by Katrina
LINK: Galatians 3:1-14
BACKGROUND
Now Paul presents six clear arguments to demonstrate that keeping the Law is not required for salvation. We'll look at the first three arguments today and the last three tomorrow.
First off, Paul uses the example of the Galatians' own experience. He says, "Don't you remember how you were saved?" They had never received the Holy Spirit by keeping the Law. But when they heard about Jesus and his crucifixion and resurrection, they had faith, and received the Spirit. They were even persecuted for their new faith. They had seen the work of the Holy Spirit among them. So Paul asks, "Does the God who gives you the Holy Spirit and works miracles among you, do it by the works of the Law, or by hearing with faith?" Obviously, the Holy Spirit came when they had faith in Jesus, not by any keeping of the Law. Our faith is not a dry and rigid system, but it is interaction with the Holy Spirit of the Living God!!
Paul's next argument is the example of Abraham. Abraham's faith was what made him justified before God. He lived long before the Law was given, so he could not have been justified by keeping the Law. In the same way, Paul argues, you Gentiles are justified by faith, not by the Law.
Third is the argument from the Law itself. The Law has never saved anyone, and it never will! The Law brought a curse because nobody could ever keep it. But when Christ, the Messiah, died on the cross, He took that curse upon Himself, thus buying (redeeming) us out from under the curse of the Law. (more on the Law tomorrow)
REFLECTION
When we add anything to the simple faith of salvation, we destroy the message of the gospel. Salvation is by faith and grace alone. At the point of salvation, we receive the Holy Spirit. And likewise, our spiritual growth after salvation is by faith and the Holy Spirit. We are to follow the example of Abraham and live by faith, not depending on any works we might do to try to find favor with God. We cheapen the gospel whenever we add any requirements beyond faith. Our salvation by faith cost Jesus His life! Let's not devalue what He did by saying it's not enough!
APPLICATION
Take a look at your own life. Are you relying on your own good works to gain you favor with God? Are you trying to keep certain parts of the Old Testament Law? Do you think you are better in God's sight because you do or don't do certain things? These are the teachings Paul is refuting.
We must not try to perfect ourselves through works, but rely on the Holy Spirit. We can be confident that the God who began the work of changing us from the inside out will continue to do so and will complete His work in us. (See Philippians 1:6.)
PRAYER
Thank you, Lord, that we do not have to keep the Law in order to receive forgiveness for our sins! We could never be forgiven that way! But you have provided salvation through Jesus, by faith, so we have a chance. And thank you for growing us also through faith, so that we can reflect the image of your glory more and more as we grow. Amen.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Galatians 2:11-21 - Making it Match
by Katrina
LINK: Galatians 2:11-21
BACKGROUND
In his efforts to convince the Galatians not to fall back on the Law, Paul recounted an encounter between him and Peter (also called Cephas) that had occurred at Antioch. Peter had been associating just fine with Gentile believers until certain men came and pressured him to separate himself from Gentiles. His actions gave the message that Gentiles weren't quite up to par with Jews. Paul confronted Peter because his actions were destroying the message of grace. The distinction was subtle but extremely dangerous to the gospel message. Paul made it very clear that the Law was not the basis for salvation and that having understood that, it was a sin to return to the Law. The Law had no power to save, only to kill. If the Law could have saved, then there was no point in Jesus dying on the cross. But Christ, on the other hand, had all the power to save and give life. And it's through Him that there is salvation.
REFLECTION
Peter had been preaching the gospel of grace but not living consistently by that message. His actions communicated that keeping the Law was important to salvation, even though he wouldn't have likely stated that as truth. It's a challenge in this world to keep our lives on track with our beliefs. But that's exactly what we need to do.
APPLICATION
Do you understand the source of your salvation? It is entirely the work of Christ that provides reconciliation between you and God. There is no effort or action you can take that would bring about your salvation. When we understand this truth, it is a very freeing thing! We realize that we need not try to obey a set of rules or do certain activities in order for God to accept us. It is truly a free gift!
Does your life reflect this gift? Are you living in freedom from the Law? Are you putting aside expectations that others keep the Law?
Do you know, really know, what you believe? Are you searching God's word daily to try to understand the teachings of scripture? Does your life reflect what you say you believe? If not, you need to (1) examine what you believe and make sure it matches scripture and (2) make the way you live your life match up with the teachings of scripture. This should be a continuous, life-long process of your life.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for the free gift of salvation in Christ Jesus! May we seek to live our lives according to the gospel of grace, no longer living for ourselves, but letting Christ live through us. May all that we say and do be a testimony of your grace and demonstrate your love to others. Amen.
LINK: Galatians 2:11-21
BACKGROUND
In his efforts to convince the Galatians not to fall back on the Law, Paul recounted an encounter between him and Peter (also called Cephas) that had occurred at Antioch. Peter had been associating just fine with Gentile believers until certain men came and pressured him to separate himself from Gentiles. His actions gave the message that Gentiles weren't quite up to par with Jews. Paul confronted Peter because his actions were destroying the message of grace. The distinction was subtle but extremely dangerous to the gospel message. Paul made it very clear that the Law was not the basis for salvation and that having understood that, it was a sin to return to the Law. The Law had no power to save, only to kill. If the Law could have saved, then there was no point in Jesus dying on the cross. But Christ, on the other hand, had all the power to save and give life. And it's through Him that there is salvation.
REFLECTION
Peter had been preaching the gospel of grace but not living consistently by that message. His actions communicated that keeping the Law was important to salvation, even though he wouldn't have likely stated that as truth. It's a challenge in this world to keep our lives on track with our beliefs. But that's exactly what we need to do.
APPLICATION
Do you understand the source of your salvation? It is entirely the work of Christ that provides reconciliation between you and God. There is no effort or action you can take that would bring about your salvation. When we understand this truth, it is a very freeing thing! We realize that we need not try to obey a set of rules or do certain activities in order for God to accept us. It is truly a free gift!
Does your life reflect this gift? Are you living in freedom from the Law? Are you putting aside expectations that others keep the Law?
Do you know, really know, what you believe? Are you searching God's word daily to try to understand the teachings of scripture? Does your life reflect what you say you believe? If not, you need to (1) examine what you believe and make sure it matches scripture and (2) make the way you live your life match up with the teachings of scripture. This should be a continuous, life-long process of your life.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for the free gift of salvation in Christ Jesus! May we seek to live our lives according to the gospel of grace, no longer living for ourselves, but letting Christ live through us. May all that we say and do be a testimony of your grace and demonstrate your love to others. Amen.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Galatians 2: 1-10 - No Distinction
by Becky
LINK: Galatians 2
BACKGROUND
We get a fascinating look in this chapter at an issue that nearly split the early church!
Paul uses circumstances from the past to continue his argument that the gospel set those who believed it free from the requirements of the law. He points to Titus, who accompanied him to Jerusalem. Titus was a Gentile, and therefore uncircumcised. The leaders of the Jerusalem church did not ask Titus to be circumcised ( a requirement of the Jewish law). Those leaders - Peter, James, and John - saw that God had given Paul the task of taking the gospel to the Gentiles, just as Peter had to the Jews. They had seen God at work in Paul's ministry and recognized that God had called Paul.
There were others who did want to add to the gospel, who wanted to make requirements of converts. These false brothers wanted to bind the gospel to the law and they infiltrated the church and influenced the church leaders in Jerusalem and elsewhere.
REFLECTION
We often compare ourselves to each other. One way to make ourselves look good is to put some standard in place that we have met, so that we can feel superior to others. That's a trap. What we think will help us actually binds us. Adding anything to the grace that is offered us through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection is legalism.
The early church came out of Judaism and it would have been easy for a kind of two tier Christianity to have developed, with the Jews occupying the upper tier and all those Gentile converts on the lower tier. If the Galatians had continued to insist on keeping the Jewish law, a kind of spiritual snobbery would have resulted. "It's great to have faith in Jesus, but it's better to be a circumcised Jew who continues to keep the law." Just think how that would have affected the spread of the gospel and how the gospel would have been hindered!
It is so easy for those kind of subtle distinctions to creep in. Paul points out here that "God does not judge by external appearance." (v 6). Adding to the gospel of grace doesn't add anything, it takes away. It puts man at the center rather than God.
APPLICATION
Spend some time in prayer today and ask the Lord to reveal your heart. Do you categorize other believers based on some requirement that they meet or don't meet? Do you think of some Christians as "better" than others? What are you basing that belief on?
How do you view yourself? Do you determine your worth in God's eyes based on how well you keep some standard? We can't keep any standard we set. That's why Jesus came to die and rise again.
The gospel is about what Jesus has done for us, not about what we do for Him.
PRAYER
Help us not to deceive ourselves, Lord, into thinking that anything we do makes you love us more. You love us because of who you are, not because of what we do. Help us to love you and so to love others - not erect walls of good, better, best. Thank you for the grace that you give us through Jesus Christ, that you have set us free from the handcuffs of self absorbed legalism. Help us to live free!
LINK: Galatians 2
BACKGROUND
We get a fascinating look in this chapter at an issue that nearly split the early church!
Paul uses circumstances from the past to continue his argument that the gospel set those who believed it free from the requirements of the law. He points to Titus, who accompanied him to Jerusalem. Titus was a Gentile, and therefore uncircumcised. The leaders of the Jerusalem church did not ask Titus to be circumcised ( a requirement of the Jewish law). Those leaders - Peter, James, and John - saw that God had given Paul the task of taking the gospel to the Gentiles, just as Peter had to the Jews. They had seen God at work in Paul's ministry and recognized that God had called Paul.
There were others who did want to add to the gospel, who wanted to make requirements of converts. These false brothers wanted to bind the gospel to the law and they infiltrated the church and influenced the church leaders in Jerusalem and elsewhere.
REFLECTION
We often compare ourselves to each other. One way to make ourselves look good is to put some standard in place that we have met, so that we can feel superior to others. That's a trap. What we think will help us actually binds us. Adding anything to the grace that is offered us through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection is legalism.
The early church came out of Judaism and it would have been easy for a kind of two tier Christianity to have developed, with the Jews occupying the upper tier and all those Gentile converts on the lower tier. If the Galatians had continued to insist on keeping the Jewish law, a kind of spiritual snobbery would have resulted. "It's great to have faith in Jesus, but it's better to be a circumcised Jew who continues to keep the law." Just think how that would have affected the spread of the gospel and how the gospel would have been hindered!
It is so easy for those kind of subtle distinctions to creep in. Paul points out here that "God does not judge by external appearance." (v 6). Adding to the gospel of grace doesn't add anything, it takes away. It puts man at the center rather than God.
APPLICATION
Spend some time in prayer today and ask the Lord to reveal your heart. Do you categorize other believers based on some requirement that they meet or don't meet? Do you think of some Christians as "better" than others? What are you basing that belief on?
How do you view yourself? Do you determine your worth in God's eyes based on how well you keep some standard? We can't keep any standard we set. That's why Jesus came to die and rise again.
The gospel is about what Jesus has done for us, not about what we do for Him.
PRAYER
Help us not to deceive ourselves, Lord, into thinking that anything we do makes you love us more. You love us because of who you are, not because of what we do. Help us to love you and so to love others - not erect walls of good, better, best. Thank you for the grace that you give us through Jesus Christ, that you have set us free from the handcuffs of self absorbed legalism. Help us to live free!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
2 Corinthians 11 - Paul's Boasting
by Katrina
LINK: 2 Corinthians 11
BACKGROUND
Paul continued to justify his authority in the church by "boasting" a bit. His concern is that the believers would be led astray by the Jews who were imposing different teachings on them. He asserted that he was not the least bit inferior to any other apostle. Although he may not have been the most eloquent speaker, his knowledge was not inferior to any either. He brought the pure gospel message to Corinth and he wanted them to stick to that teaching. Any other teaching is false, and those who teach other than the gospel Paul taught were false teachers. Paul had given his all to the gospel message and could not tolerate any tampering with it!
REFLECTION
Paul was concerned that the Corinthian believers' minds would be led astray from "the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ" (verse 3). How easy it is in our world today to do the same thing! There are many false teachers around as well as many distractions.
APPLICATION
How can we seek to be simply and purely devoted to Christ? First we must not let our minds be led astray. The best way to do that is to know scripture very well. Keep reading and studying the Bible! We must also seek God in prayer to reveal to us any way we may have gone astray in our thinking or actions. I have found this to be a challenging but very rewarding practice in my life. Third, try to keep your worship of the Lord simple. We do not need elaborate rituals or priests in order to worship or pray. We can simply come to God through Jesus. And lastly, make sure your devotion is directed toward Christ Himself, not symbols, music, form, or anything else.
PRAYER
Lord, we thank you for your word and for the message of the gospel. Help us to keep our focus on you and not be led astray to the many and various false teachings around us. We want to worship you and devote our lives wholly to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 2 Corinthians 11
BACKGROUND
Paul continued to justify his authority in the church by "boasting" a bit. His concern is that the believers would be led astray by the Jews who were imposing different teachings on them. He asserted that he was not the least bit inferior to any other apostle. Although he may not have been the most eloquent speaker, his knowledge was not inferior to any either. He brought the pure gospel message to Corinth and he wanted them to stick to that teaching. Any other teaching is false, and those who teach other than the gospel Paul taught were false teachers. Paul had given his all to the gospel message and could not tolerate any tampering with it!
REFLECTION
Paul was concerned that the Corinthian believers' minds would be led astray from "the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ" (verse 3). How easy it is in our world today to do the same thing! There are many false teachers around as well as many distractions.
APPLICATION
How can we seek to be simply and purely devoted to Christ? First we must not let our minds be led astray. The best way to do that is to know scripture very well. Keep reading and studying the Bible! We must also seek God in prayer to reveal to us any way we may have gone astray in our thinking or actions. I have found this to be a challenging but very rewarding practice in my life. Third, try to keep your worship of the Lord simple. We do not need elaborate rituals or priests in order to worship or pray. We can simply come to God through Jesus. And lastly, make sure your devotion is directed toward Christ Himself, not symbols, music, form, or anything else.
PRAYER
Lord, we thank you for your word and for the message of the gospel. Help us to keep our focus on you and not be led astray to the many and various false teachings around us. We want to worship you and devote our lives wholly to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, June 21, 2010
2 Corinthians 10 - Paul's Authority
by Katrina
LINK: 2 Corinthians 10
BACKGROUND
Paul's authority had been challenged by others who were teaching in the church at Corinth. These men were apparently Jewish Christians (11:22) who claimed they had higher authority than Paul. They lorded over the church. But Paul told the church that they were only considering outward appearance of these "false apostles" and forgetting that all believers are servants of Christ. In fact, Paul could claim higher authority than they, but he didn't want to seem too forceful and frighten the believers. So Paul reminded them not to be boastful about ministering the gospel. Rather, let the Lord commend whom He chooses to commend.
REFLECTION
Paul argued that although he lived in the flesh of a human body, he did not live according to the flesh of the sinful nature. He desired to destroy anything that was contrary to the knowledge of God. And he was taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
APPLICATION
How do we "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ"? This is a disciple all believers should develop. Our thoughts become our actions. Our sinful thoughts are just as sinful as sinful actions. Our tendency is to keep sinning because of our sinful nature. So if we are to follow Christ, we must make an effort to do so. We need to examine our thoughts in comparison to the teaching of Christ.
If you've been following along this Bible Book Club (or otherwise spending regular time in the Bible), you've been getting to know God's word better and gain a better understanding of His teaching. The next step is to compare your life to what you learn from God's word. Then adjust your thinking and actions (not God's word!) accordingly. This takes practice and discipline. Nobody said it would be easy. ;-)
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for giving us the Bible and revealing so much of yourself to us through it. Help us learn to align our lives with your word to bring honor to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 2 Corinthians 10
BACKGROUND
Paul's authority had been challenged by others who were teaching in the church at Corinth. These men were apparently Jewish Christians (11:22) who claimed they had higher authority than Paul. They lorded over the church. But Paul told the church that they were only considering outward appearance of these "false apostles" and forgetting that all believers are servants of Christ. In fact, Paul could claim higher authority than they, but he didn't want to seem too forceful and frighten the believers. So Paul reminded them not to be boastful about ministering the gospel. Rather, let the Lord commend whom He chooses to commend.
REFLECTION
Paul argued that although he lived in the flesh of a human body, he did not live according to the flesh of the sinful nature. He desired to destroy anything that was contrary to the knowledge of God. And he was taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
APPLICATION
How do we "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ"? This is a disciple all believers should develop. Our thoughts become our actions. Our sinful thoughts are just as sinful as sinful actions. Our tendency is to keep sinning because of our sinful nature. So if we are to follow Christ, we must make an effort to do so. We need to examine our thoughts in comparison to the teaching of Christ.
If you've been following along this Bible Book Club (or otherwise spending regular time in the Bible), you've been getting to know God's word better and gain a better understanding of His teaching. The next step is to compare your life to what you learn from God's word. Then adjust your thinking and actions (not God's word!) accordingly. This takes practice and discipline. Nobody said it would be easy. ;-)
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for giving us the Bible and revealing so much of yourself to us through it. Help us learn to align our lives with your word to bring honor to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
2 Corinthians 9 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver
by Becky
LINK: 2 Corinthians 9
BACKGROUND
Paul continues to write about giving financially. The believers in Corinth had said that they would contribute to the needs of the church in Jerusalem, whose members were nearing starvation. Paul reminds them of this promise and goes on to encourage them to give cheerfully. Apparently attitude matters!
REFLECTION
Giving is an act of worship when done willingly and cheerfully. We give because God has given to us. When we give we recognize that what we have is from Him. It's not ours. Trusting Him enough to give what we often think of as our security is like planting seed. We will reap a harvest of righteousness!
About a year and a half ago my husband was in a serious accident. He was hospitalized for over a month and bedridden longer than that. Believers gathered round us and gave of themselves. Friends from our church brought meals to us. The Chinese believers that we'd had Bible studies with did that, too and also gave us gifts of money. I have not often been on the receiving end of gifts like that. I haven't needed to be. But I learned, in practical ways, the truth of this passage. Those gifts did result in praise to God. I gave thanks for those believers who gave sacrificially, with willing hearts. Their gifts helped me to see God's love and grace even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
APPLICATION
How do you view your money? Your savings? Your stuff? Do you think of them as yours or do you recognize that they are God's? I am convinced that if we lived as if all that we had came from Him, we would make a difference in this world. It is so easy to cling to financial strategies and plans for security, rather than to the LORD.
When you hear of another believer in need do you consider what you can do to help, even if it's inconvenient? Then do you help them?
God gave His life for us. The least we can do is give Him ours.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for the indescribable gift of yourself! Help us to give to others (and so to you) cheerfully and willingly.
LINK: 2 Corinthians 9
BACKGROUND
Paul continues to write about giving financially. The believers in Corinth had said that they would contribute to the needs of the church in Jerusalem, whose members were nearing starvation. Paul reminds them of this promise and goes on to encourage them to give cheerfully. Apparently attitude matters!
REFLECTION
Giving is an act of worship when done willingly and cheerfully. We give because God has given to us. When we give we recognize that what we have is from Him. It's not ours. Trusting Him enough to give what we often think of as our security is like planting seed. We will reap a harvest of righteousness!
About a year and a half ago my husband was in a serious accident. He was hospitalized for over a month and bedridden longer than that. Believers gathered round us and gave of themselves. Friends from our church brought meals to us. The Chinese believers that we'd had Bible studies with did that, too and also gave us gifts of money. I have not often been on the receiving end of gifts like that. I haven't needed to be. But I learned, in practical ways, the truth of this passage. Those gifts did result in praise to God. I gave thanks for those believers who gave sacrificially, with willing hearts. Their gifts helped me to see God's love and grace even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
APPLICATION
How do you view your money? Your savings? Your stuff? Do you think of them as yours or do you recognize that they are God's? I am convinced that if we lived as if all that we had came from Him, we would make a difference in this world. It is so easy to cling to financial strategies and plans for security, rather than to the LORD.
When you hear of another believer in need do you consider what you can do to help, even if it's inconvenient? Then do you help them?
God gave His life for us. The least we can do is give Him ours.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for the indescribable gift of yourself! Help us to give to others (and so to you) cheerfully and willingly.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
2 Corinthians 4 - Don't Lose Heart
by Katrina
LINK: 2 Corinthians 4
BACKGROUND
While as believers, we have renounced sin in light of the gospel, unbelievers are blinded by Satan and cannot see the light of the gospel. Only when God shines His light in a person's heart will he see God. As believers we have a treasure -- the light of the knowledge of the glory of God. We see His glory through our encounter with Jesus. This treasure is not just for the future, but God lets us have it now, while we are still living in these bodies and on this earth. What a blessing!
As believers, we will face affliction in this life. But we should not lose heart. Everything that happens, including persecution, is for our good. Paul gives at least three reasons:
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
This chapter reminds me to "count my blessings." We should remember the mercy God has extended to us and thank him for it. Paul reminds us that the message of the gospel is God's message, not ours. He is the one who shines light in people's hearts. I am free from the responsibility of changing another person! Affliction has a much greater purpose than what is visibly seen in our lives. Remember to focus on the eternal, the spiritual, rather than on the temporal, the physical.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for shining your light in my heart. I pray for those around me whose hearts are in the dark and kept there by Satan. May you use me and other believers to shine your light that they may no longer be blind to you. Use the events and circumstances in my life to make me grow and to bring glory to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 2 Corinthians 4
BACKGROUND
While as believers, we have renounced sin in light of the gospel, unbelievers are blinded by Satan and cannot see the light of the gospel. Only when God shines His light in a person's heart will he see God. As believers we have a treasure -- the light of the knowledge of the glory of God. We see His glory through our encounter with Jesus. This treasure is not just for the future, but God lets us have it now, while we are still living in these bodies and on this earth. What a blessing!
As believers, we will face affliction in this life. But we should not lose heart. Everything that happens, including persecution, is for our good. Paul gives at least three reasons:
- It causes God's grace to spread to others, which brings glory to God
- It causes us to grow, being renewed day by day in our faith
- It produces eternal glory in us
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
This chapter reminds me to "count my blessings." We should remember the mercy God has extended to us and thank him for it. Paul reminds us that the message of the gospel is God's message, not ours. He is the one who shines light in people's hearts. I am free from the responsibility of changing another person! Affliction has a much greater purpose than what is visibly seen in our lives. Remember to focus on the eternal, the spiritual, rather than on the temporal, the physical.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for shining your light in my heart. I pray for those around me whose hearts are in the dark and kept there by Satan. May you use me and other believers to shine your light that they may no longer be blind to you. Use the events and circumstances in my life to make me grow and to bring glory to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, June 14, 2010
2 Corinthians 3 - What Glory!
by Katrina
LINK: 2 Corinthians 3
BACKGROUND
In this chapter, Paul refers to the events described in Exodus 34. Take a few minutes to read it and refresh your memory of these events. Moses went up the mountain the second time to receive the Law from God and asked to see the Lord. God placed Moses in a cleft of the rock and covered him with His hand while He passed by. Then He took His hand away and allowed Moses to see His back. When Moses returned to the people, after 40 days on the mountain with God, his face shone because of being with God. Moses covered his face with a veil when he was around the people. He removed the veil whenever he went to speak with God, though. Eventually, the light faded from his face.
REFLECTION
The ministry of Moses was to bring the Law of God to the people. The Law was written in letters on stone and brought condemnation and death to the people. In contrast, our ministry as believers is to bring Jesus to people. Rather than being written in letters on stone and bringing death, this new covenant we bring is of the Spirit and gives life! How exciting! But there's more. Remember the glory of God that shone from Moses's face? We have the glory of God, too. In fact, since we have the Spirit of God within us, we have even more glory than Moses did. And it never fades.
APPLICATION
Those who are unbelievers are blinded by a veil over their heart and they do not see the Lord. When a person believes, the veil is removed. As believers we can see the Lord with our hearts. We cannot look directly at God, just as Moses couldn't. But it's like we see His reflection, just as Moses saw His back. And once we catch a glimpse of the Lord, we begin to be transformed. What are we transformed into? His image!! We gradually reflect God's glory in ourselves. As we allow the Holy Spirit to change us, the glory of God increases in us from one degree of glory to the next, and the next, and so on. Take some time today to reflect on your own journey with the Lord and note the changes He has made in your heart and life, and then praise Him for what He has done! How do you reflect His glory? Does it make you bold (verse 12)?
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for removing the veil from my heart so I can see you and know you. Whenever I reflect on the changes you have made in my heart over the years, I am astounded! May the glory of your Spirit shine through my life and be seen by others. And may the presence of your glory give me boldness to speak of you. The glory you give me never fades since it comes from the Spirit who lives within me.Keep transforming me into your image! In the name of Jesus, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, amen.
LINK: 2 Corinthians 3
BACKGROUND
In this chapter, Paul refers to the events described in Exodus 34. Take a few minutes to read it and refresh your memory of these events. Moses went up the mountain the second time to receive the Law from God and asked to see the Lord. God placed Moses in a cleft of the rock and covered him with His hand while He passed by. Then He took His hand away and allowed Moses to see His back. When Moses returned to the people, after 40 days on the mountain with God, his face shone because of being with God. Moses covered his face with a veil when he was around the people. He removed the veil whenever he went to speak with God, though. Eventually, the light faded from his face.
REFLECTION
The ministry of Moses was to bring the Law of God to the people. The Law was written in letters on stone and brought condemnation and death to the people. In contrast, our ministry as believers is to bring Jesus to people. Rather than being written in letters on stone and bringing death, this new covenant we bring is of the Spirit and gives life! How exciting! But there's more. Remember the glory of God that shone from Moses's face? We have the glory of God, too. In fact, since we have the Spirit of God within us, we have even more glory than Moses did. And it never fades.
APPLICATION
Those who are unbelievers are blinded by a veil over their heart and they do not see the Lord. When a person believes, the veil is removed. As believers we can see the Lord with our hearts. We cannot look directly at God, just as Moses couldn't. But it's like we see His reflection, just as Moses saw His back. And once we catch a glimpse of the Lord, we begin to be transformed. What are we transformed into? His image!! We gradually reflect God's glory in ourselves. As we allow the Holy Spirit to change us, the glory of God increases in us from one degree of glory to the next, and the next, and so on. Take some time today to reflect on your own journey with the Lord and note the changes He has made in your heart and life, and then praise Him for what He has done! How do you reflect His glory? Does it make you bold (verse 12)?
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for removing the veil from my heart so I can see you and know you. Whenever I reflect on the changes you have made in my heart over the years, I am astounded! May the glory of your Spirit shine through my life and be seen by others. And may the presence of your glory give me boldness to speak of you. The glory you give me never fades since it comes from the Spirit who lives within me.Keep transforming me into your image! In the name of Jesus, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, amen.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
2 Corinthians 2 - Truth in Love
by Becky
LINK: 2 Corinthians 2
BACKGROUND
Look at the emotions of Paul revealed in this chapter! So many times we look at the Bible as a dry book, but this chapter reflects what its human author is feeling: love for those he'd led to the Lord, sorrow that they would think he wanted to hurt them, forgiveness for a wrongdoer, and concern for Titus.
Paul deals with the importance of forgiveness and restoration here (vv 7-11) as well as the importance of integrity (vv 14-17).
The letter that Paul refers to in the first part of this chapter is not believed to be 1 Corinthians, but a letter that was sent after that.
REFLECTION
This short chapter gives me a lot to think about!
How easy it is for us to misunderstand each others' motives. That is why it is important for us to communicate, to show our hearts, as Paul does at the beginning of the chapter.
We see here just why forgiveness is important! The church at Corinth had disciplined someone in their group for wrongdoing, and Paul makes clear here that their love for this man needs to be expressed; they need to forgive and comfort him so that sorrow doesn't swallow him. We are given each other as believers for accountability. There is a time for discipline. But the discipline isn't the end. Often we err in one of two ways. We either excuse wrongdoing without addressing it or we reject the wrongdoer and leave it there. Always we should keep in mind the foundation of our relationship, the Lord Jesus, and speak the truth in love. There is a time for discipline, but there is also a time for forgiveness and comfort and reaffirmation of love.
Depending on whom we are talking with, we will either stink or smell sweet! To those whose hearts are open to the Lord Jesus we will be a sweet fragrance of life. They will discern the love and truth of our message To those who seek their own way, we will stink of death, because they refuse to find life in Jesus. Don't expect everyone to welcome the truth of the good news of Jesus.
APPLICATION
Is there someone who has wronged you, and you are forgetting the reason for relationship? Have your feelings been hurt? Are you holding that against the other person? Remember that Jesus has forgiven you. As He has forgiven us, so we are to forgive others.
Live your life sincerely for Jesus - as His captive - and you will be an aroma! Just don't expect everyone you meet to like how you smell!
PRAYER
Father, help us to love as you love. Thank you that Jesus gave Himself for us. Help us to die to ourselves and live for Him. That may mean dying to our own hurts in order to forgive. It may mean that we are rejected because we can't affirm someone who follows their own way to death. No matter what, Lord, help us to love in truth. That is such a hard balance and one for which we are insufficient. Help us to live knowing that we are in your sight.
LINK: 2 Corinthians 2
BACKGROUND
Look at the emotions of Paul revealed in this chapter! So many times we look at the Bible as a dry book, but this chapter reflects what its human author is feeling: love for those he'd led to the Lord, sorrow that they would think he wanted to hurt them, forgiveness for a wrongdoer, and concern for Titus.
Paul deals with the importance of forgiveness and restoration here (vv 7-11) as well as the importance of integrity (vv 14-17).
The letter that Paul refers to in the first part of this chapter is not believed to be 1 Corinthians, but a letter that was sent after that.
REFLECTION
This short chapter gives me a lot to think about!
How easy it is for us to misunderstand each others' motives. That is why it is important for us to communicate, to show our hearts, as Paul does at the beginning of the chapter.
We see here just why forgiveness is important! The church at Corinth had disciplined someone in their group for wrongdoing, and Paul makes clear here that their love for this man needs to be expressed; they need to forgive and comfort him so that sorrow doesn't swallow him. We are given each other as believers for accountability. There is a time for discipline. But the discipline isn't the end. Often we err in one of two ways. We either excuse wrongdoing without addressing it or we reject the wrongdoer and leave it there. Always we should keep in mind the foundation of our relationship, the Lord Jesus, and speak the truth in love. There is a time for discipline, but there is also a time for forgiveness and comfort and reaffirmation of love.
Depending on whom we are talking with, we will either stink or smell sweet! To those whose hearts are open to the Lord Jesus we will be a sweet fragrance of life. They will discern the love and truth of our message To those who seek their own way, we will stink of death, because they refuse to find life in Jesus. Don't expect everyone to welcome the truth of the good news of Jesus.
APPLICATION
Is there someone who has wronged you, and you are forgetting the reason for relationship? Have your feelings been hurt? Are you holding that against the other person? Remember that Jesus has forgiven you. As He has forgiven us, so we are to forgive others.
Live your life sincerely for Jesus - as His captive - and you will be an aroma! Just don't expect everyone you meet to like how you smell!
PRAYER
Father, help us to love as you love. Thank you that Jesus gave Himself for us. Help us to die to ourselves and live for Him. That may mean dying to our own hurts in order to forgive. It may mean that we are rejected because we can't affirm someone who follows their own way to death. No matter what, Lord, help us to love in truth. That is such a hard balance and one for which we are insufficient. Help us to live knowing that we are in your sight.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13 - Love
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Corinthians 13
BACKGROUND
The famous "Love Chapter" of the Bible! Paul has been talking about the gifts God has given the Church and how they need to be used to build up the body. It doesn't matter how gifted a person is, if he doesn't love others, then he's just making noise. Remember that Jesus said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35). No amount of teaching, preaching, giving, helping, prophesying, etc., is worth a hill of beans without love alongside it.
REFLECTION
Let's take a look at Paul's description of love.
APPLICATION
Think of those you are closest to as you meditate through this chapter. How do you demonstrate your love for others? What areas need some work? Bring your heart to the Lord and let Him help you. One of my frequent prayers is that God will soften my heart, or keep it soft, toward various people in my life. I want to learn to love others in such a way that those around me will see Jesus through my love and actions.
PRAYER
Lord, you ask us to love each other as you love us. What a tall order! You gave everything for us, while our tendency is to take what we want for ourselves. Teach us to become unselfish and truly love one another. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 1 Corinthians 13
BACKGROUND
The famous "Love Chapter" of the Bible! Paul has been talking about the gifts God has given the Church and how they need to be used to build up the body. It doesn't matter how gifted a person is, if he doesn't love others, then he's just making noise. Remember that Jesus said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35). No amount of teaching, preaching, giving, helping, prophesying, etc., is worth a hill of beans without love alongside it.
REFLECTION
Let's take a look at Paul's description of love.
- patient - Do I allow others to go at a slower pace than I do?
- kind - Am I kind? or am I sarcastic with others?
- not jealous - Do I rejoice that others have abilities I don't have, rather than wishing I could be the one to do everything?
- does not brag and is not arrogant - Am I humble about what God has given me and enabled me to do?
- does not act unbecomingly - Do I do things to draw attention to myself?
- does not seek its own - Am I selfish? Looking out for my own interest?
- is not provoked - Do I get angry easily?
- does not take into account a wrong suffered - Am I forgiving?
- does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth - What do I rejoice over?
- bears all things - Do I carry burdens with/for others?
- believes all things - Do I believe in others?
- hopes all things - Do I hope good for others?
- endures all things - Do I put up with others?
- never fails - Do I give up? Or do I keep on loving, even when it's difficult?
APPLICATION
Think of those you are closest to as you meditate through this chapter. How do you demonstrate your love for others? What areas need some work? Bring your heart to the Lord and let Him help you. One of my frequent prayers is that God will soften my heart, or keep it soft, toward various people in my life. I want to learn to love others in such a way that those around me will see Jesus through my love and actions.
PRAYER
Lord, you ask us to love each other as you love us. What a tall order! You gave everything for us, while our tendency is to take what we want for ourselves. Teach us to become unselfish and truly love one another. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, June 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 12 - Unity with Gifts
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Corinthians 12
BACKGROUND
The same Holy Spirit gives gifts to all believers, but all the gifts are not the same. The variety of gifts is God's design for the body of Christ, enabling His church to work together to achieve His purpose. One person cannot say he is more important than all the others, because the body needs all the others in order to function properly. All members of the body need to be cared for as well. Jesus is the head of the body, and all believers are equal members of His body.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
If you haven't done it already, take a look at Carol's links from last month (Romans 12) on spiritual gifts. They are "spiritual gifts at a glance" and "spiritual gifts assessment." Give some thought to what your spiritual gifts are. How are you using your gifts to serve the Lord and the body of believers? Do you treat people with certain gifts better or worse than those with other gifts? "There should be no division in the body, but the members should have the same care for one another" (verse 25).
PRAYER
Lord, help us to recognize the gifts you have given us and to learn to use them for your glory!
LINK: 1 Corinthians 12
BACKGROUND
The same Holy Spirit gives gifts to all believers, but all the gifts are not the same. The variety of gifts is God's design for the body of Christ, enabling His church to work together to achieve His purpose. One person cannot say he is more important than all the others, because the body needs all the others in order to function properly. All members of the body need to be cared for as well. Jesus is the head of the body, and all believers are equal members of His body.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
If you haven't done it already, take a look at Carol's links from last month (Romans 12) on spiritual gifts. They are "spiritual gifts at a glance" and "spiritual gifts assessment." Give some thought to what your spiritual gifts are. How are you using your gifts to serve the Lord and the body of believers? Do you treat people with certain gifts better or worse than those with other gifts? "There should be no division in the body, but the members should have the same care for one another" (verse 25).
PRAYER
Lord, help us to recognize the gifts you have given us and to learn to use them for your glory!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
1 Corinthians 11 - Culture and Conflict
by Becky
LINK: 1 Corinthians 11
BACKGROUND
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."
That paragraph is how the previous chapter of 1 Corinthians ends and this chapter begins. It puts this chapter in perspective. The church at Corinth had members from many different people and cultures which inevitably led to clashes.
Two issues of conduct within the church are dealt with here - problems that led to disagreements and division within the church.
The first had to do with women and authority, the second with how to take the Lord's Supper.
REFLECTION
The first part of this chapter, dealing with women and head coverings, is tough. I've been pondering it and praying about it all week! I've read lots of commentaries on it, most of which disagree in various points. There are still some specifics that I do not understand (like v. 10). It seems to me, though, that there are things that are clear. I believe that in the church in Corinth some women were flaunting their freedom in Christ, so much so that friction resulted. The principle of authority has nothing to do with whether or not we are equal. Verse 3 says: "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God." Christ IS God, but obeys Him, just like my fingers right now are obeying my brain in order to type this. Also, this passage deals with the relationship between husband and wife, not women and men in the church. Someone else's husband is NOT my head. Paul also points out that just as woman come from man at the beginning, so men come from women (v 9) and we are all under God's authority! Whatever the "covering" was, it was a symbol of the relationship between the husband and wife.
So what about the covering? This is what all the commentators disagree about! I can only tell you what my personal conclusion is. Paul speaks here as if this is a very clear issue. He says things like, "Judge this for yourselves, is it proper for a woman to pray with her head uncovered?" and "Doesn't nature make this clear?" (my paraphrase) Neither of those questions clarifies anything for me, which leads me to think that the question of a covering was an issue of that culture, that time and place. If, in any given culture, something is a red flag for controversy, then we need to return to the principle of submission to God. I am not to flaunt my freedom in Christ. I am not to offend others. My conduct in any gathering of believers is to conform to the culture in that group, so long as it doesn't involve sin.
The second problem the chapter deals with is that of the Lord's table. At that time people gathered for a fellowship meal at the same time as they celebrated the Lord's Supper. What was happening, though? People were greedy and gluttonous, eating and drinking as much as they could, without consideration for others - a symptom of the divisions in the church. They were arrogant. They weren't using the sacrament in a sacramental way - in order to examine themselves.
Paul points out that this is the LORD's supper, not theirs. Eating it together is a reminder that we are one body, not individuals who just happen to be gathered together to get what we can from each other. Jesus gave His life for us. The Lord's Supper is an act that reminds us that we have given our lives to Him - that we are not our own but were bought with a price.
APPLICATION
We are not loners. I do not exist to serve myself, but to serve the One who gave Himself for me.
Is there some way in which you are flaunting your freedom in Christ within the body of believers you gather with? Are you approaching the Lord's Table with the attitude of "what's in it for me"?
This chapter makes it clear that we are ALL under God's authority. We are here for His glory, not ours. Serving others gives Him glory.
So commit this verse to memory and think about it as you go about your activities: "... Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
PRAYER
Help us to give you glory, LORD, in all that we do and say and think. Help us to love others as You love us.
LINK: 1 Corinthians 11
BACKGROUND
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."
That paragraph is how the previous chapter of 1 Corinthians ends and this chapter begins. It puts this chapter in perspective. The church at Corinth had members from many different people and cultures which inevitably led to clashes.
Two issues of conduct within the church are dealt with here - problems that led to disagreements and division within the church.
The first had to do with women and authority, the second with how to take the Lord's Supper.
REFLECTION
The first part of this chapter, dealing with women and head coverings, is tough. I've been pondering it and praying about it all week! I've read lots of commentaries on it, most of which disagree in various points. There are still some specifics that I do not understand (like v. 10). It seems to me, though, that there are things that are clear. I believe that in the church in Corinth some women were flaunting their freedom in Christ, so much so that friction resulted. The principle of authority has nothing to do with whether or not we are equal. Verse 3 says: "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God." Christ IS God, but obeys Him, just like my fingers right now are obeying my brain in order to type this. Also, this passage deals with the relationship between husband and wife, not women and men in the church. Someone else's husband is NOT my head. Paul also points out that just as woman come from man at the beginning, so men come from women (v 9) and we are all under God's authority! Whatever the "covering" was, it was a symbol of the relationship between the husband and wife.
So what about the covering? This is what all the commentators disagree about! I can only tell you what my personal conclusion is. Paul speaks here as if this is a very clear issue. He says things like, "Judge this for yourselves, is it proper for a woman to pray with her head uncovered?" and "Doesn't nature make this clear?" (my paraphrase) Neither of those questions clarifies anything for me, which leads me to think that the question of a covering was an issue of that culture, that time and place. If, in any given culture, something is a red flag for controversy, then we need to return to the principle of submission to God. I am not to flaunt my freedom in Christ. I am not to offend others. My conduct in any gathering of believers is to conform to the culture in that group, so long as it doesn't involve sin.
The second problem the chapter deals with is that of the Lord's table. At that time people gathered for a fellowship meal at the same time as they celebrated the Lord's Supper. What was happening, though? People were greedy and gluttonous, eating and drinking as much as they could, without consideration for others - a symptom of the divisions in the church. They were arrogant. They weren't using the sacrament in a sacramental way - in order to examine themselves.
Paul points out that this is the LORD's supper, not theirs. Eating it together is a reminder that we are one body, not individuals who just happen to be gathered together to get what we can from each other. Jesus gave His life for us. The Lord's Supper is an act that reminds us that we have given our lives to Him - that we are not our own but were bought with a price.
APPLICATION
We are not loners. I do not exist to serve myself, but to serve the One who gave Himself for me.
Is there some way in which you are flaunting your freedom in Christ within the body of believers you gather with? Are you approaching the Lord's Table with the attitude of "what's in it for me"?
This chapter makes it clear that we are ALL under God's authority. We are here for His glory, not ours. Serving others gives Him glory.
So commit this verse to memory and think about it as you go about your activities: "... Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
PRAYER
Help us to give you glory, LORD, in all that we do and say and think. Help us to love others as You love us.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
1 Corinthians 5-6 - Immorality & Lawsuits
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Corinthians 5-6
BACKGROUND
In these two chapters, Paul addresses the issues of immorality and lawsuits within the church. He does not mince words and has some clear instruction for the Corinthians.
The church is proud of being tolerant of the immoral person. Paul clearly says that this sin should not be tolerated, and the perpetrator should be removed from the church. Note that the intended goal of the removal is reconciliation.
Believers were taking each other to court and thereby displaying their disunity to the world. The motives behind the lawsuits were selfish, underscoring their spiritual immaturity. Paul instructs them to find some wise believers in the church to act as mediators when these issues come up.
REFLECTION
As believers, we can look back at our former lives and remember the sinners we once were. But we should never go back and "live" there! Paul emphasized the change that took place at salvation. You were washed. You were sanctified. You were justified. None of these were done by your own power, but in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:11).
APPLICATION
Our bodies are not our own. We are joined as members of Christ and were purchased for him by his blood. Paul also calls our bodies the temple of the Holy Spirit. So Paul asks -- Are you joining yourself to a harlot by living immoral lives? Or are you joining yourself to Jesus and living as one with him? What you do with your body should always glorify God! How do you resist immoral living? FLEE from immorality. Get serious about it and run the other way. Avoid the places and situations that tempt you. Joseph is a great example of this when Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him (Gen 39).
PRAYER
Lord, we belong to you and are set apart for your use. Let us not get caught in the traps of selfish and immoral living. You purchased us with your own blood. You deserve nothing less than our total commitment in return. May we live as your temples, honoring you with our bodies and with all that we do. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 1 Corinthians 5-6
BACKGROUND
In these two chapters, Paul addresses the issues of immorality and lawsuits within the church. He does not mince words and has some clear instruction for the Corinthians.
The church is proud of being tolerant of the immoral person. Paul clearly says that this sin should not be tolerated, and the perpetrator should be removed from the church. Note that the intended goal of the removal is reconciliation.
Believers were taking each other to court and thereby displaying their disunity to the world. The motives behind the lawsuits were selfish, underscoring their spiritual immaturity. Paul instructs them to find some wise believers in the church to act as mediators when these issues come up.
REFLECTION
As believers, we can look back at our former lives and remember the sinners we once were. But we should never go back and "live" there! Paul emphasized the change that took place at salvation. You were washed. You were sanctified. You were justified. None of these were done by your own power, but in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:11).
APPLICATION
Our bodies are not our own. We are joined as members of Christ and were purchased for him by his blood. Paul also calls our bodies the temple of the Holy Spirit. So Paul asks -- Are you joining yourself to a harlot by living immoral lives? Or are you joining yourself to Jesus and living as one with him? What you do with your body should always glorify God! How do you resist immoral living? FLEE from immorality. Get serious about it and run the other way. Avoid the places and situations that tempt you. Joseph is a great example of this when Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him (Gen 39).
PRAYER
Lord, we belong to you and are set apart for your use. Let us not get caught in the traps of selfish and immoral living. You purchased us with your own blood. You deserve nothing less than our total commitment in return. May we live as your temples, honoring you with our bodies and with all that we do. In the name of Jesus, amen.
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