Matthew 21:22 – "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Tag someone in need of prayer, and kindly share your prayer requests here. https://bit.ly/3GdFXpR Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6wYZGylawo
Proverbi 14:30 – Apri la porta del tuo cuore
"Un cuore calmo è la vita del corpo, ma l'invidia è la carie delle ossa". 📖 Proverbi 14:30 —
💌 Apri la porta del tuo cuore
👉 Rubrica a cura di Anna Cupertino
🗣 Speaker: Elisa Ghiuzan Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uin1DRAk7lM
In Praise of Pagan Christmas
by Jack Hoehn | 17 December 2024 | There can be no doubt about it: December 25 was once a pagan holiday, the birthday of the Sun god, Sol Invictus, from his winter nap—the shortest winter day that starts the gradual return of longer days, the winter solstice. So let’s celebrate the end of winter and […] Source: https://atoday.org/pagan-christmas/
Lesson 12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection | 12.4 The Empty Tomb | THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN | LIVING FAITH
12.4 The Empty Tomb
The Empty Tomb: A Sign of Resurrection and Hope
Read John 20:1–7. What significance does what is described in these verses have for us?
The empty tomb is the heart of the Christian faith. In John 20:1–7, it becomes clear that Jesus’ resurrection is not a misunderstanding or a myth, but a carefully documented fact with deep significance.
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The Significance of the Empty Tomb
The empty tomb testifies to Jesus’ resurrection, which confirms the victory over death and sin. The disciples’ faith was not founded on speculation or emotions, but on the clear reality that the tomb was empty.
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Lesson for Us: The empty tomb gives us the assurance that Jesus is truly alive. This is the foundation of our hope and our faith in the resurrection and eternal life.
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The Details of the Linen Cloths
The linen cloths and the carefully folded sweat cloth indicate that Jesus’ resurrection was not a chaotic or criminal event (e.g., grave robbery). The orderliness suggests that something supernatural occurred.
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Lesson for Us: The details emphasize God’s power and sovereignty. His plans are perfect and bring order to apparent chaos.
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The Reaction of the Witnesses
Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John represent different reactions to the empty tomb: confusion, curiosity, and ultimately faith. John, who sees the empty tomb and the cloths, believes (John 20:8), even though he does not yet fully understand the resurrection.
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Lesson for Us: Faith often begins with seeing and recognizing God’s works. Like John, we are invited to believe even if we do not fully understand everything.
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The Significance for Our Daily Lives
The empty tomb reminds us that death is not the end and that God is capable of creating new life even from the most hopeless situations. Jesus’ resurrection is proof of God’s faithfulness and power.
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Lesson for Us: We can trust that God’s power and love are greater than any darkness in difficult moments. His resurrection power can also transform our lives.
Conclusion
The empty tomb is not just a historical event but a personal invitation to believe in the resurrection power of Jesus. It challenges us to live in the hope and assurance that death is defeated and that new life is possible—in this life and beyond.
Read John 20:8–10. What significance did the folded sweat cloth have?
The folded sweat cloth in the empty tomb holds deep symbolic and practical significance. It was one of the crucial details that led John to believe that Jesus had indeed risen.
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A Sign of Order and Intention
The carefully folded sweat cloth shows that Jesus’ resurrection was not a chaotic or hasty event, as one would expect from a grave robbery. It points to an orderly and intentional action—a supernatural event that reveals God’s power and planning.
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Lesson for Us: God’s actions are never random or chaotic. The folded sweat cloth reminds us that God has order and intention in everything He does, even in seemingly hopeless moments.
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A Sign of the Resurrection
Grave robbers would not have had time to arrange the cloths so carefully. John understood that the folded sweat cloth was a sign that Jesus had not simply “disappeared” but had risen by His own power and under divine control.
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Lesson for Us: Jesus’ resurrection is not a myth but a historical and supernatural reality. The folded sweat cloth reminds us that the victory over death was a planned and completed act of God.
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Faith Without Complete Understanding
John saw the cloths and believed, even though he did not yet fully understand the resurrection (John 20:9). The folded sweat cloth was visible evidence that transformed his initial confusion into faith.
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Lesson for Us: Often, we do not fully understand God’s ways, but we are invited to believe and trust Him even when the whole truth remains hidden.
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A Personal Invitation to Faith
The folded sweat cloth had a clear message for John: Jesus lives! It was a silent yet powerful indication that the promise of resurrection had been fulfilled.
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Lesson for Us: We are also invited to recognize the traces of God’s work in our lives. The folded sweat cloth reminds us that Jesus lives today and invites us to believe in Him and trust His promises.
Conclusion
The folded sweat cloth in the empty tomb is more than just a detail—it is a symbol of the resurrection, order, and an invitation to faith. It shows us that God is sovereign in all He does and that we can trust Him even when we do not fully understand. Like John, we are invited to see and believe.
The empty tomb and Jesus’ resurrection are not only historical events but have a transformative significance for our faith and daily lives.
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Hope in Hopeless Moments
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Significance for Daily Life: The empty tomb shows that God can bring new life even from the most seemingly hopeless situations. When we face difficulties, loss, or disappointments, we can trust that God’s power and love are greater than any darkness.
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Example: In personal crises, we can remember the resurrection, which shows us that God always creates a way from darkness to light.
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Faith Even Without Complete Understanding
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Significance for Daily Life: John believed even when he did not fully understand the resurrection (John 20:8–9). This reminds us that faith does not always mean comprehending everything, but trusting that God is acting, even when we do not immediately see His ways.
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Example: When we are uncertain or do not understand God’s actions in our lives, we can still trust Him and hold onto His promises.
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A Life Powered by the Resurrection
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Significance for Daily Life: Jesus’ resurrection means that death is defeated and we can live in the power of new life. This hope gives us courage to look to the future with confidence and to let God’s power work in our lives.
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Example: The resurrection encourages us to let go of old habits or fears and to live a renewed life of love, forgiveness, and joy.
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Order and Intention in God’s Actions
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Significance for Daily Life: The folded sweat cloth shows that God’s actions are never chaotic but always have a clear purpose. Even in difficult times, we can trust that God has a plan that leads us to a good outcome.
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Example: When our lives seem chaotic or disordered, we can trust that God brings order to our chaos, just as He carefully planned Jesus’ resurrection.
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An Invitation to Faith
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Significance for Daily Life: The empty tomb and the folded sweat cloth invite us to believe in the reality of the resurrection. They challenge us to recognize the signs of God’s work in our lives and to respond accordingly.
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Example: In our daily lives, we can encounter God in small and large moments—through prayer, in the community of believers, or in experiences that show us that He lives.
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Conclusion
The empty tomb reminds us that Jesus lives and that we can live in the hope of the resurrection. It invites us to deepen our faith, trust in God’s plan, and shape our lives by His power. In everyday life, this assurance gives us courage, trust, and joy, even in the most challenging moments. The empty tomb is a symbol of hope that transforms our lives.
The empty tomb is a sign of hope: In Jesus, the resurrection defeats every darkness and gives us new life.
18.11.2024 – 1 Corinthians Chapter 8 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
December 18, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 8
1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
2 And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
3 But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
4 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.
5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)
6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
7 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.
8 But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.
9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.
10 For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol’s temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;
11 And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?
12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.
13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
1 Corinthians Chapter 8 addresses an important topic that concerns Christian freedom and responsibility within the congregation: eating meat dedicated to idol sacrifices. Paul responds to the Corinthians’ questions and teaches that love and consideration for the consciences of weaker believers should be the foremost principles in handling such matters. The Apostle reminds us that knowledge alone is not sufficient but must be guided by love to foster faith and community.
Commentary
1. Knowledge and Love (Verses 1–3)
Paul begins by stating that knowledge alone “exalts,” while love builds up. Knowledge without love can foster pride and arrogance, whereas love shows consideration and care. Those who love God are known by Him, and this relationship with God should determine their behavior toward others. The emphasis is on love as the fundamental principle of Christian freedom.
2. An Idol is Nothing (Verses 4–6)
Paul explains that there is only one God, the Father, and one Lord, Jesus Christ. For believers, an idol is meaningless because it possesses no real power. This realization grants believers freedom, but it is not equally strong in everyone. Some have a sensitive conscience and could be confused or hurt by the freedom of others.
3. Responsibility Toward the Weak (Verses 7–13)
Not all Christians possess the same level of knowledge and faith strength. Some believers might interpret eating idol meat as participation in idol worship and thus waver in their faith. Paul warns that the freedom of the strong must not lead to harm for weaker brethren in faith. Whoever hurts a brother’s weak conscience sins against Christ himself. Out of love for the brother, Paul willingly gives up his freedom if it could endanger another. His guiding principle is love and consideration for others.
Summary
1 Corinthians Chapter 8 teaches that Christian freedom must be accompanied by love and responsibility. While the knowledge of the insignificance of idols grants believers freedom, Paul emphasizes that consideration for the weak conscience of others takes precedence. Love should guide actions so that the community is strengthened in faith and no one is harmed. The central message is that true freedom in Christ is not selfish but is characterized by selflessness and care for others.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 80—In Joseph’s Tomb
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
Chapter 80 describes the final hours of Good Friday and the Sabbath, during which Jesus rests in the tomb after His crucifixion. This section highlights the significance of Jesus’ death and the rest in the tomb in relation to creation and redemption. At the same time, it establishes the symbolic connection between Jesus’ sacrificial death and the Sabbath rest. The chapter paints a profound picture of human sorrow, divine providence, and the priests’ efforts to suppress the memory of Jesus.
Commentary:
Jesus’ Rest in the Tomb and Its Significance Jesus’
Sabbath rest in the tomb mirrors God’s rest after creation. While creation was completed on the seventh day, Jesus’ rest symbolizes the completion of the redemptive work. This connection demonstrates that the cross is not only a place of suffering but also of triumph over sin. The Sabbath becomes a day of hope, pointing to the restoration of creation and eternal life.
Testimonies and Confessions After the Crucifixion
The words of the Roman centurion and the conversion of many spectators of the crucifixion serve as evidence that Jesus’ life and death had transformative power. The faith of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus is highlighted in this chapter, as they courageously advocate for Jesus’ dignified burial despite their previous hesitations. This shows that Jesus’ death also moves hidden believers to take action.
The Priests’ Uneasy Conscience
Despite their apparent triumph, the priests are plagued by fear and doubt. Their efforts to seal and guard Jesus’ tomb reflect their uncertainty. Their attempt to prevent Jesus’ resurrection ultimately fulfills God’s plan and provides stronger evidence of His divinity.
The Testimony of Creation
Nature itself testifies to Jesus’ divinity: the darkness during the crucifixion, the earthquake, and the torn temple veil. These events underscore the significance of Jesus’ death and His connection to creation and the plan of redemption.
Summary:
Chapter 80 emphasizes the significance of Jesus’ rest in the tomb as a symbol of completed redemption and connects it with the Sabbath rest of creation. While Jesus’ enemies continue to try to suppress His influence, their actions ultimately provide evidence of His divinity. The chapter shows how Jesus’ death moves not only His disciples but also other witnesses of His crucifixion. The Sabbath following the crucifixion becomes a day of silence and reflection, harboring hope for the resurrection. The triumph of God over human plans and the glorification of His name are central themes of this chapter.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/18-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-8-believe-his-prophets/
Preparing for the Latter Rain
As God prepares us for the outpouring of the latter rain, empowering us to proclaim the life-giving messages of the three angels boldly, the time has come for earnest study and fervent prayer. Now, more than ever, we must open our hearts to God's leading and fully commit ourselves to His divine mission. To learn more about the transformative power of prayer, paste this link into your browser:
https://youtu.be/qAT591UYBgU?si=1KgQMWC_8XNAvRbN Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1yz6ncLxNQ
Desmond Doss and the Call to Save “Just One More” | Global Total Member Involvement
The story of Desmond Doss inspires us to live with courage and faith. A devout Seventh-day Adventist and Medal of Honor recipient, Doss’s determination to save “just one more” on the battlefield of Okinawa reminds us of our mission in the great controversy. In this new video, Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist General Conference, shares how we, too, are called to put on the armor of God and reach out to a world in need. Will you answer the call to Total Member Involvement and say, “Yes, Lord, I Will Go”? Jesus is coming. Get involved! Learn more about Global Total Member Involvement at https://www.globaltmi.org/. The Seventh-day Adventist Church has been an established Protestant denomination since 1863. It is a global Christian family with over 21 million members who hold the Bible as the ultimate authority. The Adventist Church promises to help people understand the Bible to find freedom, healing, and hope in Jesus. Want to learn more about the Seventh-day Adventist Church? Visit our website at: https://www.adventist.org/ Click the notification bell so that you never miss a new video! Find us on social media by following the links below:
Facebook: theadventistchurch X: adventistchurch Instagram: adventistchurch Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6vSR2IGmVc
Cadena perpetua contra teólogo adventista que construyo una red de pedófilos para abusar a su hijastra
El sábado 14 de diciembre de 2024, el Tribunal de Chillán leyó la sentencia de prisión perpetua y adicional 15 años, a Marco Antonio Orellana Basaes de 64 años, un teólogo adventista y profesor en una Escuela no adventista, que cursaba la maestría en Salud Pública en la Universidad Adventista de Chile. Y otras 13 […] Source: https://atoday.org/cadena-perpetua-contra-teologo-adventista-que-construyo-una-red-de-pedofilos-para-abusar-a-su-hijastra/
Low-to-no-tech Education Gets Higher Marks
Often those who are the most wary of a thing are the people closest to it. Many of the technologists who know how phones really work have decided they don’t want their own children anywhere near the devices they themselves have created Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYKxfZLC4Nc
Jesús contra los controladores de la narrativa
En 1998, Saturday Night Live emitió un episodio parecido a School House Rock, que posteriormente fue prohibido. El episodio fue retirado porque describía cómo un pequeño número de poderosas corporaciones controlaban gran parte de los medios de noticias y entretenimiento. Este «monopolio mediático» creaba la ilusión de que el público podía elegir, al tiempo que […] Source: https://atoday.org/jesus-contra-los-controladores-de-la-narrativa/
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