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BECE 2026 THE CHURCH OF CHRIST VISIT

GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS

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Acts 3:13 (NIV) says:

"*The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go."*

This verse is part of Peter's speech to the people after healing a beggar at the Temple Gate. It highlights God's role in glorifying Jesus, while also addressing the actions of those who rejected Him.

*Some key lessons from Acts 3:13*:

1. God’s Faithfulness to His Covenant: The mention of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob reminds us that God is faithful to His promises throughout generations. It shows the continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

2. Jesus' Glorification: God glorified Jesus, affirming His identity as the Messiah. This teaches us that God honors those who fulfill His purpose, even if the world rejects them.

3. Human Rejection vs. Divine Approval: Though people rejected Jesus and handed Him over to be crucified, God still exalted Him. It’s a reminder that human disapproval does not cancel God's plan for our lives.

4. Acknowledging Responsibility: Peter boldly points out the crowd’s role in Jesus' crucifixion. This teaches the importance of acknowledging our wrongdoings as a step toward repentance.

5. Grace and Redemption: Despite their actions, Peter's speech ultimately leads to a call for repentance. It shows that God’s grace is available even to those who have made grave mistakes.

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New Testament Point B: Revelation 5:5 – *Jesus as the Lion of Judah*

Biblical Reference

"And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof."
(Revelation 5:5, KJV)

1. Context of Revelation 5:5

Revelation 5 describes a heavenly vision given to John the Apostle. In this vision:

John sees a scroll (book) in God’s right hand, sealed with seven seals.

No one in heaven, on earth, or under the earth is worthy to open the scroll.

John begins to weep, but an elder comforts him, saying "Weep not! The Lion of Judah has prevailed."

Jesus, as the Lion of Judah and the Root of David, is the only one worthy to open the scroll.

The scroll represents God’s divine plan for judgment and redemption, and Jesus is the only one worthy to execute God’s plan.

2. Meaning of Key Phrases in Revelation 5:5

A. "Weep not"

John was distressed because no one seemed worthy to open the scroll.

The elder reassures him that Jesus has overcome and is worthy.

This reminds us that God’s plan will be fulfilled through Christ.

B. "Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah"

This title directly links Jesus to Genesis 49:9-10, where Judah is called a lion and given the right to rule.

The lion symbolizes strength, kingship, and victory.

Jesus is the Messianic King from the tribe of Judah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.

C. "The Root of David"

This title connects Jesus to David’s royal lineage, fulfilling Isaiah 11:1 & 10.

As the Root of David, Jesus is:

1. The source of David’s dynasty (He existed before David – John 8:58).

2. The fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

D. "Hath prevailed"

Jesus has triumphed over sin, death, and Satan through His death and resurrection.

His victory qualifies Him to open the scroll and fulfill God’s plan.

John 16:33 – "I have overcome the world."

E. "To open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof"

The scroll represents God’s final judgment and redemption plan.

Only Jesus has the authority to reveal and execute God’s will.

The seven seals represent the end-time events that Jesus alone can control.

3. Fulfillment in Jesus Christ

A. Jesus as the Lion of Judah

Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Genesis 49:9-10 as the powerful, victorious King from Judah’s lineage.

Unlike earthly kings, His rule is eternal and based on righteousness.

B. Jesus as the Root of David

Jesus is both David’s ancestor and descendant, proving His divine and human nature.

Matthew 1:1 confirms Jesus’ lineage as "the son of David."

C. Jesus’ Victory Over Sin and Death

Jesus prevailed through the cross (Colossians 2:15).

His resurrection demonstrated His power over death (Revelation 1:18).

D. Jesus’ Authority to Open the Scroll

Only Jesus can fulfill God’s ultimate plan (Philippians 2:9-11).

His authority is recognized in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18).

4. The Significance of This Prophecy

1. Jesus is the True Lion of Judah – He reigns in power and authority.

2. Jesus is the Fulfillment of David’s Covenant – His kingdom will never end (Luke 1:32-33).

3. Jesus is the Victorious Messiah – He conquered sin and death, making salvation possible.

4. Jesus Controls God’s Final Plan – He alone is worthy to open the scroll and execute God’s will.

5. A Call to Worship Jesus – Since He has all authority and victory, we are called to submit to His kingship.

Conclusion
Revelation 5:5 declares Jesus as the Lion of Judah, the Root of David, and the victorious King who alone is worthy to open the scroll. His authority is absolute, His reign is eternal, and His victory is complete. This verse reassures us that Jesus is in control of history, and His ultimate plan will be fulfilled.

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JESUS AS THE KING OF ZION – A Detailed EXPLANATION

The title "King of Zion" emphasizes Jesus’ divine kingship, His rule over God’s people, and His fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the coming Messiah. Zion, often identified with Jerusalem, symbolizes the dwelling place of God, the center of divine rule, and the spiritual kingdom of God.

1. Prophecies About the King of Zion in the Old Testament

The concept of a King ruling in Zion originates in the Old Testament and is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

A. Zechariah 9:9 – The King Comes in Humility

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a c**t the foal of an ass."
(Zechariah 9:9, KJV)

Explanation:

The people of Zion (Jerusalem) are called to rejoice because their King is coming.

Three key characteristics of this King:

1. Righteousness – He is just and fair in His rule.

2. Salvation – He brings deliverance to His people.

3. Humility – Unlike earthly kings who come with armies and chariots, He enters on a donkey, symbolizing peace.

Fulfillment in Jesus:

Matthew 21:4-5 – This prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey during the Triumphal Entry, showing that He is the King of Zion.

The people recognized Him as King by shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David!" (Matthew 21:9).

B. Psalm 2:6 – God's Appointed King

"Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion." (Psalm 2:6, KJV)

Explanation:

This verse is a messianic prophecy, referring to a King whom God has appointed to rule from Zion (Jerusalem).

The following verses (Psalm 2:7-8) describe this King as the Son of God, given authority over all nations.

Fulfillment in Jesus:

Acts 13:33 – Paul quotes this psalm to confirm that Jesus is the King whom God has anointed.

Jesus was not just an earthly king but a divine King, ruling from the heavenly Zion (New Jerusalem).

C. Isaiah 9:6-7 – The Everlasting Kingdom

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder... Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice."

Explanation:

This prophecy describes the Messianic King who will rule eternally.

He will sit on David’s throne, meaning He is part of David’s royal lineage.

His kingdom will be established with righteousness and justice.

Fulfillment in Jesus:

Luke 1:32-33 – The angel Gabriel told Mary that Jesus would sit on the throne of David and reign forever.

Unlike earthly kings, Jesus' reign is spiritual and eternal.

2. Jesus Declared as King in Zion in the New Testament

A. Jesus' Arrival in Jerusalem – The Triumphal Entry

Matthew 21:9 – The crowds welcomed Jesus as the King of Zion, shouting:
"Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord!"

This event confirmed that Jesus was recognized as the prophesied King of Zion, although many expected a political leader rather than a spiritual one.

B. Jesus Before Pilate – "My Kingdom is Not of This World"

John 18:36-37 – When questioned by Pilate, Jesus declared:
"My kingdom is not of this world... but now is my kingdom not from hence."

Key insights:

1. Jesus affirmed His kingship but clarified that His rule was not political or military.

2. His kingdom was spiritual, based on truth and righteousness.

C. Jesus' Reign in the Heavenly Zion

Hebrews 12:22-24 describes believers as coming to "Mount Zion, the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem" under Jesus' kingship.

This shows that Zion is not just a physical city but also a spiritual kingdom where Jesus rules eternally.

3. The Future Kingship of Jesus in Zion

A. Jesus’ Second Coming – The Reigning King

Revelation 19:11-16 describes Jesus returning as a conquering King:
"And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS."

At His return, Jesus will establish His ultimate rule over Zion and all the earth.

B. The New Jerusalem – The Final Zion

Revelation 21:2-3 – "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven."

This New Jerusalem (Heavenly Zion) is where Jesus will rule eternally with His people.

Conclusion: The Meaning of Jesus as the King of Zion Today

1. Jesus is the rightful King – He fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah who would rule from Zion.

2. Jesus' kingdom is spiritual and eternal – Unlike earthly rulers, His reign is based on righteousness and truth.

3. Jesus is already reigning – Though His full kingship will be revealed at His second coming, He is already ruling in the hearts of believers.

4. We are part of His kingdom – As believers, we are subjects of the King of Zion and should live according to His rule.

Thus, Jesus as the King of Zion means He is the divinely appointed ruler, bringing salvation, righteousness, and eternal reign over God’s people.

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2. MARY MAGDALENE: A Devoted Follower and First Witness of the Resurrection

Mary Magdalene is one of the most significant female figures in the New Testament. She was a devoted disciple of Jesus, a witness to His crucifixion, and the first person to see Him after His resurrection. Her story is a powerful testament to transformation, faith, and the role of women in spreading the Gospel.

a. Mary Magdalene’s Background and Transformation

Mary Magdalene was from the town of Magdala, a region near the Sea of Galilee. The Bible describes her as a woman who had been delivered from demonic possession by Jesus:
“And also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out.” (Luke 8:2)

This deliverance signifies a dramatic transformation in her life. She went from being tormented and outcast to becoming one of Jesus' most devoted followers. Her story highlights the power of Christ to redeem and restore broken lives.

b. A Faithful Disciple of Jesus

After her deliverance, Mary became a dedicated follower of Jesus, supporting His ministry both spiritually and materially. The Gospels mention that she, along with other women, provided for Jesus and His disciples out of their own means:
“These women were helping to support them out of their own means.” (Luke 8:3)

This shows that Mary was not just a passive listener; she was actively involved in the ministry, using her resources to support Jesus' mission.

c. A Witness to Jesus' Crucifixion and Burial

Mary Magdalene remained faithful to Jesus even in His most difficult moments. Unlike many of His male disciples who fled, she stood by Him during His crucifixion:
“Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.” (Matthew 27:55-56)

She also witnessed Jesus' burial, ensuring she knew where He was laid:
“Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.” (Matthew 27:61)

Her unwavering presence shows her deep love and loyalty to Jesus, even when all seemed lost.

d. The First Witness of the Resurrection

Mary Magdalene holds the unique honor of being the first person to see the resurrected Jesus. Early on the first day of the week, she went to Jesus’ tomb and found it empty. When she encountered Jesus but did not recognize Him at first, He spoke her name:
“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward Him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means ‘Teacher’).” (John 20:16)

This moment is significant for several reasons:

1. It confirms Jesus’ victory over death.

2. It affirms the personal relationship between Christ and His followers.

3. It highlights that Jesus entrusted a woman with the first announcement of His resurrection.

e. The First Evangelist of the Risen Christ

After encountering the risen Lord, Mary Magdalene was given a crucial mission:
“Jesus said, ‘Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” (John 20:17)

Mary became the first person to proclaim the good news of Jesus’ resurrection to the disciples:
“Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ‘I have seen the Lord!’” (John 20:18)

This makes her the first evangelist of the resurrection, a role of immense significance in Christianity.

f. Mary Magdalene’s Impact on the World

Mary Magdalene’s story continues to inspire Christians today. Her transformation from a troubled woman to a devoted disciple demonstrates:

The power of Jesus to heal and redeem broken lives.

The importance of steadfast faith and loyalty, even in difficult times.

The crucial role of women in spreading the Gospel.

Her encounter with the risen Christ reminds believers that Jesus knows us personally, calls us by name, and gives us a mission to share His truth with the world.

In summary, Mary Magdalene was not just a follower of Jesus—she was a witness to His power, a faithful disciple, and the first messenger of His resurrection. Her story teaches us about transformation, dedication, and the privilege of sharing the Good News.

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10. REHAB – A Woman of Faith Who Helped Israel

Who Was REHAB?

Rahab was a Canaanite woman living in Jericho at the time of Israel’s conquest of the Promised Land. She is introduced in Joshua 2 as a pr******te who demonstrated remarkable faith in the God of Israel. Despite her background, Rahab made a courageous decision to protect the Israelite spies, aligning herself with God’s plan and becoming a vital figure in biblical history.

Background and Context

1. The Spies Sent to Jericho

As the Israelites prepared to conquer the Promised Land, Joshua sent two spies to scout the fortified city of Jericho.

"Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Sh*ttim. 'Go, look over the land,' he said, 'especially Jericho.' So they went and entered the house of a pr******te named Rahab and stayed there." (Joshua 2:1)

2. Rahab’s Courageous Choice

Rahab welcomed the spies into her home and hid them from the king of Jericho. When the king’s men came looking for them, she misled them, sending them on a false trail.

"Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from. At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, they left. I don’t know which way they went. Go after them quickly. You may catch up with them." (Joshua 2:4-5)

3. Rahab’s Declaration of Faith

Rahab revealed her faith in the God of Israel by acknowledging His sovereignty and power. She confessed that she had heard of His mighty acts, such as parting the Red Sea and defeating other nations.

"I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us... for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below." (Joshua 2:9-11)

Rahab’s Act of Faith

1. Saving the Spies

Rahab hid the spies on her roof, risking her own life. Her actions were motivated by her belief in God and her desire to align herself with His people.

2. Securing Her Family’s Safety

In return for her help, Rahab asked the spies to spare her family when the city of Jericho was destroyed. The spies agreed, instructing her to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for the Israelites to spare her household.

"Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you." (Joshua 2:12)

3. The Fulfillment of the Promise

When Jericho fell, Rahab and her family were spared because of her faith and obedience.

"But Joshua spared Rahab the pr******te, with her family and all who belonged to her, because she hid the men Joshua had sent as spies to Jericho—and she lives among the Israelites to this day." (Joshua 6:25)

Rahab’s Impact

1. A Woman of Faith

Rahab’s faith in God was so remarkable that she is honored in the New Testament as an example of faith:

"By faith the pr******te Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient." (Hebrews 11:31)

2. Inclusion in God’s Plan

Rahab’s actions demonstrated that God’s grace extends to all, regardless of their past. By aligning herself with God’s people, Rahab became part of the lineage of Jesus Christ.

"Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David." (Matthew 1:5-6)

3. A Legacy of Redemption

Rahab’s story is a powerful example of redemption. Despite her background, her faith and courage allowed her to become a significant figure in the history of salvation.

Lessons from Rahab’s Life

1. Faith Transcends Background

Rahab’s story shows that God welcomes all who turn to Him in faith, regardless of their past. Her life demonstrates that faith, not status or background, is what pleases God.

2. Courage in the Face of Risk

Rahab risked her life to protect the spies and align herself with God’s purposes. Her courage teaches us to stand boldly for what is right, even when it comes at a cost.

3. God’s Grace Includes Everyone

Rahab’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus reminds us that God’s grace is for all people. Her transformation from a Canaanite pr******te to an ancestor of Christ illustrates the power of God’s redemption.

4. Obedience Brings Blessings

By following the spies’ instructions and tying the scarlet cord in her window, Rahab ensured her family’s safety. Her obedience brought salvation and blessings to her household.

Rahab’s Legacy

Rahab is remembered as a woman of great faith and courage who aligned herself with God’s purposes, despite her past. Her actions not only saved her family but also played a critical role in the history of Israel and the lineage of Jesus Christ. Rahab’s story reminds us that faith in God has the power to transform lives, break barriers, and bring redemption to even the most unlikely individuals.

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