Il Forum Permanente per l’Evangelizzazione 2024 è stato l’occasione per riflettere e progettare nuovi modi di condividere la speranza. Durante l’evento si è svolta la premiazione del contest artistico “Come vedo la mia chiesa”. Nel 2025 tornano i Dieci giorni di preghiera. Si terranno dall’8 al 18 gennaio. È già disponibile il materiale in italiano. Un uomo armato è entrato in una scuola avventista nel nord della California e ha sparato ferendo due bambini, poi si è ucciso. La Chiesa chiede di pregare per i bambini e le famiglie. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAYTiWIxDxs
Inside Story: A Dream in Dallas
Inside Story for Friday 13th of December 2024
By Andrew McChesney
Samuel declared that he had no interest in Bible studies. “But you marked that you were interested on a Bible-study interest card,” said the caller, a Bible worker from the Dallas First Seventh-day Adventist Church in the U.S. state of Texas. He and other Bible workers were following up on cards distributed by the church. “Well, I’m not interested,” Samuel said.
The caller placed the Bible-study interest card aside.
Image © Pacific Press
A week later, another Bible worker called Samuel.
“I’m not interested,” Samuel said.
The next week, the Bible worker called again.
“How much will the Bible studies cost?” Samuel asked.
“Nothing.”
At the first Bible study, Samuel said he and his wife had been looking for a church. Their son had invited them to his church, but they had been offended by a sermon about the pope and the seventh-day Sabbath. “I’ll never set foot inside a Seventh-day Adventist church again,” Samuel said.
The Bible worker prayed silently and continued the Bible study.
After several weeks, the Bible worker invited Samuel to evangelistic meetings at the Dallas First Seventh-day Adventist Church. He wondered what Samuel would say. Samuel agreed to go.
At the first meeting, Samuel looked around the church with great interest. The building had a unique architecture, with a rounded sanctuary, a rounded ceiling, and pews curved around the platform. Samuel sought out the Bible worker. “I need to talk to you,” he said. The Bible worker was helping to prepare for the meeting, and he asked Samuel if he could wait. Samuel agreed and sat down. He listened attentively to the evangelist’s sermon about Daniel 2:1-49. Afterward, he found the Bible worker and blurted out, “I want to be baptized!” The Bible worker was shocked and exclaimed, “What?”
Samuel said he had had a dream 18 years earlier. “In the dream, Jesus led me to a church and said, ‘This is My church,’ ” he said. “When I walked into the church this evening, I recognized it immediately. Finally, I’ve found the church from my dream. I want to be baptized.”
The Bible worker took Samuel to the evangelist, who was equally surprised to hear about the dream. What made the story even more remarkable was that the church had burned down and a new building had been constructed 13 years earlier. Samuel had seen the new church in his dream five years before it was constructed.
“Everything is possible when we cooperate with God in His mission,” said the evangelist, Slavik Ostapenko, now pastor of the Spokane Slavic Seventh-day Adventist Church in Washington State.
(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/24d-11-inside-story-a-dream-in-dallas/
Friday: Further Thought – The Father, the Son, and the Spirit
Daily Lesson for Friday 13th of December 2024
Read Ellen G. White, “ ‘Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled,’ ” Pages 662–680, in The Desire of Ages; “Additional Note on [John] Chapter 1,” The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, Pages 911–919.
Image © Stan Myers from GoodSalt.com
In assessing who Jesus is, His opponents judged by human standards “ ‘according to the flesh’ ” (John 8:15, NKJV). This is probably even worse than judging “by mere appearances” (John 7:24, NIV). Here they resorted to the criteria of the flesh, of fallen humanity in a fallen world, without the compelling control of the Spirit (see John 3:3-7). They saw His “flesh,” as it were, but never contemplated the possibility that He could be the Word made flesh (John 1:14). To regard Christ by such limited criteria is to weigh Him from a worldly point of view (2 Corinthians 5:16).
“The Comforter is called ‘the Spirit of truth.’ His work is to define and maintain the truth. He first dwells in the heart as the Spirit of truth, and thus He becomes the Comforter. There is comfort and peace in the truth, but no real peace or comfort can be found in falsehood. It is through false theories and traditions that Satan gains his power over the mind. By directing men to false standards, he misshapes the character. Through the Scriptures the Holy Spirit speaks to the mind, and impresses truth upon the heart. Thus He exposes error, and expels it from the soul. It is by the Spirit of truth, working through the word of God, that Christ subdues His chosen people to Himself.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 671.
Discussion Questions
|
(1)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/24d-11-further-thought-the-father-the-son-and-the-spirit/
SATIRE: GC Announces New Department: Ministry of 19th-Century Nostalgia
In a move that has left many Adventists checking their calendars to ensure they haven’t accidentally time-traveled, the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (GC) has announced the creation of a new department: The Ministry of 19th-Century Nostalgia. “We’ve realized that our church’s identity is so deeply rooted in the 1800s that we might as well […] Source: https://atoday.org/gc-announces-new-department-ministry-of-19th-century-nostalgia/
God First: Your Daily Prayer Meeting #853
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=HUjsluWm-Ho
Malachi 3:1
“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty.
The post Malachi 3:1 appeared first on Daily Bible Promise.
Source: https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/jL28dc7E3KCzRma09YY0MGqHR2pT8OjE
Costruire con Dio | Samuel Vecchio
Versetto introduttivo: Matteo 7:24-26
Meditazione a cura di: Samuel Vecchio
Registrato presso: Chiesa Avventista di Trieste Sabato 7 Dicembre 2024 Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9XiJX8Ctkg
Lessons from Faith’s Journey with AWR
How can one find hope in the midst of fear? In this engaging video, we follow Faith's journey as she discovers AWR Prime Radio in Kampala. Drawn to its messages of truth and hope, Faith listens in secret, fearing her husband's reaction. What does this story teach us about faith, love, and the courage to seek truth? Hit that like button and subscribe for more inspiring stories! #CourageToListen #HiddenFaith #InspiringJourneys #awr #adventistworldradio Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8z1RlzKyMrY #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FCElLMyktw
The Father, the Son, and the Spirit – Hit the Mark Sabbath School
Join the Hit the Mark panel as they discuss Sabbath School Lesson 11 – The Father, the Son, and the Spirit. It’s the fastest hour of the week!
(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/the-father-the-son-and-the-spirit-hit-the-mark-sabbath-school/
Lesson 11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit | 11.5 The Prayer of Jesus | THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN | LIVING FAITH
11.5 Jesus’ Prayer
Jesus’ Prayer: Unity in Love and Truth
Read John 17:1–26. What words or phrases in this chapter express Jesus’ desire for a close love relationship between Him, the Father, and His disciples?
The high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17 is a profound and moving chapter that reveals the intimate relationship between Jesus, the Father, and His disciples. It provides insights into Jesus’ heartfelt desire: the unity, love, and truth that should characterize God’s kingdom.
1. Jesus’ Desire for a Love Relationship Between God and His Disciples
In this prayer, Jesus repeatedly expresses His desire for His disciples to experience the same close relationship with the Father that He Himself has. This is evident in words and phrases like “that they may be one, as we are one” (John 17:11) and “that the love with which You loved Me may be in them” (v. 26). This unity is not superficial but is rooted in God’s love.
2. The Connection Between Love and Truth
Jesus emphasizes that true unity can only exist on the foundation of truth. He says, “Sanctify them by the truth! Your word is truth” (John 17:17). The revelation of the Father and the proclamation of truth are central elements of Jesus’ ministry. He took great pains to convey a clear picture of God because He knew that misunderstandings about God could hinder a genuine relationship with Him.
3. Eternal Life Through Knowing the Father
Jesus defines eternal life as knowing “the only true God” (John 17:3). This knowledge is not merely intellectual agreement but a deep personal relationship. It is the foundation upon which love, unity, and devotion can grow.
4. Jesus’ Example of Devotion
The prayer also shows that Jesus was willing to give everything to fulfill the Father’s will. His life was marked by obedience, sacrifice, and love for those He sought to save—even those who rejected Him. This devotion serves as a model for us and a call to live out our faith with the same seriousness and love.
Significance for Our Lives Today:
1. Unity in Love and Truth
-
Connection:
Jesus’ prayer reminds us that genuine unity in the community can only arise through the combination of love and truth. It encourages us to uphold the truth of God’s Word and build our relationships on love and forgiveness. -
Practical:
In everyday life, we can live in unity with others through forgiveness, compassion, and holding firmly to God’s truth. This is especially relevant in the church, where we work together as members of the body of Christ.
2. Knowing God as the Goal of Life
-
Connection:
Jesus defines eternal life as a personal relationship with God (John 17:3). This knowledge begins here and now and fills our lives with meaning and hope. -
Practical:
We can deepen our relationship with God by spending time in prayer and Bible study and consciously seeking His guidance in our lives.
3. Discipleship in Devotion
-
Connection:
Jesus’ devotion to the Father’s will is a model for our discipleship. His prayer shows that our lives should be oriented toward obedience and love for God, even when it involves difficulties or sacrifices. -
Practical:
We can intentionally ask ourselves how we can follow God’s will in our daily lives—whether through the decisions we make or our behavior toward others.
4. Sharing in God’s Mission
-
Connection:
Jesus prayed not only for His disciples but also for those who would believe in Him through their testimony (John 17:20). This shows that we are part of God’s greater plan to spread His love and truth in the world. -
Practical:
We can share our faith stories with others, be a light in both small and significant moments, and recognize that God works through us.
5. Strength in Difficult Times
-
Connection:
Jesus’ prayer shows that even amidst rejection, betrayal, and suffering, He sought the Father’s will. This encourages us to trust in God and hold on to His truth during challenging times. -
Practical:
We can draw strength through prayer and trust in God’s plan when facing challenges, and take inspiration from Jesus’ example.
Meaning for Our Lives Today:
-
Relationships:
Strive for unity and love in our relationships—in the family, the church, and society. -
Truth:
Adhere to God’s Word and live in accordance with His truth. -
Mission:
Be aware that we are part of God’s plan to carry His love and truth into the world. -
Devotion:
Follow Jesus’ example and align our lives with God’s will.
Final Thought:
John 17 demonstrates how much Jesus valued truth and the relationship between God and humans. His words are an invitation to live in God’s love, uphold His truth, and continue His mission with devotion. Jesus’ prayer applies to us as well—a reminder that we are one with the Father in Him and part of His eternal plan.
The connection to our daily lives and faith is extensive and deeply inspiring. Jesus’ high priestly prayer in John 17 not only provides insights into His heart but also shows us how our lives should be shaped in unity with God and others. Here are practical connections:
1. Unity in Love and Truth
-
Connection:
Jesus’ desire for unity between God, Himself, and His disciples reminds us of the importance of love and truth in our lives. Genuine community is based on God’s love that unites us and the truth of His Word that guides us. -
Practical:
In everyday life, we can live in unity with others through forgiveness, compassion, and holding firmly to God’s truth. This is especially relevant in the church, where we work together as members of the body of Christ.
2. Knowing God as the Goal of Life
-
Connection:
Jesus defines eternal life as a personal relationship with God (John 17:3). This knowledge begins here and now and fills our lives with meaning and hope. -
Practical:
We can deepen our relationship with God by spending time in prayer and Bible study and consciously seeking His guidance in our lives.
3. Discipleship in Devotion
-
Connection:
Jesus’ devotion to the Father’s will is a model for our discipleship. His prayer shows that our lives should be oriented toward obedience and love for God, even when it involves difficulties or sacrifices. -
Practical:
We can intentionally ask ourselves how we can follow God’s will in our daily lives—whether through the decisions we make or our behavior toward others.
4. Participating in God’s Mission
-
Connection:
Jesus prayed not only for His disciples but also for those who would believe in Him through their testimony (John 17:20). This shows that we are part of God’s great plan to spread His love and truth in the world. -
Practical:
We can share our faith stories with others, be a light in both small and significant moments, and be mindful that God works through us.
5. Strength in Difficult Times
-
Connection:
Jesus’ prayer shows that even amidst rejection, betrayal, and suffering, He sought the Father’s will. This encourages us to trust in God and hold on to His truth during challenging times. -
Practical:
We can draw strength through prayer and trust in God’s plan when facing challenges, and emulate Jesus’ example.
Significance for Our Lives Today:
-
Relationships:
Strive for unity and love in our relationships—in the family, the church, and society. -
Truth:
Adhere to God’s Word and live in accordance with His truth. -
Mission:
Be aware that we are part of God’s plan to carry His love and truth into the world. -
Devotion:
Follow Jesus’ example and align our lives with God’s will.
Final Thought:
Jesus’ prayer in John 17 is an invitation to shape our lives in love, truth, and unity with God. It reminds us that through Jesus, we are part of an eternal plan that calls us to live in fellowship with God and others, uphold His truth, and share His love. This prayer is a source of inspiration and a call to discipleship in every aspect of our lives.
True unity arises when love and truth work together in our lives – let us grow in both today, as Jesus taught us.
- « Previous Page
- 1
- …
- 868
- 869
- 870
- 871
- 872
- …
- 5106
- Next Page »
