Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
… to further the faith of God’s elect …
Summary: English translations of the Greek can sometimes differ. The result gives us different views on the author’s meaning. Today’s text leads us to look for ways to further our faith in God.
Continue reading “Titus 1:1 (d) — More Faith, Please”
… and an apostle of Jesus Christ …
Summary: Paul’s credentials tell us who he is and what his authority is.
Continue reading “Titus 1:1 (c) — A Man With A Message”
… a servant of God …
Summary: Paul introduces himself as a “servant of God.” This sets the tone for the rest of the letter. These words are not about Paul, but about God.
Continue reading “Titus 1:1(b) — Servanthood”
Paul …
Summary: Paul’s letter begins with a formal introduction typical of most letters in his day. More than a formality, Paul’s name also adds credence to the letter.
Continue reading “Titus 1:1 (a) — Introduction”
Peace to all of you who are in Christ.
Summary: Peter’s message to distant churches was sent without any return confirmation. He sent it in faith that it would get there, and by faith we can enjoy it still today.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:14 (b) — Message in a Bottle”
Greet one another with a kiss of love.
Summary: Peter uses one of about seven Greek words that can be translated as ‘’love.” The one he used means selfless love. The kind that Jesus shows to us.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:14 (a) — Penultimate Ponderings”
She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark.
Summary: The concept of “knowledge” is widely misunderstood. We often confuse opinions for real knowledge. When it comes to the Bible, it is important to understand that our faith is in Jesus, the person, and not our opinions about the Bible.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:13 — Mysteries”
Stand fast in it.
Summary: Context is very important as we strive to understand God’s Word. Peter writes, “Stand fast in it.” The “it” is the grace of God.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:12 (c) — Stand Fast”
… encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God.
Summary: We have a choice in what we look at. The truth in Peter’s letter includes both the suffering that comes with separation from the world, and the joy of knowing God loves you. We have to choose which one we want to look at.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:12 (b) — Focal Point”
With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly…
Summary: There are many famous names in the Bible. There are also names like Silas, who are not well known but did very important work.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:12 (a) — Unsung Hero”