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Saturday February 22 - Authentic teaching
...the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority... Matthew 7:28-29
Today, we come to the close of the greatest sermon ever preached. It has not been a comfortable ride; in fact at times it’s been painful and demanding. Jesus ended with the challenge of putting his teaching into practice. I remember the story of a vicar who, having spoken and given the benediction, left the congregation with the simple message pinned to the back of his cassock: ‘Now go and do it!’ Jesus’ words, though spoken 2000 years ago, are contemporary and radical. They need faith and the power of God to ignite them in our hearts.
Beloved, the gospel ‘is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes’ (Romans 1:16) – it is ‘alive and active’ (Hebrews 4:12). Paul did not preach with ‘enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power’ (1 Corinthians 2:4).
Jesus’ last words recorded in the book of Matthew are astounding: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations... teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:18-20). At that moment, Jesus delegated authority to his followers to go and continue the work. So let us not live as those without authority, but confidently accept the authority we have been given and live life God’s way.
Lord Jesus, thank you for the teaching you have given. Please give me the power I need to live my life in your way, for your glory. Amen.
February 23rd - Sunday 25th May features in the next issue of Living Light
PRAYERS FOR THE WEEK
“Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man”. Matthew 7:24
TO GOD: Father, thank you that in Christ, “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). May we know this wisdom in ever-increasing measure.
FOR THE CHURCH: Lord, please forgive us that we are often listeners and not doers of your word. May we choose to be wise!
FOR THE WORLD: Lord thank you for those who care about planet earth and encourage us to live responsibly.
FOR OUR NATION: We pray for our Government, in both Houses of Parliament, for City Mayors and all in Local Authority. Father grant them wisdom to serve in just and righteous ways.
FOR OUR FRIENDS: Father, as we pray for our family and friends, please give us a message to share or an inspiration so we might bless them.
FOR MYSELF: Loving heavenly Father, please illuminate my path with your divine light, so that I may make choices that honour you and serve the greater good. Amen.
PRAYER
Oh Lord, please keep our eyes fixed on you, our Saviour, our King. AMEN.
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PRAYER FOR TODAY
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