St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

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.#HarmonyOfTheGospels #BirthOfChrist #BibleStudy #Incarnation #JohnTheBaptist #Trinity #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, 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.#HarmonyOfTheGospels #BibleStudy #FourGospels #ChristianTeaching #GospelWisdom #FrMatthiasShehad #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 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.#HarmonyOfTheGospels #BibleStudy #FourEvangelists #GospelTruth #ChristianFaith #FrMatthiasShehad #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 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.#FaithAndTechnology #OrthodoxChristianity #LivingIncense #ChristianDiscernment #TechnologyAndFaith #ChristianLiving #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 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.#FaithAndTechnology #OrthodoxChristianity #LivingIncense #ChristianDiscernment #TechnologyAndFaith #HolinessInModernWorld #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 "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.#AcceptableYearOfTheLord #SpiritualRenewal #ChristianRepentance #GodsPurpose #FaithTransformation #FrMatthiasShehad #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 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.#ChristianCommunity #SalvationThroughOthers #FaithAndFellowship #BiblicalEncouragement #SpiritualGrowth #GodsGuidance #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 how Christians are called to endure suffering and wrongdoing for the sake of Christ. He discusses the biblical teaching on responding to offenses with patience, humility, and love rather than retaliation or bitterness. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the distinction between accepting wrong and allowing abuse, outlining practical steps for resolving conflicts through direct communication, church involvement, and, if necessary, legal action.Drawing on scripture, including examples from the apostles and saints, he explains when it is appropriate to speak up or remain silent, highlighting the spiritual benefits of both. The talk underscores forgiveness, prayer for offenders, and maintaining a Christlike attitude that witnesses to the transformative power of God’s grace.Fr. Matthias concludes that bearing wrong for Christ is a testimony that can lead to personal growth and even the salvation of others, calling believers to a life marked by mercy, humility, and trust in God’s justice.#ChristianSuffering #BearingWrongForChrist #ForgivenessInChrist #ChristianHumility #EnduringPersecution #FaithInTrials #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 how Christians are called to respond to difficult people with patience, love, and mercy, recognizing their behavior often stems from past trauma or brokenness. He emphasizes meekness as strength under control, highlighting biblical examples like King David’s restraint and Joseph’s forgiveness to illustrate transforming relationships through humility and spiritual growth.Fr. Matthias discusses practical tools such as assertive communication, cognitive reframing, emotional regulation, and setting healthy boundaries to navigate challenging interactions. He stresses the importance of prayer, confession, and spiritual disciplines in maintaining peace and self-control.This teaching frames difficult relationships as opportunities for personal sanctification and healing within the body of Christ, encouraging viewers to focus on their own growth while praying for others’ transformation. The role of the church as a hospital for sinners is underscored, emphasizing mutual support rather than avoidance or judgment.#ChristianLiving #Forgiveness #Meekness #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianTeaching #DealingWithDifficultPeople #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 continues his series on dealing with difficult people by exploring the Christian approach to interacting with challenging personalities such as critics, controllers, victims, narcissists, and complainers. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and recognizing the image of God in every individual, even those who behave negatively due to personal brokenness or trauma.Fr. Matthias highlights the role of empathy, patience, and setting healthy boundaries rooted in love and respect to maintain relationships without enabling harmful behavior. Drawing on biblical examples and teachings, he explains how responding thoughtfully rather than reacting emotionally can defuse conflict and foster forgiveness.The talk also addresses the balance between mercy and necessary limits in relationships, encouraging forgiveness as essential for healing while acknowledging real situations that may require ending harmful connections. This teaching offers practical guidance for Christian living and spiritual growth when navigating difficult interpersonal dynamics.#ChristianLiving #Forgiveness #DealingWithDifficultPeople #ChristianTeaching #SpiritualGrowth #MercyAndBoundaries #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