Sandyhills Parish Church:Reaching out to the community.

John 7:37-44 Why did Jesus say "Let not your heart be troubled"? It's interesting how Jesus phrased the command to “let not your hearts be troubled.” He didn't simply ask his disciples to try and avoid being fearful or anxious. The fact that he tells them to avoid allowing their hearts to be troubled is evidence that we have control over how we respond to the burdens of life.

What is Acts 1:1-5 about? Jesus has chosen these apostles, but their work cannot begin in earnest yet. Jesus made an additional promise that has not yet been fulfilled as Acts begins. These opening verses find the apostles waiting in Jerusalem for the promised gift of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 5:15-21 And how do we live a wise life? In these 4 ways. First, by treating life as a gift from God. Second, by discovering our destiny: God’s purpose for our lives. Third, by allowing our faith to transform how we think and how we behave. Fourth, by committing ourselves to regular attendance and participation at church. If we follow these 4 steps, we will know wisdom. As a writer once put it, “Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living; the other helps you make a life.” Jesus said, “I have come so that you make have life in all its fullness”.

What does John 15 verse 1 to 11 mean? Jesus calls his disciples to bear fruit, and he likens them to the fruit of the vine or a grape. And he likens his father to the one tending to the branches. So, Jesus is telling us to do something, to live a certain way; and he wants us to understand some things before he gets to all of these exhortations.

Ephesians 4:1-16 Chapter 4 describes both the unity of believers and the new hope which Christians have in Jesus. The passage begins with Paul's mention of his imprisonment and his focus on Christian unity (Ephesians 4:1–16). There, he appeals to Christians to live in a way which reflects the grace we've been given by God.

Luke 24:1-12 Jesus did not die and rise for perfect people who had it all figured out. Jesus died and rose for the people who would betray Him, ignore His word, forget His promises, and doubt His messengers. Jesus died for the people who put Him to death. Jesus rose for the people whose minds rejected the idea of a resurrection.

Matthew 21:1-17 details Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem riding a donkey, fulfilling prophecy as a humble king. Crowds shout "Hosanna" and spread garments/branches. Following this, Jesus clears the temple of moneychangers, heals the blind/lame, and spends nights in Bethany.

Matthew 26:36-46 Jesus tells his disciples that his soul is sorrowful, even to death. But, as he prays to God, he remains reverent. He does not become demanding or harsh toward God. He is not losing his grip on the faithfulness demonstrated through his ministry. Genesis 3:1-8 The reading of Genesis 3: 1–7 tells the story of the Serpent of the Garden of Eden's crafty use of semantics to configure the beloved first Man and Woman's place in the eyes of God. Evangelical Christians use this verse to say that women were tricked first then caused man to stumb

Malachi 4:1-6 Who is Malachi 4-5-6 talking about? Elias isn't dead, so its possible he can return to earth in physical form, just like Jesus. The author of Mark has a hard time fulfilling this prophecy it seems. To stress the point home, he then has the transfiguration: Jesus stands with Moses and Elijah. Matthew 9:20-22 What is the meaning of Matthew 9 20-22? The gospel story remembers a woman who was suffering for a long time. She came in her need for healing; the journey was enlivened by her faith. Faith may not cure our ills and sicknesses; but over a long time of faith, we are healed and strengthened.

What is the main point of Philippians 2:1-1 1 Jesus continually taught that Philippians 2:1-10 servanthood is the essence of Christian ministry. The way of thinking Paul has been writing about was also Jesus' way of thinking. Christians are to cultivate the mind of Christ by following Jesus' example. This section is usually regarded as a hymn.

Matthew 27:45-56 Jesus was punished for all the things that sinful humanity has done wrong so they could receive forgiveness from God. In summary, Jesus died: to save humans from the consequences of sin. because no-one else was willing or able to pay the price for the sin of the whole world.

Mark 4:42-52 What is the moral lesson of the blind Bartimaeus? In Bartimaeus' case he chose to pursue God despite blindness and despite the negativity of the crowd. He banked everything on God and Him only. Like Bartimaeus we should be so desperate for Jesus that we chase after Him despite what others may say to us, despite the encumbrances such as blindness.

Psalm 84 The psalmist is resolved to remind us that the good life is not about having everything you wanted; it's about having God—even if it's in the midst of nothing you wanted. The good life is not about having everything you wanted; it's about having God—even if it's in the midst of nothing you wanted.

Matthew 7:1-8 focuses on avoiding hypocritical, judgmental attitudes, urging self-examination before correcting others, and practicing persistence in prayer. Jesus teaches that the standard used to judge others will be applied to oneself, emphasising mercy, discernment, and trust in God's, a generous Father's, provision.  Also Acts 9:26-27, 15:26-4:1,2 Timothy 4:9-11, 2 Corinthians 4:15

What is the main point of John 2:1-12? That he is in fact the Son of God and each one of us should put our faith and hope in him. This sign, turning water into wine, was small in comparison to his other miracles, but it served his purpose - to manifest or display his glory. But everything was done in sequence leading to the cross.

What is the lesson learned from Matthew 14:22 33? Here Jesus asks them to get into the boat and he goes to pray and spend time with his Father. This shows us the absolute necessity of prayer in a believer's life. He commands his disciples to go to the other side of the sea on a boat. This is a command that requires obedience.

Psalm 145 clearly tells us why we've been placed on earth: we've been placed on earth to be personally blown away by the glory of God. Because we're blown away by the glory of God, we live for that glory and not our own. And we can't help but pass that picture of the glory of God down to the next generation.

What does 2 Chronicles 7 14 mean? And turn from their wicked ways: This great promise of answered prayer in 2 Chronicles 7:14 also includes the condition of repentance. As the people of God humble themselves, pray and seek the face of God, they must also turn from their wicked ways.

John 3:22-36 Key Lessons from John 3:22-36  Whatever we do, ministry, sports, chatting, or anything else, we must be focused on the glory of God. We must be humble and willing to take backstage. We must have the attitude that we must decrease and God must increase. We should not seek attention or importance from doing ministry.

How does Paul emphasise the Trinity in Ephesians 3, 14 - 21? Paul offers up his praise using that word glory. Glory to God, glory to him in the church, and glory to Christ Jesus. Again, there is this trinitarian emphasis in his prayer. He prays to God, about the power that the Holy Spirit imparts to our life, which was made available to us through the Son.

What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 12 1 10? In 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Paul addresses the idea promoted by the super-apostles which stated Paul was not nearly as spiritual as he claimed because he did not have the same hyper-spiritual experiences as these false teachers. While they boast of their glory and power, Paul will boast of his weakness and suffering.

Luke chapter 2 offers lessons on God's humble plans (Jesus's manger birth), divine timing (census fulfilling prophecy), humble service (shepherds, Mary, Joseph), patient waiting rewarded (Simeon & Anna), recognizing God's work in small things, and the importance of family and faith in God's unfolding story. It teaches that greatness isn't worldly, God uses ordinary people, and true worship involves recognizing and responding to Jesus as Savior, even in unassuming circumstances.   

Matthew 2 narrates several pivotal events surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. It begins with the arrival of wise men from the East in Jerusalem, inquiring about the birth of the "King of the Jews" after observing His star. King Herod and all of Jerusalem become troubled by this news.

Isaiah 9:6-7 is a prophecy about the coming Messiah, describing a child who will be born as a human but possess divine titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He will bear the government on His shoulders, establishing an eternal kingdom of justice, righteousness, and unending peace on David's throne, fulfilled by God's passionate zeal. Christians widely interpret this as a prophecy of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His dual nature as fully man (born as a child) and fully God (possessing divine titles)

Luke 1:67-80 Zechariah praises God, characterizing God as powerful and faithful to covenant. In the Bible the promises made between God and God's people are known as covenants; they state or imply a relationship of commitment and obedience.

Genesis 3:1-24 Adam and Eve are perfect in themselves, in their purpose, and in their relationship as husband and wife. Chapter 3 tells the story of that paradise lost; the result of the first willful human sin. The consequences: immediate shame and lifelong separation from their home with God. The famous story of the Temptation of Adam and Eve touches on several themes. This includes the nature of temptation, the power of free will and what later became known as the teaching of 'Original Sin'. Certain details in the story are explained more fully in the New Testament.

The meaning of Luke 10:38-42 is to highlight the importance of prioritizing spiritual devotion over worldly busyness, using the contrasting sisters Mary and Martha as an example. While Martha was distracted by serving and preparing for Jesus, her sister Mary chose to sit at his feet and listen to his words. Jesus affirmed Mary's choice, calling it the "one thing" and the "good part" that would not be taken away from her, teaching that fellowship and learning from him are more essential than even good works. 

Remembrance Sunday Luke 23:32-43 describes the crucifixion of Jesus alongside two criminals. While one criminal mocked Jesus, the other rebuked him, acknowledged their own guilt, and asked Jesus to remember him in his kingdom. Jesus responded by promising, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise".

Acts 2:37-41 Some of the Jews are ashamed that they put God's messiah to death. They ask Peter what to do, and he calls them to repent and be baptised in Jesus's name. Then the Holy Spirit will dwell in them too.

Isaiah 43:1-7 is a message of comfort and hope from God to His people, assuring them they are created, redeemed, and protected. God calls them by name, promising His presence through hardship and affirming their value and identity as His. The passage assures them that He will be with them through trials and will bring them back from captivity and disaster.  Ephesians 2:11-13 We are no longer separated from God because of our sin; Jesus Christ has paid the debt by His Blood that we can be in relationship with Our Father. Do you realise what the Blood has done for us? Do you know the freedom and liberty you have in Christ?

Romans 5:8 is a verse that states, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us". This verse highlights the unconditional and sacrificial nature of God's love, showing that Christ's death was a demonstration of love while humanity was still ungodly and sinful.  Ephesians 2:10 states that believers are God's "workmanship" or "masterpiece," created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared in advance. The verse emphasizes that these good works are not for earning salvation, which is a gift of grace, but are the purpose for which believers are saved.  

Philippians 2:12,13 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Haggai 2:20-23 is a prophetic passage where God promises a future of ultimate victory and stability, shaking the nations and establishing His kingdom through the line of David, symbolized by Zerubbabel. God declares that Zerubbabel will be like a signet ring, signifying his divine authority and importance as a placeholder for the coming Messiah. This prophecy provides hope and a vision of God's future kingdom, encouraging the people to remain faithful and obedient, as their actions are part of God's plan to bring about His purposes. 

Haggi 2:10-19 Having listened to the priests' rulings carefully, Haggai spoke on God's behalf to apply this principle to the people of Judah as a whole: holy things don't make unclean things holy by touch, but unclean things defile whatever they touch. Haggai makes a comparison between the people of Judah and an unclean person.

Haggi 2:1-9 God is saying that he made a promise to his people to be with them 1000 years ago and nothing has changed. Just because so much time has gone by, God will still be faithful to his promise. We sometimes can feel like the promises of God in the scriptures are so old that they cannot be relevant.

In Haggai 1:12-15, God's Word also accomplishes its purposes. In the first verses of Haggai we saw how Yahweh called out his people on their failures. They had returned from exile in Babylon and made a good start. But fifteen years later, we see that they have failed to keep their priorities straight.

Consider your ways What is the meaning of Haggai 1:1-11? Well, here Haggai brings the Word of God to bear on the circumstances of the Jews. Not simply the Word of God as it was delivered to them by Haggai and Zechariah, but as well the Word of God that long before had promised poor harvests if God's people were not faithful to his covenant with them.

Ephesians 3:20 declares God's immense power, stating He can "do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think". The verse emphasizes His ability to answer prayers and fulfill hopes in ways far beyond human comprehension, utilizing the power already working within believers. This scripture highlights the boundless nature of God's ability and is ultimately a statement of praise for His glory. Revelation. 3:15-16,Ephesians 3:20-21, Ephesians 4:17-18,2 Corinthians 5:16-17, 1 Corinthians 9:26-27

Exodus 17:8-16 recounts the battle at Rephidim, where the nomadic Amalekites attacked the Israelites. Joshua led the fighting against the Amalekites with the sword, while Moses, accompanied by Aaron and Hur, stood on a nearby hill holding the staff of God. When Moses's hands were raised, Israel prevailed, but when they lowered, Amalek gained the upper hand. Aaron and Hur supported Moses's arms until sunset, securing Israel's victory through this teamwork. God commanded Moses to record this event as a memorial, and Moses built an altar and named it "The Lord is My Banner" (Jehovah-Nissi), signifying God's eternal battle against the Amalekites. 

Galatians 5:1-6 Focus on how Christians should live in response to those truths. In short, we must resist being dragged away from the freedom we have in Christ to follow the law. We must also resist wasting our freedom on serving our sinful desires instead of serving others in love

Luke 10:25-37 The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) teaches the moral lesson of loving your neighbour as yourself, even if they are different from you or even an enemy. It emphasises that true love and compassion are demonstrated through actions, especially towards those in need, regardless of their background or social standing. The parable challenges the idea of limiting "neighbour" to those we know or those who are like us. 

Matthew 12:25-26. The demons are a kingdom divided against themselves. Jesus is addressing a challenge that the demon He had just cast out of this person had been cast out by Satan. James 1:5-8 teaches that if anyone lacks wisdom, they should ask God for it, who gives generously and without reproach. However, when asking, they should believe and not doubt, as a doubter is like a wave of the sea, unstable and unable to receive anything from the Lord.  + Mark11:22-24, Hebrews 11:6, Galatians 5:16, Jude 20:22

Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus uses the parable of the two builders to illustrate the importance of building one's life on a firm foundation of obedience to his teachings. This parable emphasizes that true faith is not just about hearing Jesus's words but also about putting them into practice.  1 Corinthins 3:11-15Jesus lays that groundwork for believers when they receive His salvation. Christ's saving grace gives His followers a new life. Sins are wiped away so that we have a clean “work site,” so to speak. Empowered by Jesus' strength and wisdom, we can build on His foundation.

Hebrews 12:1–2 Reminds Us To Look To Jesus In other words, let's live this life of faith that he has called us to with joy, knowing it's not always easy, but that's the whole picture. Jesus endured the cross, scorning, and shame. He sits at the right hand of the throne of God.

John 6:22-71 describes Jesus' discourse after the miraculous feeding of the 5,000, where he identifies himself as the "bread of life" and emphasizes the necessity of believing in him for eternal life. Many in the crowd, however, struggle with this concept, focusing instead on physical sustenance and questioning his teachings. 

Matthew 16:5-12 Jesus warns his disciples to be wary of the "yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees," which they initially misunderstand as literal bread yeast. Jesus clarifies that he's referring to their deceptive teachings, not the bread itself. He uses the disciples' forgetfulness about the previous miraculous feedings to illustrate their lack of understanding and faith. 

Acts 4:1-22  .. describes the arrest and subsequent questioning of Peter and John by religious leaders in Jerusalem. The passage focuses on their bold declaration of Jesus's resurrection and healing power, despite facing opposition from the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees. The leaders are disturbed by the apostles' teaching about resurrection and the healing of a lame man, and they fear the growing influence of the apostles. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, fearlessly proclaims that the man was healed by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom they crucified but God raised from the dead. The leaders are astonished by their boldness and decide to threaten them and charge them not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus anymore. However, they ultimately release Peter and John because they cannot find a way to punish them due to the people's praise for the miracle.

Luke 15:1-32 in the Bible contains the famous parable of the Prodigal Son. It tells the story of a son who wastes his inheritance, faces hardship, and returns home to be welcomed and celebrated by his father. This parable is one of three stories Jesus tells in Luke 15 to illustrate God's love and mercy for the lost. The other two are the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of the lost coin.

Acts 2:1-21, which describes the events of Pentecost, signifies the birth of the Church and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It highlights God's work through communities, the empowerment of individuals through the Spirit for speech, and the affirmation of diversity. The passage also points to the need to share the gospel in a way that is accessible and relevant to diverse cultural contexts. 

2 Corinthians 9:6-15 Paul's explanation of benefits and opportunities tied to generous giving. The key point is that godly giving is a Christlike act of grace. God does not intend giving to be done as an obligation, or under a cloud of legalism. v15 Paul's message of generosity is also in 2 Corinthians 9:15. He speaks to the Corinthian believers about being cheerful givers and reminds them that their offerings serve to meet the needs of others and to bring thanksgiving and glory to God.