Jesus is a King, but not of this world. Yet the Jewish leaders try to convince the Roman leaders that Jesus is a threat to all of Jerusalem. Pastor Carl navigates through the arrest in the garden to the choice of a thief over the Savior.
Esther 8-10
The Jewish feast of Purim which includes the giving and receiving of sweet desert cakes comes from the last couple chapters of Esther. Cliff Sowa, ATP wraps up our study with a look at the implications of the turn of events in our story that led to the Jewish nation remaining until this day.
Esther 6 – 7
Esther took a stand pleading for the lives of her people. She thought of others, as opposed to Haman who sought to exalt himself and lost his life on the very instrument he designed to execute others.
Esther 3-5
Antisemitism is nothing new in the history of the Jews. Cliff Sowa, ATP shares the hatred of Haman toward the Jews based on one man’s refusal to bow to him. Haman conspired to destroy the Jews while Esther agreed to risk it all to help the Jews. The struggle begins around a private banquet…
Esther 1 – 2
Cliff Sowa, ATP introduces the story of Esther with some background history and context before exploring the first two chapters. Esther’s example shows us the importance of preparation, obedience and faithfulness especially when not knowing the future. Image courtesy of Sight and Sound Theaters
John 17
On the way to the garden, Jesus prays out loud for his disciples to hear. He is praying for them and those who would follow – you and me! Be encouraged and challenged from this prayer from the Lord.
John 16
Jesus tells His disciples, “In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Understanding what the Lord is calling to needs to move us to prayer for the power of the Holy Spirit to equip us, encourage us, and give us a bigger vision of the task…
John 15
Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit.” As He takes his disciples with Him on a walk to the garden, Jesus shares the last few things on His heart with them. Mainly we cannot do the works of God in…
John 14
The disciples were troubled, Jesus say “Let not your heart be troubled”… believe in God. Jesus was about to leave, but He would go and prepare a place and come back to receive all who believe. Jesus also went so He could send the comparable Helper – The Holy Spirit. Trusting and following Jesus is…
John 13
A couple chapters ago Mary (sister of Martha) washed Jesus’ feet with her hair, tears and expensive perfume. Now Jesus washes His disciples feet during the Last Supper. Peter refuses and Jesus explains that he does not understand. Jesus is pointing to the cross where our sins are washed clean by the blood of the…