St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston
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![Harmony of the Gospels [Christ Genealogy and Birth] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/21944452/Saint-paul-church-logo-final-white-background-large2_300x300.png){kind=logo}
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
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.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
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.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
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.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels by examining the narratives before and after the birth of Christ. He begins by explaining St. Luke’s purpose in writing his Gospel to Theophilus, emphasizing accuracy and eyewitness testimony. Fr. Matthias then contrasts this with St. John’s Gospel, highlighting the divine nature of Christ as the eternal Logos involved in creation.The discussion covers key theological concepts, including the Trinity, the Incarnation, and the significance of Christ as both fully God and fully man. Fr. Matthias also explains the role of John the Baptist as the forerunner preparing the way for Christ, and details the historical context of Zacharias and Elizabeth’s family, including priestly divisions and the rule of Herod the Great.This study provides foundational insight into the early Gospel accounts and their theological implications for understanding Jesus' identity and mission.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony and wisdom behind the existence of the four Gospels. He begins by explaining the meaning of "gospel" as the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ and discusses why there are four distinct accounts rather than a single narrative. Fr. Matthias examines the historical context and audience of each Gospel—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—and highlights their unique perspectives and emphases, such as prophecy fulfillment, Christ’s power, sacrifice, and divinity.He also addresses the relationship between oral and written traditions in the early Church, the role of the four evangelists, and how their writings complement each other. Details about the lives and missions of the Gospel authors are shared, along with theological insights into the nature of Christ presented differently in each Gospel. Fr. Matthias concludes with an overview of the Church’s interpretation of apostolic authority and its conciliar structure.This session sets the foundation for a chronological study of the Gospels as one unified message of salvation.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Fr. Matthias Shehad begins a series on the Harmony of the Gospels, exploring the chronological presentation of the four evangelists—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—and their unique perspectives. He explains the symbolism of the four creatures associated with the gospels and links them to the distinct themes each evangelist emphasizes, such as Christ’s humanity, divinity, sacrifice, and authority.Fr. Matthias outlines the four major covenants in Scripture as a framework for understanding the gospels’ significance. He discusses the external and internal evidence supporting the authenticity and canonicity of the four accepted gospels amid early church history, addressing objections and false gospels.The talk covers the evangelists’ sources, including eyewitness testimony and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and highlights the disciples' skepticism as a sign of the gospels' credibility. This introduction sets the stage for a detailed study of the gospel texts in future sessions.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
In a world shaped by rapid technological change, how do we remain faithful to Christ without withdrawing from the world He sent us to love?In this episode of Living Incense, we reflect on the relationship between Orthodox faith and modern technology—including topics such as artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, IVF, and emerging digital innovations. These tools influence how we think, decide, and live, often in ways we do not immediately notice.Rather than reacting with fear or blind acceptance, we are called to discernment. What does it mean to be human in a technological age? How do we use powerful tools without allowing them to shape our hearts, values, and identity?This conversation invites us to place technology in its proper place—as a servant, not a master—and to view every innovation through the light of Christ, the wisdom of the Church, and the call to holiness.
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
In a world shaped by rapid technological change, how do we remain faithful to Christ without withdrawing from the world He sent us to love?In this episode of Living Incense, we reflect on the relationship between Orthodox faith and modern technology—including topics such as artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, IVF, and emerging digital innovations. These tools influence how we think, decide, and live, often in ways we do not immediately notice.Rather than reacting with fear or blind acceptance, we are called to discernment. What does it mean to be human in a technological age? How do we use powerful tools without allowing them to shape our hearts, values, and identity?This conversation invites us to place technology in its proper place—as a servant, not a master—and to view every innovation through the light of Christ, the wisdom of the Church, and the call to holiness.
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of "The Acceptable Year of the Lord," reflecting on how each new year offers a chance for spiritual renewal and transformation. He draws from scripture, including Isaiah 61, Psalms, Job, Ecclesiastes, and Romans, to discuss true repentance, self-examination, and understanding the consequences of our choices.Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of mourning over sin, seeking forgiveness, and changing direction in life. He calls for reconciliation with others and freedom from the bondage of sin, encouraging listeners to embrace God’s purpose for their lives. The message highlights practical steps toward renewal and renewed commitment to spiritual growth, urging intentionality in drawing closer to God throughout the year.This sermon is relevant for anyone seeking guidance on repentance, forgiveness, reconciliation, and finding deeper meaning in the Christian life.Subscribe 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
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Fr. Matthias Shehad explores how God prepares us for salvation through the support and interactions with others. Using biblical examples such as Mary and Elizabeth, Ruth and Naomi, David and Jonathan, and Joseph, he highlights the importance of community, mutual encouragement, and forgiveness in the Christian journey.He emphasizes that salvation is not an isolated process but one strengthened by serving and being served within the church body. Fr. Matthias discusses how challenges and conflicts in relationships offer opportunities for growth in humility, patience, and mercy. Drawing on stories like Moses receiving advice from Jethro and the conflict between Paul and Barnabas, he shows how wise counsel and reconciliation are essential in spiritual development.This sermon encourages embracing community, offering support, and trusting God’s guidance through others as integral to preparing for salvation.Subscribe 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