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Father's Fathers play a significant role in their children's lives, and building a strong connection with them is crucial for their emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Here are some practical ways dads can strengthen their bond with their kids: Building a Strong Foundation Set clear boundaries and expectations: Establishing rules and consequences helps children understand what's expected of them and provides a sense of structure. Be consistent and communicate effectively: Clearly communicate your expectations and values and be consistent in enforcing them. Quality Time Matters Find activities you both enjoy: Engage in activities that bring you and your child joy, such as playing games, cooking, or going for walks. Spend quality time together regularly: Regular quality time helps create lasting memories and deepens your connection. Effective Communication Listen actively: Give your child your full attention and show interest in their thoughts and feelings. Validate their emotions: Let your child know their feelings are valid and understood. Creating Lasting Memories Establish family traditions: Create special moments and rituals that your child will cherish, such as weekly movie nights or annual outings. Support their interests: Encourage and participate in activities your child enjoys. Age-Specific Connection Ideas For younger children (0-3 years): Get down to their level, engage in play, and read together. For older children (4-8 years): Build forts, draw, and read chapter books together. For pre-teens (9-12 years): Help with homework, introduce them to your interests, and find activities they enjoy ¹ ². Additional Tips Be a positive role model: Demonstrate integrity, kindness, and respect to teach your child essential values. Create "ask me anything" moments: Establish regular times for open conversation, encouraging your child to ask questions and seek guidance.

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Father Raising a Daughter: Be present and engaged: Spend quality time with your daughter, attend her events, and show interest in her life. Listen actively: Give your daughter your full attention, and validate her feelings and thoughts. Model positive behavior: Demonstrate respect, kindness, and integrity to teach your daughter valuable life lessons. Support her interests: Encourage your daughter to explore her passions and interests. Foster independence: Gradually give your daughter more responsibility and autonomy as she grows. Have open conversations: Discuss topics like self-worth, relationships, and body image to help her develop a positive self-image. Show unconditional love: Let your daughter know she's loved and valued regardless of her mistakes or choices. Some specific conversation topics to consider: Self-worth and confidence Healthy relationships and boundaries Body image and self-acceptance Goal-setting and perseverance Emotional intelligence and regulation By following these tips, you can build a strong, supportive relationship with your daughter and help her develop into a confident, capable individual.

Be a positive role model for relationships: Show your daughter what a healthy, respectful relationship looks like by treating her mother or other important women in your life with kindness and respect. Encourage her passions and interests: Support your daughter in exploring her hobbies and interests, and celebrate her achievements. Teach her about boundaries and consent: Have open and honest conversations with your daughter about setting boundaries, saying no, and understanding consent. Foster a growth mindset: Encourage your daughter to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, and praise her effort and persistence. Be involved in her education: Show interest in your daughter's education, attend parent-teacher conferences, and help her with homework or projects. Celebrate her uniqueness: Embrace and celebrate your daughter's individuality, and help her develop a strong sense of self. Be patient and understanding: Be patient and understanding when your daughter makes mistakes or faces challenges, and offer guidance and support when needed. Create special traditions: Develop special rituals or traditions that are just between the two of you, such as having a weekly dinner together or going on a annual trip. Show physical affection: Show your daughter physical affection like hugs, kisses, and cuddles to help her feel loved and secure. Be open to learning from her: Recognize that your daughter can teach you things too, and be open to learning from her experiences and perspectives. By following these tips, you can build a strong, loving relationship with your daughter and help her develop into a confident, capable, and compassionate person.

Daughters as a Blessing Genesis 33:5: Children are a gift from God, a reward from Him. Psalm 127:3: Children are a heritage from the Lord, a fruit of the womb. Psalm 144:12: May our daughters be like graceful pillars, carved to beautify a palace. Parental Love and Guidance Deuteronomy 6:6-7: Teach your children God's words diligently, talking about them when you sit, walk, lie down, and rise. Proverbs 22:6: Train up a child in the way they should go, and when old, they won't depart from it. Ephesians 6:4: Fathers, don't provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Faith and Virtue Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and He will make straight your paths. Proverbs 31:10: An excellent wife is far more precious than jewels. Matthew 5:8: Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Identity and Worth Genesis 1:27: God created humans in His image, male and female. Psalm 139:13-14: You formed my inward parts; I am fearfully and wonderfully made. 1 John 3:1: We are called children of God, and so we are. God's Care and Provision Psalm 27:10: Even if parents forsake, the Lord will take you in. Psalm 34:17: The Lord hears and delivers the righteous when they cry for help. Isaiah 41:10: Fear not, for I am with you; I will strengthen and help you. Relationships and Marriage Genesis 2:24: A man shall leave his parents and hold fast to his wife, becoming one flesh. Ephesians 5:25: Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church. 1 Peter 3:7: Live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor and respect.

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CLARK MAGAZINE page23

As detailed in a 2023 research paper, an Austrian medievalist examining texts in the Vatican Library discovered an ancient fragment of the Book of Matthew, which had been hidden for around 1,500 years under two other layers of text. The biblical text is an interpretation of parts of Matthew 11 and 12 that had never been seen before. It’s from one of the earliest translations of the Bible, written in Old Syriac. The Old Syriac translation dates back to the third century CE — even before the New Testament canon was officially established — but was lost for centuries, and only four examples have been unearthed in modern times, including the 2023 discovery. 

Some of the earliest versions of the Gospels — the four canonical New Testament books that tell the story of Jesus Christ — originated in Syria, which was home to major early Christian hubs such as Damascus and Antioch; these early versions were written in or translated to Old Syriac. The text unearthed in 2023 dates back to the sixth century, so it’s possible it was in widespread use before its disappearance.

When the earliest forms of the Bible were taking shape in the first few centuries CE, scholars wrote on parchment made from animal skin. (Paper didn’t reach the Middle East until the eighth century CE.) Since it wasn’t easy to come by, pieces of parchment were often erased and used for other works. Today, historians can use ultraviolet photography to reexamine materials that have already been in academic or religious libraries for a long time and see what was originally written beneath. In the case of the 2023 discovery, it’s believed the parchment containing the Old Syriac Gospel was covered by a Greek translation of the Sayings of the Desert Fathers (a collection of stories about early Christian hermits in Egypt), which was covered again by a Georgian manuscript. 

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According to Matthew 5:1, a large crowd came to Jesus, and he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them the Sermon on the Mount.

The Beatitudes are a set of spiritual and moral principles that outline the characteristics and attitudes of those who are blessed by God. Here's a breakdown of each Beatitude: Blessed are the poor in spirit: Humility and recognition of one's spiritual neediness. Blessed are those who mourn: Comfort for those who grieve, and promise of future joy. Blessed are the meek: Gentleness, humility, and dependence on God, leading to inheritance of the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: Desire for moral integrity and justice, with promise of satisfaction. Blessed are the merciful: Showing compassion and kindness to others, with promise of receiving mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: Single-minded devotion to God, with promise of seeing Him. Blessed are the peacemakers: Working towards reconciliation and harmony, with promise of being called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness: Enduring hardship and persecution for standing up for what's right, with promise of the kingdom of heaven. The Beatitudes offer a vision of life that is often countercultural, emphasizing the importance of humility, compassion, and spiritual pursuit.

Matthew 5:13-14, where Jesus says: "You are the salt of the earth…" "You are the light of the world…" In this context, Jesus is addressing his disciples and followers, referring to them as: Salt of the earth: Preserving and flavoring influence in the world. Light of the world: Reflecting God's presence and guiding others. Here, Jesus is emphasizing the role and responsibility of his followers to positively impact the world around them.

Matthew 5:24 says: "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of reconciliation and relationships. He teaches that worship and offerings are secondary to resolving conflicts and restoring relationships with others.

You're referring to Matthew 5:28 and 5:32. Here's what Jesus says: Matthew 5:28: "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in their heart." (Jesus emphasizes the importance of purity of thought and intention.) Matthew 5:32: "But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery." (Jesus teaches about the seriousness of marriage commitments and the grounds for divorce.) Both verses highlight Jesus' teachings on relationships, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness, purity, and commitment.

Matthew 5:39-41, where Jesus teaches about non-retaliation and going the extra mile. Here's what he says: Turn the other cheek (v. 39): Don't retaliate when slapped on the right cheek. Give your cloak as well (v. 40): Go beyond what's required when sued or pressured. Go the extra mile (v. 41): If forced to go one mile, go two instead. Jesus emphasizes responding to situations with grace, humility, and generosity, rather than resistance or aggression.

Matthew 5:44 says: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Jesus teaches his followers to respond to hostility and persecution with love, prayer, and kindness, rather than hatred or revenge. This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and showing compassion to those who may not deserve it.

Matthew 6:1 says: "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Jesus warns against doing good deeds or acts of righteousness for the purpose of seeking praise or recognition from others. Instead, he encourages his followers to focus on pleasing God and doing good genuinely, without seeking human approval.

Matthew 6:5 says: "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others." Jesus criticizes those who pray publicly for show or to impress others, rather than praying genuinely and privately. He teaches his followers to pray with sincerity and humility.

Matthew 6:6 says: "But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Jesus encourages his followers to pray: Privately: In a quiet, intimate setting. Sincerely: Without seeking to impress others. With faith: Trusting that God sees and responds. This verse promotes a genuine, personal relationship with God through prayer.

Matthew 6:7, where Jesus says: "And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words." The phrase "vain repetitions" (KJV) or "babbling" (NIV) refers to: Meaningless or insincere repetition of words or phrases. Praying excessively long or using fancy language to impress others. Jesus warns against praying in a way that's more focused on the words than genuine communication with God. He encourages simplicity, sincerity, and heart-felt prayer.

Matthew 6:8 says: "Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." Jesus teaches that God is aware of our needs and desires, even before we ask. This verse encourages trust and faith in God's provision and care, rather than relying on elaborate or repetitive prayers.

Matthew 6:14-15 says: "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness: Forgiving others: Reflects God's character and facilitates our own forgiveness. Not forgiving others: Can hinder our relationship with God and our experience of forgiveness. This passage highlights the connection between our forgiveness of others and God's forgiveness of us.

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting… But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen." Jesus teaches that fasting should be done: Privately: Without seeking to draw attention to oneself. Sincerely: With a genuine heart, rather than for external validation. This passage encourages humility and authenticity in spiritual practices. Matthew 6:16-18 says: Don't fast to impress others (v. 16). Hypocrites disfigure their faces to show they're fasting (v. 16). Fast in secret, and God will reward you (v. 18). Jesus emphasizes genuine, private devotion during fasting, rather than seeking recognition or praise from others.

These passages describe various instances and purposes of fasting in the Bible: David's fasting for his sick child (2 Samuel 12:15-22): Fasting and prayer out of grief and desperation. Jehoshaphat's fasting in times of crisis (2 Chronicles 20:3): Fasting and seeking God's help in the face of overwhelming challenges. Ezra's fasting for protection (Ezra 8:21): Fasting and seeking God's protection and guidance. Esther's fasting before risking her life (Esther 4:16): Fasting and seeking God's intervention in a desperate situation. Isaiah's critique of empty fasting (Isaiah 58:3-6): True fasting involves justice, humility, and serving others. Joel's call to fasting and repentance (Joel 1:14-15): Fasting as a call to repentance and seeking God's mercy. Jonah's message prompting Nineveh's fasting (Jonah 3:5): Fasting as a sign of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness. Discussion about fasting (Mark 2:18-20, Matthew 17:19-21): Jesus teaches about the purpose and timing of fasting. Paul's experiences with fasting (2 Corinthians 11:27): Fasting as part of Paul's hardships and dedication to his ministry. These passages show that fasting can be practiced for various reasons, including: Seeking God's intervention or guidance Repentance and seeking forgiveness Demonstrating humility and devotion Preparing for important tasks or challenges The biblical concept of fasting goes beyond just abstaining from food; it's often accompanied by prayer, humility, and a desire to seek God's will.

Matthew 6:19-21 says: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Jesus teaches that: Earthly treasures are fleeting: They can be lost or destroyed. Heavenly treasures are eternal: They are secure and lasting. Prioritize what truly matters: Focus on spiritual riches rather than material wealth. This passage encourages a heavenly perspective and a heart focused on eternal values.

Matthew 6:24 says: "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." Jesus teaches that: Loyalty is exclusive: You can't serve two opposing masters. God and wealth are conflicting priorities: One will dominate your heart. This verse warns against the idolatry of wealth and materialism, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one's relationship with God.

Matthew 6:25-34 says: Don't worry about material needs: Food, drink, clothing (v. 25-30) Trust God's provision (v. 31-33) Seek God's kingdom first (v. 33) Why worry?: God cares for birds and flowers (v. 26-30) You are valuable to God (v. 30) Live in the present: Focus on today (v. 34) Jesus teaches that: Trust God's provision: Don't worry about basic needs. Prioritize spiritual pursuits: Seek God's kingdom. Live with faith: Trust God's care and provision. This passage encourages a life of trust, faith, and focus on spiritual priorities.

Matthew 6:33 says: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Jesus teaches that: Prioritize God's kingdom: Seek God's rule and reign. Pursue righteousness: Live according to God's ways. Trust God's provision: God will provide for your needs. This verse encourages a focus on spiritual priorities, trusting that God will care for physical needs.

In Matthew 6:25, 31, and 34, Jesus discusses temporal concerns: Don't worry about tomorrow (v. 34): Focus on today. Don't worry about basic needs (v. 25, 31): Trust God's provision. The Greek word "merimna" (worry) implies distracting anxiety. Jesus teaches that trust in God's sovereignty and provision can alleviate temporal worries, freeing us to focus on spiritual priorities.

Matthew 7:1-2 says: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Jesus teaches that: Avoid judgmental attitudes: Don't condemn others. Be aware of consequences: Your judgment of others will be the standard used to judge you. This passage encourages self-reflection, humility, and mercy in interactions with others.

Matthew 7:7 says: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Jesus teaches that: Ask: Bring your needs to God in prayer. Seek: Actively pursue God's will and guidance. Knock: Persistently seek access to God's presence and blessings. This verse encourages persistence and faith in prayer and seeking God's will.

Matthew 7:8 says: "For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Jesus emphasizes that: Prayer is answered: Those who ask receive. Seeking leads to discovery: Those who seek find. Persistence is rewarded: Those who knock will have doors opened. This verse reassures believers of God's willingness to respond to their prayers and seeking.

Matthew 7:13-14 says: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Jesus contrasts two paths: The broad road: Leads to destruction, many follow it. The narrow road: Leads to life, fewer choose it. This passage encourages careful consideration of one's spiritual path and priorities.

Matthew 7:16 says: "By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?" Jesus teaches that: Character reveals itself: A person's true nature is shown by their actions and outcomes. Good fruit comes from good roots: Righteousness and goodness produce positive results. This verse encourages discernment and evaluation of others (and oneself) based on tangible evidence of their character and actions.

Matthew 7:21 says: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." Jesus emphasizes that: Profession isn't enough: Claiming Jesus as Lord isn't sufficient for salvation. Obedience is required: Doing God's will is essential for true discipleship. This verse highlights the importance of genuine faith demonstrated through obedience to God's will.

Matthew 7:24-27 says: Two builders: Wise builder: Builds on rock (hearing and obeying Jesus' words) Foolish builder: Builds on sand (hearing but not obeying) Consequences: Wise builder's house stands firm against storms Foolish builder's house collapses Jesus teaches that: Obedience is key: Putting His words into practice is crucial. Stability and security: Following Jesus' teachings provides a firm foundation. This parable emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith through obedience to Jesus' teachings.

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In Philippians 4:1, Paul addresses the Philippians as "my brethren, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown", showing his deep affection for them. He views them as: Beloved brothers A source of joy A crown (symbolizing reward and pride) This expression highlights Paul's love and appreciation for the Philippians, and he encourages them to stand firm in the Lord.

In Philippians 4:2-3, Paul exhorts Euodia and Syntyche to "agree with each other in the Lord". He encourages these two women, who seem to have had a disagreement or differing opinions, to reconcile and live in harmony, unity, and cooperation as sisters in Christ.

In Philippians 4:4, Paul writes: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice". He encourages believers to: Cultivate a sense of joy that is rooted in their relationship with the Lord. Maintain this joy consistently, regardless of circumstances ("always"). This verse emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord, not just in times of happiness or ease, but as a perpetual attitude of the heart.

Philippians 4:5 says, "Let your gentleness be evident to all" (NIV) or "Let your moderation be known unto all men" (KJV). This verse encourages believers to demonstrate a gentle, gracious, and reasonable spirit in their interactions with others, reflecting the character of Christ.

In Philippians 4:7, Paul writes that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will "guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus". This verse promises that God's peace will: Protect and guard believers' hearts and minds Provide a supernatural sense of calm and security Transcend human understanding and logic This peace is available to those who trust in Christ and prioritize Him in their lives.

In Philippians 4:8, Paul writes: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things". He encourages believers to focus their minds on things that are: True, Noble, Just, Pure, Lovely, Good reputation, Excellent, Praiseworthy This verse promotes a mindset of positivity, integrity, and godliness, encouraging believers to dwell on things that are uplifting and virtuous.

In Philippians 4:9, Paul writes: "What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you". He encourages the Philippians to: Put into practice the teachings and example they've seen in Paul Live out their faith in a way that honors God Experience the presence of the God of peace in their lives This verse emphasizes the importance of applying biblical truth and following the example of mature believers, which leads to a deepening relationship with God.

Paul's exhortation is to "Rejoice in the Lord" (Philippians 3:1, 4:4). He emphasizes that true joy comes from a relationship with the Lord, and encourages believers to find their joy in Him regardless of circumstances.

In Philippians 4:11, Paul writes: "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever circumstances I am to be content". He's saying that: He's not complaining about lack or need He's learned to be content in every situation Contentment is a learned skill, not dependent on external circumstances This verse highlights Paul's secret to contentment: learning to be satisfied in every situation, regardless of whether he has much or little.

One of the most famous verses in the Bible! In Philippians 4:13, Paul writes: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". This verse is often quoted as a declaration of faith and confidence in God's power and strength. It emphasizes that: Believers have access to Christ's strength and power With God's help, they can overcome challenges and accomplish His will It's not about human ability, but about God's empowerment This verse has brought encouragement and inspiration to many people throughout history!

In Philippians 4:19, Paul writes: "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus". This verse promises that: God will provide for believers' needs His provision comes from His rich and glorious resources This provision is made possible through Christ Jesus This verse offers reassurance of God's care and provision for His people, trusting in His abundance and goodness.

Memorize to Memory: 1:6 "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ". In Philippians 1:6, Paul writes: "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ". This verse expresses confidence that: God initiates and sustains the work of salvation in believers He will complete this work until the day of Jesus Christ God's work in believers is progressive, moving toward completion This verse encourages trust in God's faithfulness and His ability to complete the work He starts in us.

In Philippians 1:21, Paul writes: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain". This verse highlights Paul's perspective on life and death: His life is centered on Christ and serving Him Even death would bring gain, likely referring to being with Christ His focus is on Christ, whether in life or death This verse shows Paul's devotion to Christ and his confidence in the gain of being with Him, whether through life or death.

We're back to one of the most popular verses! Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". A powerful declaration of faith, confidence, and dependence on God's strength.

Philippians 4:19: "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus". A beautiful promise of God's provision and care for His people, rooted in His abundant riches and glory.

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In Philippians 3:1-3, Paul warns the Philippian church about the "dogs" and "evil workers" who are advocating for circumcision and adherence to Jewish law as a requirement for salvation. These individuals, often referred to as Judaizers, were teaching that Gentile converts needed to become Jewish proselytes to truly be part of God's people. Paul's warning is about the dangers of relying on external rituals and works for salvation, emphasizing instead the sufficiency of faith in Christ. He highlights the contrast between the "flesh" (circumcision, Jewish heritage, and legalistic practices) and the true circumcision, which is a matter of the heart, worshiping God in spirit, and finding confidence in Christ. In essence, Paul is cautioning the Philippians against false teachers who seek to add human achievements or religious rituals to the gospel, undermining the centrality of faith in Christ for salvation.

In Philippians 3:3, Paul describes three characteristics of those who are spiritually circumcised: We worship God in the Spirit: This highlights the importance of a spiritual relationship with God, rather than relying on external rituals or practices. We glory in Christ Jesus: This emphasizes the centrality of Christ in the life of a believer, finding confidence and pride in one's relationship with Him. We put no confidence in the flesh: This means that spiritual circumcision involves not relying on external advantages or human achievements (like circumcision, ancestry, or personal accomplishments) for salvation or spiritual standing, but rather trusting in Christ alone. These characteristics emphasize the heart attitude and spiritual focus of those who have experienced the true circumcision of the heart through faith in Christ.

In Philiphan 3:5, Paul mentions three things about his background: He was circumcised on the eighth day, indicating he was born into a Jewish family and followed Jewish customs. He was of the people of Israel, highlighting his Hebrew heritage. He was of the tribe of Benjamin, specifying his ancestry within the Jewish people. These details emphasize Paul's Jewish roots and credentials.

In Philippians 3:5-6, Paul mentions several things about his background and credentials: Circumcised on the eighth day Of the people of Israel Of the tribe of Benjamin A Hebrew of Hebrews (not mentioned in 3:5 but 3:5 says "of the tribe of Benjamin" and in vs 5 it starts with circumcision and in vs 6 he continues) As for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness under the law, blameless. These details highlight Paul's strict adherence to Jewish law and traditions, as well as his former zealotry in persecuting the church before his conversion.

In Philippians 3:7, Paul concludes that whatever were gains to him previously (his Jewish heritage, circumcision, law-keeping, etc.), he now considers them loss for the sake of Christ. He has come to regard his former advantages and achievements as inferior to knowing Christ and gaining a relationship with Him. This marks a significant shift in Paul's perspective, prioritizing spiritual gain in Christ over external credentials or accomplishments.

In Philippians 3:9, Paul expresses his desire to have "the righteousness from God that depends on faith" (NIV) or "the righteousness which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God and is by faith" (NASB). Paul is seeking a righteousness that comes from God, based on faith in Christ, rather than a righteousness based on his own works or adherence to the law. This highlights the distinction between legalistic righteousness (trying to earn salvation through good works or law-keeping) and faith-based righteousness (trusting in Christ for salvation and standing before God).

In Philippians 3:10, Paul expresses that he desires: To know Christ: Intimacy and deepening relationship with Jesus. The power of His resurrection: Experiencing the transformative and life-giving power that comes from Christ's resurrection. The fellowship of His sufferings: Sharing in and identifying with Christ's sufferings. To become like Him in His death: Conforming to Christ's pattern of self-sacrifice and dying to self. These desires reflect Paul's passion for a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Christ, and for being conformed to His image.

In Philippians 3:14, Paul mentions that he presses on toward the goal for the "prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus". This prize refers to the ultimate reward and recognition from God for faithfulness and perseverance in the Christian life, specifically the attainment of eternal life and glorification with Christ. Paul's focus is on the heavenly calling and the future reward that awaits believers, motivating him to continue running the race of faith with perseverance.

In Philippians 3:15, Paul encourages the Philippians to reflect on their spiritual maturity and mindset, implying that if they have attained a certain level of spiritual growth, they will share the same likeness or perspective as Paul. He invites those who are "mature" (or "perfect" in some translations) to have this mindset. If they have differences in understanding certain aspects of the Christian life, Paul assures them that God will reveal even more to them (verse 15). In essence, the Philippians can know if they have the same likeness or mindset as Paul by: Sharing the same focus on Christ and His righteousness (vs 7-10) Pressing on toward the goal of knowing Christ and being conformed to His image (vs 10-14) Pursuing spiritual maturity and unity in their understanding of the gospel The passage implies that this likeness is marked by a shared passion for Christ, a common goal of heavenly pursuits, and a unity of spirit among believers.

In Philippians 3:18-19, Paul describes the enemies of the cross of Christ, mentioning that their: End is destruction: Their fate is eternal destruction. Their god is their belly: Their appetites and desires control them. They glory in their shame: They take pride in things that are actually shameful. They set their minds on earthly things: Their focus is on temporal, worldly matters rather than heavenly ones. These characteristics highlight the stark contrast between those who prioritize earthly desires and those who, like Paul, prioritize the things of Christ and the heavenly kingdom.

According to Philippians 3:20, our "citizenship is in heaven". This verse emphasizes that as believers, our true home and identity are not earthly but heavenly. We are citizens of the kingdom of God, and our ultimate hope and destination are with Christ in heaven. This truth shapes our perspective, values, and priorities as we live out our lives on earth.

In Philippians 3:21, Paul writes that Christ will "transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body". This transformation refers to the future resurrection and glorification of believers, when our earthly bodies will be transformed to be like Christ's resurrected body - immortal, glorious, and powerful. This change will occur when Christ returns, and believers will be fully conformed to His likeness.

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The Gospel of Matthew: The Parable of the Tares There are 10 parables in the Gospel of Matthew not shared in the other gospels. This study is the story of sifting the tares from wheat. Matthew 13:24-30; Matthew 13:36-43

Read the passage in the King James Version and then use this study guide.

The Tares= the Bearded Darnel (Herbs/weed/POISON) The end result of the weed seed it is POISON/ a TOXIN.

The tare seed is sown amongst the wheat. (They grow together looking identical but a professional can identify the wheat. This is called 'grass blindness'=Grass blindness occurs when a person can't identify good from bad/ wheat from tares/ edibleness from POISON TOXIN.

Fraternized Tare-n-Wheat- (meaning mixing/mingling) One must trust the owner to sift, separate, and divide. Keep in mind the tare seed WILL NOT CHANGE/CANNOT CHANGE, they are evil and corrupt. There is NO SAVING THEM. No matter what you do/say/act the EVIL will not change. They are DETERMINED WEED SEED.

The seeds isn't easy to separate after planting, but in harvest time he results will speak for itself. It's easier to harvest after the seeds have died and grown.

Seeds must be planted/scattered/the seeds must die to grow into a collection process called harvest.

A seed must be identified as what it is to produce what it is. The seed planted is the KINGDOM.

God seeds the KINGDOM not a doctrine/teaching. The seeding/planting of GOD is the KINGDOM. It's GOD's process of sending the KINGDOM to the world. The KINGDOM comes first and then the WORD of GOD. That is GOD's signature. The KINGDOM is salvation begats salvation. The seed is SALVATION in CHRIST.

The GOOD and the BAD are growing together/living together on earth, but the GOOD are already living in the KINGDOM on earth. The BAD must experience what GOOD living/KINGDOM living/SALVATION living looks like. The GOOD must experience the antagonism/struggles/battles of EVIL dwelling on earth for the earth will perish/be judged with/by sin to their destiny. EVIL is of this earth and the good is from the KINGDOM living on earth to actually and eventually enduring to see the physical KINGDOM coming to a new heaven and a new earth after Judgment Day of this earth.

Matthew 13:36-43 Explains the Tares and Wheat Parable The Son of Man: Planted the Seeds The field: is the world The seed: is GOD'S children of the KINGDOM. People filled with the KINGDOM of GOD The weeds: are people that belong to the Evil One/Satan/the Devil The One who planted the weed seeds: the Evil One/Satan/Devil/the enemy

Harvest time: end of the world

God's angels: the workers who gather in harvest time

At the end of the world, God is gathering his HARVEST. (The product outcome of the seed planting)

The Harvest Process: the period of gathering the crops. (Seeds must die and produce more seeds that is good for growth.)

GOD is harvesting those that belong to HIM

At the end of the world in harvest time, the weeds will be gathered and burned

Judgment will come to those needing burning. The angels of God will gather them.

Then that REMAINS only are the good people, and they will shine like the golden sun in the KINGDOM.

THE GOLDEN AGE: "You people who can hear me, listen."-Christ Jesus