Tag: Satan

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1 Timothy 1:20 – Curse or Consequence?

Picture (renaissance style) of two people standing apart from the congregation. (Grok)

Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.

Summary: Paul’s language in this passage may seem abrupt, but it is rooted in deep biblical precedent. God sometimes uses what feels like a curse to teach us the consequences of disobedience.   

There are a lot of questions that come to mind as we read Paul’s words in this passage. Who were Hymenaeus and Alexander? What had they done? What does it mean to “blaspheme”? What does it mean to have someone over to Satan? What can Satan teach us, and how does he do it? 

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1 Timothy 1:7 – Part I: What is the Law?

Picture is of a woodland trail with a sign beside it saying "Stay Out! Evil Ahead!" (Grok)

They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm.

Summary: The topic of the law opens the door to many related questions. The first one we will deal with has to do with the nature of the law itself.   

In our last meditation, we discussed the meaning of the verb “judge.” The Bible instructs us to make good judgments about the things we say and do, but warns us against making moral judgments about other people. 

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Philippians 1:20a – All the Difference

A child puts coins ("small change") into a piggy bank (Pixabay)

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed…

Summary: Paul’s hope of being free of shame is a beacon of light for all believers who share his hope in Jesus Christ. 

Ashamed by what? 

I kinda hate to write on this topic for personal reasons. You see, I have a shame problem! Throughout my long life, I have been shamed by others for many reasons. 

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