Matewu 16 - KBTP & KJV

He canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross. – Colossians 214 (GNT)

Easter is a time of deep reflection and celebration. It reminds us of Jesus’ sacrifice and the incredible gift of salvation we have through His death and resurrection. The cross is more than a symbol—it is the turning point of history, where love overcame sin and life triumphed over death. Let’s explore seven key Bible verses that reveal the power and meaning of the cross.

1. The Cross Shows God’s Love

“But God has shown us how much he loves us—it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us!” – Romans 5:8 (GNT)

The cross is the greatest proof of God’s love. Jesus didn’t wait for us to be perfect; He gave His life while we were still lost in sin. His love is unconditional, reaching out to everyone, no matter their past.

2. The Cross Brings Forgiveness

“He canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross.” – Colossians 2:14 (GNT)

Because of Jesus, our sins are wiped clean. The cross is where our burdens are lifted, where guilt is removed, and where we receive complete forgiveness. No sin is too great for God’s mercy!

3. The Cross Brings Peace

“And God was pleased for him to make peace by sacrificing his blood on the cross, so that all beings in heaven and on earth would be brought back to God.” – Colossians 1:20 (GNT)

Sin separated us from God, but the cross restored our relationship with Him. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are no longer enemies of God but His beloved children.

4. The Cross Gives Us New Life

“Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (GNT)

The cross is not the end—it is the beginning of new life. Jesus’ death and resurrection open the door for us to be transformed, leaving behind our past and stepping into a new identity in Christ.

5. The Cross Gives Us Victory

“And on the cross Christ freed himself from the power of the spiritual rulers and authorities; he made a public spectacle of them by leading them as captives in his victory procession.” – Colossians 2:15 (GNT)

What seemed like a defeat was actually a victory! On the cross, Jesus overcame sin, death, and the powers of darkness. Because of Him, we can walk in freedom, knowing that no force of evil can separate us from God.

6. The Cross is a Call to Follow

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me.'” – Matthew 16:24 (GNT)

Jesus invites us to take up our cross—not to suffer as He did, but to surrender fully to God’s will. True discipleship means letting go of selfish desires and living a life that honors Him.

7. The Cross Gives Us Eternal Life

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (GNT)

The cross is the bridge to eternal life. Jesus’ sacrifice was not just for this world, but for eternity. Through Him, we have the promise of life that never ends—a life in the presence of God forever.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of the Cross

As we celebrate Easter, let’s not just remember the cross—let’s live in the power of what Jesus accomplished. The cross brings love, forgiveness, peace, new life, victory, and the hope of eternity.

This Easter, may we draw closer to Christ, embracing the fullness of His sacrifice and the joy of His resurrection. He is risen! Hallelujah!

And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

When you think of a successful businesswoman, what comes to mind? Maybe someone who is independent, hardworking, and respected. Now, imagine someone like that but also deeply committed to God. That’s Lydia, a business-savvy, God-fearing woman who played a major role in the early church.

Lydia wasn’t a preacher or prophetess, yet her faith, generosity, and leadership helped spread the gospel. Her story shows that you don’t have to stand on a stage to make an impact, you can serve God right where you are. Let’s dive into seven powerful lessons from her life!

1. She Made Time for God, Even with a Busy Schedule

Acts 16:13 (KJV) – “And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a riverside, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.”

Lydia was a businesswoman who sold purple cloth, a luxury product in her time. She had money, influence, and responsibilities, yet she still made time to seek God. When Paul arrived in Philippi, she was already at a prayer gathering with other women.

In today’s world, it’s easy to say, “I’m too busy for God.” School, work, and life keep us occupied. But Lydia shows us that no matter how full our schedules get, seeking God should always be a priority.

2. She Had an Open Heart for God’s Word

Acts 16:14 (KJV) – “And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.”

Lydia was already a worshipper of God, but when she heard Paul preaching about Jesus, she embraced the gospel fully. She didn’t just listen, she responded.

Many people hear about Jesus but never truly respond. Lydia didn’t just agree with what Paul said—she let God change her heart. Are we open to God speaking to us, or are we too distracted to listen?

3. She Took Immediate Action in Her Faith

Acts 16:15 (KJV) – “And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.”

Lydia didn’t hesitate. As soon as she understood the truth about Jesus, she took action, she got baptized, and she made sure her whole household did too.

Sometimes, we feel God calling us to take a step, maybe to get baptized, start reading the Bible more, or make a change in our lives. But we hesitate, waiting for the “perfect moment.” Lydia teaches us that when God moves in our hearts, we need to respond quickly.

4. She Used Her Resources for God’s Kingdom

Acts 16:40 (KJV) – “And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.”

Lydia was wealthy, but she didn’t keep her blessings to herself. She opened her home as a meeting place for believers, making it a safe space for the early church to grow.

Many of us want God to bless us with success, but are we willing to use our blessings for Him? Lydia’s generosity helped spread the gospel. How can you use what you have, your time, money, talents, or even your home—to serve others?

5. She Had a Generous Spirit

Proverbs 11:25 (KJV) – “The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.”

Lydia didn’t hesitate to give, whether it was her home, resources, or hospitality. Her generosity fueled the mission of the early church, proving that faith isn’t just about what we receive but also about what we give.

In a world that tells us to chase wealth for personal gain, Lydia shows that true prosperity comes from a generous heart. Success is great, but helping others along the way is even greater.

6. She Was a Leader in the Faith

Philippians 1:3-5 (KJV) – “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.”

The church in Philippi, which Lydia helped start, became one of the strongest early Christian communities. Paul later wrote to them, thanking them for their faith and generosity.

Lydia’s faith didn’t just affect her, it built up an entire community of believers. She reminds us that our faith isn’t just for us; it’s meant to impact those around us.

7. She Shows That Faith and Success Can Go Together

Matthew 6:33 (KJV) – “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Lydia was a successful businesswoman, but she put God first. She didn’t see faith and success as two separate things—she used her success to glorify God.

Many people think they have to choose between faith and success, but Lydia proves you can have both. When you put God first, everything else will fall into place.

Conclusion

Lydia was a real-life boss lady who put God first and made a lasting impact. She proves that you don’t need a pulpit to be a leader in God’s kingdom, you just need a heart that’s willing to serve.

So, how can you be like Lydia this month?

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

The Bible is rich with wisdom regarding the power of our words. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded that the tongue—though small—holds the capacity to uplift, destroy, heal, or harm. The words we speak can shape destinies, mend relationships, or cause deep wounds. Let’s explore seven Bible verses that illuminate the profound power of the tongue.

1. Proverbs 18:21 – “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”

The words we choose to speak can bring encouragement, love, and healing, or they can cause hurt, division, and destruction. The “fruits” we reap from our words reflect their power—whether for good or ill.

2. James 3:5-6 – “So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness.”

Although it is a small part of the body, the tongue can cause significant harm, much like a small spark can ignite an entire forest fire. James warns believers of the dangers of careless speech, reminding us that words can spread like wildfire, causing damage that can be difficult to undo.

3. Proverbs 12:18 – “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

Words spoken in haste or anger can cut deeply, inflicting pain and damage similar to physical wounds. Conversely, wise and thoughtful words can bring comfort, peace, and restoration, highlighting the importance of controlling our speech and choosing our words carefully.

4. Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

We are urged to avoid corrupting or harmful talk and instead speak in ways that edify and encourage others. Words have the power to build up or tear down, and we are encouraged to use our speech to impart grace and support to those around us.

5. Proverbs 15:4 – “A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”

A gentle tongue, like a tree of life, offers nourishment, strength, and growth. In contrast, perverse or harsh speech can crush a person’s spirit, leading to discouragement and despair. The verse encourages us to speak with kindness and gentleness, fostering life and growth in others.

6. Matthew 12:36-37 – “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Jesus’ words in Matthew are a sobering reminder of the accountability we have for our speech. Every word we speak—careless or otherwise—will be subject to judgment. Our words reflect our hearts, and they play a role in our justification or condemnation. This verse underscores the importance of being mindful of our speech, knowing that it has eternal consequences.

7. Proverbs 16:24 – “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.”

Words that are kind, loving, and considerate are likened to honeycomb—sweet and nourishing, bringing joy and health to both the speaker and the listener. The verse encourages us to speak in ways that bring sweetness and well-being to others, reflecting the love and grace of God through our words.

Conclusion

The Bible consistently teaches that the tongue, though small, wields immense power. It can bring life or death, healing or harm, joy or sorrow. As followers of Christ, we are called to use our words wisely, to speak life, and to reflect God’s love through our speech. By guarding our tongues and choosing our words carefully, we can positively influence those around us and honor God with our speech.

Bafarasi banoshaka tjilakidzo kuna Jesu

(Mako 8:11-13Luke 12:54-56)

1 Gupo le Bafarasi ne Basadusi lakazha kuna Jesu ngon'lalila benkumbila kuti abalakidze tjilakidzo tjinodwa kudzimu. 2 Kabadabila eti, “Ha kuli madekwana makole ali mashaba moti, ‘Kowomuka kwakalulwama,’ 3 kakale ha zhuba libhuda moti, ‘Nasi kowobe matutu, ngobe zhuzhugwi ishaba lina makole matema.’ Moziba kutjenesa kulingika kwe makole, koga musingazibe kutjenesa zwilakidzilo zwe misi. 4 Bana bangwenu babi basingagalikebgwe nge Ndzimu banoshaka tjilakidzo, koga akuna tjilakidzo tjabanowopiwa kuzhe kwe tjilakidzo tja Jona.”

Ipapo Jesu kabasiya kayenda.

Mbidzo ye Bafarasi ne Basadusi

(Mako 8:14-21)

5 Kukati badiyiwa beswika seli kwe gungwa, bakabe bakangang'wa kusenga tjiwunga. 6 Jesu kati ku bali, “Lingani mube ne njele ngekwe mbidzo ye Bafarasi ne ye Basadusi.”

7 Bakalebeleka tje kwabo beti, “Akuna tjiwunga tjatazha natjo.”

8 Jesu kaziba tjabanoalakana ndizo kababhuzwa kati, “Bathu be kugalamoyo kutukununu ndimwi, ini mulebeleka tje kwenyu ngekwe kuti amuna tjiwunga? 9 Apa amuthu mukahwisisa zwenyu kene? Amutoalakana zwiwunga zwishanu zwakajiwa nge bali zwiwulu zwishanu (5 000) ne kuti makazhadza seme dzili ngana? 10 Kene zwiwunga zwili tendeka zwakajiwa nge bali zwiwulu zwinna (4 000) ne kuti makazhadza seme dzili ngana? 11 Ini musingahwisise kuti imi ndabe ndisingalebeleke namwi ngekwe tjiwunga? Koga ibeni nge njele ngekwe mbidzo ye Bafarasi ne Basadusi.”

12 Ipapo bakahwisisa kuti aatodwa kuti batjenjelele mbidzo ye tjiwunga, koga kuti babe ne njele ngekwe zwidiyo zwe Bafarasi ne Basadusi.

Pita unoleba kuti Jesu ndiye ani

(Mako 8:27-30Luke 9:18-21)

13 Kukati Jesu ezha mu ntuthu we Sizariya Filipi kabhuzwa badiyiwa babe kati, “Bathu banoti Nkololo we Nthu ndiye ani?”

14 Bakashandula beti, “Bamwe banoti ndi Johani we N'dubiki, bamwe banoti ndi Elija, koga bamwe banoti ndi Jeremiya kene mmwe we balebesambeli.”

Peter: Confession of Jesus as the Messiah

Recognising and standing firm in who Jesus is lays the foundation for everything we do and believe as Christians.

15 Kababhuzwa kati, “Koga imwi moti ndimi ani?”

16 Simoni Pita kashandula eti, “Ndimwi Mesiya, Nkololo we Ndzimu unotjila.”

17 Jesu kadabila kati, “Wakakombolegwa Simoni Nkololo wa Jona, ngobe oku auzokuzumbunuligwa nge nthu koga wakazumbunuligwa ndi Tate bangu ba kudzimu. 18 Kakale ndokubudza kuti ndiwe Pita, ngono pezhugwi kwe shongwe iyeyi, ndowobaka gubungano langu, ngono masimba e lufu atowolikunda. 19 Ndowokupa khiyi dze bushe gwe kudzimu, tjimwe ne tjimwe tjawasunga mu shango tjowosungwa kudzimu ne tjimwe ne tjimwe tjawasunungula mu shango tjowosunungugwa kudzimu.”

20 Ipapo kadwa badiyiwa babe akasimisa kuti bashete wabanobudza kuti ndiye Mesiya.

Jesu unoleba ngekwe kudziyidziwa kukwe nenge lufu gugwe

(Mako 8:31—9:1Luke 9:22-27)

21 Kudwa mu tjibaka itjetjo Jesu katangisa kulakidza badiyiwa babe kuti wakafanilo yenda ku Jerusalema, ngono adziyidziwe nge zwinjinji mu maboko e bakulu* ne bapirisiti banolaula ne badiyi be nlayo ne kuti wakafanila kubulawa, ngono mu zhuba le butatu amusiwe.

22 Pita kantolela ntome, katangisa kuntjemela eti kunli, “Akungajalo She! Zwithu izwezwi azwitowo mushingikalila!”

23 Jesu katjebuka kati kuna Pita, “Idwa pandili Satani! Utjidzibilidzi kundili, ngobe autoalakana zwithu zwe Ndzimu, unoalakana zwithu zwe bathu koga.”

7 Bible Verses On The Power of The Cross

Easter is a time of deep reflection and celebration. It reminds us of Jesus' sacrifice and the incredible gift of salvation we have through His death and resurrection. The cross is more than a symbol—it is the turning point of history, where love overcame sin and life triumphed over death. Let’s explore seven key Bible verses that reveal the power and meaning of the cross.

Ipapo Jesu kati ku badiyiwa babe, “Ha mmwe enditobela, ngaazwilandule, atole tjileyanyo tjitje anditobele. 25 Ngobe iye unoshaka kuzwitjidza, butjilo gugwe gowonlashikila, koga iye unowolashikigwa nge butjilo gugwe nge kwangu, unowoguwana. 26 Kobuzilani kuti nthu athuwe shango yose koga atjinyikigwe nge meya iye. Apa nthu ungatetshanya butjilo gugwe ngeni kene? 27 Ngobe Nkololo we Nthu unowozha nge gudzo la Tate babe, ana batumwa babe be kudzimu ngono ipapo unowolipa nthu mmwe ne mmwe muna tjaakathama. 28 Ndolebesa ndoti kumuli, kuna bamwe bamile ipapa banowobona kuzha kwe Nkololo we nthu mu Bushe gugwe, basathu bakafa.”

1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed. 5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.

6 ¶ Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. 8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? 9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? 12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

13 ¶ When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

21 ¶ From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. 23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

24 ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. 28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.