a vision
  
• Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.
• Gentiles to receive God's words
  
• The Holy Spirit came on them
• who was I to think that I could oppose God
• Church at Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch
• Barnabas looked for Saul in Tarsus
• Disciples were called Christians first at Antioch

Acts 9:1-25

• Saul's conversion
• go into the city, and you will be told what you must do
• go there before knowing
• obey without reason but with faith
• the companions stood there speechless
• they heard the 'sound' but did not see anyone
• 3 days no food no drink, and couldn't see
• Ananias
• go! this man is my chosen instrument
• to carry my name before the Gentiles
• and their kings
• and before the people of Israel
• I will show him how much he must suffer for my name
• Saul
• baptized
• ate
• stayed in Damascus to prove
• Jesus is the Christ
• was plotted to be killed, but left
• at night
• lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall
  

Acts 7:51-8:13

• Stephen pleaded for forgiveness of others (v60)
• even being persecuted by his fellow countryman
• Just like Jesus
• Stephen buried
• Saul began to destroy the church
• Philip evangelized in Samaria
• Simon, the sorcerer, also believed
• he was astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw
  

Acts 6

• Grecian Jews complained
• the 12 apostles make a clear distinction of their mission from the rest of tasks
  
• prayer and ministry of word of God
• they chose 6
  
• so the word of God spread
• number of disciples increased rapidly
• apostles vs. disciples
• apostles: the 12
• disciples: other believers and followers
• Stephen seized
• framed by members of the Synagogue of Freedman
• they produce false witnesses
• Stephen was sent to the Sanhedrin
• his face was like the face of an angel
  

Acts 5

• Ananias and Sapphira
• kept back part of the money
• Peter
• you have lied to the Holy Spirit!
• both felt down and died
• Sadducees jealous of the disciples
• disciples brought before the Sanhedrin
• We must obey God rather than men!
• Gamaliel
• Paul's teacher
• Leave these men alone! Let them go!
• see the result of their movement
• if it's from human, it will fail
• but if it's from God, we shouldn't fight against God
• this is wisdom!
• so they were released after being flogged
• they rejoice because
• they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name
• History shows the movement is from God
  

Acts 4

• Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved
• to this day, there are others who claim they are Messiah, but the Bible clearly says there are no other salvation, no other name but Jesus Christ
• Peter's testimony
• first others asked 'by what power or what name did you do this?'
• he was filled with the Holy Spirit
• they were astonished to see his courage, and that he was unschooled
• who to obey? Men or God, when the two are in conflict
• a higher authority is God, when the will of God (that has revealed in our heart) collides with that of men (be it our family or superior), then sorry--men shall loose;
  
• Peter and John were unafraid of governing authorities (they were filled with Holy Spirit and harbored no fear in them except the fear of God)
• Facing threats, they prayed for boldness (v29.30)
• shared possessions
• preparation for persecutions
• Barnabas
  
• a Levite
• he also sold a field and brought the money to the disciples
  

Jn 21

• Peter and several others went fishing
• for the whole night they didn't get any fish
• Jesus appeared to them and instructed them to cast the net on the right side
• they got a net-full of fish (153 large fish, to be exact, v11)
• John then recognized it was Jesus
• Peter jumped into the water at once and swam to Jesus
• Jesus cooked for them
• on a fire of burning coal there were
• fish
• some bread
• isn't this a heart-warming picture? perhaps morning had just broken, after a night of hard work, the disciples can finally sit down, warm themselves and eat breakfast with their Lord (v12);
• this was the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples
• first was Sunday night (Thomas wasn't there)
• second was 8 days later (20:26), this time Thomas was there
• the third time Jesus cooked them breakfast
• Jesus reinstated Peter
• 3 times he asked Peter, Simon son of John:
  
• Do you truly love me more than these?
• Yes, Lord, you know that I love you
• Feed my lambs
• do you truly love me?
• Yes, Lord, you know that I love you
• Take care of my sheep
• do you love me?
• Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you
• Feed my sheep
• Jesus indicated Peter's death
• when you are old
  
• you'll stretch our your hands
• someone will dress you, and
  
• lead you where you do not want to go
• by that Jesus also tells Peter that he had a long way ahead of him; this could be particular revealing because at the time Peter and his fellow disciples did not know what to do and what's laid ahead of them; the road is long...
• Follow me!
• Peter was curious about John, 'what about him?'
• what is that to you? (none of your business)
• you must follow me!
  

Jn 18:25-19:22

• Peter's 2nd and 3rd Denials
• to avoid ceremonial uncleanness the Jews did not enter Pilate's palace
• so Pilate came out to them
• the Jews did not have the right to execute anyone
• but their intent was to have Jesus killed
  
• Pilate heard Jesus
• are you the king of the Jews
• is that your own idea or something you heard?
• I'm not a Jew, but your people sent you to me, what have you done?
• my kingdom is not of this world, but from another place
• you are a king then
• you're right; that's why I was born and came to this world--to testify the truth
• what is truth? (Pilate walked out, not intended for an answer)
• Pilate offered the Jews the release of either Jesus or Barabbas
• the crowd chose Barabbas
  
• the soldiers put a crown of thorns on Jesus' head
• they stuck him in the face
• they put on him a purple robe
• Pilate wanted to hear Jesus again
• where do you come from?
• Don't you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?
• the power is from above
• the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin
• Pilate wanted to set Jesus free, but the Jews objected
• if you let him go, you're no friend of Caesar
• we have no king but Caesar (the chief priests)
• notice from Pilate
• JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS
• written in
  
• Aramaic,
  
• Latin and
  
• Greek
• the Jews asked for a modification (self claimed), but Pilate refused

Jn 18:1-24

• Jesus arrested
• When Jesus said, "I am he," they drew back and fell to the ground
• Peter cut off the right ear of high priest's servant's (by the name of Malchus)
• Peter disowned Jesus
• Jesus, I said nothing in secret
• ask those who heard me, they surely know what I said
• an official struck Jesus in his face
• Is this the way you answer the high priest?
• if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?
  

Jn 17

• Jesus distinguished the world and the believers
• I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours
• protect them by the power of your name—the name you gave me—so that they may be one as we are one
• My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one
• Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. 18As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world
• Be One!
• vv11, 21, 22, 23,
  

Jn 16:1-33

• the benefit to his followers in Jesus' departure (v7):
  
• Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you
• if I go, I will send him to you
• when he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment
• He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come
• I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world

Jn 14:15-31

• love me -> obey my commands
• God will give you another Counselor
• to be with you forever
  
• he is the Spirit of truth, the Holy Spirit (v25)
  
• he lives with you and will be in you
• he will teach you all things
• will remind you of everything I have said to you (v26)
  
• loves Jesus -> loved by God and by Jesus, who will show to him
• do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid

Jn 13:31-14:14

• where I am going, you cannot come
• where I am going, you cannot follow now,but you will follow later (Jesus said to Peter)
• A new command:
• love one another
• as I have loved you, you must love one another
• by this all men will know that you are my disciples
  
• disciples' reactions upon Jesus' pronounced departure:
• Peter
• where are you going?
• why can't I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.
• to which Jesus answered Peter will disown him 3 times before the rooster crows
• Thomas
• how can we know the way if we don't know where you're going?
• upon Jesus' promise to come back and take them to be where he will be
• to which Jesus replied
• I am the way and the truth and the life
• No one comes to the Father except through me
• Philip
• show us the Father and that will be enough for us
• to which Jesus replied
• anyone who has seen me has seen the Father
• I am in the Father, and the Father is in me
• Jesus' promise on prayers
• I will do whatever you ask in my name
• so that the Son may bring glory to the Father
• you may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it
  

Jn 13:1-30

• Jesus loved his own (people) who were in the world
• he now showed them the full extend of his love (or loved them to the last)
  
• -> to die for them
• devil prompt Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus
• Jesus washed his disciples' feet
• because
• he knew
• his Father had put all things under his power
• he had come from God and was returning to God
• Peter refused
• you shall never wash my feet
• Jesus replied
• unless I wash you, you have no part with me
• why? what's the significance of washing his feet?
• Jesus said also that later they would understand. Did they?
• Jesus explained why
  
• it's true that I am your teacher and Lord
• now that I washed your feet, you should wash one another's feet
• I have set you an example that you should follow
• whoever accepts Jesus accepts the one who sent him
• Satan entered into Judas

Jn 8:31-59

• If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
• I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.
• He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God
• Jesus accused the unbelieving Jews belong to the devil
• I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!"
• Jesus claimed he had seen Abraham
• At this, the Jews wanted to stone him, but he hid himself and slipped away
  

Jn 8:21-30

• I am not of this world.
• if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins
• who are you?
• Just what I have been claiming all along
• I do nothing on my own
• I always do what pleases him
• that's the reason God's always with him
  

Jn 8:1-20

• the adulterous woman
• caught in the act of adultery
• she was used as a trap to establish a base to accuse Jesus
• Jesus didn't reply at first
• he bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger
• when repeatedly asked, Jesus replied
• if any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.
• then he continued with writing
• then they left one-by-one, starting with the eldest
• when there's only Jesus left, he straightened up and said to the woman
• ...go now and leave your life of sin
• the Pharisees accused Jesus the validity of his testimony
• Jesus appeared as his own witness -> not valid
• I am not alone; I stand with the Father, who sent me
• where is your father, they asked
• you do not know me or my father; if you knew me, you would know my father also.
  

Jn 7:30-52

• his time had not yet come
• God determines the time
• how then shall we pray?
• pray along with God's will
• not against it
• if anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink
• whoever believes in me, streams of living water will flow from within him
• Jewish leaders didn't believe
• Nicodemus cautioned them to hear him first

Jn 7:1-29

• Jesus' time
• Jesus' brother urged to go to Judea
• for no public figure should act in secret
• Jesus' brother didn't believe him yet;
  
• Jesus replied
  
• The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right
• But Jesus did go after all
• but in secret, not in public
• Some said, he's a good man
• others replied, No, he deceives the people
• My teaching is not my own, but from the one who sent me
  

Jn 6:43-71

• God initiates, man response:
  
• No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day;
• 6:47 - I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.
• For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink
• in synagogue of Gapernaum
• The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing
• The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life
• Peter acknowledged, you have the words of eternal life
• Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!

Jn 6:22-42

• God's work -> believe
• I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty;
• God's will ->
  
• not lose anyone who was given to Jesus
• raise them up at the last day
• those who believe shall have eternal life

Jn 6:1-21

• Jesus fed 5000
• Sea of Galilee = Sea of Tiberias
• near Passover Feast
• Jesus tested Philip
• where shall we buy bread for these people?
• Philip realized the difficult task
• even 8 months' wages would not be enough money for the bread
• Andrew brought to Jesus the child with
  
• 5 small barley loaves and
  
• 2 fish
• 5000 all had enough to eat
• Jesus ordered to pack the leftovers
• Gather the pieces that are left over
  
• Let nothing be wasted
• they gathered 12 baskets of leftovers
• Jesus walked on the water
• in the midst of strong wind and rough water
• disciples saw Jesus approaching them, walking on the water
• they were terrified
• It is I; don't be afraid
• after Jesus aboard the boat, they reached the shore immediately!
  

Jn 5:24-47

• crossed over from death to live
• those hear Jesus' word and believe God, the sender
• I seek not to please myself but him who sent me
• the scriptures testify about Jesus
• Moses wrote about Jesus
  

Jn 5:1-23

• Bethesda
• a pool with healing power;
  
• near Sheep Gate of Jerusalem;
• now Bethesda, MD is home to NIH;
• a sick man with 38 years of illness
• Jesus said, 'get up! pick up your mat and walk'
• at once the man was cured
• then he was accused of picking up the mat during Sabbath
• but the man who cured me told me to;
• who is the fellow...?
• he didn't know at the time, but after he found out, he told the Jews about it
• Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you
• does it mean this man's disease was linked to his sins/life style?
• does it mean that if he doesn't change his life style, then he may get something worse; and vice versa?
• the Son will do the judgment (v22)
  
• honor the Son so the Father is also honored;
  

Jn 4:43-54

• a prophet has no honor in his own country;
• Jesus heals official's son
• he believed when Jesus said 'you may go, your son will live';
• at that moment, his son's fever left him;
• then he believed in Jesus, so did his entire household;
• That was the 2nd miraculous sign Jesus performed in Galilee;
  

Jn 4:4-42

• Jesus stopped at Jacob's well;
• Samaritan Woman asked
  
• why -
  
• why did you ask from me, a Samaritan?
• how -
  
• how can you get living water?
• who -
• are you greater than our father Jacob?
• whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life
• the woman wanted the living water from Jesus
  
• did she get it?
  
• Jesus admitted to her he is the Messiah
• she almost believed (v29)
• she led others to come to Jesus--they believed (v41-42);
• did she ever truly believe?
  
• the scripture wasn't explicit about it;
  
• it's probably arguable, but from her reactions she most likely did (I just hope that could last till the end of her life, even that it is not difficult to imagine);
  
• those who she helped would help her to be sure--
• yes, I met the Messiah
• he spoke to me
• he knew everything about my past
  
• many people who came to him after hearing my story believed;
  
• God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth;
  

Jn 3:22-4:3

• John the Baptist discuss with his disciples about Jesus
• everyone is going to be baptized by Jesus now
• John repeated he's not Christ
• as the friend who attends the bridegroom, he waits and listens for Christ
• and is full of joy when he hears the voice of the bridegroom
• He must become greater, I must become less
• the one comes from above is above all
• God gives the Spirit without limit
• The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands
• Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life,
  
• but whoever rejects the Son will not see life,
  
• for God's wrath remains on him
• Jesus' disciples also baptized others
• Jesus to return to Galilee (the same region as Cana, where he attend the wedding and changed water to wine)
• Jesus did not avoid Samaria, but went through it;
  

Jn 3:1-21

• reborn through Spirit
  
• believe -> eternal life
• just as Moses lifted up the snake in desert (Num 21:4-9);
• men loves darkness because
• their deeds were evil
• fear their deeds be exposed
• whoever lives by truth comes into the light
• live our daily life by truth!
• not fear of being exposed, laid plainly in front of people -> what he has done has been done through God
  

Jn 2:1-25

• Jesus performed his first miracle sign at a wedding banquet at Cana in Galileee
• Jesus clears the temple
• almost time for Passover (1 or 2 years before he died)
• the disciples remembered a scripture verse (v17) from his action
• Jesus came to fulfill the prophecies
  
• Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.
• his body as the temple (v21)
• But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all men. He did not need man's testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man.
• meaning?
  

Jn 1:29-51

• John recognized Jesus as Lamb of God and Son of God
  
• testified for Jesus
• but later in life also doubted (Lk 7:19);
• Jesus calls Disciples
• 2 of John's disciples followed Jesus (to see where he lived)
• one was Andrew, brother of Peter
• the first thing he did--he went to Peter and said
• we have found the Messiah
• and led him to Jesus
• Jesus gave Peter the name (he was named Simon)
• the other one is not mentioned...
• Philip
• from Bethsaida
• same as Peter and Andrew
• Philip found Nathanael
• told him that the one prophesied was Jesus of Nazareth
• Nathanael despise people of Nazareth
• come and see, said Philip
• Jesus said Nathanael was a true Israelite, nothing is false in him
• Nathanael believed because Jesus saw him even before Philip found him;

Jn 1:1-28

• in the beginning was the Word, the Word is God;
  
• the Word became flesh;
• no one has ever seen God, but God has made him known;
• John the Baptist
• I am not the Christ

Lk 24:13-53

• Emmaus
• 7 miles from Jerusalem (11 km, or 25 li)--about 2 hour walk;
• they were kept from recognizing him
• by who? what for?
• their eyes were later opened
  
• What things? --Jesus asked them to describe the entire event
• powerful prophet; redeemer of Isreal
  
• crucified
• empty tomb
• How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!
• Christ have to suffer and then enter his glory
• Jesus explain in the scripture all that's concerning him
• they urged Jesus to stay with them for the evening
• at the table their eyes were opened the finally recognized Jesus, but then Jesus disappeared;
  
• at once they got up and return to Jerusalem to report to the Eleven
• Jesus appeared to them at their gathering
• in flesh
• ate a piece of broiled fish in front of them
  
• then he explain again in the scripture what's concerning him
• he opened their minds so they could understand the scripture
• Ascension
• near Bethany
• while blessing the disciples
• taken up into heaven
  

Lk 23:44-24:12

• Jesus' last words:
• Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.
• Jesus buried by Joseph;
• the women prepared spices and perfumes (to be used for Jesus' body after Sabbath)
  
• the followers observed Sabbath after the burial;
• Jesus resurrected
• Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!

Lk 23:13-43

• Jesus before Pilot
  
• Pilate wanted to release Jesus (vv16, 20, 22), but the crowd shouted against it
• in 'one voice' they cried out, 'away with this man!'
• they kept shouting 'Crucify him!'
• with loud shouts they insistently demanded Jesus be crucified
  
• eventually their shouts prevailed;
• Pilate surrendered Jesus to their will;
• Jesus Crucified
• with 2 criminals
• one insulted him
• the other ask Jesus to remember him in his kingdom
• Jesus answer today he will be with him in paradise
  

Lk 22:54-23:12

• Peter disowns Jesus before the rooster crows
  
• Woman, I don't know him
• Man, I am not!
• Man, I don't know what you're talking about!
• Jesus turned and looked straight at Peter, and he went outside and wept bitterly
• the guards mocked Jesus;
  
• At daybreak, Jesus was taken to
  
• the council of
• elder of the people
• chief priests
• teachers of the law
• If I tell you, you will not believe;
• Jesus admitted he is Son of God;
• then Jesus was taken to Pilate
• Jesus admitted he is the king of Jews;
• then Jesus was taken to Herod
• who rules over Galilee
• Herod heard of Jesus and had been wanting to see him for a long time
• he hoped to see him perform some miracle, but Jesus performed none;
  
• Jesus did not answer his questions
• Herod's soldiers mocked Jesus;
  
• then Jesus was taken back to Pilate
• that day Pilate and Herod became friends--before this they were enemies
  

Lk 22:35-53

• now you can
• take a purse
• and a bag
• and a sword
• Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.
• an angel strengthen Jesus
• Jesus' sweat was like drops of blood
• Judas led the crowd to arrest Jesus; they are mostly Jews:
  
• chief priests
• officers of the temple guard
• the elders
  
• One disciple (Peter?) took a swords and cut off the right ear of a servant of the high priest
• this is your hour;
  

Lk 22:14-34

• v22: the Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to the man who betrays him
• Judas was not part of God's plan, even though God knows and allows it to happen;
• Satan entered Judas and carried it out as he desires;
• Satan has asked for others too (v31); but Jesus had prayed for them (as least for Peter) that their faith may not fail;
  
• so where is the line of division between God's work and man's duty? it seems that it's not clearly defined; there seems to be a gray area where you can call that's our responsibility (e.g. to take guard against Satan), but also God's work (e.g. Jesus prays for us; or God would not allow it) at the same time;
  
• however, has Jesus ever asked men to take guard against Satan? Or did he only asked us to take guard against men's false teaching (e.g. the yeast of the Pharisees)?
  
• After all, is man equipped to fight against Satan? Apparently, yes. The 'full armor of God' (Eph 6:14-18) is for us to struggle against 'the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms' (Eph 6:11-13); are they like flies that hover over our head and not more than just an annoyance? Probably not;
  
• therefore, we might be able to say this:
  
• yes, we are at war--it's a spiritual one;
• sometimes we are in the front line, where the battle is most severe, and sometimes not; but we are involved in this constant struggle so we need to do our part (Judas didn't take his part, so woe to him);
  
• God is involved, too; even more so than men and from the very beginning; ultimately it's His war;
  
• and He has given us the needed armors;
  
• spiritual warfares require spiritual weapons, the most important of which is probably prayer (so Jesus prays for us, and we also need pray "on all occasions");
• if we don't take the weapons and fight, then we won't be able to stand in the end;
  
• v33: a resolved Peter;
• but is it sufficient? Apparently not.
• so is it necessary that we are resolved, if all is depending on God and not men alone? the answer is probably yes;
• if not then we can all indulge ourselves in every possible way; the result of that is easily imaginable;
• however, where does our faith and our conviction ultimately come from?
• Again, it's from God;
• so men are not complete free? Probably not; just like the stars and planets in the universe--there are laws that constricts their motions, invisible forces that define their relations;
• the purposes are probably only known to the invisible God, and what we know depends on how much can really be revealed to us;
  

Lk 21:29-22:13

• Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
• Be careful not to let your heart weighed down with:
  
• dissipation
• drunkenness
• anxieties of life
• Be on watch always; pray
• to escape all that is about to happen
• to be able to stand before the Son of Man
• Satan entered Judas
• Disciples prepared for the Last Supper
  

Lk 21:1-28

• Widow's offering
• others give our of wealth
• she out of poverty put in all;
• => she has given more than all the others;
• Signs of the end of the age
• Jesus predicts the ruin of the temple;
• then the disciples asked for the signs
• among other physical disruptions, the disciples will be arrested and put on trial
• make up your mind (v14)
  
• stand firm (v19)
• Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory
• stand up and lift up your heads
• your redemption is near
  

Lk 20:27-47

• Sadducees -> don't believe in resurrection
• Who's wife is she?
• in this world -> people marry
• in that world and for those resurrected -> no marriage
• they cannot die, like the angels
• the God of the living, not the dead;
• to God all are alive;
• the Lord is lord of David and the son of David at the same time;
  

Lk 20:1-26

• Authority of Jesus questioned
  
• by the
  
• chief priests and the
  
• teachers of the law,
  
• elders
• Jesus links his authority to John's
• apparently the right answer is from God; but the questioner didn't want to admit that, fearing that they, too, must submit to it;
• so their hearts had set to against Jesus, if they were really asking, then the answer had been given;
• Parable of the Tenants
• Jesus was aiming this at
  
• the chief priests
• teachers of the law
• they got the message and wanted to arrest him immediately
• Tax to Caesar
• spies were sent to try to catch Jesus on something he said against Caesar, so they might send him to the Roman authority;
  
• give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's

Lk 19:28-48

• The triumphant entry
• got the colt from a village, 'the Lord needs it'
• disciples put their cloak on the colt
  
• people spread their cloak on the road
• Jesus saw Jerusalem and wept
• Jesus at the Temple
• drove out those selling
• already trying to kill Jesus:
• chief priests,
  
• teachers of the law and
  
• the leaders among the people
  

Lk 19:1-27

• Zacchaeus
• he was a tax collector
  
• a short man and couldn't see Jesus, he climbed a sycamore-fig tree along the way Jesus was coming
  
• Jesus saw him and called his name, 'Come down immediately, I must stay at your house today'
• he hurried down and gladly welcomed Jesus
• during Jesus' stay he stood up and said
  
• he would give half of his possessions to the poor
• return 4 times the amount to those he cheated
• Jesus acclaimed that salvation had come to that house on that day
• Son of Man came for what was lost
  
• to seek and
• to save them
• Parable of 10 Minas
• => I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away
• 
  

Lk 18:18-43

• the rich ruler
• kept the law since childhood
• wants to know what to do to inherit eternal life
• lacked one thing according to Jesus:
• sell everything and give to the poor
• then follow Jesus
• he became very sad
• he had good reason to be sad
• because
  
• his wealth was great
• and it's the only thing between him and getting eternal life
• who can be saved?
• What is impossible with men is possible with God.
• leave for the sake of the kingdom of God and will receive many times in this age and eternal life
• the rich man failed to see this
• he doesn't need his wealth, neither does God
• if he would have let go of it for the sake of God, God will repay him many folds, and grant him what he really needs--eternal life;
• apparently there is one thing he wouldn't let go for the sake of God, and that's what he lacked;
• Jesus predicted his death and resurrection
• Jesus healed the blind beggar
  

Lk 18:1-17

• 1st Parables on Prayer
• a judge
• neither feared God
• nor cared about men
• a widow
• kept coming to him with the same plea for justice
• for some time he refused
• but just because the widow kept bothering him, he will see to it that she gets justice
• God's selected people cry out to Him day and night, He will see that they get justice, and quickly!
• => always pray and not give up!
• 2nd Parable on Prayer
• a Pharisee
• prayed to (or about) himself, I did this, didn't do that...
• a tax collector
• dared not look up to heaven
• beat his breast and plead for God's forgiveness
• the tax collector will be justified before God
• For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted
• => be not self-righteous
  

Lk 17:11-37

• Jesus healed 10 lepers
• one of them, a Samaritan, came back and thank Jesus;
• Jesus asked, 'Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?'
• Kingdom of God
• does not come with careful observation
• is within (or among) you;
• the days of Son of Man
• like the lightning
• just like the days of
• Noah
• Lot
• remember Lot's wife!
• whoever tries to keep his life -> lost it
• whoever tries to loses his life -> preserve it;
  
• one of two will be taken, the other left;
  

Lk 16:19-17:10

• the rich man and the beggar
• when they were both alive, their lives were drastically different
• but they both had to die
• after their death, their lives were drastically different again
• the beggar was carried by angels to Abraham's side
• the rich man were descended to hell
• the rich man look up and saw Abraham and the beggar
• he begged Abraham to send the beggar down to give him water at the "tip of his finger"
• Abraham replied it cannot be done due to the fixed, uncrossable "great chasm"
• he begged Abraham then to send the beggar to his family and testify to his five brothers
• Abraham said they have Moses and the Prophets, let them listen to them
• he begged again that they need someone from the dead to go to them
• Abraham denied, if they don't listen to the prophets, they will not listen to even someone from the dead
• the point is certainly not that all rich men will be in hell and all beggars in heaven; but it's that how we live our lives can determine how we live after death; consider we are the brothers of the rich man, whom he wished to reach out to.
• 17:1-2: Do not cause others to sin!
• vv3-4: Forgive!
• vv 5-6: A little bit of faith will do.
• vv7-10: obey the Lord as servants obey the master
• We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty

Lk 16:1-18

• The shrewd manager
• why is the master praising the dishonest manager? (v8)
• what's the point Jesus was trying to make as he said 'use worldly wealth to gain friends'?
• be trustworthy in handling worldly wealth -> can be trusted with true riches
• cannot serve both God and Money;
• the Law and Prophets proclaimed until John; afterwards -> Gospel of kingdom is preached
• still, not a stroke of a pen will drop out of the Law;
  

Lk 15:1-32

• Lost sheep
• man lost one sheep;
  
• leave the 99 in the open country and go after the lost one;
• until it is found;
• calls friends and neighbors to rejoice with him;
• Lost coin
• woman lost one silver coin
• light a lamp, sweep the house, search carefully until found;
• calls friends and neighbors to rejoice with her;
• Lost son
• man with two sons
• older son->Pharisee? (v31)
• younger son -> lost and is found (v32)
• younger son demands his share of the estate
• took all of it
• left for a foreign country far away;
• squandered all the money (with prostitutes) (v30)
• with a sever famine, he was in need
• got employed as a pig feeder
• went hungry and wanted to eat pig's food;
• he came to his senses and decided to
  
• return home
• admit his sins to his father
  
• and become an employee of his father
• he got up and went to his father
• his father
• saw him while still a long way off
• filled with compassion for him
• ran to his son
• threw his arms around him
• kissed him
• after the son admitted his sins, his father ordered his servants to
  
• be quick
• get the best robe for his son
  
• put a ring on his finger
• sandals on his feet
• kill the fattened calf (yum!)
• the calf, not a calf!
  
• have a feast and celebrate
• the elder son found out about this
• got angry
• refused to go in
• answered to his father, who went out and pleaded with him
• look!
• all these years
• I'm a slave to you
• never disobeyed you
• you never gave me even a young goat
• but when this son come home, you killed the fattened calf for him
• father's reply
• my son
• you're always with me
  
• everything I have is yours (the younger son got his share already)
• but we had to celebrate and be glad
• because this brother of yours was
• dead and is alive again
• was lost and is found
• the story ends here, without telling us how it turned out in the end; I can identify with the elder son, but the father's heart for his son is filled with compassion; that's probably the only way the younger son can be saved; go in and celebrate, be a good brother; in the end, God is just.
  

Lk 14:7-35

• Humble yourself until exalted by God
• Exalt yourself and you'll humbled by God
• Take the lowest seat until the host honors you by inviting you to a better seat;
• the Pharisee's friends took the places of honor themselves;
  
• Desire the reward by God and not by men
• invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; they have nothing to repay you, but you'll be repaid when Jesus comes again;
• invite the rich and you'll be repaid when they invite you back;
• the Great Banquet (feast in the kingdom of God)
• those invited originally were too occupied to come; none of them came in the end (v24);
  
• invited instead were the poor, the crippled, the blind, the lame and random people on the street;
• speaking of this at the prominent Pharisee's house implied that they were the original guests;
• The cost or the prerequisites
  
• these people cannot be disciples of Jesus:
• those who do not love Jesus to the point of hating his father, mother, wife, and children, and brothers and sisters, and even his own life;
• those who do not carry his cross and follow Jesus;
• those who do not give up everything;
  
• again, very high standards!
• 
  

Lk 13:22-14:6

• Narrow door
• is it by God's selection or is it by people's choice? Calvinist or Arminian? is there a valid in-between or not? those are the questions;
• God's love is for everyone, that should be clear; but not everyone response to it (or at least not in a positive way); since God knows all and controls all, does it follow that He loves only a chosen few? does the concept of 'free will' contradict with "God knows all things" (i.e. omniscient--one of the three O's; the other two being omnipresence and omnipotent)? If God doesn't really knows "all", does it lessen the fact that He is the Creator?
• in some ways, theology is a logical way of reasoning God; is that really necessary?
  
• that fox -> Herold;
• v33: no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!
• Is it lawful to heal on Sabbath or not? Jesus did:
  
• 13:10-17 -> the woman crippled by a spirit;
  
• 14:1-6 -> man with dropsy;
  

Lk 13:1-21

• repent or will perish, same as:
  
• the Galileans who mixed blood with sacrifices;
• the 18 who died when the tower fell on them;
• Jesus cured the woman who could not straighten up
• let the ox of donkey out to give it water on Sabbath day
  
• a daughter of Abraham
• bounded by Satan for 18 years
• should be set free on Sabbath day
• Kingdom of heaven is like
  
• a mustard seed
• became a tree
• birds perched in its branches
• yeast
• work through the dough
• -> small (even tiny!) but can affect the surrounding in a big way
  

Lk 12:35-59

• Watchfulness
• the timing is unknown
• servants don't know when his mater returns;
• owners don't know when the thief might come;
• the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him
• given more will be demanded more
• manager of the servants must be faithful and wise;
• v41: in a sense Jesus is implying the disciples are the managers of the servants and will be asked more since they are entrusted more;
• Division
• Jesus came not to bring peace to earth, but division!
• it will cause division in the families, family members will be against each other;
• Jesus came to bring fire on the earth;

Lk 12:8-34

• acknowledge Jesus before men -> will be acknowledged by Jesus before the angels of God;
• or else, then won't be;
• blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven;
• the Hole Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say when one is brought before the authority;
• be rich toward God, for we don't know when our life will end; it's pointless if we store up things for ourselves but our life is taken away;
• consider the ravens...
• v23: Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes;
• little flock
• v31: seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well;
• v33: Jesus to his disciples:
• sell your possessions and give to the poor
• what stern instruction that is; the same as he said to the rich young men;
• but this is said to his disciples (all of them and not someone in particular);
• not just sell all, but also give all to the poor; leaving nothing to one's self;
• what about our family? our children? don't they deserve some of our possessions, too?
• who can really do that?
• provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out; treasure in heaven;
• in the end, worldly wealth is nothing to God;
  

Lk 11:37-12:7

• Six woes
• to the Pharisees and the experts in the laws
• yeast of the Pharisees (12:1)
  
• Hypocrisy!
  

Lk 11:14-36

• driving out demons by the prince of demons?
• divided force will be weakened, as a kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, so the price of demons won't drive out its own demons;
• Who's the strong man and the stronger?
• v23: He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me, scatters.
• v24: evil spirit will return and could bring more of them;
• Who are more blessed?
• Jesus's mother, says one woman
• Jesus replied, those who hear the word of God and obey it;
• v34: eye is the lamp of the body;
• its good or bad affects the whole body being full of light or full of darkness;
  

Lk 10:38-11:13

• only one thing is needed
• Martha opened her home to Jesus, and became responsible for all the preparation, which is keeping her busy;
• she asked Jesus to tell her sister to help her;
• Jesus replied he cannot take her choice away from her;
• In the end, Martha's service to the Lord will be remembered and rewarded; even though she missed a sermon, she's doing what's needed (somebody must do it); her problem is that she worried and became upset about too many things; had she served with gladness and worry less about what her sister's doing she'd be 100%;
• If I were in Mary's position I'd be alarmed, too; there will be an end to the sermon, and there are works to be done; there's a time to listen and a time to learn, but there's also a time to work, a time to serve and a time to give; the former is not the purpose, and the latter is; the more one gives, the more he will be given; enjoy the time to do whatever is necessary at the moment and do it whole-heartedly; don't be distracted by the calls to service too soon, wait for God's time; but when the time comes, do it gladly, whole-heartedly, and don't look back;
  
• Key to prayer
• the focus is the person who's pleading for his friend;
• even though it's late, the friend asked boldly and persistently;
• his request will be granted;
• sometimes I ask why to pray for our needs; after all God already knew before we ask; but here when we plead for others, apparently God look at our attitude too; but the attitude must come from within the heart, it's not something to put on; so the key is to 'see' other's need with the heart;
• Ask and will receive
• James 4:2b-3: You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

Lk 9:28-50

• Jesus transfigures
• Moses and Elijah
• represents the Laws and the Prophets
• they talk about Jesus' departure (v31)
• v33: Peter did not know what he was saying
• was he speaking in tongues or
  
• he just didn't realize the meaning of what he just said
• Jesus rebuked the evil, and the boy was healed;
  
• v50 - whoever is not against you is for you;
  

Lk 9:7-27

• Jesus Feeds 5000
• At Bethsaida
• Jesus said, 'You give them something to eat.'
• sometimes Jesus put them in a situation where they can see their limitations, and realize they have to come to him;
• they sit down in groups of 50 (>100 groups)
• from 5 loaves and 2 fish all eat and were satisfied
• the leftovers were 12 basketful
• Peter's confession of Jesus
• The Christ of God (v20)
• Jesus predicts his death and resurrection,
• Requirements for followers
• must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me;
• What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?

Lk 8:40-9:6

• Jesus heals Jairus' daughter
• at 12 and almost dead
• reported dead when Jesus was on the way there
• 'Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.' Jesus comforted the father when the news arrived;
• 'My child, get up!'
• Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up;
• Jesus heals the sick woman
• 12 years of bleeding
• touched the edge of Jesus' cloak and the bleeding stopped immediately;
• Jesus felt the power went out of him;
• He wants the woman to identify herself, so he asked, 'who touched me?'
• She admitted in fear and gave her testimony on what just happened to her;
• Jesus said, 'Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.'
  
• Jesus can even raise the dead back to life, and he can heal the 'incurable' diseases; bring our case to Jesus; don't be afraid and just believe! He can!
• Jesus sends out the Twelve
• take nothing on the journey
• stay at the same house until you leave town; why? why not stay at different ones? or even one per night? the only reasons I can think of are:
  
• this way it'd save time; and the time saved can be used for more important things;
• good testimony for the host family;
• easier for the local people to find them if they know where they stay;
• won't get confused or lost at the end of the day;
  
• those who don't welcome you, dust off your feet when you leave town, as a testimony against them;
• Jesus wants people to know who doesn't welcome his disciple;
  

Lk 8:22-39

• Jesus calms the storm
• he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him (v25b)
• in Chinese culture, winds and water has a special meaning (Feng Shui); I'm not an expert of it, but from what I know it has a Taoism root and is often associated with Mysticism, astrology, and false gods; some would like to brand it as a science of the nature; it can certainly control a person's mind (e.g. it might command you to put the bed a certain way to avoid harm);
• but here we see Jesus commands the winds and the water, it reminds me that Jesus has the ultimate control, and the wind and the water obey him!
• Jesus casts out demon
• the person was repeatedly possessed by the same demon (v29);
  
• the demon recognizes Jesus and is afraid of him (v28);
• identify the evil spirit, 'What's your name?'
• Legion, for they are many
• from the context, it has been referred to as both single and plural;
• let them go into the herd of pigs;
• people at Gerasenes were overcome with fear and asked Jesus to leave them
• why? it's strange that their response echoes that of the demon (v28)
• not the man healed by Jesus, he asked Jesus to stay;

Lk 8:4-21

• Parable of the Sower
• Luke's record on this is rather brief; it tells Jesus names all 4 categories and explains them one-by-one; in between Jesus called out (as if he is trying to reach out to those heard, but not really listening),
• He who has ears to hear, let him hear
• A lamp on a Stand
• all hidden -> disclosed
• all concealed -> known
• Therefore, be careful how you listen
• whoever has -> given more
• does not have -> taken away what he thinks he has
• hear God's words -> put it into practice
• those are my mother and my brother
  

Lk 7:36-8:3

• Jesus Anointed by Mary
• invited to dinner with a Pharisees by the name of Simon (v1,40);
• Mary lived in the same city; she had a sinful life;
• standing behind Jesus, she wept and her tears fell on Jesus' feet;
  
• she wiped the tears with her hair; in effect washing them (v44)
  
• she kissed Jesus' feet and put perfume on them;
• Who will love more?
• Jesus spoke to the Pharisees
• who will love more? the one owes 500 and got canceled or 50 and canceled?
• the former will;
  
• I entered your home
• you didn't give me water for my feet; she washed them with her tears and hair;
• you didn't give me a kiss; she kept kissing my feet;
• you didn't put oil on my head; she poured perfume on my feet (Jesus didn't mention it's the most expensive one);
• Her many sins are forgiven--for she loved much
• here's it's not clear whether her love was a result of or a reason why her sins are forgiven; but from the context it seems the former; she had faith that her sins are/will be forgiven, even before Jesus proclaimed it to her and the rest around her;
• He who has been forgiven little loves little;
• so which is better then? can one be forgiven little (hence less sin) and love ever more?
  
• Or is it just our perception of how much is forgiven that's questionable?
  
• Perhaps no one can really claim he has been forgiven little or less than any other; therefore, we all should love much? If so, why Jesus didn't make such a point, but the other instead?
• Mary Magdalene
• 7 demons were driven out from her;
• Not the Mary above;
  

Lk 7:11-35

• Jesus raised a widow's son
• that's her only son (v12)
• 'Don't cry.' Jesus said to the widow;
• 'Young man, I say to you, get up!' Jesus said to the son, who raised from dead and began to talk;
• John the baptist not sure (v19); Jesus reassured him (v22);
  
• Greatness equation:
• those born of women <= John the baptist <>
• Son of Man came eating and drinking -> freedom
  

Lk 6:12-38

• Disciples vs. Apostles
• v13:When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles;
• Jesus preached to the crowd (and healed some):
• Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for that is how their fathers treated the false prophets
• Love your enemies...do better than 'sinners' (who love only those who love them), then your reward will be great;
• Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful
• similar to: Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect (Mt 5:48)
• very high standard, impossible without the power of the precious blood
  

Lk 4:31-5:11

• v32: Jesus' preaching is markedly different from the rest, because his teaching had authority
• v34,41 - demons know Jesus, and Jesus has authority and power over them;
• v44 - Jesus preached at Galilee--his home region;
• Jesus preached on Peter's boat, then guide Peter to catch boat-loads of fish; Jesus cares about Peter because Peter worked all night but didn't catch any fish;
• Peter
• obedient (v5): because you say so...
• humble (v8): I am a sinful man...
• with conviction (v11): left everything and followed Jesus.
  

Lk 4:1-30

• v1 - Jesus let by the Spirit in the desert;
• Devil's temptations
1. If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread (v3)
   
2. I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours (v6-7)
3. If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here... (v9-11)
• Jesus' replies:
1. It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone (Deut 8:3)' (v4)
2. It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only (Deut 6:13)' (v8)
3. It says: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test (Deut :16)' (v12)
• v14 - Jesus first returned to Nazareth, where he had been brought up (v16)
• but people there didn't respect him (v22);
• Jesus gave the example of:
• Elijah
• who went to the widow in Sidon but not in Israel
  
• Elisha
• who healed Syrian general Naaman, not none in Israel
• -> no prophet is accepted in his hometown (v24)
• the people were so furious that they wanted to throw him down the cliff (v29)
• but Jesus walked right through the crowd and left (v30)
  

Lk 3:23-38

• v23 - Jesus at 30 began his ministry
• v24~38 - Jesus' genealogy (Mary's side) ->
• v37 - Zerubbabel
• v32 - David
• v34 - Judah/Jacob/Isaac/Abraham
• v36 - Shem/Noah/
• v37 - Enoch
• v38 - Seth/Adam
• v38b - God

Lk 3:1-22

• v1 - the time and the people
• Tiberius - Caesar/Roman Emperor
• Pontius Pilate - governor of Judea
• Herod - tetrarch of Galilee
• Philip - (brother of Herod) tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis
• Lysanias - tetrarch of Abilene
• Annas and Caiaphas - high priests
• v2 - the word of God came to John
• v8 - produce fruit, repent
• v16 - John denied he was the Messiah
• v11 - Jesus baptised
  

Lk 2:36-52

• v37: a life in the temple (worship, fasting, praying);
• v39: birth at Bethlehem, consecrated a the temple, grew up in Nazareth;
• v41: every Passover Jesus' parents took him to Jerusalem
  
• v44,46: the parents lost him for 3 days (obviously they were worried, v48b)
• v51: Mother Mary treasured all these things in her heart.
• v52: Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men
  

Lk 2:1-35

• Census ordered by Caesar Augustus
• Joseph and Mary to register in Bethlehem
  
• because he belonged to the house and line of David
• v7: Mary gave birth to Jesus
• wrapped him in cloths
• placed him in a manger
• v11: Messiah is born in the town of David (i.e. Bethlehem); what a news! They must go see it (v15)
  
• v19: Mary treasured all the things said about Jesus and pondered them in her heart;
• also in v51;
  
• v22: Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the Temple and present him to the Lord;

Lk 1:57-80

• v58: neighbors and relatives celebrate with Elizabeth and wanted to name the baby after his father;
• v60: Elizabeth and Zechariah insisted on John, as told by angel Gabriel;
• v64: Zechariah's mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, he praised God;
• Zechariah prophesied in a song;
• v80: John grew and became strong in spirit;
  

Lk 1:26-56

• v26: the angle appeared before Mary was Gabriel (same as to Elizabeth);
• v36: John is 6 month elder than Jesus;
• v37: nothing is impossible with God;
• v38: a willing heart is what God wants;
  
• v39: Mary visits Elizabeth and stayed for 3 month (v56)
  
• v41: baby in her womb leaped when she heard Mary's greeting
• she was filled with the Holy Spirit
• Mary sang a song

Lk 1:1-25

• v2: hear from the eyewitnesses (servants of the word);
  
• v3: investigate carefully himself; report throughly
  
• v6: upright in the sight of God
• Zechariah
• Elizabeth
• v9: lot
• v7: Elizabeth was barren and elder, but later gave birth to John the Baptist; likewise:
  
• Hanna to Samuel;
• Sarah to Isaac;
• v15: filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth (or from his mother's womb)
• v17: in the spirit and power of Elijah
• turn the hearts of the fathers to their children
• disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous
• make ready a people prepared for the Lord
• v19: the angle before Zechariah was Gabriel;
• v20: Zechariah be silenced due to his un-believe, until the news came true;
• v25: take away the disgrace (of not having children) among the people
  

Mk 16:1-20

• 16:1 - when the Sabbath is over; very early (just after sunrise) on the first day of the week (v2)
• Sunday morning
• three women bought spices to anoint Jesus:
• Mary Magdalene
  
• Jesus drove out 7 demons out of her (v9b)
  
• Mary the mother of James
• Salome
  
• v5: As they entered the tomb;
  
• saw a young man dress in white robe
• sitting on the right side
• v6: He has risen!
• v15: the Great Commission
• the Lord worked with them (v20)

Mk 15

• Very early in the morning
• Friday; on the same day Jesus was crucified and buried; 3 days later (Sunday) he rose to life again;
• Before Pilate
• Jesus mainly remained silent (v4b,5) except for Pilate's question, 'Are you the king of the Jews?'
• to which Jesus replied, 'Yes, it is as you say.'
• the crowd demand to release Barabbas and crucify Jesus
• The soldiers
• put purple robe on him
• set a crown of thorns on him
• mocked him, 'Hail, king of Jews!'
  
• struck him on the head (again and again) with a staff
  
• spit on him
• on their knees and paid homage to him
• Simon
• a man from Cyrene
• father of
  
• Alexander and
  
• Rufus
• was forced to carry the cross for Jesus
• Jesus crucified around 9am (v25) and died around 3 pm (v33)
  
• After Jesus died
• the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom
• Jesus buried in the same night by Joseph (a prominent member of the Council); Pilate was surprised Jesus died so soon (v44)