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Thought for January 17th. “DO YOU BEGRUDGE MY GENEROSITY?…” Jan 17, 2026

Show notes

The last 2 verses of today’s chapter (19) in Matthew can be puzzling if we do not realize the chapter break is wrongly placed and the context includes the next chapter. The end of chapter 19 records Jesus as saying, “everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

The lesson Jesus is teaching becomes clear in his next words at the start of ch. 20. “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master … who went out early … to hire labourers for his vineyard … for a denarius a day” There follows the details of going out again at “the third hour … the sixth hour … the ninth hour … the eleventh hour.”

In the evening payment is made “beginning at the first” [v.4] and they all receive the same payment (v.10) regardless of how long they have worked. Those who had “borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat” [v.12] complain. Verses 15 & 16 put the matter into focus from the divine point of view, “Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity? So the last will be first, and the first last.”

The disciples are going to labour in the “scorching heat” of the day, this is a lesson for them. But beware of looking at the situation from the opposite perspective! Could we be tempted to think to ourselves, ‘As long as we get to the service on most Sundays, that is all I really have to do’?

Look back at the first passage quoted above, Jesus says, “everyone who has left … for my name’s sake will receive …” It evidently means, everyone who has given first consideration to me and the needs of my vineyard as they live their lives – and done things, according to their ability and opportunity (and this includes making opportunities) “will receive….”

Let’s put this alongside another saying of Jesus in Luke ch. 12. First note v. 37 “Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes” and then “everyone to whom much was given, of him (or her) much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.” [v.48] Much food for thought for us today – how much has been given to me – to you?.

Thought for January 16th. “IT IS NECESSARY THAT … “ Jan 16, 2026

Show notes

Certain things are necessary in our lives such as clothing to wear and food to eat. Note how Paul made the point to Timothy “if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content” and “there is great gain in godliness with contentment” [1 Tim. 6 v.6,8] What hinders our contentment?

Now in today’s 18th chapter of Matthew Jesus told his disciples, “Woe to the world for temptations to sin. For it is necessary that temptations come …” [v.7] Why is it necessary? Wouldn’t it be better if believers lived protected lives without anything tempting us? No, it wouldn’t!

When we make things we test them to make sure they are strong enough to be used for the purpose for which we made them. It maybe that some part will break off! If that makes it useless, then we throw it away. But often, even with a part broken off there is still a good use for it – and that is the point behind Jesus’ parable that “if your hand or your foot causes you to sin , cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire.” [v.8]

We may have a special aptitude or talent, but if it has no spiritual value – but rather, the opposite, then we should push it out of our lives. Let us use make full use of the talents and opportunities we have – and not fret about others, and our failures, and be in danger of being useless to God..

Once again our Psalms reading (33) is valuable – v.10 refers to our time and is very applicable, “The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples.” And so efforts to achieve peace between nations and peoples are getting nowhere – as are efforts to take action to stop or at least minimize global warming. God is not only ignored – most push out of their minds any thought as to his existence. Does that influence you? Note the great truth of v.12 “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!” The words of Jesus we read and thought about illustrate the elements of behaviour that really count – “but it is necessary” that chosen vessels are tested as to their worthiness. Are you passing the test? May we all be among those whom he chooses – may we help each other to pass the test.

The Council of Nicea: 5 Myths Debunked! Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

A @Christadelphians Video: Inspiring, thought-provoking and insightful, join us as we examine one of the most pivotal events in Christian history. This outstanding expositional presentation by John Thorpe analyses the Council of Nicaea, separating widespread myths from historical reality. We trace the profound philosophical shifts that began steering the early church away from its apostolic foundations.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: A Council That Changed Christianity00:45 - The Five Common Myths About Nicaea02:52 - Historical Backdrop: From Apostles to Greek Philosophy05:09 - The Logos Theory and Early Philosophical Influences06:50 - Tertullian, Sabellius and Origen: Forging New Doctrines09:01 - The Great Debate: Alexander vs. Arius11:19 - Constantine’s Intervention and the Council’s Calling13:07 - The Creed of Nicaea: Analysing the Text and Anathemas16:23 - The Aftermath: Athanasius and Continuing Conflict21:08 - 350 Years of Dispute: The Long Path to the Trinity27:02 - Debunking the Myths: The Verdict on Nicaea30:12 - Conclusion: The Real Legacy of the Council**Bible Verse Category:**📖 Luke 2:52**Tags:**Council of Nicaea, Nicene Creed, Constantine, Arius, Athanasius, Trinity, Church History, Biblical Unitarianism, Christadelphian, Early Christianity, Christian Doctrine, Greek Philosophy, Logos Theology, First Council of Nicaea 325 AD, Christian Faith, Bible Truth, ScriptureWe are a Christadelphian team, Brothers and sisters of Christ, and we're passionate about delivering powerful, Scripture-based content to strengthen and inspire your faith journey. If this presentation resonated with you, help spread the encouragement—share it with a friend today!

Thought for January 15th. “FOR WHEN I KEPT SILENT” Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

Psalm 32 today is an intimate exchange of words between David and God; it is one of the most personal of all the Psalms – just 11 verses, but so powerful! The first 7 are by David and the remainder; God’s response. How meaningful! Remember Paul’s comment on God’s words, , “They were written down for our instruction, on who the end of the ages has come,” [1 Cor. 10 v.11] We are surely living in the final end of the ages”!

The first verse declares, “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” David recognises that “the LORD counts no iniquity”, (in the one) in whose spirit is no deceit.” [v.2] His next words are, “For when I kept silent … day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up …” [v.3,4]

The world is full of deceit and efforts to avoid any penalty for wrong-doing; does this influence us? Any sense of “guilt” is pushed out of sight, out of mind. But it is David who sets us the example, he says to God, “I acknowledged my sin to you… you forgave … my sin … you preserve me from trouble… you surround me with shouts of deliverance”[v. 5,7]

Then comes God’s answer, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding … or it will not stay near you.” [v.8,9]

The Bible, so wonderfully preserved and so readily available to us provides us with Divine instruction, we have only ourselves to blame if we are “without understanding”. May we all fully sense that “steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD” and so “Be glad … rejoice … and shout for joy, all you upright in heart! [v.10,11] It is only when we keep “silent” that our hearts fail in uprightness.

Thoughts on the readings for January 15th (Genesis 27, Psalm 32, Matthew 17) Jan 14, 2026

Show notes

Genesis 27 is a pivotal chapter, which explains much about the 4 principal characters of this record – Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob and Esau. All of them show defects when compared against the divine standard. Isaac knew his Sovereign’s revealed will that Jacob would be the blessed, and that the elder (Esau) would serve the younger (Jacob); yet he tried to subvert this in seeking to bless Esau. Rebekah did not wait for the Almighty to fulfill His promise; but she believed her intervention and deception would be needed for this to happen. Jacob was prepared to deceive his father (Isaac) at the urging of his mother (Rebekah) rather than to trust in his God to outwork the bestowing of the blessing. Esau was a profane and godless man, who cared about none but himself; and he sought only material prosperity. Isaac’s sight had gone and he believed that he was nearing death. So Isaac told Esau to catch and prepare venison for him to eat before dying; and, that he might bestow on Esau the Abrahamic blessing. On overhearing this Rebekah immediately calls Jacob to fetch goats that she might cook them with spices so as to taste like savoury venison. Jacob is scared that their planned deception might fail, since Jacob’s skin is smooth and Esau’s is rough and hairy. Rebekah says Jacob is to dress in Esau’s clothes so as to smell like his brother. And she will sow the goat skins to Jacob’s arms in order to deceive Isaac. Isaac’s sight being gone, Rebekah and Jacob must betray his sense of taste, smell and touch. After hearing Jacob Isaac was suspicious, nevertheless his other senses told him that it was Esau standing before him. Isaac gave the blessing in verses 27 to 29. Read these verses aloud and contemplate their meaning. Isaac had disobeyed Yahweh’s determinations. Esau now appeared with his prey prepared for eating. Upon realising what had happened Isaac trembled – the Hebrew says, “he trembled with the trembling of God” – as well he should, having sought to impose his will above the LORD’s; Isaac now in humility of mind submitted himself before the Almighty. Esau with intense pleas and tears sought unsuccessfully to reverse Isaac’s mind (Hebrews 12 verses 15 to 17). Isaac now stood immovable having understood the Almighty cannot be resisted. The apparent blessing Esau received was in no way a blessing (verses 39 and 40). The Hebrew words in verse 29 translated, “the fatness of the earth”, actually mean “away from the fatness of the earth” – Esau thereafter dwelt in the barren wilderness of Seir, at Petra. And as verse 30 told he lived by his sword and was the sworn enemy to Jacob his brother; and the nations that descended from the twins perpetrated the animosity until Edom (Esau) ceased to exist as a nation in 70 AD when Rome sacked Jerusalem. Rebekah overhead Esau’s threat to murder Jacob and planned his escape to Haran. In verse 46 Rebekah used Esau’s profane marriages to Canaanitish wives as a reason for Isaac to order that Jacob be sent to Haran to find a faithful, covenanted wife from among Abraham’s relatives.

Thought for January 14th. “ON THIS ROCK I WILL BUILD …” Jan 14, 2026

Show notes

In ancient times a rock symbolized something secure and God was the ultimate rock! David wrote in the Psalms, as we read 2 days ago, “To you, O LORD, I call; my rock, be not deaf to me” [Psalm 28 v.1] He also pleads with God, “when my heart is faint, lead me to the rock that is higher than I” [Psalm 61 v.2]

In today’s reading in Matthew, Jesus seems to call Peter a “rock” [16 v.18], but read the context carefully; among the people there is increasing speculation as to who Jesus is – and he asks his disciples, “Who do you say that I am? [v.15] Peter declared, ‘You are the Christ (Messiah), the Son of the living God.” [v16]

This declaration is the “rock”! The possession of true insight and real faith. It is “on this ‘rock” says Jesus, “that I will build my church and the gates of hell (hades, i.e. the grave) will not prevail against it” [v.18] It is true faith that makes death but a sleep with a wonderful waking – as David believed – see Psalm 17 v.15.

We recall it was Jesus who added the name ‘Peter’ to Simon (Luke 6 v.14) when he called him to be a disciple. The name Peter means a rock – petros. Yet human rocks have to prove themselves; Jesus was, and still is, looking for such rocks; those who have the true insight of faith – on which “I will build my church” [v.18]

As the early chapters of the book of Acts reveal Peter became the rock around which the first community of believers in Jerusalem was built. But before then he failed disastrously! The next verses tell us that “from that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem … and be killed.”

Peter reacted in an astonishing way; he “began to rebuke him, saying ‘Far be it from you Lord! This shall never happen to you.’” [v.22] Jesus responded by saying “to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me … you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” [v.23]

The “set” of our minds is vital! If they are wrong we end up being opposed to God and to Jesus. At the end of his life the set of Solomon’s mind became wrong and God raised up “adversaries” to him and this word in the Hebrew is the word ‘satanas’ as in 2 Kings 11 v.14,23,25, which names the ‘Satans’ that opposed Solomon.

Those who develop a true faith become, in Christ’s eyes, a ‘rock’ on which, even today, he can build. Let us make sure the ‘set’ of our minds is on godly ways with a readiness to become a ‘rock’ with a true faith in his service – and never a satan..

Thoughts on the Bible Readings for January 13th (Genesis 24, Psalms 29 and 30 and Matthew 15) Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

In Genesis 24 an old and faithful Abraham sends his faithful steward Eliezer to Haran in search of a lifelong covenant wife for his son, Isaac. Eliezer is bound by a covenant Abraham makes with him to diligently fulfill the obligation of finding a true believer, who will be a help meet for Isaac on the journey to God’s kingdom. So Eliezer left Abraham accompanied by a large retinue of servants and many camels; and vast wealthy gifts. Upon arrival in Haran Eliezer makes his responsibilities a matter of prayer and asks of the Almighty a very specific sign. No sooner had he finished his prayer than Rebekah arrives and says the very words of his prayer. Eliezer is amazed at the power of his God and bows his head in reverence. The 10 camels are watered by Rebekah – an immense task – and the company taken to Laban’s house; where Laban notices the wealthy jewels given to Rebekah by Eliezer. Laban’s words, “Come in thou blessed of Yahweh”, indicates both some knowledge of God, and the familiar use of the LORD’s divine name of Yahweh, the use of which goes back to the beginning of Creation (Genesis 4 verses 1, 25 and 26). Rebekah had reported the circumstances of meeting Eliezer prior to Laban’s remarks. From verses 31and 49 Eliezer tells Laban of the mission he has undertaken and its importance. Note it is not just another task Eliezer was given, but the entrusted responsibility of securing a bride who will ensure the faithful continuance of maintaining the truth promised to Abraham and his seed. In verse 51 Laban asserts his agreement with Rebekah going to the household of Abraham. Once again Eliezer responds to his Sovereign reverently. Many valuable gifts were given to Laban, by way of a bride price. After all of this has happened Rebekah’s thoughts are requested. She assented and is sent away the next day with her family’s blessing. Isaac went out in the evening to pray (“meditate” verse 63); and after her enquiry as to the man meeting the homecoming troop, Rebekah shows Isaac respect and is taken into Isaac’s tent as his God chosen bride. And Isaac loved Rebekah dearly.

Thought for January 13th. “ WHAT …DEFILES A PERSON” Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

The world today is very conscious of cleanliness. When you go to the Doctors, he or she will thoroughly wash their hands before they examine you, but they only learnt to do this 150 years ago. They also learnt this was the reason why some of those they operated on had died. The value of the cleanliness laws in the commands God gave to Moses was then acknowledged. These laws stressed the great importance of washing the body and clothes especially when exposed to anything unclean, see for e.g. Lev. 14 v.8,9; 15 v.13 etc.

Today soaps and other cleansing agents are strongly marketed: this is good, except for the fancy high priced varieties produced, we suspect, with a profit motive. Jewish Priests in the days of Jesus had turned cleanliness into a ritual that made them feel more righteous (see Luke 11 v.37-41). And they criticised Jesus for letting his disciples eat with unwashed hands (Mark 7 v.2-5)

In our reading of Matthew 15 today Jesus calls them hypocrites and said, “This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” [Matthew 15 v.7-9]. He then called people to him and said, “Hear and understand: it is not whatgoes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth”[v.11]

His disciples query him as to what he means by this; he tells them, “what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person” [v.18-20]

The thought comes first, then the deed follows. Our world is full of this kind of defilement. Before every wrong doing comes wrong thinking. TV, DVD’s and many magazines feed human minds, defiling them, making them inclined to think and imagine fleshly godless actions. More people, especially the young, are turning thoughts into actions emulating what they feed their minds on – the extreme examples are the senseless shooting rampages.

Sources of defilement are everywhere today making it more essential than ever to feed our minds with the word of God every day – and it must be a balanced meal, not just reading the bits we like and which may not challenge our consciences. Jesus condemns those whose distorted application of the divine revelation “have made void the word of God.” [Matt. 15 v.6]. Let us be fully awake to what can defile us and read God’s word with a sincere heart..

Thoughts on the Bible Readings for January 12th (Genesis 22, 23; Psalms 26, 27, 28; Matthew 14) Jan 11, 2026

Show notes

Psalm 26 tells us David's love for his God. The Psalmist delights in every opportunity to extol the virtues of his Sovereign. David also tells of his detesting of the ways of the wicked. Psalm 27 speaks of the LORD being the light (revealer of what is right and honourable) and salvation (the process of saving and bringing to His kingdom of the faithful believers). The writer tells of the Almighty's capacity to defend the upright. He speaks of his Creator's pull on the writer's heart to seek fellowship with his God. And the Psalm concludes with a love and loyalty to his God which exceeds that of any human bond. David encourages himself in the assurance that his God will not see him abandoned into the hand of his foes. Wait he says on Yahweh; you will never be disappointed by taking this course. Psalm 28 says that "Yahweh is the strength and shield" of the psalmist. The thoughts are similar to God's consoling promise to Abraham at the start of Genesis 15. The confidence of knowing God is always with, and surrounding His children with His all-powerful arms. Yahweh will repay both the wicked and the righteous according to their works (Romans 2verses5-11). The response that such understanding generates in God's people is outlined in verses 6-9. Slowly read aloud; and pause and ponder.

In chapter 14 of Matthew Herod is struck with terror on hearing of the miracles of Jesus. Herod Antipas, a convert of the Sadducees (and therefore a non-believer in the resurrection of the dead) was convinced that John the Baptist had been raised from the dead. Our Lord is told of John's brutal decapitation and in response responds by seeking solitude to reflect. This is interrupted by a multitude seeking him out and he compassionately responds to their need of a shepherd to teach them. He feeds 5,000 of them and heals many. John 6 tells us that their desire was to take him by force and make him their king. Jesus summarily dispersed the crowd and went into a mountain to pray. He sent the Apostles by boat to the other side of the lake. When the storm arose, he came to them walking on the water. Peter alone showed the faith and courage to briefly do likewise. He was rescued by his Master. Finally, upon reaching the other side of the lake Jesus healed many at Gennesaret.

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Thoughts on the Bible Readings for January 11th (Genesis 20, 21; Psalms 23, 24, 25; Matthew 13) Jan 10, 2026

Show notes

Genesis chapter 20 tells us that Abraham again made the same error in failing to trust God; whilst sojourning among the Philistines. Abraham is chastened by the Almighty and severely rebuked by Abimelech, the Philistine king; who in this incident showed greater integrity than did Abraham. Similarly to the Egyptian episode Abraham leaves the Philistine territory enriched and with much substance and a treaty between himself and the Philistines. Genesis 21 begins with a reminder that Isaac, meaning “laughter”, was the Promised seed whose birth would bring great joy – as the type of the “seed of the woman”, the Son of miraculous birth, the Son of God
(Luke 1:68-80; 2:10-14). Yahweh has fulfilled His promised Word to Abraham and Sarah. And so as a token of the covenant between the Lord GOD and His people Isaac was circumcised at 8 days old. At the time of Isaac’s weaning – possibly as old as 7 years of age – Abraham made a great feast for his son, Isaac. Ishmael mocked Isaac and most likely made derogatory comments about Isaac’s supposed father (Abimelech king of the Philistines; cp the accusations made against our Lord and the ignominy the Lord’s foes said of his begettal; John 8:33-42). This time the bondwoman and Ishmael were finally banished. Ishmael was a wild and uncontrollable man. Abraham started digging wells, which led to conflict with the Philistines – water being so vital a resource. Eventually Abraham made a covenant of peace with the Philistines. Note the prominence of the number seven; 7 being the number of the covenant.

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