The Gospel of John stands as a unique testament among the four, distinctive in its theological depth and emphasis on the identity of Jesus Christ. In the grand tapestry of this gospel, John weaves a narrative with a clear purpose: "These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ" (John 20:31). D. A. Carson illuminates the foundation upon which John constructs this narrative, asserting that "the framework for Jesus’ understanding of his own mission is shaped by the Scriptures mediated by the Jews." As John beckons the reader to grapple with two pivotal questions – "Who is Jesus?" and "What do I do with his words/teachings?" – he unveils seven profound "I AM" statements uttered by Jesus. These statements not only echo the rich tapestry of Old Testament imagery but also serve as the foundation of New Testament revelation. 1. I AM Old Testament Background: Exodus 3:1-20, particularly verses 13-18 (cf. Is. 41:4; 43...

Introduction: In the Gospel of Luke, we encounter a profound narrative in which Jesus challenges societal norms and priorities through two Sabbath healings. One involves a woman, a beneficiary of divine compassion, and the other a man with dropsy. These events unravel a discourse on the value of human well-being over religious rituals, sparking a reflection on the true essence of the Sabbath. Body:  Setting the Scene In Luke 13:10–17, we witness a juxtaposition(comparison) of reactions to Sabbath healings. The woman's miraculous healing triggers the synagogue leader's rebuke, questioning the appropriateness of such acts on the sacred day. Jesus responds with a poignant assertion: the well-being of a woman, a "daughter of Abraham," surpasses the constraints of the Sabbath.  A Rhetorical Challenge Jesus contrasts the leader's indignation with the compassionate acts permitted for animals on the Sabbath. He questions the inconsistency of showing concern fo...

  Paul's missionary journeys were extensive and covered a vast amount of territory, spanning the Roman Empire and beyond. His travels took him through major cities, small towns, and remote villages, and he encountered a wide range of people and cultures. First Missionary Journey (Acts 13-14) Antioch (Turkey): Starting point of the journey Opens in a new window www.britannica.com Antioch (Turkey) Cyprus: Paul and Barnabas traveled to Cyprus, where they preached in synagogues and converted many people. Opens in a new window www.britannica.com Cyprus Pamphylia (Turkey): They sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, but John Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem. Opens in a new window leonmauldin.blog Pamphylia (Turkey) Pisidia (Turkey): Paul and Barnabas went to Antioch in Pisidia, where they preached in the synagogue and were invited back the next week. Opens in a new window www.britannica.com Pisidia (Turkey) Lystra (Turkey): A man who had been lame from birth was healed by Paul, and the pe...