Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
This has now been witnessed to at the proper time.
Summary: While different translators handle this passage in different ways, the key concepts of timing and validation remain clear.
This verse, 1 Timothy 2:6, is one of the passages that translators struggle with. Let’s look at a few of the many variations:
Continue reading “1 Timothy 2:6b – In God’s Time”
But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.
Summary: Paul’s conversion and life for Christ is an example for all of us.
Why would God put up with you or me or anyone else, for that matter? Why would he be patient with people who disrespect him, even when they are trying to do what is right?
Continue reading “1 Timothy 1:16 – What God Can Do”
… along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Summary: Paul points us to the idea that Jesus needed faith, too.
In addition to God’s grace, or perhaps part of it, is the “faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.”
Continue reading “1 Timothy 1:14b – A Gem Called Jesus”
Amen.
Summary: The word “Amen,” is handy to know for several reasons. In our closing meditation, we look at a few things Paul mentions in his letter.
As we come to the end of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, it is worth taking a few minutes to look back over Paul’s words to us. (He is, after all, a messenger of God to you and me.)
Continue reading “Philippians 4:23b – The “Amen!” at the End”
… stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Summary: As we consider the rest of this passage, we rediscover the wisdom Paul shared in Chapter 3.
In the first part of our meditation on this passage, we looked at the phrase, “in the Lord.” In this meditation, let’s look at the phrase, “in this way.”
What does Paul mean?
Continue reading “Philippians 4:1b – In the Lord (Part 2)”
…the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control,
Summary: Power is desired by those who want control over others. Jesus shows us that real power is revealed when we can control our desire for power over others.
Consider what Paul is saying in this passage: Jesus Christ has the power to bring everything under his control.
Wow.
Continue reading “Philippians 3:21a – Under Control”And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.
Summary: Ultimately, God is in charge. There is a great deal of comfort in that.
Some time ago, a man was leading a small study group at his church. In the course of preparing for the study, he wrestled with a Biblical passage that dealt with the nature of sin.
Continue reading “Philippians 3:15b – Who’s In Charge?”
… and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Summary: Life is not a game, but sometimes thinking in terms of a contest helps us visualize what is at stake in life.
What kind of prize motivates you?
Is it a trophy?
Are you excited by the thought of having your picture and name in the paper?
Do you work extra hard if the prize is money?
Continue reading “Philippians 3:13c-14 – The Prize”
[I want to know Christ—] yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings…
Summary: Suffering and resurrection are bound together in this passage. One leads to the other.
The day Jesus died is confusing because so much was happening at the time. Consider, for a moment, all the threads associated with that day.
Continue reading “Philippians 3:10b – The Day Jesus Died”
I want to know Christ—
Summary: Paul has been talking about his relationship with Jesus. In this passage, he looks forward to something most people fear.
These five words, “I want to know Christ —,“ are a stunning statement coming from a man who has actually MET the risen Lord Jesus (Acts 9). He was personally chosen by Jesus to be the Apostle to the Gentile world (Acts 9:15). Paul received his Gospel by direct revelation from Christ (Titus 1:3). Paul knows Christ rather well.
Continue reading “Philippians 3:10a – Life & Death”