Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—
Summary: Understanding Paul’s intent in this passage provides us with a valuable opportunity to reflect on what God wants us to do with our lives.
If we are correct in our analysis so far, Paul has instructed Timothy to command “certain people” who claim to be followers of Christ* to stop promoting “controversial speculations.”
Continue reading “1 Timothy 1:4b – God’s Work”
But what does it matter?
Summary: When Paul poses the question, “[W]hat does it matter?” we are forced to confront the central issues of the Gospel.
Indeed, what does it matter if Christ is preached to stir up trouble for Paul? In fact, what does that even mean? Can someone teach the Gospel like Paul does and at the same time “stir up trouble” for him?
Standing on the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a bit like trying to stand on one foot while balancing on a ball. The true Gospel is the sweet spot where you can stay upright. The reality is that we tend to fall off the ball on one side or the other.
Continue reading “Philippians 1:18a – Things That Matter”In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith,
Summary: When we consider Paul’s “shield of faith,” it is helpful to understand what the word “faith” means. Looking at how many ways the word can be used helps us to understand how Paul is using it in this passage.
Continue reading “Ephesians 6:16a – Some Kind of Faith”