St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

2nd Timothy 1 [Lois, Eunice, and Timothy] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad begins an in-depth exploration of 2nd Timothy, the final epistle written by St. Paul before his martyrdom. He highlights the historical context of Paul’s imprisonment in Rome and emphasizes the pastoral nature of the letter addressed to Timothy, the bishop of Ephesus.Fr. Matthias explains key themes such as enduring suffering for the gospel, the importance of faith amidst persecution, and the role of divine grace in empowering believers with power, love, and a sound mind. He reflects on St. Paul’s encouragement for Timothy to stir up his gift of priesthood and to remain steadfast despite trials.The talk also underscores the vital influence of Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice in nurturing faith, and addresses the significance of responding faithfully to God’s calling through perseverance and ministry. Fr. Matthias concludes by discussing how suffering serves a purpose in God's plan and encourages believers to hold fast to sound teachings safeguarded by the Holy Spirit.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

Who Should Be Called a Friend? | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the qualities that define a true friend through the story of the four men who brought their paralyzed friend to Christ for healing. He emphasizes that a genuine friend is one who introduces us to the Lord, encouraging spiritual growth and accountability. Fr. Matthias discusses the importance of unconditional love, highlighting that real friends remain supportive during difficult times.He also explains the value of honest counsel, where friends tell us what we need to hear rather than just what we want to hear. Trustworthiness over time and respect for personal boundaries are presented as essential traits in lasting friendships. Finally, Fr. Matthias stresses the importance of choosing friends who share our spiritual goals and values, particularly in the Christian life.This message calls for discernment in friendship, encouraging relationships that nurture faith and 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

1st Timothy 6 [The Christian in Business] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the final chapter of First Timothy, focusing on Christian conduct within business and social relationships. He examines Saint Paul’s guidance to slaves and masters, highlighting the call for mutual respect, kindness, and the transformative power of love within societal institutions like slavery, rather than direct abolition.Fr. Matthias discusses godliness combined with contentment as true gain, emphasizing the dangers of the love of money and the importance of a humble, spiritually-focused life over material wealth. He addresses how believers can pursue righteousness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness while navigating challenges and temptations.Drawing from scripture and church teachings, Fr. Matthias encourages contentment with God’s provision and warns against pride and false teachings that seek personal gain. The study closes with practical reflections on maintaining faith amid societal pressures and spiritual warfare, urging adherence to Christ’s example until His 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

1st Timothy 4-5 [The Great Apostasy & Honoring Widows] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his Bible study on 1st Timothy chapters 4 and 5, exploring the challenges of apostasy and the importance of honoring widows within the church community. Fr. Matthias explains St. Paul's warnings about false teachings, the infiltration of deceptive doctrines, and the necessity of spiritual vigilance in the face of cultural shifts.He discusses the qualifications for church leaders, the role of widows as consecrated servants, and how Timothy was guided to treat different groups with respect and discernment. Fr. Matthias also highlights the significance of using one’s God-given gifts for the good of the church and encourages ongoing study and godliness as central to Christian life.The teaching emphasizes accountability, fairness in leadership, and the call for believers to labor and suffer for their faith, trusting in God’s 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

Righteous Judgement | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of righteous judgment through the biblical story of the sinful woman at Simon the Pharisee’s house. He examines the harsh judgment of Simon, who dismisses the woman’s sincere repentance, contrasting it with the mercy and acceptance offered by Christ. Fr. Matthias discusses the difficulties faced by sinners in breaking free from long-standing habits, the importance of considering personal circumstances, and the necessity of mercy in judgment.He addresses the misuse of the command "do not judge," warning against both cruel condemnation and lax acceptance of sin. Fr. Matthias highlights the church’s role in calling sinners to repentance while emphasizing that acceptance does not mean approval of sin. Using Scripture, he stresses that judgment should be guided by God’s word, balanced by humility, and motivated by love and the pursuit of holiness.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

1st Timothy 2-3 [Pray for Government➕Choosing Bishops & Deacons] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 1 Timothy chapters 2 and 3, focusing on the importance of praying for all people, including government leaders, to promote peace and godliness in society. He explains the stages of prayer—supplication, prayer, intercession, and thanksgiving—and connects them to spiritual growth.Fr. Matthias then discusses the qualifications for bishops and deacons, emphasizing the need for blameless character, humility, and a life exemplifying Christian virtues. He clarifies the role of women in the church, addressing common misconceptions about women’s teaching and leadership based on scripture.The talk also delves into the mystery of Christ’s mediation as a ransom for humanity's salvation, explaining its implications for faith and the sacraments. This Bible study highlights pastoral guidance on leadership and prayer in the early church, providing context for living faithfully today.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

Renewal | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad reflects on the significance of renewal in the Christian life, especially at the beginning of the church year. He explains how baptism marks the start of a lifelong process of sanctification, where the Holy Spirit works within us to transform our minds and hearts. Fr. Matthias explores key reasons why spiritual renewal may stagnate, including repeating old habits without change, low expectations of God’s power, obeying outwardly without heartfelt faith, and holding onto beloved sins that hinder growth.He emphasizes the importance of cooperating with the Holy Spirit through consistent prayer, repentance, and applying Scripture in daily life. Drawing from biblical examples like the Rich Young Ruler and Naaman, Fr. Matthias encourages believers to surrender fully to God’s will, letting go of attachments that block true renewal. This message calls every Christian to actively pursue transformation and live out the grace of baptism continuously.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

One Step at a Time | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad discusses the meaning behind Christ’s teachings on the end times in Matthew 24, emphasizing that God does not reveal every detail of the future to protect and prepare us. He explains that God guides us one step at a time, revealing only what we can bear and strengthens our faith by calling us to trust Him rather than rely on full knowledge.Using examples from the lives of Joseph, Moses, and Gideon, Fr. Matthias highlights how God prepares His followers gradually for challenges ahead. He explains that God allows hardships to heal hidden spiritual sicknesses and develops our relationship with Him through reliance and faith.Fr. Matthias encourages viewers to understand that God’s silence about the future is out of mercy and that we are called to trust His timing, grow in patience, and keep watchful readiness for the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.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

Keeping the End in Mind | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the importance of keeping the end in mind as taught in Mark 13. He discusses how focusing on the ultimate goal helps believers understand present struggles, seek wise counsel, and find the strength to endure long-term challenges. Fr. Matthias uses biblical examples, including the story of Esau, to illustrate the dangers of making short-sighted decisions and falling into temptation. He emphasizes how remembering the end encourages watchfulness, helps despise fleeting vanities like wealth and beauty, and prevents foolish choices. The sermon highlights endurance as an essential part of the Christian life, inspired by Christ’s example, and calls for living with eternal perspective to navigate life’s complexities and trials. Fr. Matthias invites listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and live with readiness for the coming judgment.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

The Virgin Mary: The Icon of Humility | Sermon (Fr. Younan Willaim of@saintmaryhouston)

Fr. Younan Willaim explores the theme of humility by presenting the Virgin Mary as the ultimate icon of this virtue. He discusses how her life exemplifies submission to God's will, selflessness, and endurance through trials without seeking personal gain or recognition. Fr. Younan connects humility to overcoming division, both in society and in personal relationships, emphasizing that pride and ego are the root of many struggles.He outlines practical steps toward humility, including self-awareness of one’s ego, avoiding fake humility, practicing mortification through confession, fasting, obedience, persistent prayer, accepting personal responsibility, and embracing God’s healing process. Fr. Younan stresses the importance of patience in trials and suffering as part of God’s treatment plan to cultivate humility.This sermon offers guidance on living a humble life modeled on Saint Mary, encouraging unity in homes, churches, and communities through genuine humility.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