Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord [for] … appointing me to his service.
Summary: Paul’s appointment to the Lord’s service opens the door to an important conversation about the use of the word “martyr.”
When Paul was confronted by Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus, he was appointed to the Lord’s service.
Continue reading “1 Timothy 1:12d – All That Matters”
The goal of this command is love, (which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.)
Summary: When Paul tells us that the goal of the command he has given to Timothy is love, he forces us to think deeply about what love is and who we are supposed to love.
Before we dive into a closer look at what Paul says in this verse, let’s step back for a moment to gain some perspective.
Continue reading “1 Timothy 1:5a – Commanded to Love”
To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever.
Summary: Our God and Father is worthy of all honor and glory — always.
It has been a long journey through Paul’s letter to the Philippians! Each meditation has explored only one facet of the passage or word it focuses on. God’s Word is amazing in its depth and breadth of meaning (Isaiah 55:9). I am reminded of John’s words at the end of his Gospel:
Continue reading “Philippians 4:20a – Glory and Honor”
[Let the message of Christ dwell among you] … richly …
Summary: Experiencing Christ involves separating the wheat from the chaff, or as we say these days, the signal from the noise. Paul wants you to succeed and experience Christ richly.
Is it true that salvation is all about who we know rather than what we know?
Putting the burden of faith on what we know is a common misconception. We know this is true because so many people do it!
Continue reading “Colossians 3:16b – Trust Jesus”Paul …
Summary: Sometimes it seems like we are going over the same ground again and again. The Bible tends to repeat itself. Perhaps the reason for repetition is that we need to hear the message over and over.
Continue reading “Colossians 1:1a – Repetition”Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.
Summary: Paul uses a turn of phrase that prompts us to think about how we would react if Jesus appeared at our doorstep.
Continue reading “Galatians 4:14b – What Changed?”