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by Michael Hopkins Once upon a time, in the small town of Bethlehem, a child was born under a starlit sky. His name was Jesus, and he was destined to become the savior of mankind. Chapter 1: The Birth of Jesus In the humble town of Bethlehem, Mary, a young woman of virtue and faith, gave birth to a son in a stable. She named him Jesus. His birth was heralded by a brilliant star in the sky, guiding wise men from the East who brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Chapter 2: The Childhood of Jesus Jesus grew up in Nazareth under the care of Mary and her husband, Joseph. He was a child of wisdom, growing in favor with God and men. At the age of twelve, he astounded scholars with his understanding and answers at the temple in Jerusalem. Chapter 3: The Baptism and Temptation As a grown man, Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, marking the beginning of his ministry. After his baptism, he was led into the wilderness, where he fasted for forty days and nights and was tempted by the devil. But Jesus resisted all temptations, proving his divine nature. Chapter 4: The Ministry of Jesus Jesus traveled throughout Galilee, teaching in synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom of God, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. He performed many miracles, such as turning water into wine, feeding thousands with a few loaves and fishes, walking on water, and raising the dead. Chapter 5: The Teachings of Jesus Jesus taught many things through parables. He taught about love, forgiveness, faith, and the kingdom of God. His teachings were revolutionary, challenging the religious leaders of his time and offering a new way to understand God’s will. Chapter 6: The Crucifixion and Resurrection Despite his teachings and miracles, Jesus was betrayed by one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot. He was arrested, tried, and crucified. But on the third day after his death, he rose again, appearing to his disciples and many others, proving his resurrection and divine nature. Chapter 7: The Ascension After his resurrection, Jesus spent forty days with his disciples, teaching them and preparing them for their mission. Then, he ascended to heaven in their presence, promising to send the Holy Spirit to guide them. This is the story of Jesus Christ, a tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption. His life and teachings continue to guide and inspire billions around the world, offering hope and salvation to all who believe in him. This story is a brief summary of the life of Jesus Christ as recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. For a more detailed account, I recommend reading the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the New Testament.

by Michael Hopkins Elijah Announces a Great Drought (1 Kings 17:1) Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, was a prophet who served the Lord, the God of Israel1 . He made a bold proclamation to Ahab, the king of Israel, declaring that there would be neither dew nor rain in the coming years, except at his word1 . This was a direct challenge to the Baal worship that Ahab promoted, as Baal was considered the god of fertility and rain1 . Elijah and Obadiah (1 Kings 18:1, 5-8) After a long time, the word of the Lord came to Elijah in the third year, saying, "Go, show yourself to Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth" 2 . During this time, there was a severe famine in Samaria 2 . Ahab had summoned Obadiah, who was in charge of his house and a devout believer in the Lord 3 . Ahab instructed Obadiah to search the land for springs and valleys where they might find grass to save the horses and mules 2 . As Obadiah was on his way, he encountered Elijah. Recognizing the prophet, Obadiah fell on his face and asked, “Is it you, my lord Elijah?” Elijah confirmed his identity and instructed Obadiah to inform Ahab of his presence 2 . Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:16-39) Ahab met Elijah, accusing him of troubling Israel 4 . Elijah retorted that it was Ahab and his family who had troubled Israel by abandoning the Lord’s commands and following Baal 4 . Elijah then proposed a contest on Mount Carmel to prove who the true God was 4 . He challenged the 450 prophets of Baal to prepare a bull for sacrifice and call on their god to set it on fire 4 . Elijah would do the same, calling on the Lord. The God who answered by fire would be acknowledged as the true God 4 . The prophets of Baal called upon their god from morning till noon, but there was no response 4 . Elijah taunted them, suggesting that Baal might be deep in thought, busy, traveling, or sleeping 4 . The prophets of Baal shouted louder and cut themselves with swords and spears, but there was still no response 4 . Elijah then repaired the altar of the Lord, arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces, and laid it on the wood 4 . He had four large jars of water poured on the offering and the wood, not once, but three times 4 . Elijah then called upon the Lord, and the fire of the Lord fell, consuming the burnt offering, the wood, the stones, and even the water in the trench 4 . When the people saw this, they fell on their faces and acknowledged, "The Lord indeed is God; the Lord indeed is God" 4 . Elijah Flees to Horeb (1 Kings 19:1-16) After these events, Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done, including the execution of the prophets of Baal 5 . Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, threatening to take his life 5 . Elijah, filled with fear, fled for his life to Beersheba in Judah 5 . He left his servant there and went a day’s journey into the wilderness, where he prayed for death 5 . An angel of the Lord appeared to Elijah, providing him with food and water 5 . Strengthened by this sustenance, Elijah traveled forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mountain of God 5 . There, the Lord appeared to him, not in a great wind, an earthquake, or a fire, but in a gentle whisper 5 . The Lord instructed Elijah to return to the Desert of Damascus and anoint Hazael as king over Aram, Jehu son of Nimshi as king over Israel, and Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed him as prophet 5 . Elijah’s story is a testament to the power and sovereignty of God, demonstrating His ability to use ordinary people to carry out His extraordinary plans.

by Archbishop G. Elisha Chennaiah The soul delves into the mysteries of God. The Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the enigmas of God (1 Corinthians 2:10). What role does the Holy Spirit play according to Paul? We owe a great debt to Jehovah for the workings of the Holy Spirit. The scriptures inform us that the Holy Spirit serves as an advocate, a gift, a witness, and intercedes on our behalf (John 14:16; Acts 2:38; Romans 8:16, 26, 27). Paul, the apostle, highlighted another crucial function of the Holy Spirit: ‘The Spirit investigates all things, even the secrets of God’ (1 Corinthians 2:10). Jehovah employs His Holy Spirit to disclose profound spiritual truths. Without this assistance, would we comprehend anything about His plans? (1 Corinthians 2:9-12). However, questions may arise such as: How does the Holy Spirit explore God’s mysteries? Through whom did Jehovah disclose these mysteries in the first century? Through whom and how is the Holy Spirit examining God’s mysteries in our era? Jesus explained that the Holy Spirit operates in two ways. Before His death, He told His apostles: The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will instruct you in all things and remind you of everything I have said to you (John 14:26). This implies that the Holy Spirit educates us and reminds us of what we have learned. It instructs by aiding Christians in comprehending previously unfathomable matters. It reminds us by assisting us in recalling and applying correctly explained things. Jesus imparted many new truths to His disciples. However, they still had much to learn. Therefore, Jesus told His apostles: I have many things to tell you, but you cannot bear them now. But when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth (John 16:12, 13). In these words, Jesus indicated that the Holy Spirit gradually unveils spiritual mysteries. On the day of Pentecost, the Spirit of truth was poured out on the 120 gathered in Jerusalem. That day, the people witnessed the workings of the Holy Spirit with their own eyes and ears (Acts 1:4, 5, 15; 2:1-4). The disciples described God’s great works in various languages (Acts 2:5-11). It was a day when something new was to be revealed. The prophet Joel had prophesied about this outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28-32). All those gathered there saw the prophecy fulfilled in a way that no one had anticipated. The apostle Peter stepped in to explain what had transpired that day (Read Acts 2:14-18). The Holy Spirit taught by helping Peter understand that the prophecy the disciples had experienced was not fulfilled. It can also be said that the Holy Spirit reminded Peter of many things. For he quoted not only the prophecy of Joel but also two psalms written by David (Psalms 16:8-11; 110:1; Acts 2:25-28, 34, 35). Those gathered in Jerusalem that day truly saw and heard the mysteries of God. There were many things that were not understood in the first century. For instance, questions arose in their minds about the new covenant that came into effect on the day of Pentecost. Is the New Testament limited to the Jews and the Jewish converts? Is it possible for Gentiles to enter into that covenant and be anointed with the Holy Spirit? (Acts 10:45) Is it necessary for Gentile men to first be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses in order to come under this provision? (Acts 15:1, 5) These are very important questions. The help of Jehovah’s spirit was needed to investigate these mysteries. But, by whom did it work? Such necessary matters were brought up for discussion by the responsible brothers. In the Governing Body meeting, Peter, Paul, and Barnabas explained how Jehovah was dealing with uncircumcised Gentiles (Acts 15:7-12). After examining the evidence presented by those brothers and the Hebrew Scriptures, the Governing Body made a decision with the help of the Holy Spirit. After that, they communicated the decision to the congregations through letters (Acts 15:25-30; Acts 16:4, 5; Ephesians 3:5, 6). More clarity was provided by the inspired epistles of John, Peter, James, and Paul. After the writing of the Scriptures, the gifts of prophecy and miraculous revelation of knowledge ceased at one point (1 Corinthians 13:8). Does the Holy Spirit still teach and remind things after that? Does it help to investigate the mysteries of God? The prophecies indicated that it would help… Your brother in Christ, Servant of God, Pastor Elisha Chennaiah, from Hyderabad, India.

by Archbishop G. Elisha Chennaiah In the end times, who will be illuminated with spiritual knowledge?👈🙏 Who is the conduit through which the Holy Spirit unveils profound truths in the last days?How are the truths about Jehovah’s magnificent spiritual temple elucidated? An angel prophesied about the end times: Those who possess wisdom will shine like the lights in the sky. He who guides many to tread the path of righteousness will shine eternally like a star. Wisdom is paramount. (Dan. 12:3-4) Who are these wise or knowledgeable individuals? Who shines brightly? Jesus identified them in the parable of the wheat and the weeds.Speaking of the end of the age, he stated: Then the righteous will shine like the sun in their Father’s kingdom. (Matt.13:39- 43) Jesus clarified that these righteous individuals are the sons of the kingdom or anointed disciples.( Matt.13:38,) subscript. Anointed individuals participate in preaching, making disciples, and fortifying each other in gatherings. In this regard, the anointed are alike. (Zech. 8:23) But besides that, mysteries are also to be disclosed in the last days. Daniel’s prophecy was sealed until the end of time. (Dan. 12:9) How and by whom does the Holy Spirit probe mysteries? When a spiritual matter requires clarification in our time, the Holy Spirit assists the Governing Body, which represents the faithful and discreet slave class at world headquarters. With that assistance, they are able to comprehend deeper truths that were previously unfathomable.(Matt. 24:45; 1 Cor. 2:13) The new interpretation is deliberated collectively by all members of the governing body. (Acts 15:6) Then they disseminate what they learn for everyone’s benefit.(Matt. 10:27) As time progresses, some other things may require clarification. They also truthfully explain them. How did the Holy Spirit reveal the depiction of the spiritual temple? How can we gain from the role the Holy Spirit plays today? How do servants gain from the Holy Spirit’s role in unveiling God’s mysteries? Faithful servants gain from the Holy Spirit’s role in unveiling God’s mysteries. We will also study the servants from the first century and the servants who benefit today. Then, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, we recall what we understood and apply it in our lives.(Luke 12:11-12) We don’t need to read voluminous books to understand the deep spiritual truths that have been published. (Acts 4:13) But how can we enhance our understanding of God’s mysteries?Let’s now consider some suggestions… When should we pray for the Holy Spirit? Pray for the assistance of the Holy Spirit. Before perusing any scriptural information, we should pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Even if we are alone or have limited time, we should pray in this manner. Our heavenly Father must be delighted if we humbly pray. As Jesus stated, Jehovah will grant us his Holy Spirit if we earnestly ask… Luke 11:13… Prepare for gatherings. Through the slave class, we receive nourishment at the appropriate time. The slave fulfills his duty by providing scriptural information and arranging programs for study and gatherings. If all the brethren declare that certain information should be examined, they do so only after extensive research. (1 Pet. 2:17; Col. 4:16; Jude 3) When we do everything we can to walk according to what they say, we become collaborators of the Holy Spirit…Rev. 2:29… When preparing for the gatherings, we should examine the scriptures mentioned and try to understand the connection between the subject being read and those scriptures. If we cultivate this habit, we will be able to gradually enhance our understanding of the Bible. (Acts 17:11-12) When we see the scriptures, they are imprinted on our minds, and then the Holy Spirit assists us to remember them. Moreover, if we open the Bible and examine the scriptures, it will be imprinted in our mind on which side of a certain page a scripture is located. We can locate it when we need it… It enhances our understanding of spiritual matters…Haba. 2:2. We will be able to utilize them when needed…Matt. 13:52. Why don’t we take a step back to study the deeper truths of God’s Word? Jesus stated that the Holy Spirit assists us. So don’t refrain from studying the deeper truths of God’s Word. Those truths are part of the precious knowledge of God. We are encouraged to seek those truths.(Proverbs 2:1-5) They speak volumes about what God has prepared for those who love him. The Holy Spirit assists us as we strive to learn more about Jehovah’s Word…1 Cor. 2:9, 10…! Please, my brothers and sisters and esteemed ministers, please assist them in my family and my ministry and my teaching of the gospel. I am very poor, please, my brother, assist me. God bless you… Your brother in Christ. Servant of God. Pastor Elisha Chennaiah. from Hyderabad, India.

By Michael Hopkins The story of David, the musician, and King Saul, as told in the book of 1 Samuel 16:14-23, is a fascinating tale of divine intervention, music, and power. This narrative unfolds in the backdrop of the ancient kingdom of Israel and offers profound insights into the role of divine providence in human affairs. The Torment of King Saul The story begins with a dramatic shift in King Saul’s life. The Lord’s Spirit had left Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him1 . This torment was so severe that Saul’s officials noticed it and suggested a remedy1 . They proposed to find a man who could play the lyre well, believing that music could soothe Saul’s torment1 . David: The Shepherd, The Musician In response to this suggestion, one of the officials recommended David, a son of Jesse from Bethlehem1 . David was not just a skilled lyre player; he was also described as a courageous warrior, eloquent, handsome, and most importantly, the Lord was with him1 . Upon hearing this, Saul sent messengers to Jesse, asking him to send David, who was tending the sheep1 . Jesse complied, sending David along with gifts of bread, wine, and a young goat1 . David and Saul: A Divine Connection David entered Saul’s service and quickly won the king’s favor1 . Saul loved David greatly and even made him his armor-bearer1 . Saul sent a message to Jesse, asking him to let David stay in his service, for he had grown fond of him1 . The most remarkable part of this story is the effect of David’s music on Saul. Whenever the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take the lyre and play1 . The soothing melodies played by David would relieve Saul of his torment, making him feel better, and the evil spirit would depart from him1 . Conclusion The story of David the musician and King Saul is a powerful testament to the transformative power of music and the mysterious ways in which divine providence works. It shows us how a humble shepherd boy could soothe a tormented king and eventually rise to become one of the greatest kings in biblical history. This narrative, rich in its historical and spiritual significance, continues to inspire and intrigue readers, offering timeless lessons on faith, courage, and the healing power of music.

By Michael Hopkins The story of David sparing Saul’s life, as recounted in 1 Samuel 26, is a powerful testament to David’s faith, integrity, and respect for God’s anointed. This article will delve into the narrative, drawing on various scriptures to provide a comprehensive understanding of the event. The Setting The Ziphites informed Saul that David was hiding on the hill of Hakilah, which faces Jeshimon1 . In response, Saul took three thousand select Israelite troops to the Desert of Ziph to search for David1 . Saul made his camp beside the road on the hill of Hakilah facing Jeshimon, while David stayed in the wilderness1 . David’s Courageous Act David, upon learning that Saul had arrived, went to the place where Saul had camped1 . He saw where Saul and Abner, the commander of the army, had lain down1 . Saul was lying inside the camp, with the army encamped around him1 . David then asked Ahimelek the Hittite and Abishai, Joab’s brother, “Who will go down into the camp with me to Saul?”1 . Abishai volunteered to accompany David1 . They went to the army by night and found Saul asleep inside the camp with his spear stuck in the ground near his head1 . Abner and the soldiers were lying around him1 . A Test of Integrity Abishai, seeing Saul defenseless, suggested to David, “Today God has delivered your enemy into your hands. Now let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of the spear; I won’t strike him twice.”1 . However, David responded, “Don’t destroy him! Who can lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed and be guiltless?"1 . David continued, "As surely as the Lord lives, the Lord himself will strike him, or his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. But the Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed. Now get the spear and water jug that are near his head, and let’s go.”1 . The Aftermath David took the spear and water jug near Saul’s head, and they left1 . No one saw or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up1 . They were all sleeping, because the Lord had put them into a deep sleep1 . David crossed over to the other side and stood on top of the hill some distance away1 . He called out to the army and to Abner, “Aren’t you going to answer me, Abner?”1 . Abner replied, “Who are you who calls to the king?”1 . David then rebuked Abner for failing to guard Saul, saying, “What you have done is not good. As surely as the Lord lives, you and your men must die, because you did not guard your master, the Lord’s anointed."1 . Saul’s Recognition Saul recognized David’s voice and said, “Is that your voice, David my son?”1 . David replied, “Yes it is, my lord the king.”1 . He then asked Saul why he was pursuing him and what wrong he had done1 . David concluded by saying, "Now let my lord the king listen to his servant’s words. If the Lord has incited you against me, then may he accept an offering. If, however, people have done it, may they be cursed before the Lord!"1 . Conclusion The story of David sparing Saul’s life is a profound lesson in faith, respect for God’s anointed, and the power of integrity. Despite being presented with an opportunity to kill Saul, David chose to respect God’s anointed and leave Saul’s fate in God’s hands. This act of mercy and respect for God’s authority is a powerful testament to David’s character and his deep faith in God.

By Michael Hopkins Introduction Saint Michael, also known as Archangel Michael, is a revered figure within the realm of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and the Baha’i faith1 . He is often depicted as a spiritual warrior in the battle of good against evil 2 . This article delves into the life, significance, and scriptural references of Saint Michael the Archangel. Who is Saint Michael? Saint Michael is an archangel, a title that signifies “chief angel”. He is not merely one of the angels but the head of a battalion of angels, though their ultimate leader is God 3 . His name, “Michael”, means “Who is like God?”, reflecting his loyalty and submission to God’s authority 4 . In Christian tradition, Saint Michael is often seen as a powerful and protective figure, an angelic leader who fights against evil forces 4 . He is known as the protector of the Jewish people, guardian of the Catholic Church, and is also associated with various countries and professions1 . Saint Michael in Scriptures Saint Michael is mentioned by name in several books of the Bible. Here are some key references: Daniel 10:13 : "But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia." 5  This verse refers to Michael as one of the chief princes who come to aid in spiritual battles. Daniel 12:1 : "Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued." 5  Michael is portrayed as the great prince who protects God’s people during times of trouble. Jude 1:9 : "But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’" 5  This verse provides insight into Michael’s role in a dispute with the devil over the body of Moses, showing his reverence for God’s authority. Revelation 12:7-9 : "Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven." 5  This passage depicts Michael leading angels in a cosmic battle against the dragon, identified as Satan. Conclusion Saint Michael the Archangel is a symbol of courage, protection, and guidance for believers worldwide. His presence in scriptures across various faiths underscores his universal appeal and the timeless message he embodies - the triumph of good over evil. As we navigate through our own battles, may we draw strength and inspiration from Saint Michael, standing firm in our faith and striving for righteousness.

By Michael Hopkins The story of David and his three soldiers is a tale of bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice. It is a story that is deeply rooted in the scriptures, specifically in the book of 2 Samuel, chapter 23, verses 8-39 . The Three Mighty Warriors The three soldiers, often referred to as “The Three”, were among David’s most trusted and valiant warriors. Their names were Josheb Basshebeth, Eleazar, and Shammah1 2 4 5 . Josheb Basshebeth Josheb Basshebeth, also known as Adino the Eznite, was the first among “The Three”. He was a formidable warrior who fought with his spear against eight hundred men and killed them all in one battle1 2 4 5 . Eleazar The second of the famous three was Eleazar, son of Dodo, of the clan of Ahoh. One day, he and David challenged the Philistines who had gathered for battle. The Israelites fell back, but Eleazar stood his ground and fought the Philistines until his hand was so cramped that he could not let go of his sword. The Lord won a great victory that day1 2 4 5 . Shammah The third of the famous three was Shammah, son of Agee from Harar. The Philistines had gathered at Lehi, where there was a field of peas. The Israelites fled from the Philistines, but Shammah stood his ground in the field, defended it, and killed the Philistines. The Lord won a great victory that day1 2 4 5 . The Act of Sacrifice During harvest time, three of the thirty chief warriors came down to David at the cave of Adullam, while a band of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim1 2 3 . David, who was then in the stronghold, expressed a longing for water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem1 2 3 . Hearing this, the three mighty warriors broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem, and carried it back to David1 2 3 . However, David refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the Lord, saying, "Far be it from me, O Lord, that I should do this! Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?"1 2 3 . This act of David not only highlighted the bravery and loyalty of the three soldiers but also demonstrated David’s deep respect and gratitude for their sacrifice1 2 3 . Conclusion The story of David and the three soldiers serves as a powerful reminder of the virtues of bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of faith. These men, through their actions, embodied the essence of what it means to be a warrior - not just in battle, but also in service to their king and their God.