Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his Bible study on the harmony of the Gospels by examining the genealogies of Christ recorded in Matthew and Luke. He explains how Matthew traces Jesus’ lineage from Abraham through David to Joseph, emphasizing Christ as the Jewish Messiah, while Luke connects Jesus to Adam and God, highlighting His role as Savior for all humanity. Fr. Matthias explores the differences in genealogy, including the concept of levirate marriage, and reads both genealogies in detail.

He then discusses the birth of Christ, explaining the significance of Joseph and Mary’s betrothal, the prophecy of Emmanuel, and the fulfillment of Micah’s prophecy about Bethlehem. Fr. Matthias clarifies misunderstandings about Jesus’ firstborn status and Mary’s perpetual virginity. He also provides historical and geographical context for the birth narrative, including the Roman census and the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem.

This study offers a foundational understanding of Christ’s lineage, birth, and the prophetic fulfillment in Scripture

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the Bible study on the harmony of the Gospels by exploring the annunciations of the births of St. John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. He explains the priestly division of Abijah and the role of Zacharias and Elizabeth, highlighting the miraculous conception of John and his consecration from birth. Fr. Matthias then examines the annunciation to the Virgin Mary, clarifying the Jewish betrothal customs to explain Mary and Joseph's relationship and emphasizing Mary’s unique humility and obedience in accepting God's plan.

Drawing connections to Old Testament prophecies, Fr. Matthias discusses the lineage of David, the mission of John as the forerunner to Christ, and the spiritual symbolism of the Church as the Bride of Christ through the stages of betrothal, consummation, and celebration. He also considers the significance of faith and acceptance in God’s calling using examples from Scripture.

This study deepens understanding of the Gospel narratives surrounding the Nativity and the divine preparation for Christ’s coming

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the Bible study on the harmony of the Gospels by exploring the birth of St. John the Baptist and the genealogy of Christ. He examines the visit of St. Mary to Elizabeth, highlighting the recognition of Christ’s presence even before His birth. Fr. Matthias discusses the significance of the Magnificat, St. John’s miraculous birth, and the prophecy of Zacharias about both Christ and John’s roles in salvation.

He explains the Old Testament law of levirate marriage to clarify differences in the genealogies presented by St. Matthew and St. Luke, distinguishing between legal and biological lineage. Fr. Matthias emphasizes how Matthew traces Christ’s royal lineage through King Solomon for a Jewish audience, while Luke traces it back to Adam for the Gentiles. The study connects these genealogies to the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies and introduces the theological meaning behind names and covenants.

This session sheds light on biblical context, prophecy fulfillment, and the foundations of Christ’s identity.

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the study of the harmony of the Gospels by exploring the birth and early childhood of Christ. This session covers the Annunciation to the Shepherds, emphasizing their role as the first evangelists who spread the news of Jesus’ birth and salvation to all people. Fr. Matthias explains the spiritual significance of Christ’s circumcision and His presentation in the temple according to Jewish law, highlighting how Jesus fulfilled and transitioned from Old Covenant practices.

The talk introduces Simeon and Anna, who recognize Jesus as the Messiah during His temple presentation, and details the visit of the Wise Men as recorded in Matthew. Fr. Matthias clarifies the timeline of events surrounding Jesus’ birth, the star of the Magi, Herod’s reaction, and the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. He also addresses the deeper meaning behind these events and their fulfillment of prophecy, including the conflict Christ’s coming would bring.

This Bible study deepens understanding of the Nativity narrative by connecting scriptural events with their theological and historical context

We must be the living proof of the resurrection to those around us. To do this, we must set our minds on things above as the new raised man in us will give witness to the Lord.

Sometimes we come to Christ to be healed, but instead begin to rationalise how we must be healed. What processes are involved and how we should be treated. Instead we ought to come to Him with no agenda or preconceived notions in our mind. Only then shall we like the woman at the well, be saved and drink of the Living Water.

Faith and doubt go hand in hand. It is through doubt that if we are willing, God can reveal Himself more to us. The goal is to grow closer to Him through this unbelief, rather than to pull away from Him.

Tune in as Anthony confronts us with the question “Is this going to help me grow spiritually?” rather than viewing it as “Am I allowed to do this?”.

Tune in to Part 3 of the series, “The Company You Keep,” as Fr Abraham explores the importance of community in our lives. Discover how stepping beyond surface-level interactions can lead to deeper, more life-giving community!

Tune in to Fr Abraham Fam unpacks what it really means that Jesus is the Bread of Life - not just an idea, but the true source of healing and resurrection found in the Eucharist.