Pastor Bob Jones – John 12:1-7  

Salvation in Luke 18:26 emphasizes the impossibility of human efforts to achieve eternal life. The disciples’ question, “Who then can be saved?” reflects the realization that neither wealth nor good deeds can secure salvation. This underscores the need for God’s grace, as what is impossible for humans is possible with God. Human effort, status, or possessions are futile in the pursuit of salvation; it is entirely an act of divine intervention.

Psalm 9:17 emphasizes the certainty of judgment for the wicked, stating that they will be turned into hell. This reflects God’s justice and the consequences of rejecting His ways. However, the Christian belief teaches that Jesus Christ is the only way to avoid this fate.

It is a reflective and instructional psalm by King David that explores the themes of forgiveness, repentance, and divine guidance. It begins with a proclamation of the blessings that come from having one’s sins forgiven by God and emphasizes the relief and joy experienced after confessing wrongdoing. David recounts his personal struggle when he kept silent about his sins, which caused deep emotional and physical suffering. Once he confessed, he felt the weight lifted and experienced God’s forgiveness.

This story teaches us that faith and obedience to God’s guidance can lead to miraculous provision, demonstrating that God can use even the smallest resources to meet our needs abundantly. It also shows that God cares about our practical concerns and is able to provide in ways that surpass our expectations.

Jesus teaches the importance of being spiritually prepared for His second coming. He compares it to the days of Noah and Lot, when people were caught off guard by sudden judgment because they were absorbed in their daily lives.

Ephesians 4:21-32 calls believers to live transformed lives in Christ. It urges them to put off their old, sinful nature and embrace a new life of righteousness and holiness. Key themes include speaking truthfully, controlling anger, working honestly, and using words to uplift others.

In the time of Elisha the prophet, a widow in desperate need approached him, having been left with debts and facing the threat of losing her sons to creditors. With only a small jar of oil remaining, Elisha instructed her to borrow as many empty vessels as she could from her neighbors, then pour the oil into them.

The closing of Acts 28 marks a significant moment in the history of the early church, reflecting the ongoing ministry of the Gospel and its connection to church planting. As Paul arrives in Rome under house arrest, he continues to preach the Gospel boldly and without hindrance (Acts 28:30-31). This chapter signifies that, despite opposition, persecution, and obstacles, the mission of spreading the Gospel and establishing new churches continued unabated.

Psalm 19 celebrates God’s revelation through both nature and His Word. The first part (verses 1-6) reflects on how the heavens declare God’s glory, showing His power and majesty in creation. The second part (verses 7-11) shifts to God’s perfect Word, which offers wisdom, guidance, and spiritual renewal. The psalm concludes with a personal plea (verses 12-14) for forgiveness and a heart aligned with God’s will. It highlights the beauty of creation and the transforming power of Scripture in leading a righteous life.