St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his Bible study on Genesis chapters 40 and 41, exploring the story of Joseph’s time in prison and his rise to power in Egypt. He examines the symbolism of the chief Butler and chief Baker’s dreams, highlighting their connection to Christ’s crucifixion and salvation through faith rather than works. Fr. Matthias explains how Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream reveals God’s plan for seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine, emphasizing the importance of wise stewardship during times of abundance.Joseph’s unwavering faithfulness and humility are shown as God elevates him to oversee Egypt, foreshadowing Christ’s role as the Savior. The teaching also draws parallels between Joseph’s experiences and spiritual growth during different seasons of life. Fr. Matthias encourages viewers to trust God’s timing and purpose, even in hardship, as part of a greater plan for salvation and blessing.#GenesisBibleStudy #JosephInEgypt #FaithAndSalvation #GodsPlan #ChristianTeaching #BibleStudyWithFrMatthias #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Bible study on Genesis 38-39, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the story of Judah and Tamar, highlighting the complexities of family, justice, and God’s providence. Fr. Matthias explains Judah’s failure to fulfill his promise and Tamar’s bold actions to secure her rightful place in the lineage, which leads to the birth of Perez, an ancestor of Christ.The study then shifts to Joseph’s life in Egypt, emphasizing his unwavering faith and integrity despite betrayal, slavery, and false accusations. Fr. Matthias reflects on how God’s presence sustained Joseph through adversity, making him successful and trustworthy even in prison. The lessons drawn focus on resisting temptation, the consequences of righteous decisions, and trusting God’s plan during difficult times.Fr. Matthias draws parallels between Joseph’s story and the Christian life, encouraging perseverance, faithfulness, and recognizing God’s guidance through trials.#GenesisBibleStudy #JosephsFaith #JudahAndTamar #ChristianFaith #GodsProvidence #BibleStudyWithFrMatthias #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the story of the rich young ruler to highlight important spiritual lessons about seeking eternal life. He explains how the young man’s pursuit of truth, reverence for Christ, and willingness to take responsibility offer valuable insights for all believers. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the difference between knowledge and action, urging us to genuinely apply God’s commandments rather than treating faith as mere information.He reflects on humility as the foundation of a life centered on God, contrasting it with a lifestyle where God is simply one aspect among many. The sermon also addresses the challenge of surrendering attachments and the importance of taking Christ’s words seriously, even when they demand sacrifice.Fr. Matthias invites listeners to consider the rich young ruler’s sorrow as a model for repentance and to examine their own readiness to follow Christ fully.#RichYoungRuler #ChristianSermon #FrMatthiasShehad #FaithInAction #HumilityInChrist #FollowingJesus #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of God's goodness as revealed through various parables and scriptures. He explains how God, as the sower, generously scatters seeds on all types of ground, symbolizing His impartial offer of salvation to all people regardless of their response. Fr. Matthias highlights that God values every effort, no matter the amount of fruit produced, and judges the heart rather than outward performance.He discusses God's mercy, emphasizing that salvation is not earned by works but granted through repentance and grace, illustrated by the parables of the workers and the unforgiving servant. Fr. Matthias also shares how God preserves even the smallest good in us and revokes judgment when sincere repentance is offered, as shown in the story of Nineveh.Finally, he underscores God's patience and gentleness, never giving up on the weakest or most broken among us. This message encourages believers to reflect God's mercy and love in their own lives.#GodsGoodness #ChristianSermon #FaithAndMercy #ScriptureTeaching #GodsGrace #RepentanceAndSalvation #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores whether it is possible for a person’s spiritual condition to change using the parable of the sower. He explains how different “grounds” reflect how individuals receive and respond to God’s word. Fr. Matthias discusses factors that support spiritual change, such as recognizing the negative impact of choices, life-altering events, a positive environment, and experiencing God’s love. He also addresses obstacles that hinder change, including poor role models, avoiding self-reflection, hidden ego, lack of commitment, living a double life, negative influences, and giving up hope. Emphasizing the ongoing nature of spiritual growth, Fr. Matthias encourages viewers to strive toward becoming the “good ground” that bears fruit through perseverance, repentance, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. This message offers practical guidance for personal transformation and deeper faith.#SpiritualGrowth #ChristianTransformation #ParableOfTheSower #FaithJourney #HolySpirit #Repentance #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the reality of spiritual warfare, using Christ’s teaching on discipleship and the parable of the king preparing for war to illustrate the ongoing battle Christians face. He emphasizes personal responsibility in this fight, highlighting the necessity of knowing the enemy through Scripture and relying on God’s strength rather than our own abilities.Fr. Matthias explains the importance of spiritual disciplines such as fasting, prayer, and seeking godly counsel to prepare for and endure the war against sin and temptation. He discusses the role of confession and repentance in overcoming failure and warns against surrendering to the enemy by giving up the fight. This message calls believers to recognize the spiritual battle as constant and real, encouraging perseverance and dependence on God’s grace throughout the Christian journey.#SpiritualWarfare #ChristianDiscipleship #FaithInPrayer #OvercomingTemptation #GodsStrength #ChristianPerseverance #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the significance of God's promises as revealed through Scripture, focusing on their characteristics and impact on the believer's life. He explains how God’s promises, unlike human promises, are certain and trustworthy, encouraging perseverance through trials. Fr. Matthias highlights that God’s promises surpass human expectations, aiming ultimately for our salvation and eternal life.He discusses the role of covenants in shaping our hope and how God often uses unconventional methods to fulfill His promises. The sermon addresses conditional promises, divine warnings, and the connection between suffering and spiritual growth. Fr. Matthias emphasizes that God’s promises motivate believers toward purity and holiness, grounded in love rather than fear. Lastly, he encourages patience in awaiting the fulfillment of these promises, trusting in God’s perfect timing. Throughout, he draws on biblical examples, including the Annunciation and Old Testament narratives, to illustrate these profound truths.#GodsPromises #FaithInGod #ChristianSermon #TrustInGod #BiblicalTruth #SpiritualGrowth #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Q&A session, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores key aspects of Coptic Orthodox faith and practice. He explains the significance and proper way to make the sign of the cross, highlighting its symbolism connected to the Holy Trinity and Christ’s incarnation. He discusses the meaning of the second commandment in Exodus 20:4, clarifying the difference between worshiping carved images and using icons as reminders of faith.Fr. Matthias addresses the question about demons’ recognition of Christ and the concept of torment before the final judgment. He examines spiritual deception by the devil, emphasizing discernment when encountering seemingly pious urges. He shares insights on dealing with spiritual highs and lows, encouraging consistency and guidance from a spiritual father.The session also covers the presence of evil in the world, trusting God amid trials, and the growth of Jesus “in wisdom and stature,” explaining his full humanity alongside divinity. Throughout, Fr. Matthias offers scriptural context, teachings from the Desert Fathers, and pastoral advice for living faithfully in challenging times.#CopticOrthodox #ChristianQandA #SignOfTheCross #HolyTrinity #SpiritualDiscernment #FaithInChrist #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Q&A session, Fr. Maurice Ibrahim addresses a variety of topics related to Christian faith and practice. He explores the origins of women’s monasticism, the importance of building and maintaining trust with children, and approaches to understanding church history and the ecumenical councils without the need for memorization of dates. Fr. Maurice discusses the meaning behind repetitive prayers in the liturgy and how they relate to continuous prayer. He offers guidance on parenting challenges, particularly when children stray from faith, emphasizing free will and the role of prayer. Practical advice is given on balancing personal spiritual discipline with service, controlling anger, overcoming boredom in spiritual life, and putting on the armor of God through humility, love, and unity. The session concludes with reflections on self-control, relying on God’s grace to overcome sin, and living a life centered on devotion and repentance.#ChristianFaith #MonasticLife #PrayerLife #ParentingInFaith #SpiritualDiscipline #ArmorOfGod #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Q&A session, Fr. Matthias Shehad addresses questions on several important topics related to Christian faith and practice. He explains the distinction between the priesthood of all believers mentioned in 1 Peter 2:9 and the ordained priesthood in the New Testament, highlighting the spiritual role of all Christians in offering sacrifices of prayer and praise. Fr. Matthias also discusses the continued use of incense in worship, tracing its biblical and heavenly significance.He offers guidance on maintaining proper boundaries in relationships with the opposite sex, emphasizing caution, intention toward marriage, and the importance of accountability.Fr. Matthias reflects on the example of St. Anthony and how learning from various virtuous people shapes one’s spiritual growth.Finally, he explains the meaning behind liturgical practices such as the priest’s request for forgiveness and the congregation’s prostration, and he gives practical advice on donating to the church and respectfully discarding religious images.#ChristianFaith #PriesthoodOfBelievers #ChristianWorship #SpiritualGrowth #LiturgicalPractices #FaithQandA #StPaulHouston #Coptic #FrMatthiasSubscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org