… though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
Summary: Today, we take an inside-out look at Paul’s statement about confidence. We are also taking a break from blogging.
Taken in context, Paul is referring to his spiritual “credit rating” under the Old Covenant Law. He has a lot to be proud of! He could trace his lineage back to Abraham. He was schooled under the best instructor, Gamaliel. He was apparently a good student. And as far as enthusiasm goes, his Zeal Factor was off the charts. When it came to enforcing the Law, there was no one better.
But what if we take Paul’s words out of context?
Paul is talking about the “flesh.” What if we put Paul’s words into the context of Jesus Christ?
Do we have “reasons” for our confidence in Jesus, or do we believe because we feel like it is the right thing to do? Both can be valid, but when it comes to helping others understand why we believe personally, our reasons tend to be more convincing.
Which begs the question, “What is your reason for your faith in Jesus Christ?”
People believe for different reasons. The stock answers from the Bible are excellent for guiding people through the logic of faith, but they don’t resonate with everyone. Your story might.
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SCHEDULE NOTE:
We will be taking a break from blogging for at least a week. I would love to hear from you if you read the blog. I’m curious about what you, Dear Reader, think. Has Three Minute Bible earned a place in your day? If so, how often and why? Would you like to see changes?
Write to me at:
Application: Reflect on your relationship with Jesus Christ.
Food for Thought: What are your reasons for confidence in Jesus?
My reasons for confidence in Christ center around His death for us on the cross and His resurrection.
The cross shows that He is good and that He loves us. If He were all powerful, but not good -He might be able to save us but might decide not to. But He is good and went to the cross on our behalf.
The Resurrection shows He is all powerful. If He were good but didn’t have the power to do anything about our situation, then His goodness would not be able to help us. The Resurrection shows He has the power needed to raise the dead.
Thankfully, He is all powerful and completely good.
As for the break in the blog – I think you know I look at the blog almost every day. But I also think sometimes the blogger needs a break. Do what you need to do for your personal health brother.
Thanks, Rich!
Yes, you have been a faithful friend and reader! I appreciate you deeply!!
What are your reasons for confidence in Jesus?
I have confidence in His Word. Everything He speaks through His Word or through the Holy Spirit is truth. I can place my faith in Him, for I know He is faithful.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Philippians 1:6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Also, I have always been amazed at your persistence and dedication with posting the meditations everyday. You are faithful in your work for the Lord. You are a blessing.
Hebrews 4:9-10 So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.
Thanks Chris!
The Word is powerful because of its Source! 🙂
And thank you! You have been dedicated too! I have seen a lot of growth in you as we have journeyed through Scripture together!
What are your reasons for confidence in Jesus?
At 18 a judge told me I would not see 21. Today Jesus has carried me to 81 wonderful years during which I have passed from believing into knowing, He is the power in my life. He is the source of all good in my life and I am eternally grateful He has increased my faith daily as we have walked these years together.
Romans 5:1, Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
I live in the confidence in Jesus because He has made Himself known to me as He entered my heart and is with me every moment of every day since.
He has given me sight to see God at work in this evil world, the power to trust Him over myself. His faithful presence in my life gives me the strength to move forward in His will as I remain joyful in the knowledge I am in but not of this world, remaining alert to the opportunities to minister to others as long as He my Lord has determined I will remain here.
All confidence has come from Him as He has demonstrated His eternal love for me, and gentle guidance into LIFE over the fading, decaying reality of this world.
Jeff: Have a joyful break with your wife and family, and I look forward to your return. Stay in touch when you think about it.
God Bless You Brother!
Thank you, Ron!
“He has made Himself known to me”
What a powerful testimony!!