Manna - "what Is It?"

Russia is finally at the northern boarder of Israel. Turkey and Iran (the old arch enemies from the days of the Persian and ottoman empires) have become unlikely allies in the land of Syria. Sudan’s president on Sunday (Dec 6) became the first Arab League leader to visit Syria (Washington Post). What more, US has pulled out of Syria? What does this all mean?

The word Tribulation is often looked down. Everyone is trying to run away from sufferings. But the apostles gloried in the tribulation (sufferings) that came into their lives. Rom 5:3-4 – Not only so, but we[a] also glory in our sufferings, (Thlipsis is the Greek word uses. A more appropriate English word would be Tribulation? Why would the apostle glory in tribulation?) “because (he says) we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Tribulation is something we should glory in? Is that so.

The second coming of the Lord is the only True enduring reality. The present things are going to drastically change after His coming. Therefore, what kinds of a life should we live, we who desire to live in the next age. Understanding these things how should we live? As a continuum to last week’s podcast we start “Therefore to what purpose ...”

Jesus in Matt 24:39 warns his disciples that the people in the days of Noah did not understanding what was going to happen until it happened. But by then it was too late?Either you understand the times to escape the coming tragedy, or you will only understand when the tragedy comes upon you. But … By then, it is too late. Therefore, being vigilant and being able to read the times is imperative.

Jesus explains the progression of last day events in the language of obstetrics – especially birth pangs or birth pains. Birth pains have 4 important characteristics. Let us look at it

Many misunderstand idolatry as something belonging only to eastern religions. But the bible teaches differently. Each of us has passion for idolatry firm within us. Its lure is only overcome by the Holy Spirit in a careful believer. Let us look at this briefly

What do you understand by the word Piety (or Reverence)? Are we a pious people? Should we show piety? What does this word mean? What should it mean to a Christian? We will look at this word.

Regarding worship Jesus said, Father desires worshipers who worship in spirit and Truth (Jn 4:23). Two requirements are placed by our Lord. We will look at the second requirement here – “worship in truth”

Lately smoke machines, stage lights and grand musical theatric have adorned Christian worship. Sustained synth melodies, and darkened room with dim lights cultivate a spiritual environment. To woo the parishioners, some Pastors are even resorting to cooking shows as prelude to Sunday worship. This is Part 1 of the polemic against these ignominies.

There are about 900 English translations of the Bible. This is mind boggling and confusing. What is the needed for such prolific work in one language? From these 900, what is the best, authentic and the right translation. Some say the king James is the only authorized and inspired version. Others argue for NASB, NIV and ESV. What is the truth? What should I do.

Secularism has been a boon to Christianity. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was spread around the globe because of this human religious philosophy. But lately, its twin sister – inclusivism is taking root in some countries.

Detraction is the sin of revealing another person's faults, to a third person without a valid reason. Let is look at this further in Part 2.

What is this strange word “detraction”? How is this words significant to you and me!

Good intentions are not sufficient when using a Christian symbol as an ornament. We must be wise as a snake and pure as a dove (Matt 10:16)? Or else we place ourselves under the proverbial “Damocles sword”

No graces procured by our Lord Jesus at the cross of Calvary from the spiritual store house of God the Father are ever communicated to us through any physical objects. This is why any object in any shape or form of anything in heaven or earth is fascinatingly useless to endear us to God or draw us near to Him and His Christ – Jesus. Let us consider some questions.

What is Idolatry? Time to define it. Theologically, Idolatry is any system of worship based on idols, set up by and powered by Satan, for the only purpose of usurping worship from the one and true and living God by systematically debasing man and dishonoring God.

Good Friday and Easter has come and gone. While the Catholics, the Eastern Orthodox, the Anglicans and Lutherans fasted before feasting, the evangelical had it better. They feasted without fasting. Never mind the denominations, all children had it good, as they chased the chocolate-bunnies and Easter eggs through the backyards and parks. Now that the remembrance of Jesus’ death and resurrection is over, … Have you gone through your good Friday and Easter? Let us look at it?Credits - Song By Indelible Grace (Hymn: Jesus I my Cross have taken)

Idolatry is more than bowing down to idols. Idolatry is a system with many tentacles. You may be an innocent passerby. But get involved in any one of its tentacles, like octopus demons will pounce on you. Let us look at this –

Why did Paul covet the resurrection power? And what is the means by which this power flows through us? This is the second part in the podcast series what is Righteousness?