January 3, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 8

¹ Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

² How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

³ For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

⁴ Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

⁵ And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.

⁶ Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.

⁷ Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

⁸ I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.

⁹ For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

¹⁰ And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

¹¹ Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.

¹² For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.

¹³ For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:

¹⁴ But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:

¹⁵ As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.

¹⁶ But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.

¹⁷ For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.

¹⁸ And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;

¹⁹ And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:

²⁰ Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:

²¹ Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

²² And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.

²³ Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.

²⁴ Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

2 Corinthians Chapter 8 is an impressive example of the practical application of Christian charity. Apostle Paul speaks about the collection for the church in Jerusalem and shows how generosity and willingness to sacrifice are expressions of God’s grace in the lives of believers. He highlights the example of the churches in Macedonia, which gave generously despite great poverty. Paul emphasizes the importance of the heart’s attitude and encourages the Corinthians to put their willingness to give into action. This passage invites us to reflect on our own attitude towards generosity and our contribution to the common good.

Commentary

The Example of the Macedonians (Verses 1-5)
Paul begins by praising the Macedonian churches, whose gift was abundant and voluntary despite their poverty and affliction. Their dedication was not only financial but also a spiritual commitment to the Lord and the apostles. This example shows that true generosity does not depend on material wealth but on a heart guided by God’s will.

The Exhortation to Generosity (Verses 6-15)
Paul urges the Corinthians to remain faithful to their initial commitment and to complete the collection. He reminds them that giving is an expression of love and the grace of Christ. Jesus, who was rich, became poor so that we might become rich through his poverty—a powerful motivation for generous action. Paul emphasizes that in giving, it is not about the amount but about the willingness and the heart.

Transparency and Accountability (Verses 16-24)
Paul demonstrates the importance of integrity and accountability in managing donations. Titus and other brothers, known to be trustworthy, are entrusted with the collection. This ensures that everything is done honorably before God and people. Paul encourages the Corinthians to show their love publicly so that God’s name may be honored.

Summary

2 Corinthians Chapter 8 reminds us of the importance of generosity and communal action in the Christian faith. It is an invitation to reflect God’s grace through generous giving, regardless of our material means. At the same time, Paul underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in managing resources. The message is clear: giving is not just an obligation but an expression of our dedication to Christ and our fellow humans.

 

 

 

 

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/3-1-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-8-believe-his-prophets/

1.5 Crucified for Us
The Ultimate Sacrifice: God’s Love Revealed on the Cross

Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s undeserved, unconditional love. It shows that His love knows no bounds and that He was willing to pay the highest price to heal the broken relationship between humanity and God. However, this gift requires our free choice to accept it.

1. God’s Love Despite Rejection

As described in the Parable of the Wedding Banquet and in Matthew 23:37, Christ wanted to save His people, but many were not willing to accept His invitation. This highlights the deep tragedy of human freedom: God’s love is offered, but it is not forced.

• For Us: We have the freedom to reciprocate or reject God’s love. However, this freedom makes the acceptance of His grace all the more precious. It is our responsibility to respond to His invitation with an open heart.

2. The Cross as a Sign of Inexhaustible Love

Christ went to the cross even though many rejected Him and were not willing to be saved. This act shows that God’s love does not wait for our worthiness or response. It is a free gift based solely on His loving nature.

• For Us: We must remember that God’s love seeks us not because of our perfection but despite our flaws. The cross demonstrates that God’s love is greater than any sin.

3. The Freedom to Love

The parable and Christ’s lament over Jerusalem emphasize that love can only exist in freedom. God forces no one to love Him or accept His grace. This freedom is a gift, but it also brings responsibility.

• For Us: Our relationship with God is not coercive but a conscious decision. Knowing that Christ loves us despite rejection should inspire us to reciprocate this love willingly and live in gratitude.

4. The Cross as Hope and Comfort

The cross reminds us that God does not give up on us in our brokenness and sin. He paid the price to redeem us and invites us into a deep, healing relationship with Him.

• For Us: The cross gives us hope that no situation is hopeless. It offers comfort in difficult times because it shows that God’s love is strong in our weakness.

Conclusion

Christ’s crucifixion is a call to recognize and respond to God’s love. It reminds us that we are free to choose Him and that this choice transforms our lives. The cross is an eternal sign of God’s immeasurable love, calling us to accept it, reciprocate it, and reflect it in our lives.

Read John 10:17–18. Compare with Galatians 2:20. What is the message of these texts for us?

The texts in John 10:17–18 and Galatians 2:20 reveal a central truth about God’s love and salvation plan: Christ willingly gave His life for us to restore the broken relationship between God and humanity. This voluntary devotion is not only a sign of God’s love but also an invitation to lead our lives in gratitude and devotion.

1. Voluntary Devotion: Expression of Divine Love

In John 10:17–18, Jesus explains that no one takes His life away, but He lays it down willingly. This freedom underscores that the cross was not a random or forced sacrifice but a conscious act of love.

• For Us: Jesus’ devotion shows that God’s love is not driven by external circumstances or compulsion. He chose to love and redeem us even before we existed. Knowing that this love comes from free will gives us security and hope.

2. Living in the Power of the Cross

In Galatians 2:20, Paul writes that he has been “crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” This statement connects Christ’s sacrifice with the believer’s life: those who accept this love are transformed by it.

• For Us: The cross is not just a past event but a living reality that changes our lives. When Christ lives in us, His love influences our decisions, behavior, and relationships.

3. The Plan of Redemption: An Expression of Divine Faithfulness

Redemption was not an afterthought but part of God’s plan from the beginning. This shows that God always has a way of love and salvation for us, regardless of our mistakes.

• For Us: God’s provision for redemption shows that He never surprises us or abandons us. Even in difficult times, we can trust that God has a plan shaped by love and grace.

4. Our Response: Living in Devotion and Trust

These texts call us to respond to God’s love by dedicating our lives to Him. Paul’s words in Galatians 2:20 invite us to abandon our ego and surrender our lives to Christ, who died out of love for us.

• For Us: Our daily challenge is to remember that we have a new life in Christ. This truth should encourage us to live in gratitude, trust, and devotion.

Conclusion                          

John 10:17–18 and Galatians 2:20 demonstrate the depth of God’s love and His sovereign plan to save us. Christ gave His life out of free will for us, and this act is a call to lead our lives with gratitude and devotion. This message invites us to realign ourselves daily, living in the power and love of the crucified and resurrected Christ.

The message of the cross, that Christ willingly gave His life out of love, is not only a central point of our faith but also a call for how we should shape our lives. This truth has concrete implications for our daily lives and our relationship with God.

1. God’s Love as the Foundation of Our Lives

The cross shows that we are deeply loved by God—not because of our achievements but despite our weaknesses. This unconditional love gives our lives value and purpose.

• In Daily Life: This knowledge helps us maintain our self-worth independent of external circumstances or others’ opinions. It encourages us to remember that we are infinitely valuable in God’s eyes, especially during tough times.

• In Faith: Understanding God’s love strengthens our trust and motivates us to respond to this love with gratitude.

2. The Freedom to Decide

As the Parable of the Wedding Banquet and Jesus’ words show, God’s love is an offer that we must willingly accept. Our acceptance of this love is reflected in our dedication to Christ.

• In Daily Life: This decision is reflected in our priorities, how we spend our time, and how we treat others. Our actions demonstrate whether we have accepted God’s invitation.

• In Faith: It is a daily process to consciously involve God in our decisions and align our lives with His love.

3. The Cross as a Source of Hope and Strength

Christ’s sacrifice reminds us that no sin, failure, or situation is too great for God’s love. The cross is a symbol of hope that redemption and healing are possible even in the darkest hour.

• In Daily Life: This hope helps us persevere through crises or difficult times. It strengthens our trust that God always has a plan for our lives.

• In Faith: The cross encourages us to lay our worries and fears at God’s feet, knowing that He is fighting for us and carrying us.

4. Living in Devotion and Gratitude

Paul describes in Galatians 2:20 that he has been “crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” This attitude of complete devotion is a model for our daily lives.

• In Daily Life: Devotion is shown through a lifestyle based on love, humility, and service to others. It means consciously using our talents and resources to make God’s love visible in the world.

• In Faith: Gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice inspires us to live a life that reflects His grace—whether through prayer, worship, or how we manage our relationships.

Conclusion

The cross is not only a symbol of our redemption but also an invitation to lead our lives daily in the light of God’s love. It reminds us that our relationship with God is based on His voluntary devotion and that we can respond to this love with trust, gratitude, and dedication. In our daily lives, this means living in the power of the cross, finding hope in difficulties, and making God’s love visible in all our actions.

The cross shows us that true love involves sacrifice—God’s voluntary devotion invites us to live in gratitude and dedication.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-god-loves-freely-1-5-crucified-for-us-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

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/