January 5, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 10

¹ Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

² But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

³ For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

⁴ (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

⁵ Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

⁶ And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

⁷ Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? if any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ’s, even so are we Christ’s.

⁸ For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

⁹ That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.

¹⁰ For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.

¹¹ Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.

¹² For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

¹³ But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.

¹⁴ For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ:

¹⁵ Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

¹⁶ To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s line of things made ready to our hand.

¹⁷ But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

¹⁸ For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

2 Corinthians Chapter 10 is a striking example of Paul’s defense of apostolic authority amidst personal attacks and misunderstandings. In the church at Corinth, there were voices questioning his authority, both due to his outward appearance and his demeanor. Paul uses this opportunity to demonstrate that his strength and authority do not stem from human power or rhetoric, but from divine calling and the spiritual weapons he received through Christ. This chapter encourages us to recognize the value of God’s standards and to avoid judging by external or fleshly criteria.

Commentary

Gentleness and Spiritual Authority (Verses 1–6):
Paul begins with an appeal to the Corinthians to be guided by the gentleness and humility of Christ. He points out that his ministry is not based on human boldness or fleshly strength but on the power of God. The spiritual weapons he employs are mighty in demolishing strongholds of thought, pride, and false teachings. This illustrates that the true battle of faith is spiritual in nature and that Christ’s authority brings everything under His obedience.

Standards of True Authority (Verses 7–11):
Paul challenges the Corinthians with the question of whether they judge by outward appearances. He emphasizes that his connection to Christ is just as genuine as those who criticize him. He asserts that his authority comes from God and that his actions align with the words in his letters. This underscores that true spiritual authority is evident in the consistency between words and actions.

Humility in Service and the Glory of God (Verses 12–18):
Paul critiques the self-exaltation of some of his opponents who measure and praise themselves. He emphasizes that true praise comes only from God and that all work in Christ’s service must occur under God’s direction and within the scope of His calling. Paul demonstrates that he does not boast of others’ achievements but strives to spread the Gospel further and give glory to God.

Summary

2 Corinthians Chapter 10 highlights the true nature of spiritual authority and the spiritual battle. Paul demonstrates that human standards and fleshly weapons have no place in God’s service. Instead, true strength is rooted in the power of God, which can demolish strongholds of pride and unbelief. Paul encourages the church to grow in humility and obedience, reminding them that all glory belongs to God. This chapter invites readers to reevaluate their perspective and live according to Christ’s standards.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/05-01-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-10-believe-his-prophets/

1.Worse Than the Thought That There Is No God Would Be the Thought That God Hates Us. How Would Our World Look Different if That Were True?

The thought that God could hate us would profoundly shake the foundation of our world and faith. Such a notion would completely overturn the concept of a loving, gracious, and just God as depicted in the Bible and would have far-reaching effects on our lives, morals, and worldview.

1. Loss of Hope and Comfort

• As It Is Today: The thought that God loves us gives us hope in difficult times. His grace and forgiveness offer comfort and a perspective for the future.

• If God Hated Us: Hope and comfort would vanish. People would fall into despair, as the source of life and love would no longer be seen as supportive but as a hostile force.

2. Destroyed Relationships

• As It Is Today: God’s love serves as a model for our relationships. It teaches us to practice love, forgiveness, and mercy.

• If God Hated Us: Relationships could be marked by fear, distrust, and selfishness. Without a divine model of love and forgiveness, maintaining genuine, selfless relationships would be challenging.

3. Morality Without Foundation

• As It Is Today: God’s love is the foundation of morality. It motivates us to act justly and mercifully.

• If God Hated Us: Morality could descend into chaos, as it would no longer be based on love and grace. Fear of punishment or arbitrariness might dominate human behavior, leading to a cold and callous society.

4. A Life Without Purpose

• As It Is Today: God’s love gives our lives meaning and purpose. We know that we are loved and have a calling.

• If God Hated Us: A life without divine love might be perceived as meaningless. People could question the value of their existence, seeing no purpose or reason for their lives.

5. The Loss of Freedom to Love

• As It Is Today: God’s love allows us to freely choose to love Him and maintain relationships with Him and others.

• If God Hated Us: Love might be replaced by fear. People might try to avoid God’s wrath instead of acting out of free will, leading to a relationship based on coercion rather than genuine affection.

Conclusion

The notion that God hates us would be an existential catastrophe. However, the Bible presents a different picture: God is the source of love, and His affection for us is unconditional. This thought provides us with hope, strengthens our trust, and inspires us to carry love into the world. Without this love, the world would be a much darker place. It is a great comfort that we can trust God loves us and that His will is always directed toward good.

2.Why Do You Think God’s Nature Is So Misunderstood in Our World Today? Consider and Discuss How You Can Help People Clearly Recognize God’s Loving Character.

Why Is God’s Nature Often Misunderstood Today?

God’s nature is often misunderstood in today’s world for various reasons, including cultural, societal, and personal factors. These influences shape how people perceive God and whether they can recognize His loving character.

1. Misinterpretations Through Religion and History

• Influence of History: Many view God through the lens of religious conflicts, power abuses, and intolerance committed in His name.

• Distorted Theology: Concepts of God as a strict judge or a distant, indifferent power shape many people’s images of Him.

• How to Help: People need genuine encounters with God’s love, not just rules or dogmas. Through our actions, characterized by forgiveness, compassion, and genuine devotion, we can make God’s character visible.

2. The Influence of Suffering and Injustice

• Problem of Suffering: Many question how a loving God can allow so much suffering and injustice in the world.

• God Felt Distant: Suffering is often seen as evidence that God either does not exist or is not loving.

• How to Help: We can show people that God is present in suffering and that through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, He Himself has suffered. By offering comfort and hope, we make God’s compassionate character visible.

3. Secularization and Individualism

• Growing Distance from God: In an increasingly secular world, God is often seen as irrelevant, with a focus on self-determination and individualism.

• Science as a Substitute: Some reject God because they believe science provides all the answers.

• How to Help: Demonstrate that faith and reason can coexist. Personal testimonies of God’s work in your life can often be more impactful than abstract arguments.

4. Media Influence

• Caricatures of God: Movies, media, and pop culture often portray a one-sided or mocking image of God that does not reflect His true nature.

• How to Help: We can convey an authentic image of God’s love through creative media content, art, and conversations. Stories that highlight God’s intervention and love can be powerful tools.

5. Lack of Authentic Testimonies

• Unlived Faith: When Christians do not live their faith authentically, it can be off-putting and reinforce misunderstandings about God’s character.

• How to Help: Live your faith consistently and compassionately. When people see love, patience, and forgiveness in your behavior, God’s character becomes visible through you.

How Can We Clearly Communicate God’s Loving Character?

1. Through Our Own Behavior

   • Perform loving and compassionate actions that reflect God’s love.

   • Live out forgiveness, mercy, and willingness to help others in daily life.

2. Through Honest Conversations

   • Listen without judgment. Many people have questions or wounds related to faith and religion.

   • Be ready to explain your faith authentically and understandably.

3. Through Community and Engagement

   • Create spaces where people can experience God’s love—through worship services, social projects, or supportive communities.

   • Demonstrate practical neighborly love that mirrors God’s nature.

4. Through Proclaiming the Gospel

   • Share the story of Jesus, which most clearly shows God’s love.

   • Connect the Gospel to people’s everyday realities to show that God knows and loves them personally.

5. Through Patience and Prayer

   • Misunderstandings about God do not disappear overnight. Remain patient and pray for those who struggle to recognize God’s love.

Conclusion

God’s nature is often misunderstood because people are influenced by pain, false notions, or societal trends. As Christians, we are called to convey an authentic image of God’s character through our lives, words, and love. By reflecting Jesus’ love, we can help people recognize God’s true nature: a God who loves unconditionally, heals, and invites fellowship.

3.What is the Message That Should Be Proclaimed About God’s Nature Today? How Would You Explain This Message to Someone Unfamiliar with the Reality of God’s Love? What Evidence Can You Provide to Show the Reality of God’s Love and His Wonderful Character?

The Message About God’s Nature: God is Love

The central message to be proclaimed today about God’s nature is: God is love. This love is unconditional, universal, and full of grace. It is demonstrated in His actions, in creation, in His patience, and most importantly, in the dedication of Jesus Christ on the cross.

How Would I Explain This Message to Someone Unfamiliar with God’s Love?

1. Start with the Essence:

   • “God is not a distant or stern judge but a loving Father who knows you, who created you, and who loves you unconditionally. His love is independent of who you are or what you have done.”

2. Connect It with Experiences:

   • “Think of the deepest form of love you have ever experienced—whether through family, friends, or a special moment. God’s love surpasses all of that because it is perfect and unwavering.”

3. Refer to Jesus’ Life and Death:

   • “The greatest proof of God’s love is Jesus Christ. God became human to show us how much He loves us, and He gave His life to save us and reconcile us with Him. The cross is the greatest sign of His love.”

4. Show the Invitation:

   • “This love is open to you, regardless of your mistakes or background. God calls you into a relationship with Him where you can find comfort, forgiveness, and hope.”

What Evidence Can I Provide for God’s Love and His Wonderful Character?

1. Creation:

   • “Look around you—the beauty of nature, the diversity of life. Creation itself is proof of God’s generosity and His desire to bring us joy.”

2. Jesus’ Life and Death:

   • “Jesus’ dedication on the cross shows that God’s love knows no bounds. Jesus did not die only for those who love Him but also for those who reject Him. This is the ultimate proof of selfless love.”

3. Forgiveness and Patience:

   • “God continually forgives us, even when we disappoint Him. His patience shows that He never gives up on winning us back.”

4. Testimonies of People:

   • “Many people have experienced God’s love in their lives—through prayer, comfort in difficult times, or unexpected turns that brought hope. These stories demonstrate how real God’s love is.”

5. The Transformation God’s Love Brings:

   • “People who accept God’s love often experience profound change. They find peace, hope, and a new perspective on their lives.”

How Can This Message Be Carried into the World?

1. Through Love in Action:

   • “Live out this message by showing compassion, forgiveness, and mercy. Let others see God’s love through your behavior.”

2. Through Honest Testimony:

   • “Share your personal experiences with God’s love. Stories have the power to touch hearts.”

3. Through Community:

   • “Invite people to be part of a community where they can experience God’s love through relationships and prayer.”

4. Through Patience and Listening:

   • “Many people carry doubts or wounds related to God. Be ready to listen, answer questions, and walk the path to God with them.”

Conclusion

The message about God’s nature is simple yet powerful: God loves you. This love is real, experiential, and has the power to transform our lives. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, God shows the depth of His love. By living out and sharing this truth, we can help others recognize and experience the reality of this love.

4.Speaking About God’s Love Is One Thing. Showing and Reflecting This Love in Our Lives Is Another. What Works of Sanctification Can Be Signs of God’s Love to the People Around Us?

Works of Sanctification as Signs of God’s Love

Showing and reflecting God’s love in our lives requires intentional action and a heart transformed by His Spirit. Works of sanctification are visible signs through which we can bring God’s love to others. These actions stem from our relationship with God and demonstrate His love in the world.

1. Charity and Compassion

• Practical Help:

  • “Supporting those in need—whether through material aid, time, or attention—reflects God’s care.”

• Showing Empathy:

  • “Listening to people, comforting them, and encouraging them shows that they are not alone and are valued.”

• Example:

  • “Visiting the sick, helping someone in need, or having an uplifting conversation can be powerful signs of God’s love.”

2. Practicing Forgiveness

• Reflecting God’s Forgiveness:

  • “When we forgive others, we show how God forgives us, even when we do not deserve it.”

• Promoting Reconciliation:

  • “Taking active steps to heal broken relationships demonstrates God’s desire for peace and community.”

• Example:

  • “Forgiving someone who has hurt you and building a bridge of reconciliation makes God’s love tangible.”

3. Justice and Mercy

• Advocating for the Weak:

  • “Standing up for justice—supporting the poor, oppressed, or disadvantaged—shows that God’s love encompasses all people.”

• Showing Mercy:

  • “Helping even when it costs us reflects God’s boundless mercy.”

• Example:

  • “Engaging in social projects or defending those who have no voice demonstrates God’s heart for justice.”

4. Patience and Gentleness

• Being Patient with Others:

  • “Responding patiently and gently to difficult people or situations mirrors God’s patience with us.”

• Devotion in Service:

  • “Spending time and energy helping others, even when it’s inconvenient, shows true devotion.”

• Example:

  • “Staying calm and loving in conflicts or approaching others with understanding can make God’s love tangible.”

5. Sharing the Gospel

• Spreading God’s Message:

  • “Sharing the story of Jesus, which most clearly demonstrates God’s love, invites others to experience it themselves.”

• Speaking Through Our Lives:

  • “An authentic life that reflects God’s love is often the strongest way to proclaim the Gospel.”

• Example:

  • “Personal testimonies or offering to pray with someone can open hearts to God’s love.”

6. Fostering Community and Unity

• Building Community:

  • “Inviting people into our community creates an environment where God’s love can be experienced through relationships and prayer.”

• Promoting Unity:

  • “Overcoming tensions in groups or families shows the value of love and forgiveness.”

• Example:

  • “An inclusive, welcoming attitude that embraces everyone reflects God’s universal love.”

7. Living in Gratitude and Praise

• Showing Gratitude:

  • “A life full of gratitude for God’s love inspires others to recognize this love.”

• Testifying to God’s Love:

  • “Praising God and placing our trust in Him shows that His love is the foundation of our lives.”

• Example:

  • “Expressing gratitude, whether through words, actions, or prayer, can make God’s goodness visible to others.”

Conclusion

Works of sanctification are a powerful expression of God’s love in the world. They show that our faith is not just words but concrete actions that can touch and inspire others. By living out charity, forgiveness, justice, patience, and other virtues, we reflect God’s character and make His love visible. Our lives become a living testimony of His presence and work.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-god-loves-freely-1-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 4, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 9

¹ For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

² For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.

³ Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:

⁴ Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.

⁵ Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.

⁶ But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

⁷ Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

⁸ And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

⁹ (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.

¹⁰ Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

¹¹ Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

¹² For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

¹³ Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

¹⁴ And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.

¹⁵ Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In 2 Corinthians Chapter 9, Paul discusses the importance of financial support for the saints in Jerusalem. He encourages the believers in Corinth to demonstrate their goodwill and generosity, linking material aid to spiritual principles. This chapter highlights not only the practical significance of giving but also its spiritual impact, as it fosters gratitude and glorifies God. It teaches us that generosity is both an expression of love for God and a means to magnify His grace.

Commentary

Motivation for Generosity (Verses 1-5):
Paul commends the Corinthians’ willingness to support the collection for the saints. He mentions their exemplary role, which inspired other congregations, and emphasizes the importance of their gifts being ready to meet the call. The key focus here is that the gift should be a “blessing” – not given reluctantly or out of greed but with a free and generous spirit.

The Principle of Sowing and Reaping (Verses 6-7):
Paul illustrates giving with an agricultural metaphor: those who sow sparingly will reap sparingly, and those who sow generously will reap generously. This underscores the spiritual truth that generosity bears fruit in both the lives of the givers and the recipients. Notably, verse 7 emphasizes that God loves a cheerful giver, placing the attitude of the heart above the mere act of giving.

God’s Grace and Provision (Verses 8-11):
Paul reminds the Corinthians that God is the one who provides everything – both the means to give and the reward. God’s grace enables believers to be generous without lacking anything themselves. Here, giving is described as a way to manifest God’s righteousness and promote good works.

Spiritual Impact of Giving (Verses 12-14):
Financial support not only addresses the practical needs of the saints but also has spiritual effects. It results in thanksgiving and praise to God. The recipients glorify God for the generosity of the givers, recognizing their obedience to the gospel of Christ.

The Unspeakable Gift (Verse 15):
Paul concludes with a note of praise: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” Here, the ultimate gift of God – Jesus Christ – takes center stage. Every gift from believers is ultimately a response to God’s great gift to humanity.

Summary

2 Corinthians Chapter 9 connects practical generosity with profound spiritual truths. Paul shows that giving is not merely a material act but a way to reveal God’s grace and righteousness. Generosity flows from a heart that acknowledges God’s indescribable gift – Jesus Christ. This attitude leads to a wave of gratitude and glorification of God. For us today, this chapter is an invitation to give generously and cheerfully, trusting that God will bless and multiply our gifts to make His glory known.

 

 

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 84—“Peace Be Unto You”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:33-48; John 20:19-29.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

The chapter “Peace be with you!” describes the events following the resurrection of Jesus, where He appears to the disciples, strengthens their faith, and brings them peace. It is based on the accounts in Luke 24:33-48 and John 20:19-29. These encounters reveal the deep mercy and patience of Jesus towards His disciples, who, despite His repeated teachings, struggled to comprehend His resurrection.

Commentary

The appearances of Jesus after His resurrection are marked by a message of peace, forgiveness, and new life. Jesus unexpectedly enters the midst of the disciples and greets them with the words “Peace be with you!” This greeting reflects the core message of the Gospel: reconciliation with God and inner peace despite external uncertainty. By showing them His pierced hands and feet, He strengthens their faith by answering doubt with the reality of His resurrection.

A key message of this chapter is that Jesus approaches the doubters with love and patience, as in the case of Thomas. Thomas, who reacts skeptically to the reports of the others, receives exactly the evidence he demands from Jesus. However, Jesus gently admonishes that greater blessings await those who believe without seeing. This is an invitation to trust, even when not all questions are answered.

Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus breathes into the disciples to prepare them for their mission. Without the Spirit of God, they are unable to preach the forgiveness of sins and spread the Gospel to the world. The gift of the Holy Spirit is essential to continue Christ’s work.

Summary

The chapter “Peace be with you!” demonstrates Jesus’ loving manner in renewing the faith of His disciples, dispelling their doubts, and preparing them for their mission. His words and actions after the resurrection call for finding peace and faith, even when external evidence is lacking. The disciples were equipped with the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection and sent out to share this message with the world. This chapter reminds us that Jesus meets every doubt with patience and love and that the Holy Spirit is the key to serving in His name.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/04-01-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/