'My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.'

When the disciples were told by the Lord that they would forsake Him, all of them (Peter first) contradicted Him. Yet in Gethsemane Christ bore the crushing foretaste of Calvary unsupported. Self-confidence (with us also) leads to prayerlessness, weakness and failing the Lord.

The 'last supper' that led to the first Lord's Supper. Here is how Christ ordained the supper for His people, and the six purposes of the supper, all of which are so greatly strengthening to the church and individual members. The 'rite' that shows Christ.

Before Christ's entry into Jerusalem, at a supper at Bethany, Mary, sister of Lazarus, anointed His head and feet with spikenard, to the dismay of the disciples. But her understanding and act of support outstripped theirs, and here is how, and the lessons for us.

As they sat with the Lord on the Mount of Olives overlooking the golden side of the temple, four disciples asked about the end of the world, and He told them about the imminent end of the temple, and also of His own later return.

In this passage, the first step for advancing in communion with Christ is a full appreciation of His person. The second is the mortifying of self-love. The third is to see everything we possess as His, entrusted to us for godly management.

During the Lord's final week, He answered a series of hostile questions. His answers are often seen as remarkable 'tactical' ways of confounding His critics, but they were, in fact, completely relevant to the questions, leaving principles for all ages.

Christ's last days on earth show His divine nature, redeeming purpose and power to end the Jewish era and bring in the Gospel age. He also teaches the crucial elements of true worship, and the way to experience God's power in fruitfulness.

Beginning the final journey to Jerusalem, where He would die at Calvary, Christ spoke of His death and resurrection. Then James and John revealed their earthly ambitions. The snare of pride in God's people, how it is stimulated, its consequences and its curbs.

What it means for husbands and wives to 'cleave' to each other - listing the aspects of responsibility that honour God and cement the marriage union. The tragedy of divorce and its causes. Also the real nature of headship, contrary to today's common idea.