PART - 2OLD TESTAMENT

Lesson 2CHRONICLES

Object : Those who seek Almighty will find flim.The chronicles, having two books, are coming under the historical books of the Holy Bible.

It is not clear as to what had written tyhese books but it is certain that the writer was an ardent worshipper of God. There are numerous quotations from the recognised books of prophets and from the books of Kings in these books in these books. It has been repeatedly emphasised the relation between assistness and the punishment on the care the Majestry have on those who are just rightouse in obeyings his commandment (It is believed that these books are composed between B.C. 330-300).

It is assumed that there are written after the return of the Isralites, from Babylon by this time, the middle position of the promisedland occupied by the Isrealities, and Samareh, had been taken over some gentiles who were not the Isrealites. The main aim of the writer of this book seems to be that the expatriates from Babylon were the actual inheritans of the Israelites wherein the Kings like David and Soloman were select on canan is the promised land handed over to them by God to encourage and enlighten item to be true followers of thier fire future.

The historical incidents expolained in these books are the separate in the books of Samuel and the Kings, the style of composition is entirely different. The kingly tribe of Juda and the Priestly tribe Levy had action had been given preferential importance than other tribes of Israel. The small kingdom of Judaea, especially thecit of Jerusalem, and the method of worship in the Gods Temple had been elaborated than the large kingdom of Northern Israel where the other Tess Tribes in habitted. It may be, probably due to the awareness of the prophecy that the saviour will come from the city of David the tribe of Juda (Isaia 11-1, Ifincha 5-2) Jesus had been called as the son of David by many in his time. The conyoser of chronicals have painted David as the most important Kingof Judaas because the promised saviour and more honourable person of Israehls with we his son. The many short termis on weeknesses of Daniel on as explained in other books did not set exposure in these books. While most of the names of Kings rated Judea from Jerusalem end appeared in these books, the names of many Kings ruled in the wast Kingdom Israel had been omitted. The writer had tried to expose the Israelits as a society of God fearing people lend a by the Almighty mater than too Kingdom of Judea and Israelites having the same inhgeritance. The main theme he wanted to convey to the people is that the Almighty with you when they with Aim and if you seek Him, you well few Him. If you foir sake firm, he will foresake on (2 ctr-15-2). In order to establish this truth, he had explained many lusterical facts to the repatriates from Babylon, who may not have gone through the whole history of Israel, who had been brought to mighty mases with the hand of the Lord.

Part I 1 chronicles 1-10 A class to Saul and his endPart II 1 ch - 11-29 Davids periodPart III 2 ch - 1-9 Soloman’s periodPart IV 2 ch - 10-36 Divided eanam into Judas & Israel. End of

these Kingdom and sojourn in Babylon Return to Jerusalem, Order of Cyrus.Questions1. The period in which the books of chromicle was written ?2. What was the objective of the writer in compiling these books ?3. What is the most important message given to the poeple in these books ?4. The Historical facts explained in the books of Samuel and the Kings, were repeated in

Chronicles. What were the differences in these books ?

Lesson 3Chronicles Book Part I

GeneratorsObjective :God forsakes those who forsakes HIM.

The book of chronicles 1 starts with a long list of Generations. Those who returned after their capability in Babylon, are the actual offsprings by the Israelites and they are secure in the hands of Almighty God. This is what the write wanted to emphasioses in his book. It also points out that all generations right from Adam are to face the rightful judgement of Almighty God. The tribe of Levy and the tribe of Juda had been given special place amongs the other 10 tribes. The family of David and his noyal hirarchy in hesiters were mentioned prominently along with the tribe of Benjamin in these books.

After furnishing the details of Generation without giving any reasoning, the 10th chapter suddenly jumps into the King Saul and his son. Jonathan, Abinadab and Malchishna who were killed in a battle with Philistines. Saul had committed and the Philistines took his head and arms in order to edelsate the victory over Israelites. The valiant people in Jabesh took the bodies of soul and his sons and gave honourable burial to them. these details as explained 1 samuel 31 had been reproduced in 1 chronicals 10 and the composer had concluded three reasons for this grievens demise of soul (1 ch-10-13). “So soul died for his transgrission which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of Lord which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of Lorfd which he kept not and so for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit to inquire of it”Question1. Why the lengthy list of generations were elaborated in the beginning of the book of

chronicles ?2. What are the reasons for the sad demise of soul as pedr the writer of chronicles ?3. Who had barried the dead bodies of soul on his sons?

Lesson 4Book of chronicles - Part 2

Period of DavidObj: We should surrender completely to the will of God.

This part stents with the explanation as to how the King David in Hebron whose rule were confirmed to Juda mitily, had become the ruler of the entire tribes of Israel. The King David conquered the Jacobs and renamed it as Jerusalem. King David then endorsed to correct Jerusalem into a place of permanent worship for Israll. Therefore he called a meeting of all heavy tribe an priests and requested then to operating bray the Ark of God to Jerusalem while on the way, the bullocks dragging the bullvek cart shalked the Ark and a nonhevy had tried to stop the Ark folling from the bullock-cart, had been smoke by God. Fearing the awarth of God. Fearing the Ark was the left in the house of obededom for three months.

Then King David wished to build a House for God in Jerusalem. By the prophet Nathan, God intimated David that the Temple will be built by his son and not by David. However, he had gathered Gold, sulver, copper, from, wood etc for the purpose of Gods Temple durings his life time.

David has in the meantime, conquered the surroundings Kingdom and attached to this nation, thereby eliminating almost all the enemies of Israel. Joab was the commander of his army in all these battles.

After these, there was peace in the country and the King has ordered to count the entire Israelites. Joab had conducted the enumeration wak and intimated the number of all the Israelites which was, however, not as per the will of God and displeased Him. David had then prayed to God

not to punish the Israelites for his transgression. God has conveyed three mode of punishment to chose through prophet bad on these were.(1) seven years formine (2) three months attack of enemies (3) Three days pestilanee in the land. David saying that the mercy of God is great and chosen the third alternative. On the third day of pestilance, God had stepped the ordeal and seeing the Angel over the threshing full of Orman, David prayed again God to average his family and not the people of Israel. David purchased that land and made an altar there and offered burned offerings. There the Temple of God has been built better.

David had instructed his son Solomon to built a Temple of God and had arranged with his knights to extend necessary cooperation for building the House of Lord. He had also collected the tribe of Levy into 24 groups for varies jobs in the house of Lord and intrested them with the fal prior to the building of the Temple.

King David during his last days arranged with the priestSadukad prophet Nathan, the announcement of Solomon at beehan. The people Israel approved it happily on when David died, Solomon became the King of Israel.Questions :1. What is old name of Jerusalem ?2. Why the Ask of God was Kept in a house without bringing to Jerusalem ?3. What were the punishment mentioned by God to David to chose for his counting the Israelites.4. Name the following.

1. The commander of Davids Army.2. the prophet who conveyed that David that he should not bulled the House of Lord.3. The place at which solomon had been annointed ?4. The earlier owner of the threshing floor where David scarified the hurt offerings to God.

Lesson 5Chronicles - Part IIIPeriod of Solomon

Salomon had enthroned by the Israel and there was peace during this period. The Almighty God appeared before Salomon and at said him “Ask what I shall give there”. Salomon readed to God” In order to judge rightously the people give me new wisdom and knowledge (2 ch. 7-10) God was well pleased with the answer and fleshed him with, wealth, riches and honour in addition to wisdom and knowledge.

In the field of Ornon the Jebusion. Which divided had purchased Salomon built a temple for God. The King of sore huram had helped him with elder, fir, and algum word from Lebabon. In addition he had also depated an expert in carpentary and artisanal walk. In given years time the construction of the house of Lord God completed. the Ark of God located in a Text in Jerusalem, had been shifted to the newly built home. The nort Holy place. In the ask there only two blocks of rock on which God has written the convenient on haled over to Moses (2 ch. 5-10). All the Israelites along with priests on hearts praised the Lord God with musical instruments. The glory of Lord filled the house with closed. Solamon sayed to the word and offered him offerings of oxen and Goat which was accepted by the Lord with fire poses heaven ( 2 ch. 7.1)

Salamon had conducted many wars and broadned his Kingdom. He had commercial activities with many of the foreign countries through the sealine. The Queen of sheba hart the fame of Salomon viewprocated with similar pasrents their and she returned satisfied.

Solomon died after returning Israel for forty years. His son Rehoboam was enthroaned as King in his place.

Questions1. Where did the Lord God appeared to soloman ?2. What boon Solomon asked to Lord ?3. What was inside when the Ark of God was placed in the most Holy place of the temple ?4. Why did the Queen of Sheba came to Jerusalem ?

Lesson 6Chronicles - Part IVDivided Kingdoms

Obj: The great Lord God is with us the sares from all evil timings.All the Israeletes conglomorated at she can to enthroan Rehoboan. Jero boan was their lender. The Israelites have requested to lighten the taxes levied by Salomon. The young king forsaking the counsel of the old counsellers of his father, disagreed with the requests of the people as per the counsel of paing friends of the Kings./ On the other had he had threatened with dire consequences. Therefore, the majority of the people rebelled agreement the King and they have accepted Jeroboass as their kings. The people in habitted in the cities of Judah had been loyal to Rehoboan all other went along with Jeroselam. Thus the kingdom of David had been devided into two and the sounthern part was come to known as Juddah and the northern part as Israelities.Rehoboam ruled the Judaffer 17 years during which time, he had forsaken the word of Lord God on the King of Egypet acctacked Jerusalem and taken away the valuables. Rehoboam died when his son Abijah became the King of Judah.The King of Abijah and his son Asa became the King of Judah. They have obeyed the law of the Lord and the Chief Priest Azar taught them the law of Lord God and emphasised that solong they remain with God, Lord and willbe amidst them and if they forsake him. Her will forsake Him, He will forsake them. The King as a has gathered all the people of Jahja and Benjamin and made to take an oath that they will survive only Lord God. He had also proclamed that all the persons who do not worship Lord God will be executed.The son of Asa, Jehoshapth became king and he had also pleased god in following his laws. He engaged priests and Lords to got the country side to teach the law of god to the people and the abide by these laws. The king of Moa and Syria came been pontation with Judah but the King of Juda and the people cried at the Lord coofer help. The Lord God samed them on the enemies fought between them and died. The people of Judah and Benjamin had came out and gathered the valuables of their enemies for three days.When Jehoshapat died, his son, Jehosam became the king. He had killed all this brothers and displeased the Lord God. He had married the daughter of Ahab, the evil King of Israel and practiced idolatery. Hence he had great disease in stomach which burst out and he died.In tghe place of Jehoram, his son Ahaziah had become king. He had followed his fathers ways and practiced idolatory according to mothers advice. He was killed in a battle at Samariah. Has mother took the governance. She had killed the sons of Ahaziah and other sons in the Royal family but Joxeph, one son of Ahaziah was some by his sister by concluding him from the Queen for six years along with the priest Johoidah Queen Alhaliah was killed gy the people and Joash was made the kings thereafter.Joash was made king when he was seven abnd tghe priest johoradah advised him to remove all the idols from the country side to kill the priests of Baal. He had established a chest in the temple of God where all the people coming to worship Lord God put their offerings. This has used for requirs and maintenance of the house of the Lord.On the demise of priest Jahoida, his son Zachariah had become the priest in tghe house of Lord. While many people have turned to idolatory and he had condemned such acts. The King Joash has become angry and ordered to slain him. The people have through him in side the house of

Lord. The Lord had displease at this and made the army of syrians to inrade the Jerusalem when many people of Jherusalem were killed and valuables were taken away. The King joseph was killed by his servants while he was bed ridden with disease.Amaioah, the son of Joseph become king. He was pleasing the Lord in the initial years but slowly shipped into idolatory. As result the natures was conquered by enemies and the people conspired against king Andzia escaped to Samaria but was slew hum by the enemies their Uzzia, the son of amaziah had been enthroaned as King by the people. He had made a number of informs to help the country side of people. Removed idolatory from the land and worshipped the Lord God. His fame spread even to the country abroad and they made friendship with him. However when he became strong, he transgressed against the Lord and came to the House of Lord to burn incense upon the altar of inanse. the priest, Azariah wanted him that buring of incense on the alter is the duty of priest and the King should not do it. The King insisted bu the Lord God smitt him with Leprosy. He remained help or until his death. Ghis son Jothan had to look after the governance.Jothan became King after the death of his father Auzzah and did informs to plan God. Diaring his life time he never went to the house of Lord fearing what had happened to his father. He made castles and forts in many parts and had please the Lord God.Ahaz, the son of Jotham because king on his fear death. He turned out to be an idolater and closed to door of the House of Lord in Jerusalem and stopped the sacrifisation. The King of Israel and King of Azur had attacked Judah and carried away valuables and men from there. However, Ahaz had not turned to God even during his period of troubles.After the death of ahaz, his son Hezekiah had become the King. He had opened the house of Lord and carried out all maintain work. The usual worship and sacrifices began again the Temple of Lord God. He had also made arrangements to ustart the festival of pass over and send out letters to all our Israel and Judah inviting the whole congregation. The King of Assyriah, Sennacherib came to Jerusalem with a large Army seized the city. Seeing the seige by the great armyu of Qssyria the people of Juda and Israel were afraid. Hezekiah, a firm believer and worshiper of Almighty had said to the people bot to be a paid of the multitude of the Army of Assyria because there be more with us than with.” with him is arm of flish but with us the Lord or God to help us and to fight the bottle for us Hezekia and the prophet Isaiah prayed to God. God sent an angel who killed all the Army of Assyria. The King of Assyria went back with shame.Hezekiah had become sick and the prophet announced that he will die in his bed. The King with great sorrow prayed to God for extending his live and getting recovered from the dissase. As he had done so many good things to please God and to keep the faith of his people, the Lord had heard his prayer and gave him an extension of fifteen years life.Questions:1. What were the major reasons for division of Israel after the King Salomen.2. Why the King of Vzzia become a Leper ?3. Name the following :

a) The woman who reigned Juda.b) The priest who was slowed in the house of word.c) The person who had become king at the seven.d) The king who established a chest in the house of Lord.e) The King whose life has been extended for 15 years.f) The king who closed the doors of the house of lord and stopped the worship.

Lesson - 7Books of Chronicles - Part IV

Divided Kingdoms

(continuation)Objective : Whereever forsakes Lord, lord well also forsake them.Hezekiah passed and his son Marasseh had began to reign at the age of 12. He did not please Lord God but turned idolatory and writes craft. He had made altars for various Gods in the House of Lord and made his sons to pass through fire. All these activities of the enraged the Lord and he caused the Assyrian Army to invade Juda and Jerusalem. Manasseh had been put in chain and taken to Babylon. He humbled himself and prayed to the Lord for freedom. His supplication were heard and the king of Assyria freed him from capling. Now Manasseh understood the Lord is Almighty. He had ordered to remove all the altars and Idol from the House of Lord. However, the people continued sacrifices outside and raised platforms for other Gods.On the death of Manassah, his son Amon became the King he has an dolater and the serrants of the king themselves killed him.The people of the land caught hold of the conspired sorrants of Amon and made his son Josiah. He has surrounded all the carried and moulded image which were being by the people. He has ordered the Lervites to cleanse the House of the Lord and the book containing of law of Lord was located. As the whole of Juda was signed against he had humbled himself and became repetent. He had sent men to Haldah a propheters of Lord who informed them about the distruction going to come to Jerusalem and it inhabitants. However, the king will be saved during his life time because of his repentence. He made a corenant that during his period of life he will only serve the Lord God of Israel.When the died, his son Jehoahaz was made king. The king of Egypt had awar with him on Jehoahaz was taken away to Egypt by Necho and the brother of Jehoachaz was made the king. He had tresspassed against God. The babylon King Nebuchandnezzar invadedthe Jerusalem and look away Jehoakin to Babylon along with the vessels and valuables of the House of Lord.The son of Johakim, Johoachim was made the King but he had also reballed apart Ne a de nezza and the God. Her was also taken over by the babylonians of his brother. Zedekials was enthroaned in his place. He has also rebellow against Nebuycadinuzar and the Lord. Therefore the Babylonians attaked Jerusalem, taken the king and all the words priests to Babylon and set fire the Jerusalem House of Lord God. They had also destroyed the boundry wall of Jerusalem and the important buildings and the city as such. Also kept watchmen instructing that nobody should be allowed to rebuild the house of God and the city.Thus Jerusalem remained desolute for 70 years. When King Cyrus conquered Babylon, hehad permitted the jews to go to Jerusalem and brutt the house of Lord on make habitats in Judah.Questions:1. Name the followinga) The propheters who conveyed the message of Lord to King Josiah.b) The King who reined the longest persuad in Jerusalem.c) The person who became king at the age of 8.d) The king who had permitted to Jews to go back to Jerusalem from Babylon.e) The king who had been taken to Egypt on captive.2. How Manasseh had become the ruler of Jerusalem again after his captivity in Babylon ?3. What were the destructive activities carried out by the Kaldians during the pernad of Zedikiah

in Jerusalem.

Lesson - 8the History of Machabians

Objective : Departure from Almighty causes destruction.The regim of David and Salomon were during B.O. 1002-922. In the history of Israel, this was the Golden Age. During the regin of Rehoboam, the Nation of Jews were beforeated into the Israel. The had been fishting each other as well as with the neighbouring states thereby reducing their

economic and social stability and strength. They were captured by the Kingsof Assyria, Greek and Persia during different period.

During the period of 10 countries between soloman’s death and the destructive of Jerusalem (922.BC-70 AD), the Jews remained as a free nation only for about 100 years when the Mechabious region were in force. Let us study what this region is that.

The Jews were under the rule of the Greeks for sometime. On the death of Alexander the grant, the wast Kingdom was shared between the commanders ofAlexander on the area including Syria, come under the region of seleccus knitting. He made Antiocko as his capital during BC 300. During this periiod, the Israel was under the control of the comander tolomy on his hierers. Acho, one of the sea parts in Israel had been renamed as Tolomias During B.C. 198, the selucide tribe ruler of Antiok en entered Antiochus captured Israel from the Tolomy tribe wing from Alexandria. However the romans become powerful during this period on they conquered the Antioclus of Antioc and defeated him. Hence he had surroundered the Roman region. The youngest son of Antioccus Eppipump along with Syrian Knights had become pensoners of Roman remained the Roman contract for 15 years. After the death of Antiocus and his elder son, the Roman released Eppipras from jail and made him the ruler in Antioc under the Roman. Thus during B.C. 175. Eppipans had became the ruler in Antioc on the Israelities were under his region.

Antiocus Eppipanus on becoming the ruler of Antioc had tried to restrict the fredom of Jews. Hence the Jhews were put into great difficulty during his region as enumerated below.1. Antioccus Epipamus had pondered the House of Lord in Jerusalem and stopped the sacrifices with the help of Army.2. He had set up an idol of Lord Jupitor a greek God at the Holy place of the Lord God and thus spoiled the temple.3. He had set fire to the holy books of jews and stopped the circumcission of Jews and their Sabath practices on Saturdays.4. He had forced the jews tomake sacrifices of pig flesh to the idols which was for bidden by God. He ordered to kill the jews who did not co-operate with his ordered.

These altrocities hitherto answered off have forced the Jews reality in arms againsgt the religion on this history of rural is the Mechabian region in Israel.Questions:-1. What were the main reason for Machabian revolts in Israel ?2. What were the cruelities the jews suffered during Antioce Eppiparus region ?3. What were the importance of Aachalion region.

Lesson - 9History of Maccabians (contd)

Objective : Almighty God protects his people from whatever mishaps may occur.There was a small villa go called no deen 28 kit away in the North West of Jerusalem on there lived an old priest called mathiase. He was just and God fearing man and honoured by all the villagers. He had fire sons called John, Simon, Judas, Eliaser and Jonathan. During the period of cruueities of Antiocess Eppipanus, a Syrian centurion reached at this village on sought the co-operation of the old priest Mathias in sacrificing fill idol he get up there in the village.Mathias had not only non co-operated with him in sacrificing to the idol but killed the servants of Antioceas. Knowing the illeterative of the king and his army, Mathias and sons organsed and trained number of Israelites to resist the Kings brutalities. This was in B.C. 167. Many people afraid of the law of God on faith in him joined with mathias and Isralied gournilla warfore Mathias died in the next year. The revolving craud elected Judas, the third son of Mathias as their lender. He had taken a surname as Macceabias meaning hammer. The syrian army was concentratedin the city of Jerusalem on the enter villages were under the Maccalsias. With the co-operation of all

God fearing people in various villages the Maccabans had driven thge Syrian army and freed Jerusalem. They consentrated the house of God and conducted the sacrifices regularly. Thus they have rededicated the House of Lord for regulatory worship on the day re-dedication was being elaborated as a fastrial in Jerusalem every year. Judas Maccobias had lead the people for six years and member his valient fight against astrong trained army this prayed was known as the region of Maccabians in history.

After six years of successful regime in Juda, he was killed in a was at Elages. His younger brother Jonathan was made leader and has region continued for 18 years. He was also acted as a priest in Jerusalem and had spread his boundaries. He was killed in Tolomias decertfully. His brother Simon took over the leadership and priesthood in Jerusalem ruled for eight years. He had been a valiant warrior and Good Administrator. He hadoverpowered the Syrian region and realamed the entire area of Juda. During B.C.134 he was killed by his son and tolomy but he could not take over the regime. The other sons of Mathias were killed earlier in different encounters and hence they were not become rulers. The first generation of Maccabians came to an end with the death of Simon.Question:-1. Why the Maccabians were came to be known as such ?2. Who had taken over the Governance and priest had together at fort ?3. In memory of what the dedication festival is eclesisted ?

Lesson - 10History of Maccabians (contd)

Objective : The hungery for power on infighty therefore causes destruction.After the period of Simon, his son John Hireans first B.C.134 took over the region. He was a

warrior and fought with Syria and exptured the Somania in the North and Idumy in the south on annexed to the Juda. People had to pay escalated tax in order to meet the expenses of war. This has displeaur the population. However, he had ruled for thirty years upto B.C. 104 and the country had became prosperous when he died.

During 104 B.C. the elder sonof Hiscans, Aristoculos but had become the ruler of Juda. In the history of Maccabions, he was called the King. He died after a year. Hisbrother Alexander Junius had became the next king. He annexed many areasfrom the south and north and the areas on the eastern side of Jordan river expanding the boundaries of his kingdom. He has ruler Juda for 27 years.

The Parisees and saduccions in the Jews had different views on this had developed into a componation between these groups in the country. the parrasees have sought help from the Syrian. However Alexander Junus had suppressed the interneare fightwith strong how on died durming BC 76.

On the death of Alexander Janus the Queen Salomy Alexandra became the ruler of Juda in BC 76 and ruled for nine years. She made her elderson Hirecans second as Chief priest of the house of Lord. When she died during 67 BC, there ws a donate for the hierarchy of kingdom between the elderson, the chief priest his cannus second and the younger son Aristobulans second. Initially the Hirecannuss second cap[ timed the regime, Aristoculane second captured the thrown after that. Hireannus second sought the help of Arabooms making Anthropor a commander of the Army of Eden as his negotiator but could not succeed. (The King Herod who had been the raber of Jerusalem during the period of Jesus was the son of this Anthipether).

The Roman General had taken over antioc (Damascus) during his victorians attack in B.C. 63. Bogth the Jew Kings who were fighting for ribghts over the thrown, had approached pambi fokr

his help to resolve the dispute. Pambi had not assisted both the brothers but taken over Jerusalem by himself.

Thus the intereance fight between the younger generation of Maccabians, who fought on reestaboished the worship in Jerusalem, had resultted in destruction of thehouse of Lord on the region was taken by the Roman into this impired. The Mackabiass region has this ended after 104 years of countral of Israel.Questions:-1. Why his own people has become displeased with John Hireannus ?2. What were the reasonf for failure of Maccabians ?3. Who was Anthipether ? What you know about him ?4. What is the name of Queen who ruled Juda during Maccabian region ?5. Who was recognised as the first King amongst the Maccabians ?

New TestamentPart 3

Lesson IIEpistle of Sout Paul

Objective : To get general knowledge on the Epistle of Soul Paul.the epistles of St, Paul are the invaluable properties of Christianity. these were written much

earlier that the Gospels were written. We the actual on deprieveness on the practices and believes in the earlier congregations of Christians, from these writings. The person who had written these episttles is seen to be painful of the probnlems existed in the earliest congregatons in various parts of the world.

The writer St, Paul has repeatedly imphasised on various occasions that whatever he has written are not his mere thoughts and views but are authoritative decisions and he had been authorised to take such decisions as an appostle annointed by Jesus himself. These epistles are clarifying many of the problems and disputes prevalent in a particular congregation but are useful and clarify the many points of disputes in general. He has also mentioned that these epistles should also be handled over to other congregations for their information and follow up guidance in matters of principles (cal-4-16). Those who understood the importance of these instructions have endeavoured to make out copies and communicated to other congregation. As a result of these ffforts almost all these epistles could be collected ding the second century itself St.Peter has also mentioned in his epistle about the epistle written by St.Paul (2 Peter 3.16).

In all we have 14 epistles written by St. Paul. there are different of opinion on the writer of some of these epistles amongst the theologians. The main reason for variation in views are baked on the style of usages on the languages used in the writings. Many of the congregations received these epistles were having various by flestyle, civiliation, ethics and moral characteristics. The problems existed the in them more also multifarious. Some of these were written while he was in great stress and strains and lusy in the gospel mission in distant place. Others were composed while he was in prison for prosecution for long periods. In some of the congregations there was disputes on basic faith while in others it was demardisation among the members of the family and congregation. Many of the epistles swere mean to the congregation which have a large number of converts pom gentles where moral practices and beliefs more darying. The epostles to Hebrews where the convert are mainly from Jews whose faith and moral conducts were as per the law of Moses and hence the language Topics, ideas and instruction are quite different fromothers. He had while he had written to the believers of the congregation he had visited and had talked to the face to face, he had also written to the congregations whom he had notg seen at all such as Roman and collossians. While disputing the composers genuinty, on the basis of language and style of usages

etc, one should take all the above situations underwhich these epistles were written in to consideration.However, the orthodox Syurian christian, on thebasis of faith conveyed to them poem their fore fathers believe that these 14 epistles were written by St.Paul.These fourteen epistles were grouped into 5 for convenience and understandings.1. Early letters (Epistles)

The two epistles to the ar ecoming under these group as they have been much earlier than the other epittles as the congregation was in its informey when these epistles were given to them.2. Evangilical Epistles

Letters to the Romans, two letters to the Corinthians and the one to balatians comes under this group. These are very important in clearly clearifying many basic principles of fourth and as such these are shown on the first epistles in Bible.3. Capitivity Epistles

The letters to Epharians, Phillippians, Calossians, and Philomon are written when St.Paul was impressioned in Rome.4. Pastoral Epistles

These are the leters written to the Bishops (Heard of the congregation) when he interested the job of evangelising and nurishing the baptised believers in christ. The two letters to St.Themothy and tithose are corring under this group.5. The Epistle to Hebrews

The language, usages and style of instruction are entirely different from all other epistles but the fore fathers had mentioned in their writings that is written by St.Paul and the Orthodox Christian believe it as such.Questions:-1. Why some of the Epistles of St.Paul called Pastral Epistles ?2. What are the capability Epistles written by St.Paul ?3. What are the Epistles considered to be the most important ?4. Explain as to why the Epistles of St.Paul diferent in language and style.

Lesson - 12EPISTLE TO ROMANS

Objective : To understand the usefulness and importance of the Epistle to Romans.Upon the death of the Alexander the Great, his Kingdom hasbroken into small countries.

The Roman empire grew up in its place having great Army and wide spread land area surpassing all other empires rose up in the world hitherto. The capital the Roman Empire was came to be called the Eternal city (Roman city). The message of christianity reached Roma during the life time of Jesus as the Jews were then ruled by the Romans. The Army of Romans and the Army Officers were transferred to Jerusalem and vice-versa. the jews also had business relations with Rome. Thus the message of Christ began to grow in Rome very quickly. Many of the Jews and Romans were witnesses of the crucification of christs and the Gift holy ghost during the pontecost. In due course, Rome has became one of the most important Christian centres amongst the great cities of the world. The other major centres were Antioc and Alexandria. St.Paul and St.Peter were killed in Rome and their Martydom caused influx of people of Christian fourth this city. Even before St.Paul and St.Peter reached Rome there were Christian believers in Rome who had witnessed the crucification of Christ and his proceedings in Juda.During his Missionary Journey St.Paul has covered the eastern part of Roman empire along the Medeteranan cost and he had planned to visit the western Europe during his third Journey which includes Rome, Spain etc. He was a Roman citizen and his desire to visit Rome was genuine.

However,he had other mission to deliver country luionof help extended by the people of Greek for the poor and needy in Jerusalem. It was thought that the poor people in Jerusalem inluding newly baptised Jews as well as genteels will come together and their brother hood will grow slowly. However, the haly bhast had foretold him that he will have problem in Jerusalem.St.Paul came to know about the fouth of Roman Christians and it was his earnest desire to see them and bulk to them personally. This epistate seems to be a preparation for that meeting. However the revolutions of Haly Ghost has not dithered him from going to Jerusalem. He had disclosed this while he preached to the Greeks in Mitathose. Prior to his journey to Jerusalem he had visited Greek and duringthis period he had written this Epistle and sent through phebe who was going to Rome for work (Rom 16-1-2)This is the longest letters written by St.Paul. In this he had explained the sins deep rooted in humanity which could not be extinguished by the humon efforts aline. Under such circumstances the need for Gods grace comes to help. This was a project of God and Jesus was the finisher of that project of Grace in his body at Kalrary.He had again and again retorted the how deep rooted sin in humanity and the earlier prophets have discharged these to the human beings. They have said that no even a single man is from without sin and become shut of the Glory of God. Hence everybody has to stand before the judgement sent of Lord God on the Jews will be judges as per the commandments and laws given to them through imposes while the genteels will be judges as per their conscience. the prophecies and laws are the planks pointing to Christ for salvation and not an end initself. When the Christ the saviour had apeared and offered his merey and grace to those who believe in him waiting for another to same is only foolishness. He had with various quotations from the prophecy and laws had restricted that each and everybody had to personally accept Christ as his saviur and become eligible for his grace.If one lives as per the law, the salvation is possible only by the deeds but the forefathers like Abraham had been only 67 faith and not as per the laws. The grace of God is his gift. It is available only through the redemption of Jesus. The resurrendered Christ pray before God for the men who believe in him as a mediator between the sinner and God for his mercy. Roma 8-13 says that “if God is in favour os us, wh stands against us” In order to achieve this salvation one has to do certain things which are as follows:-1. You shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus Christ.2. You shall believein your heart that God had raised him from the dead.

The word of God were first given to the Jews. They had disbelieved the word but this is only temporary. They will also atain thesalvation through Jesus Christ. Therefore, his advise to the Jews were that they should wait for the salvarions of God through Jesus by doing good to all even to them who does evil to them.

In the concluding chapters he had given them a number moral advises such as to love one another, extend hospitality to all irrespective of ones position in the society, tok be patient in tribulations, bless the ones who curses, feed the enemy if you see him hunger etc. He had also gives advices to the Christians who had already soured and emphasis that they should lead a model life showing mercy to all including gives, masters rulers and co-believers. They should be transformed into good and acceptable people to both God and men in that they should not find fault with their brothers etc.Questions:-1. What were the circumstances which had prompted St.Paul to write this epistle to Romans ?2. How this epastle was send to Rome.3. What are important topics covered in this Epistle ?

Lesson - 13Epistles to Corinthian

Objective : In order to grasp in detail on beliefe, hope and love.Daring the first antony, cormith was a port city in Greek haring lot of commercial activities. Those was a great anniversityimporting education to the people. The prosperityin conomy and commerce in this town had brought social immorality among the in habitant and there was no respect for spiritual values and justice. This was the head quarters of the roman administrators for the eastern region on the city was renowned by Julius Ceaser for this purpose. During his second Missionary tour, St,Payul had reached this prosperous port city and stayed there for about one and half years. He had been carrying on his preachings in this city even during his third Missionary tour.In the Holy Bible we had two epistles of St.Paul but it could be seen from 1st Carmilitte 5-9 that he had written one earlier epistle. Unfortunately they could not be collected and included in the Bible.The congregation in cormith were large having numerous believers on the problems therewere of many and varied in nature. While St.Paul was staying in Ephsos, he came to understand about these problems from many sources. One of the problems was grouping of believeness in the name various leading missionaries who leapthed them these missionaries even without their knowledge of such groups amongst believes. Besides there was diversation between haves and have not in believers. There more disputes between believers on cases were in the Roman courts. All these have grieved him greatly (1 Cor 8-1-3 doubts of on the grace of God, (Cor 12-4-12) the holy last supper etc. Besides some people have even questioned the Authority of St.Paul as an appostle as he was not one amongst the 12 Apostles of Christ. On the basis of these disputes and differences of opinions, he had dealt elaborately on the ideology of Christianiy, the love hope and the beliefs in 13 chapter. He had also scholarly dealt on the question of resurrection and wared the believers that if they donot believe in the resurrection of Christ, the whole effort of his preaching was a waste and they are still in their sins and perished.The first Epistle is believed to have been written AD 57 from Ephasia and the second from Maeedona in the some or next year or so.Both these epistles are commenced with the declaration that “Paul the Appostle of Jesus by the will of God”, emphassing that he had been selected as apostle by Jesus so that those deubted on his position as an Appostle need not have any doubt. After the mutual salutation, he had expressed deep sorrow on their grouping believers, and giving preference to the subject of divisions in the congregation he continus that eenthough they are prospered in worldly matters they are still them babies in the spiritual matters he had advised them on they are children in faith.

The Apostle had shown great respect to the real family life and its purety of while talking of the blessings of holy ghost talking in other languages. Explaining on resurrection he said that “as in advised off die, in chrtist shall mark alines. James (1 Cor 15-22) and riterated his statements making that christ be the first suit. When he prayed to get rid of smome of his bady sickness, the uply was that grace of god gives power amount the remarkes sickness and he again accepted the grace with Joy (2 Co. 127-9) He had again clarified that what he had realy hoper for was the joy in the life with earliest rather than the short lived wall pleasureness. He had thorough faith in achievement the hearenly pleasures as he did the uttermost of his ability to carry out the job interested to him (2. Cor 5-1-10).

While closing his Epistle, hje bid fase well in the name of Trinity in the second Corthians only white in all others it is only in the name of Jesus Christ.Questions:-(1) What was the background in writing the Espistle to Corinthians?(2) What were the major problems copied in the Congregation of Corinth ?(3) Biddings farewell in the name of Trinity is seen only at one Epistle where ?

Lesson 14EPISTLE TO GALATIANS

Obj: It is the Gospel of GraceGalatia is a country located in North-Eastern side of Asia Minor (Taskey) St.Paul had visited . During his three Missionary Tours, he had visited Dorbem, Lystra, Icomium an Anthroch of Ppesidia which were in the southen side of Galatia. In caltia LI-IB it was writeen that through the infrimity of flush, he preachded the Gospel to them first. Hence it is sure tht he had written this Epistle to the people for whom the Gospel had been conveyed during his first journey. This was written from corinth during 58 AD 67 St.Paul which fact was accqited any all the Theologists.

This Epistle is important on many accounts. In the beginning he explains his only work as an Apostle and his Goispel Missions (Gal 1-1-24). It can be presumed that this Gospel is meant for the people who had questioned his position as an Apostle. At commencement of the Epistle he retorts that he was the Apostle selected by Jems and God, the father of Jems christ who was recorrected thus close the month of those criticised him. He was born as Parseecee and became a lender in community of Jews while he was going to Demascus for prosecuting the christians, he was selected by Jesus to be an Apostle but he claims that he was selected from birth by God (bal 1-15) and selected from birth to be an Apostle he had instently accepted it whole heartedly without consulting anybody.

In the balatia community, the converted Jews were insisting that all the converts from bentiles should follow the practices as followed by Jews including circumcision. This was one of the disputes St.Paul reffers in his Epistle. St.Paul could not accept this arguement, even though he himself a Jew. Hence he had emphantly refuted the arguments of the jews and made it very clear to the congregation that even if an angel from heaven convey a message other that was conveyed by him, should not be had and such one should be treated as accured one. This is bveing repented in our church during Holy service a far the completion of the epistle reaching on the southern side.

St.Paul repeatedly emphasies that whatever Gospel he pronohed were not targetd by human beings but by Jesus directly when he had the revolution at the gate of Damascus. He had again and again categorically made it clear that practicing tghe law of Moses, nobody will be saved but only by the Grace of God through more belief in Jesus one could be saved. Because of his emphasis on the GRACE of God many scholars of theology call this epistle as GOSPEL OF GRACE. The freedom from sin as envisaged in the Goispel by faith, is not possible in practising the law. Moreover, the fore fathers like Abraham were saved (justified) only by their unconditional belief in God.

Eventhough he had many worldly reasons to boast himself, he said that he would glosy only in the cross of Jesus Christ by which he wsas crucified to the world on the wordly pleasures to him (Glati 6-14) In other words he was fully committed to the cause of Gospel of Jesus Christ.Qsestions1. What are evidences that the epistle was meant for the southern region of Galatia ?2. St.Paul starts the epistle emphasising his status as an Apostle why ?3. According to St.Paul, when God has selected him ?4. What proclamation we make before reading the epistle on the southern side during the Holy Mass ?

Lesson - 15EPISTLE TO EPHASIANS

Oby: To harden the close relation between the congregation and Christ.Ephases was a big town in Asia Minor during the period where St.Paul had visited twice in

the Missionary tours. Not only that he visited on both the occasions, but he stayed there for long long period of two years which shows the importance of Ephesus in his missionary trip. Many wonders occurred there because of St.Paul. His towel could cure the side and his pressence drive away the evil ghosts from the affected ones (Acts 19-10-12) St. Thimothius, the dear deaple of

St.Paul had been made the Episeepa of Ephems ane made administrative management of the congregation as per St.Paul’s direction. In the revolution of St.John, the first message goes to Ephesus church. This appostle has written during 62 AD which he was in prison and gut through Thuhekare.

Many of the epistles were intended to rectify the defects in the prctice of christianity by many of the churches in this world. In this epistle he had preached the necessity of keeping harmony between the converted Jews and gentiles one bady in christ Jews.

The major points covered in this epistle can be narrative as follows:1. The christian church is the unit of Gods redemption plan. God is the hear of the church and the believers are the body (1-2-3).2. The church is the house of the Lord and Christ is the corner stone of it (2-21)3. Christ is the husband and the church is the wife (5.23).4. The sacrifice of christ is not only valid in this world but in heaven also (1-10, 2-7, 3-10).5. The jab of holy ghost in the church 1-17, 2-18, 3-16, 4-30.6. Members of church should be in complete harmony on the need three of (4-1-7, 25, 32).7. The duties in the christian famely (5-22, 6-9).8. The christian is a warrior and the Armoury that he should keep with him 6-10-181.

The epistle to Ephesus and colossian were composed during some period. The epistle to collogians had been written perst and thereafter, the ideas are more refined and realized in the epistle to Ephesians.Qstns :1. What were the wonders happened in ephesas through St.Paul ?2. What are the differences found in the epistle 10 Ephesus compared to other epistles.3. Narrate the important advices in the epistle to Ephesions ?

Lesson - 16Epistle to Phillippians

Obj: We learn from the epistle to Phillippians that Christians should keep their hope under any circumstances.

The King Philip, the father of Alexander the Great had built Philippitonship about 8 KMS away from the Port of Noappoily. When he had become the King of Macdoma. St.Paul visited Philippi during his second Missionary tour but he had stayed mainly in Noappoly where he landed first in Europe. After the death of Alexander the Great, Phillippi was annexed to the Roman empire and they have extrended all the rights of Roman Citizen to the unhabitatants to Phillippi as well.

When St.Paul lended at Phillippi, he had along with him Sitas, Thimothy and Luke (2.19) (Acts 16-16). St.Paul and Silas were beaten and Jailed without prosecution have and as they were Roman citizens they were released without rtrial and begged their prdon when the Administrators came to know about their citizenship.

The first to embrace christianity in Phillippi were Ludia and her family and she belonged to Asia but Jewish origin. Next it was a women stare from Greek embraced Christianity. When St.Paul and silas were promising God and giving the hymbns in the prison, the prison Locks opened seeing this the chief of the Jail wardan embraced christianity. So the initial converts were from various communityu representing different groups of people. Although Paul had to suffer tertures in Phillippi, he was happy and satisfied as he could convert a number of people to the faith.

Unlike other Epistles to various churches he had not criticised the Phillippians but had made several positive remarks on them. Therefore, the church in Phillippi supposed were to be elite, more outtimed and well behaved. They were firm in their faith during their persecution (1-29-30) were obedient St.Paul (2-12) in their dealings they were generous in helping and never become victims of blas phemy (4.15). They were also not influenced by the jewish conflicting ideology. As

the jewish community was strong and influential, it would be possible that they may try to create unnecessary problems and hence St.Paul has warmed two women Euodias and Syntheache be careful in the Gospel.

This epistle was one of the prison epistles wrfitten in AD 63 while in Rome and despatched thgrough Epaphroditus who was also a cghristian working in the Gospel Ministry with Paul (2-25). This man had taken the finacier help of Phillippians to Paul and served him in the prison and become sick in Rome when he had recovered, the epistle was sent through him.

St.Paul has mentioned that his confinement in prison was not waste to the Ministry as he could write a few valuable Epistles from there and he had encouraged the people out side to be more erusfitic and put in more effort to spread the Ministry of Gospel. He had also the new them for the pecuniary help and congradutation them for coming for word to spread the Gospel learning aside their Jewish heritage of proud and boastings.

St.Paul had also bought out many of his scholastic t the Kings of Christ and the cred he was preaching these are1. For me to live is Christ and to die is gain (1-4)2. I have a desire to depart an live with christ which is for better 1-23. I am doing one thing.3. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, forgetting those things behind and reaching for those things before me.

Attend he has reminded the faithful to be happy always and rejoice in Christ Jesus for the hope he had given to us. He also blessed them that the peace of Lord God which passed all understandings shall keep thrushoutsand minds through crest Jesus. He had thus left us with a pleasant hope and get a model leader to follow in tribulate and missery as he had done white in prison singing hymns and praise to the loard God for his mercy and cure.

Many people preach the Gospel boldly remains that St.Paul is in prison for the defense of the Gospel Christ but some do the same to add his afflictions in bondage. However, he felt it joyful. He glorified the Lord God along with gaint in cattle of Caesar’s house hold which proves that this was written from jacob in Rome.Qstns1. Who were with St.Paul when he reached the Phillippi first time ?2. the converts in Phillippi were the uplica of three different portion of the population Explain.3. When did St,Paul write the epistle to Phillippians ?4. What were the virtues St.Paul noticed in the church of Phillippi ?

Lesson - 17Epistle to Calbosians

Ob: To understand the parability of Christ, the son of God.Calasia was a small town near Larodicia at in Frigea in Asia Minor. St.Paul had not visited

this place at the time of his writing (21) and his disciple Epuphras who belonged to calosin had preached the Gospel in Collosia. It was accepted by all that St.Paul had written this from the prison in AD 62 alone with the epistle to Ephaiasm as the engance usage of words, the theology and ieology etc has many comparisons. It seems that this was first written and the epistle to Ephasis is refinement. Philomen to whom St.Paul had writtern an epistle is from Calossia.

St.Paul came to know about some misquirings in the church of callosia some people were confirm more glosy to the Angas than the son of God. In order to dismiss this revision, and to enlighten the uncomparability of Christ with any others, he had written this epastle to collasscans. It has been reiterated in the epistle that christ is the visible image of invisible God Redeemor of sins, the creater of all, consists in all things, the head of the church, the reconciliator to God of every thing present part on future. He made it clear that he is beyond uncomparison. (1-14-20).

Some collossean were teaching the the life of saint without family is the most accetability may of life to God. St.Paul also repudiated this school of thought. Not touch, not handle, not taste etc are the humanly orders and neglecting the body, does not satisfy the Godly creators which is complete in Christ Jesus.

He had also laid down the model relationship between various members in a family, in a society, amongst the rulers an ruled, Masters and glames (B-18-4-1).

From the day they heard about the Grace of God, they bear fruits, and keep growing on this was the reason for his writing to them. St.Paul is appreciating the callossians as they were rooted and bruttuphin christ Jesus, established in faith, we were growing abundantly.Questions1. What were the major evil advice spread among the collagia ?2. What was the reason for writing this epistle to the church, which he had notseen ?3. What is the other epistle written in the same circumstances ?

Lesson - 17Epistle to Thesolonians

Ob: Be fit for the God called you in do not fall short in doing God.Theslomica is beautiful town in Macedonia. At present it is known as solonica. There were

many Jewish gettlers in this town when the Romans have taken over Theslonica from the greek they have made it the centre of Administration of Macedanian area of Roman empire.

St.Paul visited Theslonica during his secured Missionary tour. He stayed there for few weeks in preaching the Gospel. Many Jews and Greecks have believed in Christ Jesus. Ghowever, some influential Jews revotted against the faith St.Paul was advocating and made commotion. This caused the intervention of the rulers and St.Paul along with Themothias and Selas had gone over to Beroraja from Theslonica. thereafter, Themothius were sent back to thesolonica for preaching the Gospel when St.Paul and party reached in Athena. St.Paul had gone back to Corinth and stayed about 1½ years there. themothius when returned to Corinth from Theslonica had explained the practices followed in the church of Theslonica. In the light of these explain nation, St.Paul had written his first Epistle in 52 AD. As disciple of the raised dint he wanted to advice the churches through the first Epistle. Most possibly later in the same year the second Epistle was followed. These Epistles are coming under the earlier Epistle of St.Paul on the circumstances prevalent in the church have not changed. In the beginning of both these Epistles the names of sulab and Themothius had been mentioned as writers along with St.Paul.In these two epistles, he had intimated many good practices to be followed in the church in a cordial and loving words instead of degradation of moral practices.First Epistle

He was happy in the growth of the church in Theshonich within a short period and had congratulated them to be a model of churches. He also recollectes the greivances and problems they have faced for the church and wished to see them again (1-7-9) (2-3-20) The mothius was acted as a mediator between St.Paul on the church on appreciates his good records. Then he gives a set of code conducts to be followed (4-1-12) on assures them that those dead ones will be resurrect along with Christ (4-13-18). It seems that St.Paul had some understandings on the second coming of Jesus christ. It seems that St.Paul had some general ideas of the second coming of Christ on it will be in the same generation (4-17) However, this thinking had not reflected in any of the other epistles but he retorts to the church to await for his second coming alerting (5-1-111). The first Epistles ends with some useful guidance on the arrangements in the church and bidding forewell.Second Epistle

There were some arguments in the church regarding his preachings on the second coming Jesus Christ and some people misunderstood it. Some people committed demeasures and other have progated with letters as if it had been written by St.Paul. Because of these measurings unauthorised letters, he had to clarify his party to the church.

In the second epistle also he had praised them in their centainty in faith and encouraged them saying that those harrased them will be punished soon (1-3-12). He had also advised them to line remain the mis givings.

He requests them to proxy for him (3-1-2). He had also instruct them to leave on orderly life (3-1-12) He ends the epistle with fore well to all.1. In these Epistles who were the other comparers mentioned by St.Paul ?2. Who were the mediated for Theslonicachurch and the Apostle ?3. St.Paul has written the first epistle and followed by and other immediately after that ?

Lesson - 19Epistles to Themotheus

Ob: To stand stead fast in the holy and truthful belief and practics in the churchThemothiyus was born in Hystra as a gas of a Greek citizen and Jewish woman. In the first

Missionary Tour of St.Paul, he had encounters with the Jews in Hystru and many Jews and gentiles have believed in the Jesus Christ amongst them were the family of Thimothius. His mother Eurice and his grand mother Lois were having unfeinged beliefe which fact was stated by the Apostle (2 Th 1-5). As Thi8mothias had been found to be a good witness amongst the natives, the Apostle called him as his son in Gods faith, a man of God, beloved in the faith of God, and beloved son etc. When he was elevated to the position episcopa, he was very young (1 Thin 4-12) and he was under the attack of sickness (1 Thin 5-23) Even though, St.Paulseems to have full confidence on him to entrust the role of leading the believers in the church.

Themothius had been in the Ministry with St.Paul for long period during the period os his strains and stresses and carried art his duties confidently depending on the grace of Christ Jesus. He had also imprisioned along with Paul in Rome and after his release, lived with Paul as his disciple and surrant. After becoming Episcopa, he had lead the people of God in Ephesous for long period and established many regulations in the church as per Pauls instructors. He had become a Martyre when the Roman Emperior Domtius prosecuted the christians in Roman.

These epistles are most important ones in the church on these have pasteral instgructions on the practices to the followed in the church, the principle of faith, the rules and regulation to be followed etc. These are actually the modal of pastural letters from the head of the church to his Juniorts in echalona of church.

The two epistles to Thimothius and the one to Titus are known to be the pasteral writings Thomas Acquinos lived in 13th Century had called these as “Pastoral letters” and all the following theological scholars have continued to cull it as such and were accepted as such in later years. These epistles are intended to two episcopes of the only churches and the instructions theoreis are the ryules and regulation applicable to the churches all over, the name as pasteral letters are really the correct rotation.

The Apostle has at the first instance has pointed out the necessity of keeping the people in real faith instead of believing in the hearsay stores not based on facts and unfaigned faith. He had made it clear that the actual faith is that Jesus christ had come to this world to same the sinners and he is the only mediator between men and God. This is more acceptable themn the law abiding life (1. Themo 2.5). He had also describe the necessary qualifications for a priest and head of a church or group (1 The 3-1-13).

In the second epistle he clearly specifies as to what he preaches “the member, Jesus christ of the seed of David was raised from the died on this the Gospel”

Those who spread these Gokspel suffering untold mistries and opositions will be raised up along with Christ on live in eternity with him (2 Thi 28,11) It is the hope forever/believer of christ.

While writing these Gokspel, the Apostle was aware of his last days and became more courageous in confirming his faith in the following words (2 Thi 4-75). I have forgot a good fight, Ihave finished my course, I have kept the faith. Therefore, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge shall give me at that day”.

At the end he had not only bids fare to Themothias, but asked him to call on him to stay along during his last days in this world.

The first Epistle was writtenin AD 64 from Marcedonia and the second in AD 65 from Rome.Qtns1. What are the adjectives used by St.Paul to qualify Thgemothius ?2. Whose regime Thimothius had become a Martyre ?3. Who catted the epistles to Themothy and Tutus as Pasteral writings ?4. The second epistle to Themothius to as the last of St.Pauls Epistles what are the proofs ?

Lesson 20Epistle to Titus

Ob: General principles to keep the purety of family life.Titus was well known in the Acts of Apostles and the epistles of St.Paul in Corinth and

gathered contgributions from the peoplr for the poor in Jerusalem (2 Cor 7,6,8.6) when they returned to Rome, titus had gone to Delmatia (2 Th 4-10) It is believed gthat Titus had been elevated to the position of Episcope of Creta and continued until his death.

Titus had been sent to crete to regularise the matters that he cannot complete during his visit and to appoint necessary priests in different tour ships where the believers require such survices. Apostle solutes him as “his brother”, beloved son in common faith” (1-4) (2 Cor -18). Titus was zealous in the matter of preachis Gospel (2 Cor 8-17.18).

The qualifications necessary for a priest in gthe church is elaborated in this epistle. There were many jews in the crete and many of them became Christians. The converted jews were insisting that the gentiles should also get circumcised as the Jews do. This he had already repadated in his earlier epistles.

He had so elaborately make out the norms for men and women of different ages to obey in order to keep the party in family life.

The Apostle also instructs him to be cantius in his dealings with people as he is the epistle of crete where majority of the cristians are from the Jews and he himself is a genele. Being meek gluntle kind lovable, on righteous, he should set a model for the believe there so that there will be no chance for any complaint.

This epistle believed tok have been written from Marcedena during AD 64.Questions1. What were the intentions formation the epistle to Titus ?2. Besides being the Episcope of crete, what were the actrivities of Titus ?

Lesson 21Epistle to Phelomen

Ob: How to deal with co-believer ?This epistle had written from the prison of Rome during AD 62. Actually this is a personal

letter of the Apostle and is the smallest in the epistles. Even though there is nothing in this on theology or moral but still knowing that this is written by the Apostle Paul, this was includ in the Holy Bible.

Philomen was a clossian and became a bveliever because of St.Paul and he became the episcope of collossia after word. St.Paul consider him as a co-walker (1) and calls himself an old man bonded in Christ. It may be believed that Philomon was a youngman when St.Paul converted himn into Christianity.

A slave of Phelomen, called O nesimus had ran away from his master. He reached St.Paul in prison and sorred him in prison when probably he had explained about his master to Paul and believed in Christ Jesus. St.Paul has sent Onesimus to his master with this letter. In this letter he advises phelomon to accept Onesimus as a co-believing as per the teaching of Christ.Questions1. What is core subject in this epistle ?2. How St.Paul addresses Phelomon in this Epistle ?3. Who is Onesimus ?

Lesson - 22Epistle to Hebrews

Ob: To find out as to what a Christian should do in order to advice the print of the sacrifice of Jesus, the Chief Priest of Almighty God.

The epistle to the Hebrews is not variance on many aspects from the other epistles in the New Testament. There is no mention of the name of the composer of this epistle, nor the initial salutation, neither the congregation to which its addressed. However, at the closing of the epistle, it refors to certain individual and giving the usual aspects and thanks. Hence many says it is a speech rather than an epistle.

There are difference amongst the theologist about the composure of this epistle. However, the syrian Christians from the early period had believed that this is also composed by the St.Paul during AD 62 from Rome.

It is unknown as to whom this epistles was intended to the named such as Israelites, Jews and Hebrews are used to mean the same people in the Bible. It can be believed that this epistle is meant for the christians who were converted from the Jews. Many references from the old Testament, the ideas selected from the Old Testament Jesus has been painted as a son of God greater them Moses and the Great sacrifice Jesus, the chief priest carried on his body act cabrasy etc gives clear evidence to prove this argument.

As the jews were settled at that period almost every part of world it seems the compaser goes not intent this epistle to all such settlers but to a certain congregation whose name has been not mentioned any where in the epistle. They have not seen him in person but had heard about him and his teachings (5-12) They have also faced persecution after their conversion (10-32).

However, they have not become martyrs for their faith (12-14) but in due course, they home gone back on their faith (65).

There is a comparison between Jesus Christ and those whom the God had blessed and used them during the early period of old Testament. Some people were givbing greater position for Moses as God had talked to him in person at the ment of Sion. The composer had repudiated this cobntention and paints whoses as a servant of God but Jesus is the son of God who inherited all rights and pavers of Almighty by himself (3-1-6). Besides, Moses, God had announted Aaron as High Priest. Those who argued that the High Priest were authorised to conduct sacrifice for the sinners, the composer had extorted that Jesus himself being the High Priest annointed by God and he had sacrified himself knowing all tghe infirmities in the human beings (4-11).

In the second part it is confirmed that Jesus had sacrified himself and resummicted his High Priest. Ity is also said that Jesus is the High Priest comparable to to Malchizede K, the Kings of Salim and as such is greater than Aaron. abraham had respected him and gave him one temth of his loot. Jesus has become the High priest for the Holy Ghost of eternity dwell on him unlike the

priests of old Testments. He conducts his mediation not in temporary sheels into in front of the Almighty of eternity. The priests of Old testaments had to repent the sacrifice several times as these have no long standing points but the sacrifice of Lord Jesus for one and brings eternal peace with God (10-18 for ever and it is complete in all respects (7.1, 10-18).

In the end the composer extold the print of the sacrifice of Jesus, the High Priest, and then explains on the what the followers should do to gather these prints for them. He confirms the essentiality of firm belief in Jesus and explains the various tribulations comes on the unbelievers.

He had also praised their earlier faith in Jesus, the glory of God in facing the prosecution, the wat get before the just, the hope of eternal life with Lord God for the just etc confirmation writings.

In order to show the importance of faith in spiritual life, he defines faith as faith is the substance of things haped for the evidence of things not seen” (11-1) pointing to the sainty in the olden times, who believed in the God and carried art his common and most, he extorted the believers to set aside all their worldly weights and the deep rooted sins in them, in order to run the race patiently to achieve the goal of eternal life of glory (121). The believers should go bouldly that as bad is my help, man can do nothing to mer (13-6).QUESTIONS1. What are the major differences to the epistle to Hilrews from other Epistles ?2. Jesus was greater than many suits mentiond in Old Testaments. Who are they ? What are his greatness ?3. What is faith ?4. What are Apostles preachings to the believers and finding out the real and Authorised Bishop of the Syrian Church and the members of the committee were consisting of two Europeans and two locals. The supreme head of the Syrian churches were the Patriarch of Antioch and Mathews Mar Athanosios was elevated to the position of Bishop by this Supreme head and a proper staticon was issued in his favour, the findings of the committee was in favour of Mathews Mar Athanosios. The British Resident and the British Missionaries, it is presumed had indirectly influenced the committee.

The committee’s findings and other relevant details were communicated to the then Patriarchof Antioch, Yacub II, he had sent Bishop Stephanos Mar Athanosios to Malankara. He had reached Travancore but he could not do anything as the British Residential had influenced the Authorities in Travancore and Kochi to issue orders of extraditia of Both Bishop Yuyalkima Mar Kurilose and Bishop Stephans, Mar Athanosios. They had then lived in the Fort Kochin church which was not coming under both Kochi and Travancore. Bishop Stephanos Mar Athanosios had then visited London and discussed with the officers of East India to who were conducting the real Governance in India then. As a result of this the extradition orders of Kochi and Travancore Governments have been withdrawn and they have been given freedom of travel in these small kingdens. However, in the light of the proclamation of King, the properties of Syrian churches were remained in the hands of Mathews Mar Athanosios.

With the encouragement of Yuyakin Mar Kurilose Fr.Pulikkatil Joseph had been elected as the candidate for Bishop of Malankara and he was grand with a recommentation letter to the Patriarch of Antioch Fr.Joseph Pulikkattil was conservated as Bishop and named Durannosios V.

Deon Gevarghese Chathuruthy was amounted by the Yuyakim Mar Kurilose and he had been elevatd to the positionof Priest, Rubban and Bishop. He had been later on came to be known as the Saint of Parumala Mar Gregorios.

On 14 Sept. 1874, Yuyakim Mar Kurilose had passed away at Mulanthuruthy and cremates at the Marthoman church in a separate room near the Muthbaha. It was seen from the letters here that he was sent to Malankara as Reez Episcopa by the Patriarch of Antioch.QUESTIONS1. Why Bishop Yuyakim Mar Kurilose came to Malankara ?2. What was his position in India ?

3. Where Bishop Yuyaking Mar Kurilose was cremated ?

Lesson - 25Obj: In order to gather knowledge on the services rendered by Divannosios V.

He was one of the eminent Bishops of Kerala and belonged to the same family of Dirannosios II. He came to be called as Pulikkatil Joseph Mar Divannosios.

As explained earlier, as per the proclamation of the King and according to the findings of the committees appointed the property to the Syrian church was handled by Mathews Mar Athanosios and looked after the day today affairs. It was thought if a local able and energetic Bishop is enthrowned by the Patriarch, position will be titled in favour of the Syrian church and the members of congregation had therefore selected Fr.Pulikkatil Joseph, the then Secretary of Bishop Yuyakin Mar Kurilose and he was congregated as Bishop Divannosios V by the Patriarch Yakub II during 1865. Bishop Joseph Mar Divannosios had returned to Malankara from Dayar Baker, which was the head quarters of Antioch Patriarch. However, the power remained with Mathews Mar Athanosia. The New young Bishop had inverted the Patriarch to visit Malankara and the details of services renderd by him is enumerated in the next chapter.

When the Patriarch came to India, he conservated v more Bishops including Gevarghese Mar Gregorians of Parumala and they were to hold charges of Five Dios under the Joseph Mar Diannosiso and had to report to him.

The Royal court had pronounce a favourable judgement in the case of Kunnamkulam Arthat church.

Bishop Joseph Mar Dinannasios had concentrated on the developmentof the church started MD. Somevary high scholl at Kallagh and seminary at Parumala, a church at Trivandrum etc. The famous historian of churches, Sri. E.M.Philip was a printed and Advisder of the Bishop.

Bishop Joseph Mar Divannasios V was the co-priest with the Patriarch when Fr.Alvaris was consentrated as Bishop at Kottayam. He was joined the Syrian church from the Roman Catholics. He was also co-priest when Fr.Rini Viliathy was conservated as Bishop at Colombo, Srilanka. The 50th year of priesthood (Golden of priesthood) was celebrated during 1901.

On May 31 1908, at Jerusalem, the Patriarch had conservated Kochu Parambil Poulose Rubban as Bishop Kurilose and Vallseril Varghese Rabban as Bishop Divannasios. They came back to Malankara on July 11,1909 at the age of 76 Divannasiso V passed away and cremated at old Seminary at Kottayam.QUESTIONS1. What are main institution set up by Divannasios V ?2. Who conservated the Fr.Pulikkottil Joseph as Divannasios V ? At what place ?3. During the period of Divannosios V how many other Bishop were consedrvated for the Syrian church ?

Lesson 26Moran Mor Ignatius Pathrose III Patriarch

Obj: Gain knowledge on the glorious work of Ignatius Pathrose III to establish a strong and permanent Bulwork for the Syrian Christians.

St.Pathrose III, Patriarch of Antioch who reigned from AD 1872 to 1894 for Twenty two years had visited Malankara when the Orthodox Syrian Christian congregation had been undergoing through the worst fasions and critical days. It had been marked in Golden letters in the history of Malankara how he had be searched the community.

Mathews Mar Athanosios had been looking after the day today affairs of the syrian christians with the support of the kingly proclamation in regard to the churches. All the efforts of other Metropolitan Divannasios IV and the Metropolitan Yuhaha Mar Kurilose sent by the Patriarch

PART 4HISTORY OF BUBHA

(congregation)Lesson 23

Mathews Mar AthannsiosePbj: To understand the part played by Mathews Mar Athanasios during 19 th century in the History of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Christians.

During 1818, he was born in Maraman congregation (Edavaka) being the first son of Sri. Mathachan, the elder brother Palakunnu their Abraham. Mathews was admitted to the Kottayam Syrian Seminary when he was 11 years old. Fr.Abraham was a teacher in the seminary. He was good at his studies and at the age of 13 he was anointed as Decan by cheppat. Phillipose Mar Divannosios (Bishop Divannasios IV) The Decan continued his studies in the institution.

The C.M.S. Missionaries who had been participating in the activities of the seminary on the pretext of helping the Syrian Christian in Kerala, had slowly brought out their real intentions. They had started to inculcate the Protestant ideas in the local churches and their style of activities as had done by the Roman Catholics with the help of polish on Dutch Missionaries. The old priests in the Syrian Christians could not be influenced by their activities and knowing this, they have caught hold of young and studious Decons and encouraged them to adopt the protestant ideas as progressive and development of the old established orthodox way of belief.

There were disputes between the CMS Missionaries and the local Bishop as he resisted the teachings of protestant faith among the locals. As a result of this quarrels the Missionaries were compelled to leave the seminary by 1835 AD. Those Mission who had been driven out of the seminary had established another seminary where the CMS college is located now. Because of this new set up, the Kottayam orthodox seminary had become famous as old seminary. The people who had supported the Missionaries and protestant ideas put their children in the new CMS seminary. The Bishop had declared that they are not studying the orthodox syrians faith, are not studying the orthodox syrian faith, they will not be anointed as Decans or priests.

The students of the New seminary who had completed their studies could not be promoted as priests. Hence two of them were sent to Madras for higher studies, the expense for their studies, it was the understanding, will be met by the Missionaries. Decan palakunnathu Mathews and Decan Puthenkoril Kizhakkeveettil George Mathen had joined the C.M.S. church later on and became the first local priest of CMS. He had written grammar book for Malayalam language became a famous literate.

The students of CMS seminary came out become priests because of the stand taken by the Bishop. Many representation were being made to Antiock patriarch to send a Bishop having the Orthodox faith and blessings of Antioc. The Priest Abraham (Malpan) knowing these facts well enumingly had sent the Decan Mathews to the Patriarch without the knowledge of the Malankara Bishop or congregation. The Decan well reside in Syrian and English language reached the Patriarch, Elias II 1848 AD and gained his confidence during his stay their for two years. With his polite and obedient dealings, the Patriarch had well pleased in him. Without concurring the Malankara church have, nor the Bishop in Kerala. The Patriarch Elias II had anointed Decan

Mathews as Bishop by the name Anthanasios and gave him the Authority to look after the Malankara church (provides the staticon) In the authorisation, the patriarch has mentioned that Fr. Mathews had reached me from you in pace which means he had mis represented the facts to the patriarch. When he had left India, he was only a Decan and he had left India, he was only a Decan and he had pretended to be the candidate for elevation to the position of Bishop approved by the churches here on he had succeeded in winning over the confidence of the Patriarch. It can also be presumed that he might have produced some cooked documents to prove his pretension. What ever may be the facts, he had been elevated to the position of Bishop at the age of 24 without the consent of the churches have and as there was no Bishop in Mussel, he had been given the charge of Mussel for a short duration to get work experience. He had handled the matters for few months at Mussel.

In the mean time the Orthodox churches have had received the news of his elevation to the position of Bishop. Representations were sent to the Patriarch making the position very clear that he was only decan and had not selected him to be the priest for reasons of his protestant faith and relation. It was also made clear that he was not elected by the churches to be the Malankara Bishop. The Patriarch had then ordered the Bishop to call on him for clearing his doubts. On receipt this order, he had become afraid and if he meet the Patriarch fearing that the elevated position will be taken out of him and he might to be compelled disclose all the facts before him the Bishop left Mussel sending a letter to the Patriarch stating he had to go back to his home urgently. He reached Kochi in 1843.

There were many priests and people to require at Kochi and he was advised that the progressive ideas of protestants had not influenced the levels and if he enforce the new Thaksa, the people will not accept him. Therefore he continued to use the accepted version of Syrian christian thaksa in the churches.

The Priest Abraham had been pleased in the return of the newly elevated bishop. However he was disappointed on the use of Old Thaksa by the New Bishop instead of the one prepared by the Malpan. He had advised the Bishop to carry out the New version of Thaksa and to introduce the progressive ideas as envisaged by him. However the New Bishop had not obliged. However, he had implemented the New Thaksa in his congregation at Maramon and remained to be known as the Bishop of Maramon. Malpan Abraham had become sick and disappointed on the failure of his project of Renoration of Thaksa. He passed away in 1845 at the age of 49 because of aggregation of disease.

The Missionaries were then become happy as they have a Bishop to oppose the Syrian Orthodox Christians. With the help of Missionaries and through the influence resident Kallen, Mar Athanosius had gained the damnation from the King of making him the legal head of Syrian orthodox churches in Travancore during 1852. Again in 1863, the then Divan T Madhav Rao had issued a circular emphasising the proclamation.

Mathewes Mar Athanasius had thus ruled the Malankara church for the rest of his life. The following facts have helped him to rule over the church without problems.1. The Patriarch of Antioch had conservated him as Bishop on gave him the stuticon to rule over the church.2. He had managed to obtain the proclamation from the King.3. He had the whole hearted support of the CMS Missionaries on the British Resident.Inspite of all these favourable advantage, he had never questioned the Authority of The Patriarch of Antioch during his life time and never went against the practices being followed in the churches. He had also made all the priests to declare allegiance to the Bishop on the patriarch of Antioch.Mathews Mar Athanasios had made his uncles son as his heir, Fr.Thomas, son of Abraham Malpan during 1869 and called him as Athanisios. He had made will handing over all the properties of the churches and all his Authorities as rulers of the orthodox churches. He passed away in 1877 and

cremated in the Maramon church. As per the will Thomas Mar Athanasios took over the affairs of the Syrian Orthodox churches.Questions:1. What are the three factors that helped Mathews Mar Athanosios to rule over the Syrian churches.2. Malpan Abraham was not happy despite he got his brothers son consecated as Bishop within the knowledge of the Syrian Orthodox church why ?3. Name of the following1. Who consevated Mathews Mar Athanosios as Bishop.2. The Bishop who had been ruling here when Mathews Mar Athanosius returned.3. The first Dioces where Mathews Mar Athanosios ruled.4. Who was the heir of Mathews Mar Athanosius.

Lesson 24Yuyakimn Mar Kuriakose Bishop

Obj: To understand the position of Yuyakim Mar Kuriakose Bishop in the history of Orthodox christians

The Bishop Chepatta Pilexinose Mar Divannasios have intimated the patriarch that the person, Mathews Mar Athanasios who had been consecrated as Bishop at Mardeen without the knowledge or consent of Malankara Orthodox christians, was not fit to become a priest in the syrian christians church as he was a person following the protastant faith and practices. In order to ascertain the facts in regard to Mathews Mar Athanosios and scrutinise the veracity of the complaints and in cse they are found correct and true, an order on parishment against the accused was sent through Yuyakim Mar Kurilose by the Patriarch Elias II to the Malankara church. He reached Kerala during 1846. The syrian believers in Kerala had accorded a hearty welcome to Bishop Kurilose, inspite of their confusion in regard to the return of Mathews Mar Athanasios Taking into consideration of the syrian christian congregation’s welbeing and peaceful existence the Bishop Divannasios IV had handed over the Authority to Bishop Kurilose voluntarily. He had then conducted eleborate enquiries amongst the believers and convinced himself that Mathews Mar Athanosius had reached Mardeen without the consent of local church and all the documents presented and politeness shown was artificial and weived. However all the Anthiacio in Kerala were in favour of Mathews mar Athanosios. The Government of |Travancore had appointed a committee in order to study and finding out the real and authorised Bishop of the Syrian church, and the members of the committee were consisting of two empeasons and two locals. The supreme head of the syrian churches were the patriarch of Antioch and Mathews Mar Athanosios was elevated to the position of Bishop by this supreme head and a proper station was issued in his favour the findings of the committee was in favour of Mathews mar Athanosios. The British Resident and the British Missionaries, it is presumed had indirectly influenced the committee.

The committee’s findings and other relevant details were communicated to the then Patriarch of Antioch, Yacub II, he had sent Bishop Stephanos Mar Athanosios to Malankara. He had reached Travancore but he could not do anything as the British Resident had influenced the Authorities in Travancore and Kochi to issue orders of extractia of Both Bishop Yuyakima Mar Kurilose and Bishop Stephano, Mar Athanosisos. They had then lived in the Fort Kochi church which was not coming under both Kochi and Travancore. Bishop Stephanos Mar Athanosios had then visited London and discussed with the officers of East India co who were conducting the real governance in India then. As a result of this the extradition orders of Kochi and Travancore Governments have been with drawn and they have been given freedom of travel in these small kingdoms. However, in the light of the proclamation of King, the properties of syrian churches were remained in the hands of Mathews Mar Athanosios.

With the encouragement of Yuyakim Mar Kurilose, Fr. Pulikkatil Joseph had been elected as the candidate for Bishop of Malankara and he was send with a recommendation better to the Patriarch of Antioch. Fr. Joseph Pukkattil was consevated as Bishop and named Divannosios V.

Dean Geevarghese Chathuruthy was amounted by the Yuyakim Mar Kurilose and he had been elevated to the position to Priest, Rubban and Bishop. He had been later on came to be known as the saint of Parumala Mar Gregorious.

On 14 Sept. 1874, Yuyukim Mar Kurilose had passed away at Mulanthuruthy and cremated at the Marthoman church in a separate room near the Muthbaher. It was seen from the letters here that he was sent to Malankara as Reez Episcopa by the Patriarch of Antioch.Questions:-1. Why Bishop Yuyakim Mar Kuriakose came to Malankara ?2. What was his position in India ?3. Where Bishop Yuyuking Mar Kurilose was cremated ?

Lesson 25Obj: In order to gather knowledge on the services rendered by Divannosios V.

He was one of the eminent Bishops of Kerala and belonged to the same family of Divannosios II. He come to be called as Pulikkatil Joseph Mar Divannosios.

As explained earlier, as per the proclamation of the King and according to the findings of the committees appointed the property to the syrian church was handled by Mathews Mar Athenosios and looked after the day today affairs. It was thought if a local able and encogetic Bishop is enthrouned by the patriarch, position will be titled in favour of the syrian church and the members of congregation had therefore selected Fr. Pulikkatil Joseph, the then secretary of Bishop Yuyukim Mar Kurislose and he was conservated as Bishop Divannosios V by them patriarch Yaku II during 1865. Bishop Joseph Mar Dianosisohad returned to Malankar from \dayar Baker, which was the head quarters of Antioch patriarch. However, the power remained with Mathews Mar Athanosis. The New young Bishop had invited the Patriarch to visit Malankara and the detail of services rendered by him is emmuted in the rent chapter.

When the Patriarch came to India, he conservated more Bishops including Gevarghese Mar Gregorion of Parumala and they were to hold charges to \five \diuoas under the Joseph Mar Dianosis on had to report to him.

The Royal court had pronounced a favourable judgement in the case of Kunnamkulam Arthat church. Bishop Joseph Mar Dianosis had concentrated on the development of the church started MD. Seminary, high school at Kallagam seminary at Parumala, a church at Trivandrum etc. The famous historian of churches, Sri. E.M.Philip was a firmed and Adviser of the Bishop.

Bishop Joseph Mar Divannasios V was the co-priest with the Patriarch when Fr. Alvaris was concentrated as Bishop at Kottayam. He was joined the syrian church from the Roman Catholics. He was also co-priest when Fr. Rini \velathy was conservated as Bishop at Colombo, Srilanka. The 50th year of priesthood (Golden jubility of priest hood was celebrated during 1901.

On May 31 1908, at Jerusalem, the Patriarch had conservated Kochuparambil Poulose Rubban as Bishop Kurilose and valldrtil Varghese Rabban as Bishop Dianosis. They came back to Malankara on July 11, 1909 at the age of 76 Diagnosis V passed away and cremated to old seminary at Kottayam.Questions1. What are main institution set up by Divannasios ?2. Who conservated the Fr. Pulikkattil Joseph as Divannosios ? At what place ?3. During the period of Divannosios V how many other Bishops were conveyed for the syrian church ?

Lesson 26Moran Mor Ignatius Pathrose III Patriarch.

Obj: Gain knowledge on the glorius work of Ignatius Pathrose III to establish a strong and permanent Bulmark for the syrian christians.

St. Pathrose III, Patriarch of Antioch who resigned from AD 1872 to 1894 for Twenty two years had visited Malankara when the orthodox syrian christian congregation had been undergoing through the worst fasions and critical days. It had been marked in Golden letters in the history of Malankara sabha how he had beseached the community.

Mathews Mar Athanosios had been looking after the day today affairs of the syrian christians with the support of the kingly proclamation in required to the churches. All the efforts of other Metropolitan Divannasios IV and the Metropolitan Yuyaka Mar Kurilose sent by the Patriarch Elias III could not make much ahead inspite of their streneous efforts to art the position. The Metropolitan Stephanos Mar Athanosios sent by the Patriarch Jacob II doi much as he had been issuyed with an extradition order as explained earlier. Inspite of the arrival of Divannasios V a local person congregated by the Patriarch to look after the affairs of Malankara church, there was no progress in the affairs of the church due to the support of British Resident and Missionaries from Briton. In view of the kingly proclamation, the courts in the country could not decide on the real inheritance of the malankara churches and the Divan could not take a decision without the consent of Resident. In view of the unhelpful attitude of the Resident Divannasios v had sought for help from the patriarch directly. The Patriarch of Antioch who had taken over just two years back had visited London and explained about the unlawful and unjustifiable inference in the affairs of church by the Missionaries and the Resident to the Secretary of state for India. He had also met the Queen victoria and elaborately explained the happenings in India sought there interference to mitigate the problems of the church in India. Although the Bishop of Canter berry had raised objections, the Queen was helpfully and the British Government had understood the position well. The patriarch was successful in obtaining a recommendation letter from the British Government to the Government in Madras. With this recommendation, Patriarch had reached Madras and met the Governor. As a result of all these activities, the kingly proclamation in favour of Mathews mar Athanosius had been a ruled and a new proclamation were issued in 1876 March 4 th. According to this proclamation, the King had no Authority to appoint a Metropolitan in the Syrian churches and to set aside an order of the patriarch either appointment or dismissing a Metropolitan. If there were disputes on other matters, it could be settled in the civil courts. This was the most important achievement of the Patriarch Pathrose II.

Secondly he had called a Meeting of the clergy in 1976 at Mulanthuruthy which is known as Mulanthuruthy Suynnahadose. In the some year in July he had conducted Muron Kudasha at Mulanthuruthy. This is congregation of oil (generaly Olive oil) in order to anoint the believers on their baptism and at final sacrament before death). Thus the continuity of the church had been ensured and paved the way for its development and expansion. There were about more than three lakh believers in the church. They were mainly inhabited in the central and Northern part of Travancore and Kochi. There were an facilities for travel in this areas except for bullock cart and small country crafts. The metropolitan and other senior and respectable persons were carried from one place to other by people in Pallack/|Menar a carries bay type vehicle. On view of the transportation hardships and due to lack of communication facilities, the patriarch had decided to divide the whole area into seven Dioces white the Malankara Methropolita (the lender among the bishops) will remain at Kottayam and three additional Metropolitan on the North of Kottayam at Angamally, Kochi and Kandanadu had been conservated and another three Metropolitans on the South of Kottayam will be established at Kollam, Niranam on Thumbamon.

The following were the Metropolitan and their respective diocesDioces Metropolitan anointed

Angamally Ambatt Gevarghese Mar KuriloseKochi Korattuveettil Simon Mar DivannosiosKandanadu Murimattom Poulose Mar IvaniosKollam Kadavil Poulose Mar AthanoisiosNiranam Chathuruthil Gevarghese Mar GevargheseThumpaman Kanattu Gevarghese Mar Poulose

The Dioces of Kottayam continued to be ruled by Palikkattil Joseph Mar Divannasios (Divannasios V). In view of the excess job of Malankara Metropolitan, the Kottayam Dioces had been handed over to Kadavil Poulose Mar Athanosius on Kollam Dioces had been allocated to Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Divannosios by the Patriarch after word.

Another landmark decision was to set up a committee consisting of 8 priests an 16 believers from various part of the different Dioces to look after the affairs of the church. The leader of the committee was the Malankara Metropolitan on later on this was called the Syrian Christian Association. In view of the progressive measures and enactment rules and resultation for the strong set up and perpetual continuity of the church, the holy father will be in the memory of Malankara Syrian of the church here. He had returned to Antioch during 1877.Questions:-1. Before arriving here what was done by the patriarch Pathrose III for successes of his Mission ?2. What was the first achievement of the Patriarch Pathrose III ?3. Write in brief the activities of Patriarch Pathrose III ?

Lesson 27Mulanthuruthy Sunnahedose

Meeting of the clergy and Believers of the Syrian christian church at MulanthuruthyObj: With the blessing of half spirit the congregation became strong in rules and regulation and perpetual in nature.

At the invitation of this holiness Patriarch pathrose III, a meeting of the representatives of all churches among the syrian christian was held on 15, 16, & 17 of Methran ME 1051 (AD 1876) at Mulanthuruthy in order to decide the ruling of the church as a whole on its spiritual necessities. The venue was Marthoman church at Mulanthuruthy. This meeting was a land mark in the an of the history of syrian churches. The patriarch has presided in this meeting. Bishops Abdulla Mar Gregorious who came along with the Patriarch on the Malankara Metropolitan Palikkattil Joseph Mar Divannaiose were also attended this meeting. There was 30 priests representing 103 churches, 144 representatives of believers from those churches Chathuruthil Geevarghese Rebban who had acted as the Secretary of the Patriarch was the convenor of this meeting. He had been selected as Metropolitan listen Gevarghese Mar Gregorious and came to be called as Parumala Thirumeni.

The meeting was convened in conserial and courteous atmosphere and many long standing most important decisions on the continuity of the churches, the spiritual and worldly rulings of its affairs were taken in this meeting.

The most important decisions are summarised below:1. The whole members of the communions will be tender the holy God of the thrown of Antioch keeping the ancient God given true faith and practices. The tresspassers in faith and practices will have no place in the church communion. As a result of the decision, he protestents had became out last pay the syrian church.2. the canon (Rules) of the communion (Subha) will be printed and given to all churches.3. All churches have to keep separate registers for the baptism, marriages, credmodion etc being conducted in each church.

4. There will be a found for the common purpose of the Subha (communion).5. There most have a committee for running the day to day affairs of the Dioces under the chairmanship of Metropolitan and the member of the committee will consist of priests and representatives of believers. Thus in the leadership of spiritual head, a democratic set up for running the Dioces have been envisaged.All the decisions had been recorded and signed by all the attendants of the Meeting had been handed over to the patriarch and one copy kept in the headquarters of churches. All these have been eleberately recorded and a copy had been handed over to the Patriarch. This is called the “Mulanthuruthy Padiyala” the most important document in the syrian church.Questions:1. When was the Mulanthuruthy Sunnahodose conducted ?2. Who presided over the sunnahadose ?3. Who were the participats of Mulanthuruthy sunnahadose ?4. What is “Mulanthuruthy Padiyala” ?

Lesson 28Case of Seminary

Obj: The common property of the church should be under the head of the sabha.With the arrival of the Patriarch Pathrose III and the Mulnthuruthy sunnahadose, the Syrian

christian sabha had become strongly knitted and united, the common property of the church had been handed over to the Thomas Mar Athanasios, the heir of Mathews Mar Athanosios. In order to recapture these the verdict of cervical court was become necessary.

During 1879 Diannasios v have filed a suit in the District court of Alleppey in order to regain the common property of the sabha mainly old seminary in Kottayam (These was no court at Kottayam then). As the litigation was mainly in respect of the old Seminary and the land around it, this case was called the seminary case.

The proclamation of the Kingdom had made Mathews Mar Athanasios as the legal hier as he had received statics and consecration from the Patriarch. But both these were available now only to Divannosios V he had gained the verdict in his favour, in the District court, High court and Royal court. All the courts have accepted him as the head of Malankara church and heir of the common property of the sabha. He also had become digible the accept the interest of Deposits (vattipanam) Besides, except the church at Maramon, all other Syrian churches were come to be ruled by the Diannose V.

As per the decision of the Mulanthuruthy Sunnahadose, the protestant progressive group have been out cast and had no place in the christian churches for those who donot owe allegiance to the Patriarch of Antioch. So they had either to join the CMS or form a new congregation without learning the old practice and faith. They have selected the second way and formed a New Congregation in the name of Marthoma Suriani Sabha.Questions:-1. Who filed the seminary case ? Against when the case was filed ? Why ?2. Why the litigation for the common property of the church came to be known as Seminary case ?3. In the seminary case, the judgement was in whose favour ? What was the judgement ?4. What was the distant result of the judgement of Seminary cas e?

Part 5Lesson 29

True faith of the Holy Sacraments

Holy sacraments are the visible actions of the invisible good results for the salvation of human beings as ordered by Christ our Lord Jesus. In other wards they are the secrets. Kudasha (sacrements) means purification.The priests who had been ordained to conduct such sacraments in the prescribed manners only gives the grace of God.

There are seven such sacraments in the congregation. All these are either established by Jesus or he had ordered his disciples to establish or give them to be followed in the congregation. He had made them to baptise people and asked them to continue to do the some (John 4-1-2, Mathew 28-19) Holy Mass (Qurbana) he himself had conducted it and told them to continue critial his coming Back (Luk 22-19-20, 1 Cormith 11-23). The Jesus had given them the power of remission of sin John 20-23) Kumbayaram.

He had made them his Ambassadors (John 20-21) He gave them power to change the sick and cure them (Mark 6.13) The disciples also were annointed the oil as a mark of holy ghost Mariase has been established by God in paradise when he created were and gave to Adam.

In every sacrament there are four parts. The conductor the sacrament material the mass of \action, the received. The person who is entitled to conduct the sacrament is the conductor. It may be a priest or Bishop or any other person who had been authorised to conduct such sacraments. He is considered to be the Ambassador of God or God himself.The sacrament materials are water, faith, Holy Mason, the wheat powder, wine and water etc. There is no sacrament Material in the remission of sin. While in marriage, ornaments like rings, chains etc become the sacrament material.The prayers and the manners in which it is conducted are the action images. Every sacrament has its own practices and set of prayers. There are a number of Takas for holy Mass and most important of it is the Taksa of Jacob, the brother of John. These are really the valuable treasures of the Syrian churches.The person with proper repentance and make self preparation to accept the sacrament in the receiver.The person accepts the sacrament with preparation gets the Grace of God as its given by him and not by the priest. God had ordained the people to do such sacrament by those authorised and had such acts as made him eligible to do. These blessings are given to the receiver not because of his fitness to receive or his credibility but due to the excessive grace to words men it is given. As a result of our forth in his birth, his crucification, resurrection and his mediation in front of father, these blessings were extended to the believers.When one receives the sacrament, one should not think that he had made God liable to give him the blessings. The faith in Jesus make us desorne to gain the blessings due to his bodily sufferings which made him deserve for the blessings of God and through |Jesus this blessings flew to the believers in him. This is Godly and beyond the natural blessings such blessings plan to those invisibly when he receives the sacraments.

The mental conduction of the receiver does not affect the power of blessings of a sacrament. Even if the receiver does not be hire in the blessings it has its natural blessings. The receiver had to prepare and believe on the power of the sacrament to receive grace. If not, he will not have the relation with God who extends such blessings/Grace.

Lesson – 12EPISTLE TO ROMANS

Obj: To understand the usefulness and importance of the Epistle to Romans.

Upon the death of the Alexander the Great, his Kingdom has broken into small countries. The Roman empire grew up in its place having great Army and wide spread land area surpassing all other empires rose up in the world hitherto. The capital of the Roman Empire was came to be called the Eternal city (Roman city). The message of christianity reached Roman during the life time of Jesus as the Jews were then ruled by the Romans. The Army of Romans and the Army officers were transferred to Jerusalem and vice-versa. The jews also had business relations with Rome. Thus the message of Christ began to grow in Rome very quickly. Many of the Jews and Romans were witnesses of the crucification of christy and the Gift holy ghost during the Pontecost. In due course, Rome has become one of the most important christian centres amongst the great cities of the world. The other major centres were Antioc and Alexandria. St.Paul and St. Peter were killed in Rome and their Martyrdom caused in flux of people of christian faith this city. Even before St.Paul and St.Peter reached Rome there were christian believers in Rome who had witnessed the crucification of christ and his preachings in Judae.

During his Missionary Journey St.Paul has covered the eastern port of Roman empire along the Mediteranean cost and he had planned to visit the western Europe during his third Journey which includes Rome, Spain etc. He was a Roman citizen and his desire to visit Rome was genuine. However, he had other mission to deliver country luction of help extended by the people of Greeck for the poor and needy in Jerusalem. It was thought that the poor people in Jerusalem including newly baptised Jews as well as ginteels will come together and their brother hood will grew slowly. However, the holly ghost had foretold him that he will have problem in Jerusalem.

St.Paul come to know about the faith of Roman Christians and it was his earnest desire to see them and bulk to them personally. The epistle seems to be a preparation for that meeting. However the revolutions of Holy Ghost has not dithered him from going to Jerusalem. He had disclosed this while he preached to the Greeks in Milathose. Prior to his journey to Jerusalem he had visited Greek and during this period he had written this Epistle and sent through phebe who was going to Rome for work (Rom 16-1-2).

This is the longest written by St.Paul. In this he had explained the sins deep rooted in humanity which could not be extinguished by the human efforts alone. Under such circumstances the need for \gods grace comes to help. This was a project of God and Jesus was the finisher of that project of Grace in his body at Ralrary.

He had again and again retorted the how deep rooted sin in humanity and the earlier prophets have disclosed these to the human beings. They have said that not even a single man is formed without sin and become short of the Glory of god.

Lesson – 14EPISTLE TO GALATIANS

Obj: It is the Gospel of GraceGalatia is a country located in North – Eastern side of Asis Minor (Turkey) which St.Paul had visited during his three Missionary Tours, he had visited Dorba, Hystra, Icomium on Antioch of Prsidia which were in the southern side of Galalia. In Galatia 4-IB it was written that through the infirmity of flesh, he preached the gospel to them first. Hence it is sure that he had written this Epistle to the propel for whom the Gospel had been conveyed during his first Journey. This was written from cornith during 58 AD by St.Paul which fact was occupied by all the theologists.

This epistle is important on many accounts. In the beginning he explains his only work as an Apostle and his Gospel Missions (Gal 1-1-24). It can be presumed that this gospel is meant for those people who had questioned his position as an Apostle. At commencement of the Epistle he retorts that he was the Apostle selected by Jesus and God, the father of Jesus christ who was recurrected thus close the month of those criticised him. He was born as pareesee and became a leader in community of Jews while he was going to Demascus for persecuting the christians, he

was selected by Jesus to be an Apostle but he claims that he was selected from birth by God (bal 1-15) and selected to be an Apostle he had instantly accepted it whole heartedly without consulting anybody.

In the balatia community the converted Jews were insisting that all the converts from gentile should follow the practices as followed by Jews including circumcision. This was one of the disputes St.Paul reffers in his Epistle. St.Paul could not accept this argument even though he himself a Jew. Hence he had emphantly refuted the arguments of the jews and made it very clear to the congregation that even if an angel from haven convey a message other that was conveyed by him, should not be head and such one should be treated as accured one. This is being reputed in our church during Holy service after the competition of the epistle reaching on the southern side.

St.Paul repeatedly emphasises that whatever gospel he preached were not taught by human beings but by Jesus directly when he had the revolution at the gate of Damascus. He had again and again categorically made it clear that practicing the law of Moses, nobody will be saved but only by the Grace of God through more belief in Jesus one could be saved. Because of his emphasis on the GRACE of God many scholars os theorlogy call this epistle as GOSPEL OF GRACE. The freedom from sin as envisaged in the Gospel by faith, is not possible in practicing the law. Moreover, the forefathers like Abraham were saved justified only by this unconditional belief in God.

Eventhough he had many worldly reasons to boost himself, he said that he would glory only in the cross of Jesus christ by which he was crucified to the world and the worldly pleasures to him (Galati 6-14) In other words he was fully ommitted to the cause of Gospel of Jesus Christ.Questions:-1. What are evidences that the epistle was meant for the southern region of Galatia ?2. St.Paul starts the epistle emphasising his status as an Apostle why ?3. According to St.Paul, when God has selected him ?4. What proclamation we make before reading the epistle on the southern side during the Holy Mss ?

Lesson – 15Epistle to Emphasians

Obj: To harden the close relation between the congregation and Christ .Emphasus was a big town in Asia Minor during the period where St.Paul had visited twice in the

Missionary tours. Not only that he visited on both the occasions, but he stayed there for long period of two years which shows the importance of Ephesus in his missionary trip. Many wonders occurred ther because of St.Paul. His towel could cure the side and his presence drive away the evil of ghosts from the affected ones. (Acts 1-10-12) St.Th8mothius, the dear deaple of St.Paul had been made the Episcopa of Ephens and made administrative management of the congregations as per St.Pauls; direction. In the revelution of St.John, the first message goes to Ephesus church. This Epistle has written during 62 AD which he was in prison on sut through Thuhikore

Many of the epistles were intended to rectify the defects in the practice of Christanity by many of the churches in this world. In this epistle he had preached the necessity of keeping harmony between the converted Jews and Gentles oner bady in christ Jesus.

The major points covered in this epistle can be narrated as follows :1. The christian church is the unit of Gods redemptin plan. God in the head of the church and the believers are the body (1-23).2. The church is the house of the Lord and Christ is the corner stone of it (2-21)3. Christ is the husband on the church is the wife (5.23)4. The sacrifice of Christ is not only valid in this world but in hereon also (1-10, 2-7, 3-10).5. The job of holy ghost in the church 1-17, 2-18, 3-16, 4-30.6. Members of church should be complete harmony and the need thereof (4-17, 25, 32)

7. The duties in the christian famely (5.22, 6-9).8. The Christian is a warrir and the spiritual Armoury that he shokuld keep withhim 6-10-181.The epistle to Ephesus and colossians were composed during some period. The epistle to Ephesians.Questions:-1. What were the wonders happened in ephesas through St.Paul ?2. What are the differences found in the epistle 10 Ephesus compared to other episttles.3. Narrate the important advices in the epistle to Ephesians ?

Lesson – 16Epistle to Phillippians

Obj: We learn from the epistle to Phillippians that Christains should keep their hope under any circumstances.

The King Philip, the father of Alexander the Great had built the of Philippianship about 8 KMS away from the port of No appoly when he had become the King of Macedomia. St.Paul visited Phillippi during his second Missionary tour but he landed first in Europe. After the death of Alexander the Great, Phillippi was annexed to the Roman empire and they have extended all the rights of Roman citizen to the unhabitants of Phillippi as well.

When St.Paul landed at Phillippi, he had along with him Sitas, Thimothy and Luke (2.19) (Acts 16-16) St.Paul and Sitas were beaten and Jailed without prosecution have and as they were Roman citizens they were released without trial and begged their passed on when the Administrators came to know about their citizenship.

The first to embrace christianity in Phillippi were Ludia and her family and she belonged to Asis but Jewish origin. Next it was a slave from Greek embraced Christianity. So the initial converts were from various community representative different groups of people. Although Paul had to suffer tortures in Phillippi, he was happy and satified as he could convert a number of people to the faith.

Unlike other Epistles to various chunch he had not criticised the Phillippians but had made several positive remarks on them. Therefore, the church in Phillipp supposed to be were elite more outtuned and well behaved. They were firm in their faith during their persecution (1-29-30) were obedient St.Paul (2-12) in their dealings. They were also not influenced by the jewish conflicting ideology. As the jewish community was strong and influential, it would be possible that they may try to create unnecessary problems and hence St.Paul has warned two women Euodias and Syntyeche be careful in the Gospel.

This epistle was one of the prison epistles written in Ad while in Rome and despatched through Epaphoroditus who was also a chiristian working in the Gospel Ministry with Paul (2-25). This man had taken the financial help of Phillippians to Paul and served him in the prison and become sick in Rome when he had recovered, the epistle was sent through him.

St.Paul has mentioned that his confinement in Prison was not waste to the Ministry as he could write a few valuable Epistles from there and he had encouraged the people outside to be more energetic and put in more effort to sprened the Ministry of Gospel. He had also thanked them for the pecuniary help and congratulated them for coming for word to spread the Gospel leaving aside their Jewish heritage of proud and boastings.

St.Paul had also bought out many of his scholastic the kings of Christ and the crowd he was preaching these are1. For me to line is Christ and to die is gain (1-4)2. I have a desire to depart and live with Christ which is for better 1-2-3 I am doing one thing.3. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, forgetting those things behind and reaching for those things before me.

Attended he has reminded the faithful to be happy always and rejoice in Christ Jesus for the hope he had given to us. He also blessed them that the peace of Lord God which passed all understandings shall keep throughout and minds through Christ Jesus. He had thus left us with a pleasant hope and get a model leader to follow in tribulative and missory as he had done while in prison singing hymns and praise to the Lord Goad for his mercy and cure.

Many people preach the gospel boldly training that St.Paul is in Prison for defense of the Gospel of Christ but some do the same to add his afflictions in bondage. However, he felt it joyful. He glorified the Lord Goad along with gaint in hastle of caesar’s house hold which proves that this was written from Jacob in Rome.Questions:1. Who were with St.Paul when he reached the Phillippi first time ?2. The converts in Phillippi were the replica of three different portion of the Poppulative explain ?3. When did St.Paul write the epistle to Phillippines ?4. What were the virtues St.Paul noticed in the church of Phillippi ?

Lesson – 17Epistle to Callosians

Ob: To understand the in comparability of Christ, the son of GodCalasia was a small tonn near Lavodicia city in Frigia in Asia Minor. St,Paul had not visited this

place at the time of his writing (21) and his disciple Epuphras who belonged to Calosia had preached the Gospel in Collosia.. It was accepted by all that St.Paul had written this from the prison in AD 62 along with the epistle to Ephasians as the languages usage of words, the theology and lithology etc has many comparisons. It seems that this was first written and the epistle to Ephasian is a refinement Ppaul had written an epistle is from Colossia.

St.Paul come to know about some misgivings in the church of collosia some people were conforming more glosy to the Angles than the son of God. In order to dismiss this version and to enlighten incomparability of Christ with any others, he had written this epistle to Collassians. It has been reiterated in the epistle that Christ is the visible image of invisible God. Redeemer of sins, the creater of all, consists in all things, the head of the church, the reconciliator to God of every thing present, part and future. He made it clear that he is beyond any comparison (1-14-20).

Some collossian were teaching the life of saint without family is the most acceptable may of life to God. St.Paul also repudiated this school of thought. Not touch, not handle, not taste etc are the humanly orders and neglecting the body, does not satisfy the Godly erection which is complete in Christ Jesus.

He had also laid down the model relationship between various members in a family, in a society, amongst the rulers and ruled, masteres and slaves (B-18 4-1).

From the day they heard about the Grace of God, they bear fruits, and keep growing and this was the reason for his writing to them. St.Paul is appreciating the callossians as they were rooted and brutup in Christ Jesus, established in faith, and were growing abundantly.Questions1. What were the major evil advice spread among the collosia ?2. What was the reason for writing this epistle to the church, which he had notseen ?3. What is the other epistle written in the same circumstances ?

Lesson – 18Epistle to thesolonious

Obj: Be fit for the God called you in do not fall short in doing God.

Theslonica is beautiful town in Macedonia. At present it is known as Salonica. There were many Jewish gettlers in this town when the Romans have taken over Theslonica from the greek they have made it the centre of Administration of Macedonia area of Roman empire.

St.Paul visited Theslonia during his second Missionary tour. He stayed there for few weeks in preaching the Gospel. Many Jews and Greeks have