January 2, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 7

¹ Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

² Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.

³ I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.

⁴ Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

⁵ For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.

⁶ Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;

⁷ And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

⁸ For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.

⁹ Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.

¹⁰ For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

¹¹ For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

¹² Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.

¹³ Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.

¹⁴ For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.

¹⁵ And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.

¹⁶ I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 7 of the Second Corinthians letter reveals the deep emotional and spiritual connections between Paul and the Corinthian church. It addresses the path of repentance that leads to sanctification and renewal. Paul emphasizes the power of divine sorrow, which leads to repentance and ultimately to joy. His words reflect both pastoral care and the hope for mutual growth in grace.

Commentary

Purification and Sanctification (Verse 1)
Paul begins the chapter with a call to sanctification. He urges the believers to cleanse themselves from every defilement of the flesh and spirit to advance in the fear of God. This exhortation serves as a reminder that God’s promises come with not only encouragement but also responsibility. Sanctification is an active process that encompasses our entire being.

Paul’s Sincerity (Verses 2-4)
Paul emphasizes that he has never hurt or exploited the Corinthians. This statement underscores his pure motivation and deep love for the church. His joy and comfort amidst trials demonstrate how closely he is connected to the congregation.

The Power of Divine Sorrow (Verses 5-10)
A central theme of the chapter is the distinction between divine and worldly sorrow. Divine sorrow leads to repentance and thus to salvation, while worldly sorrow leads to death. This passage emphasizes that true repentance is a divine grace that purifies character and leads to a renewed life.

The Testimony of the Church (Verses 11-13)
The Corinthians’ response to Paul’s letter of admonition shows that they have embraced divine sorrow. Their zeal, responsibility, and purity in the matter attest to their seriousness and dedication to God. Paul is pleased that the relationship between him and the church has been restored.

Joy Over Titus’ Report (Verses 14-16)
Paul is exceedingly grateful for Titus’ report about the Corinthians. Their obedience and warm reception of Titus demonstrate their willingness to grow in faith. This mutual encouragement strengthens Paul and affirms his hope in the good within the church.

Summary

The chapter illustrates how divine sorrow and the resulting repentance can lead to profound renewal. It underscores the importance of sanctification, sincerity in relationships, and mutual comfort within the church. Paul’s words testify to the transformative power of the Gospel, which can change not only individual hearts but also communities.

 

 

 

 

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/2-1-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-7-believe-his-prophets/

January 1, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 6

¹ We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

² (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

³ Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:

⁴ But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

⁵ In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

⁶ By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,

⁷ By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,

⁸ By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;

⁹ As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

¹⁰ As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

¹¹ O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.

¹² Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.

¹³ Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.

¹⁴ Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

¹⁵ And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

¹⁶ And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

¹⁷ Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.

¹⁸ And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul describes the challenges and dedication that his apostolic ministry entails. At the same time, he admonishes the congregation not to neglect the grace of God they have received and urges them to distance themselves from unbelievers and impure influences. This passage highlights the importance of living a Christian life in purity, faithfulness, and fellowship with God.

Commentary

2 Corinthians 6 is a powerful testimony of Paul’s dedication and faithfulness in his ministry for the gospel. He calls on the Corinthians to make use of the “favorable time” of God’s grace and reminds them how crucial their attitude toward God and the world is. Particularly striking is the list of trials and challenges Paul has endured (verses 4–10). These illustrate that God’s servants are not spared from difficulties but must remain steadfast amidst suffering, misunderstanding, and temptations.

Another important aspect is the warning not to associate with unbelievers (verses 14–18). This is not about social isolation but about spiritual purity and the necessity of avoiding compromises with moral or spiritual values that contradict faith. Paul reminds the Corinthians that, as believers, they are the temple of God and have a holy calling.

Summary

2 Corinthians 6 calls on the congregation to consciously embrace the grace of God and live a life worthy of this grace. Paul shares his personal trials and steadfastness to serve as an example for the believers. Finally, he exhorts the Corinthians to separate themselves from unbelieving influences and fully dedicate themselves to God, for they are the temple of the living God, called to fellowship with their heavenly Father.

 

 

 

 

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/1-1-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-6-believe-his-prophets/

December 31, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 5

¹ For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

² For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:

³ If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.

⁴ For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

⁵ Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.

⁶ Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:

⁷ (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

⁸ We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

⁹ Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.

¹⁰ For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

¹¹ Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

¹² For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.

¹³ For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.

¹⁴ For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

¹⁵ And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

¹⁶ Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.

¹⁷ Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

¹⁸ And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

¹⁹ To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

²⁰ Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.

²¹ For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In the fifth chapter of the second letter to the Corinthians, Paul describes the hope of the heavenly home and the Christian life in faith. He explains the calling of believers as ambassadors of reconciliation and emphasizes how God, through Christ, has reconciled the world to Himself. This chapter encourages believers to live faithfully in the present world and to recognize their identity as a “new creation” in Christ.

Commentary

Longing for the Heavenly Home
Paul uses the image of an “earthly house” (our body) and contrasts it with an eternal, heavenly house. He describes the human longing for immortality and eternal fellowship with God. This life is only temporary, and the difficulties here are part of the journey to eternal glory. In this context, the Holy Spirit plays a central role as a pledge and guarantee of this future hope.

Paul emphasizes that Christians walk “by faith” and not “by sight.” This is a reminder that the Christian life is characterized by trust in God, even when the reality of heaven remains unseen. At the same time, he makes clear that each person will stand before the judgment seat of Christ and must give account for their life. This perspective should drive believers to please God, whether in earthly or heavenly life.

Ambassadors of Reconciliation
In this section, Paul calls the Corinthians to take their identity as ambassadors of Christ seriously. He explains that the love of Christ compels him to proclaim the Gospel, as through Jesus’ death and resurrection, a new relationship with God is offered to all people. The central idea is that God, through Christ, has reconciled the world to Himself, and this message of reconciliation is to be shared by believers.

Paul makes it clear that redemption through Christ brings about a transformation: whoever is in Christ is a “new creation.” The old life has passed away, and a new one has begun. This is not the result of human effort but a work of God. The climax of the chapter is the statement that Christ, who knew no sin, was made to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become righteous before God.

Summary

2 Corinthians 5 encourages believers to hope for the heavenly home and to live their lives in faith and reconciliation. Paul emphasizes that earthly life is transient and that true life is found only in fellowship with Christ. Christians are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation by sharing the good news of God’s love and grace. The chapter reminds us that through Christ, a new creation is possible, which overcomes the old life and brings eternal hope.

 

 

 

 

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/31-11-2024-2-corinthians-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

December 30, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 4

¹ Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;

² But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.

³ But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:

⁴ In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

⁵ For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.

⁶ For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

⁷ But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

⁸ We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

⁹ Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

¹⁰ Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

¹¹ For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

¹² So then death worketh in us, but life in you.

¹³ We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;

¹⁴ Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.

¹⁵ For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

¹⁶ For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

¹⁷ For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

¹⁸ While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In the fourth chapter of the second letter to the Corinthians, Paul examines the nature and purpose of apostolic ministry. He describes the challenges and joys associated with proclaiming the Gospel and reminds readers that the true value of the ministry lies in the power of God, which is made evident through human weakness. This chapter serves as an encouragement for all who suffer in their faith in Christ and offers a deeper perspective on the eternal glory that surpasses present trials.

Commentary

Paul begins with a clear and humble portrayal of his ministry. He makes it clear that he does not act out of his own strength or motivation but is empowered by the mercy of God. His ministry is based on openness, honesty, and the unblemished Word of God, in contrast to the secret deceptions that he condemns.

He emphasizes that the Gospel remains hidden to those who have been blinded by the “god of this world.” This points to the spiritual dimension of proclamation, where the knowledge of God’s glory is revealed only through Jesus Christ. Paul describes the Gospel as a light shining in the darkness, much like how God created light from darkness.

A central part of the chapter is the metaphor of “earthly vessels.” Paul views himself and his fellow apostles as fragile vessels that carry the immeasurable treasure of the Gospel. This emphasizes that the power comes from God and not from humans. Despite external pressures and weaknesses, they experience renewal and strength through God’s presence.

The fellowship in suffering with Christ plays a central role. Paul describes how the proclaimers of the Gospel bear the death of Christ in their lives so that the life of Christ may be evident in them. According to Paul, the present trials are only temporary and light compared to the eternal glory they are creating.

Summary

2 Corinthians 4 showcases the beauty and purpose of Christian ministry. Paul reminds us that human weaknesses and sufferings are stages on which the power of God becomes visible. The difficulties believers experience are temporary and lead to an eternal glory that far surpasses the earthly. By shifting the focus from the visible to the invisible, Paul urges steadfastness in faith and trust in the eternal reward. This chapter serves as a powerful encouragement to look to divine strength and the promised glory in all of life’s challenges.

 

 

 

 

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/30-11-2024-2-corinthians-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

December 29, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 3

¹ Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?

² Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:

³ Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

⁴ And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:

⁵ Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

⁶ Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

⁷ But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:

⁸ How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?

⁹ For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

¹⁰ For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.

¹¹ For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.

¹² Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:

¹³ And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:

¹⁴ But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.

¹⁵ But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.

¹⁶ Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.

¹⁷ Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

¹⁸ But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In the third chapter of the second letter to the Corinthians, Paul describes the glory of the ministry under the New Covenant. He compares the Old and the New Covenant, highlighting how the New Covenant, through the Spirit of God, brings greater glory and freedom. In doing so, Paul demonstrates that true transformation and understanding occur through the Lord’s Spirit, not through the adherence to letters and laws.

Commentary

Paul begins by referring to the Corinthians as a “letter of Christ” – a living testament of his ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of God on hearts. Here, he emphasizes the inner change effected by the New Covenant. The ability to perform such a ministry does not come from human strength but from God, who imparts life through the Spirit, in contrast to the letter of the law, which brings death.

The comparison with Moses and the veil shows that the glory of the Old Covenant was limited. While Moses wore a veil to conceal the clarity, Paul speaks of the veil being removed in the New Covenant once someone turns to Christ. This makes clear that the New Covenant brings openness, freedom, and enduring glory.

A central verse is: “Where, however, the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” This freedom is not only from the regulations of the law but also an inner liberation for transformation into the image of Christ. Paul describes the progressive transformation of believers, who, through the Lord’s Spirit, grow into the glory of God.

Summary

2 Corinthians 3 shows the transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, from law to Spirit, from condemnation to righteousness, and from veil to revelation. Paul explains that the ministry of the Spirit possesses a greater and enduring glory, transforming believers into freedom and into the image of Christ. The text calls for hope and joy, as the Spirit of God enables access to true glory and freedom in Christ.

 

 

 

 

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/29-11-2024-2-corinthians-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/