Week 27(July) – Unclean Food

Monday (5th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-20 17 Acts 10 Acts 11:1-18 Matthew 15:1-20

❖ Kill and eat – Acts 10&11 10 After called the crowd to Him, He said, “Listen and understand this: 11 It is not what goes into the Matthew 15 mouth of a man that defiles and dishonors him, but what Tradition and Commandment comes out of the mouth, this defiles and dishonors him.” 1 Then some and scribes from came 12 Then the disciples came and said to Jesus, “Do You to Jesus and said, 2 “Why do Your disciples violate the know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard [a]tradition (religious laws) handed down by the you say this?” 13 He answered, “Every plant which My [Jewish] elders? For Your disciples do not heavenly Father did not plant will be torn up by the [ceremonially] wash their hands before they eat.” 3 He roots. 14 Leave them alone; they are blind guides replied to them, “Why also do you violate the [b][leading blind followers]. If a blind man leads a blind commandment of God for the sake of your tradition man, both will fall into a pit.” [handed down by the elders]? 4 For God said [through ], ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and, ‘He who ❖ I the Lord search the heart – Jeremiah 17 speaks evil of or insults or treats improperly father or mother is to be put to death.’ 5 But you say, ‘If anyone The Heart of Man says to his father or mother, “Whatever [money or 15 Peter asked Him, “Explain this [about what resource that] I have that would help you is [already defiles a person] to us.” 16 And He said, “Are you still dedicated and] given to God,” 6 he is not to honor his so dull [and unable to put things together]? 17 Do you father or his mother [by helping them with their need].’ not understand that whatever goes into the mouth passes So by this you have invalidated the word of God into the stomach, and is eliminated? 18 But whatever [depriving it of force and authority and making it of no [word] comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, effect] for the sake of your tradition [handed down by and this is what defiles and dishonors the man. 19 For the elders]. 7 You hypocrites (play-actors, pretenders), out of the heart come evil thoughts and plans, murders, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you when he said, adulteries, sexual immoralities, thefts, false testimonies, slanders (verbal abuse, irreverent speech, blaspheming).  In their hearts they are far from me – Isaiah 29 20 These are the things which defile and dishonor the

man; but eating with [ceremonially] unwashed hands 8 ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart does not defile the man.” AMP is far away from Me. 9 ‘But in vain do they worship Me, for they teach as doctrines the precepts of men.’” a) Matthew 15:2 I.e. the oral commentary on the Law, later codified as the Mishnah. b) Matthew 15:14 Later mss add of the blind.

Week 28(July) – Jesus Among Gentiles

Monday (12th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend Matt. 15:21-39 Philippians 1 Philippians 2 Philippians 3 Philippians 4 Matt. 15:21-39

❖ Letter to a Gentile Church – Philippians blind, mute, and many others, and they put them down at His feet; and He healed them. 31 So the crowd was The Syrophoenician Woman amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled 21 After leaving there, Jesus withdrew to the district of restored, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and [c]Tyre and . 22 And a [d]Canaanite woman from they praised and glorified the God of Israel. that district came out and began to cry out [urgently], saying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David Four Thousand Fed (Messiah); my daughter is cruelly possessed by a 32 Then Jesus called His disciples to Him, and said, “I demon.” 23 But He did not say a word in answer to her. feel compassion for the crowd, because they have been And His disciples came and asked Him [repeatedly], with Me now three days and have nothing [left] to eat; “Send her away, because she keeps shouting out after and I do not want to send them away hungry, because us.” 24 He answered, “I was commissioned by God and they might faint [from exhaustion] on the way [home].” sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” 25 But 33 The disciples said to Him, “Where are we to get she came and began to kneel down before Him, saying, enough bread in this isolated place to feed so large a “Lord, help me!” 26 And He replied, “It is not good crowd?” 34 And Jesus asked them, “How many loaves (appropriate, fair) to take the [e]children’s bread and [of bread] do you have?” They replied, “Seven, and a throw it to the [f]pet dogs.” 27 She said, “Yes, Lord; but few small fish.” 35 He directed the crowd to sit down on even the pet dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their the ground, 36 and He took the seven loaves and the [young] masters’ table.” 28 Then Jesus answered her, fish; and when He had given thanks, He broke them and “Woman, your faith [your personal trust and confidence started giving them to the disciples, and the disciples in My power] is great; it will be done for you as you [gave them] to the people. 37 And they all ate and were wish.” And her daughter was healed from that moment. satisfied, and they gathered up seven full baskets of the broken pieces that were left over. 38 [Among] those who Healing Crowds ate were 4,000 men, not counting women and children. 29 Jesus went on from there and passed along by [the eastern shore of] the Sea of . Then He went up on 39 Then Jesus sent the crowds away, got into the boat the hillside and was sitting there. 30 And great crowds and went to the district of [g]Magadan. AMP came to Him, bringing with them the lame, crippled, c) Matthew 15:21 Tyre and Sidon were located along the Gentile coastal region of Phoenicia. Tyre was 35 miles and Sidon 60 miles north of Galilee. d) Matthew 15:22 The Canaanites were ancient, pagan enemies of Israel. e) Matthew 15:26 A reference to the Jewish people. f) Matthew 15:26 Jews used kuon (dog) as a derogatory term referring to Gentiles. This dog (kuon) was a despised, filthy, homeless street scavenger. When speaking with this woman, Jesus uses a word for “dog” (kunarion) that refers to a household pet. The use of the word kunariois by both Jesus and the woman reflects the tenderness and spiritual depth of this exchange. More importantly, it foreshadows the fact that Gentile believers would not be spiritually homeless, but would also be welcomed into God’s household as His children. The gracious response of the woman recorded in v 27 confirms that on some level she understands this. g) Matthew 15:39 A small town on the western shore of the , between and .

Week 29(July) – Works of the Law

Monday (19th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-12 Galatians 1&2 Galatians 3&4 Galatians 5 Galatians 6 Matthew 16:1-12

Matthew 16 5 When the disciples reached the other side of the sea, Pharisees Test Jesus they realized that they had forgotten to bring bread. 6 1 Now the Pharisees and came up, and testing Jesus said to them, “Watch out and be on your guard Jesus [to get something to use against Him], they asked against the [b]leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 7 Him to show them a sign from heaven [which would They began to discuss this among themselves, saying, support His divine authority]. 2 But He replied to them, “He said that because we did not bring bread.” 8 But “[a]When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, Jesus, aware of this, said, “You men of little faith, why for the sky is red.’ 3 And in the morning, ‘It will be are you discussing among yourselves that you have no stormy today, for the sky is red and has a threatening bread? 9 Do you still not understand or remember the look.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets sky, but cannot interpret the signs of the times? 4 An evil you picked up? 10 Or the seven loaves for the four and [morally] unfaithful generation craves a thousand, and how many large baskets you picked up? [miraculous] sign; but no sign will be given to it, except 11 How is it that you fail to understand that I was not the sign of [the prophet] Jonah.” Then He left them and talking to you about bread? But beware of the leaven of went away. the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of ❖ Faith or works of the Law – Galatians bread, but of the [false] teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. AMP a) Matthew 16:2 Early mss do not contain the rest of v 2 and all of v 3 beginning with “When it is evening” in v 2. b) Matthew 16:6 Here, leaven represents the man-made traditions and false teachings of the Pharisees which were preventing the nation of Israel from attaining right standing with God and from recognizing and accepting the Messiah.

Week 30(July) – You Are Christ

Monday (26th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend Matt.16:13-28 Psalm 62 :27-38 Isaiah 50:4-11 Isaiah 51:1-16 Matt.16:13-28

 Who do men say that I am – Mark 8:27-38 endure many things at the hands of the elders and the chief priests and scribes (, Jewish High Court), ❖ My rock and my salvation – Psalm 62 and be killed, and be raised [from death to life] on the third day. 22 Peter took Him aside [to speak to Him Peter’s Confession of Christ privately] and began to reprimand Him, saying, “May 13 Now when Jesus went into the [c]region of Caesarea God forbid it! This will never happen to You.” 23 But Philippi, He asked His disciples, “Who do people say Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! that the Son of Man is?” 14 And they answered, “Some You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting say ; others, ; and still others, your mind on things of God, but on things of man.” Jeremiah, or [just] one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter Discipleship Is Costly replied, “You are the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), 24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to the Son of the living God.” 17 Then Jesus answered him, follow Me [as My ], he must deny himself [set “Blessed [happy, spiritually secure, favored by God] are aside selfish interests], and take up his cross [expressing you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow (mortal man) did not reveal this to you, but My Father Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in who is in heaven. 18 And I say to you that you are living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying [d]Peter, and on this [e]rock I will build My church; and because of faith in Me]. 25 For whoever wishes to save the [f]gates of Hades (death) will not overpower it [by his life [in this world] will [eventually] lose it [through preventing the resurrection of the Christ]. 19 I will give death], but whoever loses his life [in this world] for My you the keys (authority) of the kingdom of heaven; and sake will find it [that is, life with Me for all eternity]. 26 whatever you bind [forbid, declare to be improper and For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world unlawful] on earth [g]will have [already] been bound in [wealth, fame, success], but forfeits his soul? Or what heaven, and whatever you loose [permit, declare lawful] will a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son on earth [h]will have [already] been loosed in heaven.” of Man is going to come in the glory and majesty of His 20 Then He gave the disciples strict orders to tell no one Father with His , and then He will repay each one that He was the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed). in accordance with what he has done. ❖ The servant of the Lord – Isaiah 50&51 28 “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, there are some of [j]those standing here who will not taste death Jesus Foretells His Death before they see the Son of Man coming in His 21 [i]From that time on Jesus began to show His kingdom.” AMP disciples [clearly] that He must go to Jerusalem, and c) Matthew 16:13 In Jesus’ day this was Gentile territory. Today this region is known as the Golan Heights. The ancient city of was located at the foot of Mt. Hermon, near the Banias Spring, one of the three springs which feeds into the . d) Matthew 16:18 Gr petros, a small or detached stone. e) Matthew 16:18 Gr petra, bedrock or a huge rock. Jesus uses a simple play on the Greek words petros and petra in this verse. Throughout the N.T. Christ is clearly depicted as both the foundation petra and chief cornerstone of the church. Here He praises Peter for his accurate confession of faith in Him as Messiah. Peter explains the role of believers as “living stones” in the church which is built on Christ as the foundation and cornerstone (1 Pet 2:5, 6). f) Matthew 16:18 The physical death of Christ will not hinder the establishment of the church nor will death overtake the church. g) Matthew 16:19 Gr estai dedemenon, future perfect passive referring to a state of having already been bound. h) Matthew 16:19 Gr estai lelumenon, future perfect passive. i) Matthew 16:21 This marks a turning point in the book. 4:17 marked the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry offering the kingdom to Israel. Since Israel rejected the Messiah, the kingdom is held in abeyance and the Messiah must suffer death. But He had to die in any case to provide salvation. j) Matthew 16:28 Undoubtedly a reference to Peter, John, and James, who were to witness the transfiguration a few days later.

Week 31(August) – Transfiguration

Monday (2th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-13 Deuteronomy 34 2 Kings 2:1-17 :28-36 Revelation 1 Matthew 17:1-13

 Transfiguration – Luke 9:28-36 still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and [a]a voice from the cloud said, “[b]This is My ❖ Death of Moses – Deuteronomy 34 beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased and delighted! Listen to Him!” 6 When the disciples heard it, ❖ Death of Elijah – 2 Kings 2:1-17 they fell on their faces and were terrified. 7 But Jesus

❖ The true appearance of Jesus – Revelation 1 came and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they looked up, they saw no one Matthew 17 except Jesus Himself alone. The Transfiguration 9 And as they were going down the mountain, Jesus 1 Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James commanded them, “Do not tell anyone what you have and John the brother of James, and led them up on a high seen until the Son of Man has been raised from the mountain by themselves. 2 And His appearance changed dead.” 10 The disciples asked Him, “Then why do the dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 11 He answered heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His and said, “Elijah is coming and will restore all things; 12 clothing became as white as light. 3 And behold, Moses but I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus. 4 Then did not recognize him, but did to him as they wished. Peter began to speak and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good The Son of Man is also going to suffer at their hands.” and delightful and auspicious that we are here; if You 13 Then the disciples understood that He had spoken to wish, I will put up three [sacred] tents here—one for them about John the Baptist. AMP You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was a) Matthew 17:5 See note 3:17. b) Matthew 17:5 The Father’s words were a reminder that Jesus is unique, not to be equated with Moses and Elijah. He alone is the Son. The focus is on Him.

Week 32(August) – Help My Unbelief

Monday (9th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend Matt. 17:14-27 Eph. 6:10-20 :14-29 Romans 8:18-39 Exodus 30:11-16 Matt. 17:14-27

 Help my unbelief – Mark 9:14-29 21 [d][But this kind of demon does not go out except by prayer and fasting.]” ❖ The Armor of God – Ephesians 6:10-20 22 When they were gathering together in Galilee, Jesus ❖ The Spirit helps us in our weakness – Romans 8:18-39 said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed and handed over to men [who are His enemies]; 23 and The Demoniac they will kill Him, and He will be raised [from death to 14 When they approached the crowd, a man came up to life] on the third day.” And they were deeply grieved and Jesus, kneeling before Him and saying, 15 “Lord, have distressed. mercy on my son, for he is a lunatic (moonstruck) and suffers terribly; for he often falls into the fire and often  The half-shekel – Exodus 30:11-16 into the water. 16 And I brought him to Your disciples, and they were not able to heal him.” 17 And Jesus The Tribute Money answered, “You unbelieving and perverted generation, 24 When they arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up the [e]half-shekel [] went up to Peter and said, with you? Bring him here to Me.” 18 Jesus rebuked the “Does not your teacher pay the half-shekel?” 25 Peter demon, and it came out of him, and the boy was healed answered, “Yes.” And when he came home, Jesus spoke at once. to him first, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do earthly rulers collect duties or taxes, from their 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and asked, sons or from strangers?” 26 When Peter said, “From “Why could we not drive it out?” 20 He answered, strangers,” Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are exempt “Because of your little faith [your lack of trust and [from taxation]. 27 However, so that we do not offend confidence in the power of God]; for I assure you and them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the most solemnly say to you, [c]if you have [living] faith first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, you will find a shekel. Take it and give it to them [to pay ‘Move from here to there,’ and [if it is God’s will] it will the temple tax] for you and Me.” AMP move; and nothing will be impossible for you. c) Matthew 17:20 Jesus used this moment to emphasize to the disciples that a person’s confident, abiding faith combined with God’s power can produce absolutely amazing results, if the request is in harmony with God’s will. God is fully capable of doing that which man regards as impossible (Mark 14:36; James 4:3). d) Matthew 17:21 Early mss do not contain this verse. e) Matthew 17:24 Equivalent to two denarii or two days’ wages.

Week 33(August) – Like a Child

Monday (16th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-20 Psalm 131 Romans 14:10-23 Isaiah 44:24-28 1 Cor 5-6:8 Matthew 18:1-20

❖ Humility in God’s Presence – Psalm 131 ❖ Formed in the Womb – Isaiah 44:24-28

Matthew 18 10 “See that you do not despise or think less of one of Rank in the Kingdom these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, heaven [are in the presence of and] continually look “Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 He called upon the face of My Father who is in heaven. 11 [c][For a little child and set him before them, 3 and said, “I the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.] assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you Ninety-nine Plus One repent [that is, change your inner self—your old way of 12 “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, thinking, live changed lives] and become like children and one of them gets lost, will he not leave the ninety- [trusting, humble, and forgiving], you will never enter nine on the mountain and go in search of the one that is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever lost? 13 And if it turns out that he finds it, I assure you [a]humbles himself like this child is greatest in the and most solemnly say to you, he rejoices over it more kingdom of heaven. 5 Whoever receives and welcomes than over the ninety-nine that did not get lost. 14 So it is one [b]child like this in My name receives Me; 6 but not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in these little ones be lost. Me to stumble and sin [by leading him away from My teaching], it would be better for him to have a heavy ❖ Immorality and Disagreement in the Church – 1 Cor 5-6:8 millstone [as large as one turned by a donkey] hung Discipline and Prayer around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the 15 “If your brother sins[d], go and show him his fault in sea. private; if he listens and pays attention to you, you have ❖ Stumbling Blocks – Romans 14:10-23 won back your brother. 16 But if he does not listen, take along with you one or two others, so that every word Stumbling Blocks may be confirmed by the testimony of two or three 7 “Woe (judgment is coming) to the world because of witnesses. 17 If he pays no attention to them [refusing to stumbling blocks and temptations to sin! It is inevitable listen and obey], tell it to the [e]church; and if he refuses that stumbling blocks come; but woe to the person on to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a whose account or through whom the stumbling block Gentile (unbeliever) and a tax collector. 18 I assure you comes! and most solemnly say to you, whatever you bind [forbid, declare to be improper and unlawful] on earth 8 “If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble and [f]shall have [already] been bound in heaven, and sin, cut it off and throw it away from you [that is, whatever you loose [permit, declare lawful] on earth remove yourself from the source of temptation]; it is [g]shall have [already] been loosed in heaven. better for you to enter life crippled or lame, than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into everlasting 19 “Again I say to you, that if two [h]believers on earth fire. 9 If your eye causes you to stumble and sin, pluck it agree [that is, are of one mind, in harmony] about out and throw it away from you [that is, remove yourself anything that they ask [within the will of God], it will be from the source of temptation]; it is better for you to done for them by My Father in heaven. 20 For where enter life with only one eye, than to have two eyes and two or three are gathered in My name [meeting together be thrown into the fiery hell. as My followers], I am there among them.” a) Matthew 18:4 I.e. turns his back on self-righteous pride and adopts a realistic self-view. b) Matthew 18:5 I.e. new, childlike believer. c) Matthew 18:11 Early mss do not contain this verse. d) Matthew 18:15 Late mss add against you. e) Matthew 18:17 Gr ecclasia, the word means a gathering and may be translated congregation, assembly, or church. f) Matthew 18:18 Gr estai lelumenon, future perfect passive. g) Matthew 18:18 Gr estai lelumenon, future perfect passive. h) Matthew 18:19 Lit of you. Week 34(August) – Forgiveness

Monday (23rd) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend Matt. 18:21-35 Psalm 130 Psalm 51 Genesis 33 Genesis 50 Matt. 18:21-35

❖ Esau Forgives Jacob – Genesis 33 compassion and he released him and forgave him [canceling] the debt. ❖ Joseph Forgives His Brothers – Genesis 50 28 But that same slave went out and found one of his Forgiveness fellow slaves who owed him [j]a hundred denarii; and he 21 Then Peter came to Him and asked, “Lord, how many seized him and began choking him, saying, ‘Pay what times will my brother sin against me and I forgive him you owe!’ 29 So his fellow slave fell on his knees and and let it go? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered begged him earnestly, ‘Have patience with me and I will him, “I say to you, not up to seven times, but seventy repay you.’ 30 But he was unwilling and he went and times seven. had him thrown in prison until he paid back the debt. 31 When his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they 23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a king who were deeply grieved and they went and reported to their wished to settle accounts with his slaves. 24 When he master [with clarity and in detail] everything that had began the accounting, one who owed him 10,000 taken place. 32 Then his master called him and said to [i]talents was brought to him. 25 But because he could him, ‘You wicked and contemptible slave, I forgave all not repay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his that [great] debt of yours because you begged me. 33 wife and his children and everything that he possessed, Should you not have had mercy on your fellow slave and payment to be made. [who owed you little by comparison], as I had mercy on ❖ Cry for Mercy – Psalm 130 & 51 you?’ 34 And in wrath his master turned him over to the torturers (jailers) until he paid all that he owed. 35 My 26 So the slave fell on his knees and begged him, saying, heavenly Father will also do the same to [every one of] ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from everything.’ 27 And his master’s heart was moved with your heart.” i) Matthew 18:24 A talent was a measurement of weight, usually 58-80 pounds. One talent of silver was worth more than 15 years’ wages. One talent of gold was worth even more. 10,000 talents would be an inconceivable amount of debt for a slave in the king’s service to repay. j) Matthew 18:28 About 100 days’ wages for a laborer.

Week 35(September) – Marriage

Monday (30th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-15 :1-16 Genesis 2 Deu 24:1-5 1 Corinthians 7 Matthew 19:1-15

 Divorce and Little Children – Mark 10:1-16 were hard and stubborn Moses permitted you to divorce your wives; but from the beginning it has not been this Matthew 19 way. 9 I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except Concerning Divorce for sexual immorality, and marries another woman 1 Now when Jesus had finished saying these things, He commits adultery[a].” left Galilee and went into the part of that is ❖ Paul Concerning Marriage – 1 Corinthians 7 beyond the Jordan; 2 and large crowds followed Him, and He healed them there. 10 The disciples said to Jesus, “If the relationship of a 3 And Pharisees came to Jesus, testing Him and asking, man with his wife is like this, it is better not to marry.” “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any 11 But He said to them, “Not all men can accept this reason?” 4 He replied, “Have you never read that He statement, but only those to whom [the capacity to who created them from the beginning made them male receive] it has been given. 12 For there are eunuchs who and female, have been born that way from their mother’s womb [making them incapable of consummating a marriage];  Marriage from the Beginning – Genesis 2 and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men [for royal service]; and there are eunuchs who have 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father [b]made themselves so for the sake of the kingdom of and mother and shall be joined inseparably to his wife, heaven. He who is able to accept this, let him accept it.” and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has Jesus Blesses Little Children joined together, let no one separate.” 13 Then children were brought to Jesus so that He might place His hands on them [for a blessing] and pray; but ❖ Law About Divorce – Deuteronomy 24:1-5 the disciples reprimanded them. 14 But He said, “Leave the children alone, and do not forbid them from coming 7 The Pharisees said to Him, “Why then did Moses to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as command us to give her a certificate of divorce and send these.” 15 After placing His hands on them [for a her away?” 8 He said to them, “Because your hearts blessing], He went on from there. a) Matthew 19:9 Some early mss add the phrase “...and he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” b) Matthew 19:12 This may refer to a personal vow of celibacy.

Week 36(September) – Riches

Monday (6th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend Matt. 19:16-30 Deu 5:1-22 Rev 3:14-22 Jeremiah 32:1-25 Jer 32:26-44 Matt. 19:16-30

❖ Ten Commandments – Deuteronomy 5:1-22 23 Jesus said to His disciples, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, it is difficult for a rich man [who The Rich Young Ruler clings to possessions and status as security] to enter the 16 And someone came to Him and said, “Teacher, what kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a [essentially] good thing shall I do to obtain eternal life camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich [that is, eternal salvation in the Messiah’s kingdom]?” man [who places his faith in wealth and status] to enter 17 Jesus answered, “Why are you asking Me about what the kingdom of God.” 25 When the disciples heard this, is [essentially] good? There is only One who is they were completely [c]astonished and bewildered, [essentially] good; but if you wish to enter into eternal saying, “Then who can be saved [from the wrath of life, keep the commandments.” 18 He said to Jesus, God]?” 26 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With “Which commandments?” And Jesus answered, “You people [as far as it depends on them] it is impossible, but shall not commit murder; You shall not commit adultery; with God all things are possible.” You shall not steal; You shall not give false testimony; 19 Honor your father and mother; and love your ❖ God will Provide – Jeremiah 32:26-44 neighbor as yourself” [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for others]. 20 The young man said to The Disciples’ Reward 27 Then Peter answered Him, saying, “Look, we have Him, “I have kept all these things [from my youth]; what given up everything and followed You [becoming Your do I still lack?” disciples and accepting You as Teacher and Lord]; what ❖ Church of Laodicea – Revelation 3:14-22 then will there be for us?” 28 Jesus said to them, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, in the renewal 21 Jesus answered him, “If you wish to be perfect [that [that is, the Messianic restoration and of all is, have the spiritual maturity that accompanies godly things] when the Son of Man sits on His glorious throne, character with no moral or ethical deficiencies], go and you [who have followed Me, becoming My disciples] sell what you have and give [the money] to the poor, and will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses or [becoming My disciple, believing and trusting in Me and brothers or sisters or father or mother [d]or children or walking the same path of life that I walk].” 22 But when farms for My name’s sake will receive many times as the young man heard this, he left grieving and distressed, much, and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are for he owned much property and had many possessions first [in this world] will be last [in the world to come]; [which he treasured more than his relationship with and the last, first. God]. c) Matthew 19:25 These declarations of Jesus directly contradicted the teaching of the Pharisees that God bestows wealth on those He loves and chooses. If the rich were not automatically granted entrance to God’s kingdom, how could the common man ever be welcomed? d) Matthew 19:29 One early mss adds or wife.

Week 37(September) – God’s Goodness

Monday (13th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-16 Luke 23:39-43 Luke 15:11-32 Job 34:1-20 Romans 9 Matthew 20:1-16

Matthew 20 ❖ Prodigal Son – Luke 15:11-32

Laborers in the Vineyard ❖ God Does No Evil – Job 34:1-20 1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of an estate who went out in the morning at dawn to hire 10 Now when the first [to be hired] came, they thought workmen for his vineyard. 2 When he had agreed with they would get more; but each of them also received a the laborers for a [a]denarius for the day, he sent them denarius. 11 When they received it, they protested and into his vineyard. 3 And he went out about the third hour grumbled at the owner of the estate, 12 saying, ‘These (9:00 a.m.) and saw others standing idle in the market men who came last worked [only] one hour, and yet you place; 4 and he said to them, ‘You also go into the have made them equal [in wages] to us who have carried vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right (an [most of] the burden and [worked in] the scorching heat appropriate wage).’ And they went. 5 He went out about of the day.’ 13 But the owner of the estate replied to one the sixth hour (noon) and the ninth hour (3:00 p.m.), and of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no injustice. Did you did the same thing. 6 And about the eleventh hour (5:00 not agree with me for a denarius? p.m.) he went out and found others standing around, and he said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle ❖ God’s Sovereign Choice – Romans 9 all day?’ 7 They answered him, ‘Because no one hired 14 Take what belongs to you and go, but I choose to us.’ He told them, ‘You go into the vineyard also.’ give to this last man [hired] the same as I give to you. 15 8 “When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said Am I not lawfully permitted to do what I choose with to his manager, ‘Call the workers and pay them their what is mine? Or is your eye [b]envious because I am wages, beginning with the last [to be hired] and ending generous?’ 16 So those who are last [in this world] shall with the first [to be hired].’ be first [in the world to come], and those who are first, last.” ❖ Criminal on the Cross – Luke 23:39-43

9 Those who had been hired at the eleventh hour (5:00 p.m.) came and received a denarius each [a day’s wage]. a) Matthew 20:2 A day’s wage for a common laborer. b) Matthew 20:15 Lit evil because I am good?

Week 38(September) – The Greatest Servant

Monday (20th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend Matt. 20:17-34 Luke 9:18-27 Luke 22:24-27 John 13:3-17 1 Chronicles 17 Matt. 20:17-34

❖ – Luke 9:18-27 ❖ Washing of Disciples Feet – John 13:3-17

Death, Resurrection Foretold 24 And when the [other] ten heard this, they were 17 As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, He took the resentful and angry with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus twelve [disciples] aside, and along the way He said to called them to Himself and said, “You know that the them, 18 “Listen carefully: we are going up to rulers of the Gentiles have absolute power and lord it Jerusalem; and the Son of Man will be handed over to over them, and their great men exercise authority over the chief priests and scribes (Sanhedrin, Jewish High them [tyrannizing them]. 26 It is not this way among Court), and they will [judicially] condemn Him and you, but whoever wishes to become great among you sentence Him to death, 19 and will hand Him over to the shall be your servant, 27 and whoever wishes to be first Gentiles (Roman authorities) to be mocked and scourged among you shall be your [willing and humble] slave; 28 and crucified, and He will be raised [to life] on the third just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to day.” serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many [paying the price to set them free from the penalty of sin].” Preferred Treatment Asked 20 Then [] the [c]mother of ’s children ❖ Son of David – 1 Chronicles 17 [James and John] came up to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down [in respect], asked a favor of Him. 21 Sight for the Blind And He said to her, “What do you wish?” She answered 29 As they were leaving , a large crowd followed Him, “Command that in Your kingdom these two sons Him. 30 And two blind men were sitting by the road, of mine may sit [in positions of honor and authority] one and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they on Your right and one on Your left.” 22 But Jesus cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David replied, “You do not realize what you are asking. Are (Messiah)!” 31 The crowd sternly told them to be quiet, you able to drink the cup [of suffering] that I am about to but they cried out all the more, “Lord, Son of David drink?” They answered, “We are able.” 23 He said to (Messiah) have mercy on us!” 32 Jesus stopped and them, “You will drink My cup [of suffering]; but to sit called them, and asked, “What do you want Me to do for on My right and on My left this is not Mine to give, but you?” 33 They answered Him, “Lord, we want our eyes it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My to be opened.” 34 Moved with compassion, Jesus Father.” touched their eyes; and immediately they regained their sight and followed Him [as His disciples]. ❖ Dispute of Who is Greatest – Luke 22:24-27 c) Matthew 20:20 This woman is believed to be the sister of Jesus’ mother, Mary.

Week 39(September) – Triumphal Entry

Monday (27th) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Weekend :1-22 Zechariah 9 Isaiah 56 Jeremiah 7:1-15 Psalm 8 Matthew 21:1-22

Matthew 21 animals for sacrifice] in the temple area, and He turned The Triumphal Entry over the tables of the moneychangers [who made a profit 1 When they approached Jerusalem and had reached exchanging foreign money for temple coinage] and the Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two chairs of those who were selling doves [for sacrifice]. 13 disciples [ahead], 2 saying to them, “Go into the village Jesus said to them, “It is written [in Scripture], ‘My opposite you, and at once you will find a donkey tied, house shall be called a house of prayer’; but you are and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to Me. 3 making it a robbers’ den.” If anyone says anything to you, you should say, ‘The  Mouths of Babies – Psalm 8 Lord needs them,’ and without delay the owner will send them [with you].” 4 This happened so that what was 14 And the blind and the lame came to Him in [the spoken by the prophet would be fulfilled, saying: porticoes and courts of] the temple area, and He healed  Lowly on a Donkey – Zechariah 9 them. 15 But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful and miraculous things that Jesus had 5 “Tell the daughter of Zion (the people of Jerusalem), done, and heard the [d]boys who were shouting in [the ‘Behold, your King is coming to you, gentle and porticoes and courts of] the temple [in praise and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a beast adoration], “Hosanna to the Son of David (the of burden.’” Messiah),” they became indignant 16 and they said to 6 Then the disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed Him, “Do You hear what these children are saying?” them, 7 and they brought the donkey and [a]the colt, and And Jesus replied to them, “Yes; have you never read [in [b]placed their coats on them; and Jesus sat on the coats. the Scripture], ‘Out of the mouths of infants and nursing 8 Most of the crowd spread their coats on the road [as babies You have prepared and provided praise for before a king], while others were cutting branches from Yourself’?” 17 Then He left them and went out of the the trees and spreading them on the road. 9 The crowds city to , and spent the night there. that went ahead of Him, and those that followed Him, The Barren Fig Tree were shouting [in praise and adoration], 18 Now early in the morning, as Jesus was coming back “[c]Hosanna to the Son of David (Messiah); Blessed to the city, He was hungry. 19 Seeing a lone fig tree at [praised, glorified] is he who comes in the name of the the roadside, He went to it and found nothing but leaves Lord; on it; and He said to it, “Never again will fruit come Hosanna in the highest [heaven]!” from you.” And at once the fig tree withered. 10 When He entered Jerusalem, all the city was 20 When the disciples saw it, they were astonished and trembling [with excitement], saying, “Who is this?” 11 asked, “How is it that the fig tree has withered away all And the crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus, at once?” 21 Jesus replied to them, “I assure you and from Nazareth in Galilee.” most solemnly say to you, if you have faith [personal trust and confidence in Me] and do not doubt or allow  House of Prayer – Isaiah 56 yourself to be drawn in two directions, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to  Den of Robbers – Jeremiah 7:1-15 this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen [if God wills it]. 22 And whatever you ask Cleansing the Temple for in prayer, believing, you will receive.” 12 And Jesus entered the temple [grounds] and drove out [with force] all who were buying and selling [birds and a) Matthew 21:7 A colt that had not been used was considered holy by the Jews and was fit to carry a king. b) Matthew 21:7 A sign of homage and recognition of Jesus’ kingship. c) Matthew 21:9 “Save now!” or “Save I pray!” d) Matthew 21:15 There would have been a large number of twelve year old boys in the temple preparing to celebrate their first and their ceremonial entry into manhood.