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”
… 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”
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”
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”
…and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
Summary: Peter uses the language of physical strength to describe the resoluteness God gives to those who put their faith in Him.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:10 (e) — Lighthouse”
[And the God of all grace,]… will himself restore you …
Summary: We suffer in life and in death. In both cases, God himself will restore us.
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:10 (d) — The Power to Restore”
… after you have suffered a little while …
Summary: Peter uses the word “suffering” throughout his letter. What the context of this letter tells us is that choosing to serve God rather than our flesh creates tension with the flesh. We call this tension ”suffering.“
Continue reading “1 Peter 5:10 (c) — Thorns”