December 21, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 11

¹ Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

² Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.

³ But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

⁴ Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head.

⁵ But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.

⁶ For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.

⁷ For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.

⁸ For the man is not of the woman: but the woman of the man.

⁹ Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.

¹⁰ For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.

¹¹ Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.

¹² For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God.

¹³ Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?

¹⁴ Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?

¹⁵ But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.

¹⁶ But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God.

¹⁷ Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse.

¹⁸ For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.

¹⁹ For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

²⁰ When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord’s supper.

²¹ For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken.

²² What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? what shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not.

²³ For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:

²⁴ And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.

²⁵ After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, this cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.

²⁶ For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.

²⁷ Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

²⁸ But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.

²⁹ For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.

³⁰ For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.

³¹ For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

³² But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.

³³ Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another.

³⁴ And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

1 Corinthians Chapter 11 deals with two central themes of Christian community life: the roles of men and women in worship and the proper attitude during the Lord’s Supper. Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining divine order and respect for spiritual symbols. He underscores the necessity of celebrating the Lord’s Supper with dignity and fellowship, as it is an expression of remembrance of Christ’s death and His return. This chapter provides important guidelines for worship and reminds us that our actions should serve to honor God and promote the unity of the church.

Commentary

Women in Worship (Verses 1–16):
Paul begins by presenting a divine hierarchy: God is the head of Christ, Christ is the head of man, and man is the head of woman (Verse 3). This order is to be visible in worship. Women covering their heads and men not covering theirs are outward signs that reflect this hierarchy. Paul emphasizes the mutual dependence of men and women (Verses 11–12) while pointing out that long hair is a natural honor for women and dishonor for men (Verses 14–15). While the practice may be culturally influenced, it highlights the importance of respect and order in worship.

The Lord’s Supper (Verses 17–34):
In the second section, Paul criticizes the abuses occurring during the Lord’s Supper. The Corinthians had desecrated the significance of the meal by celebrating it selfishly and insensitively (Verses 20–22). Paul recalls the origins of the Lord’s Supper by quoting Christ’s words at its institution (Verses 23–26). He urges self-examination before participating, as eating and drinking unworthily can invoke God’s judgment (Verses 27–29). The Lord’s Supper is a sacred moment of remembrance and proclamation of the Lord, which must be celebrated with reverence and fellowship.

Summary

1 Corinthians Chapter 11 addresses the themes of order in worship and the significance of the Lord’s Supper. Paul calls for respect for divine order, as symbolized by the practice of head coverings, and reminds believers of the dignity of the Lord’s Supper. He warns against celebrating the Lord’s meal in selfish or unworthy ways and calls for self-examination. This chapter emphasizes the importance of fellowship, respect, and reverence for God’s orders, reminding us that all actions of the church should honor God and promote unity.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/21-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/

12.6 Summary
The Cross and Resurrection: The Climax of God’s Plan of Redemption

Lesson 12 covers the central events of the Christian faith: the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These events mark the climax of God’s plan for the redemption of humanity and are the turning point of history.

1. The Cross: The Completed Work of Jesus

• • Jesus’ death on the cross was not merely an act of suffering but the fulfillment of Holy Scripture and the culmination of His divine mission. With the words “It is finished” (John 19:30), He declared that the price for sin had been paid and the way to God was opened.

  • Meaning: On the cross, God’s love and grace are fully revealed. It is the place where the power of sin was broken, and forgiveness became possible for all people.

2. The Empty Tomb: Victory Over Death

• • Jesus’ resurrection on the third day confirms His victory over death. The empty tomb and the orderly arrangement of the burial cloths testify that Jesus was not removed by external forces but was resurrected by God’s power.

  • Meaning: The resurrection assures us that death is not the end. It is the foundation of our faith and our hope for a new, eternal life.

3. Encounters with the Risen One

• • Mary Magdalene encountered Jesus at the empty tomb and recognized Him when He called her by name. This personal revelation transformed her grief into joy and gave her a new mission: to proclaim the resurrection.

  • Meaning: Jesus meets us individually and invites us to share in the hope of the resurrection and to pass on this message.

4. Truth and Testimony

• • In conversations with Pilate and through the inscription “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews” (John 19:19), it becomes clear that Jesus testified to the truth and is the true King, even though this was misunderstood by people.

  • Meaning: This truth calls us to overcome our own prejudices and fears to recognize Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life.

5. The Hope of the Resurrection

• • Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 15:12–20 that the Christian faith would be meaningless without the resurrection. However, since Jesus has risen, we have forgiveness, hope, and a living relationship with God.

  • Meaning: The resurrection gives us the assurance that our faith is not in vain and that we can live a new life with Christ.

Conclusion

The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are the pinnacle of God’s plan of redemption. They demonstrate that God reveals His love even in pain and death and opens the way to new life. This lesson invites us to live this hope in our faith and daily lives and to share it with others. The cross and the empty tomb are signs of God’s infinite love and His power to renew everything.

The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ are not only central events of the faith but also practical guidelines for our daily lives. They offer comfort, hope, and a foundation for a living relationship with God.

1. The Cross: Forgiveness and a New Beginning

• • Connection to Daily Life: The cross shows us that our guilt is forgiven. We can live free from the burden of sin without feeling defined by our mistakes. This encourages us to forgive ourselves and others, to heal relationships, and to live a life full of grace.

2. The Empty Tomb: Hope in Difficult Times

• • Connection to Daily Life: Jesus’ resurrection is a symbol of victory over death and reminds us that darkness, pain, and loss do not have the final word. It gives us courage to trust that God can bring new hope and life even in the toughest moments.

3. Encounters with the Risen One: Jesus Meets Us Personally

• • Connection to Daily Life: Like Mary Magdalene, we experience that Jesus knows us individually and meets us in our personal challenges. He calls us by name and gives us joy and hope. This relationship empowers us to live our calling and share His message.

4. Truth and Testimony: Courage to Stand for the Truth

• • Connection to Daily Life: Jesus shows us that truth can sometimes be uncomfortable but remains steadfast. We are invited to stand for justice, truth, and love in our daily lives, even when facing resistance.

5. The Hope of the Resurrection: Beginning a New Life

• • Connection to Daily Life: The resurrection gives us the assurance that God grants us a new life—a life marked by love, hope, and joy. It invites us not to be led by fear or despair but to live in trust of God’s power.

Conclusion

The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are not just historical events but life-changing truths. They remind us daily that forgiveness, hope, and renewal through Jesus Christ are possible. The cross gives us freedom, the empty tomb grants us hope, and the resurrection shows us that God’s love can make everything new. We are empowered to live in community with God and serve others, embodying the transformation brought about by these pivotal events.

The cross offers us forgiveness, the empty tomb grants us hope, and the resurrection shows us that God’s love renews everything.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-resurrection-12-6-summary-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 20, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 10

¹ Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

² And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

³ And did all eat the same spiritual meat;

⁴ And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

⁵ But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

⁶ Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

⁷ Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

⁸ Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

⁹ Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.

¹⁰ Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.

¹¹ Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

¹² Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

¹³ There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

¹⁴ Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

¹⁵ I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

¹⁶ The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

¹⁷ For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

¹⁸ Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?

¹⁹ What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

²⁰ But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

²¹ Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.

²² Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?

²³ All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

²⁴ Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.

²⁵ Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake:

²⁶ For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.

²⁷ If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake.

²⁸ But if any man say unto you, this is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof:

²⁹ Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man’s conscience?

³⁰ For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?

³¹ Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

³² Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:

³³ Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

1 Corinthians Chapter 10 offers us a poignant admonition on how we can learn from the mistakes of the people of Israel in the wilderness. The Apostle Paul uses examples from Israel’s history to warn the believers in Corinth and us today against spiritual pride, idolatry, and temptations. At the same time, he illustrates how God’s faithfulness supports us in temptations and how our actions should always be directed toward the honor of God. The chapter combines warnings with a profound theological reflection on the Lord’s Supper and our fellowship with Christ.

Commentary

1. The Warning Example of Israel (Verses 1–13)
Paul reminds the Corinthians of Israel’s history and emphasizes that the events in the wilderness serve as models and warnings for us. The Israelites experienced God’s guidance (the cloud and the sea) and provision (spiritual food and drink), yet many fell due to unbelief and disobedience. This serves as a caution against becoming complacent and thinking we are above temptations (verse 12). Instead, we should be aware that God does not tempt us beyond our strength but always provides a way out (verse 13).

2. The Incompatibility of the Lord’s Supper and Idolatry (Verses 14–22)
Paul urges the Corinthians to avoid idolatry, as it is impossible to participate in both the fellowship of the Lord and the fellowship with demons simultaneously. The Lord’s Supper is an expression of our unity with Christ and the church. Those who practice idolatry question this fellowship and provoke God’s jealousy (verse 22). This underscores the holiness and exclusivity of our relationship with God.

3. Consideration for the Conscience (Verses 23–33)
Here, Paul shifts the focus to everyday life and the consideration of others’ consciences. While much is permitted, not everything benefits the community. Paul encourages the Corinthians to think not only of their own freedom but also of the conscience of others when making decisions. The ultimate goal remains to honor God by doing everything with this intent (verse 31).

Summary

1 Corinthians Chapter 10 is a compelling warning that teaches us from Israel’s mistakes in the wilderness. Paul encourages us to withstand temptations, avoid idolatry, and always align our actions in the service of God and our fellow humans. The chapter’s message is clear: our freedom as Christians must be characterized by love, consideration, and the pursuit of God’s honor. “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (verse 31) remains the guiding principle of this section.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/20-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-10-believe-his-prophets/

12.5 Jesus and Mary
A Personal Revelation: Mary Recognizes the Risen Lord

Read John 20:11–13. What happened that shows why Mary Magdalene still did not understand the significance of the empty tomb?

Mary Magdalene’s reaction in John 20:11–13 shows how deep her grief and despair were. Although she saw the empty tomb and even encountered angels, she did not yet understand its significance. Her reaction teaches us several important lessons about faith and encountering the Risen One:

1. Pain Clouds Perspective

Mary’s tears and her pain over Jesus’ loss caused her to overlook the obvious signs of the resurrection. She saw the empty tomb, the angels, and heard their question, but her focus was still on the loss.

• • Lesson for Us: Pain and sorrow can obscure our vision of God’s workings. In moments of despair, we can trust that God sees us and will reveal His plan at the right time.

2. Encounter Without Recognition

Mary saw the angels but did not recognize them as God’s messengers because her heart was fixed on her grief. She was seeking Jesus as she knew Him and could not yet imagine that He had risen.

• • Lesson for Us: God often meets us in unexpected ways in our lives. We should be ready to recognize Him in new and unforeseen situations.

3. Human Longing for Jesus

Mary says, “They have taken my Lord away.” Despite her despair and misunderstanding, her love for Jesus remains unwavering. Her sorrow shows her deep relationship with Him and her longing to be with Him.

• • Lesson for Us: Mary’s longing for Jesus reminds us of how central our relationship with Him is to our faith. Even in times of confusion and doubt, we can seek Him and trust in Him.

4. Waiting in Faith

While Peter and John return to the house, Mary remains at the tomb and stays there weeping. Her patience and lingering demonstrate that she does not run away from her pain but brings it before God.

• • Lesson for Us: In faith, we often need to practice patience and hold on to God’s presence, even when we do not immediately find answers or comfort.

Conclusion

Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the empty tomb shows that faith and understanding are often a process. Her grief initially concealed the truth, but her love and longing ultimately led her to encounter the Risen One. For us, this is an invitation to remain patient in times of sorrow and confusion and to trust that Jesus will reveal Himself to us—often in moments we least expect.

Read John 20:14–18. What changed for Mary?

Mary’s encounter with the risen Jesus in John 20:14–18 is a deeply moving moment that not only changed her life but also the course of human history. In an instant, her grief transforms into joy, her confusion into clarity, and her despair into hope.

1. The Personal Encounter with Jesus

The decisive event is that Jesus addresses Mary by her name. This single word—”Mary”—breaks through her grief and makes her realize that the Lord lives. It is a personal revelation that shows Jesus knows and loves her.

• • Lesson for Us: Jesus meets us personally, calls us by name, and knows our desires and struggles. His love for us is individual and profound.

2. From Despair to Joy

Mary was overwhelmed by pain and sorrow. But when she realizes that Jesus is alive, her grief turns into indescribable joy. She sees that death is not the end and that her hope in Jesus was not in vain.

• • Lesson for Us: In Jesus, we have the assurance that even the darkest moments can be transformed into joy. The Risen Lord gives us hope that overcomes any despair.

3. A New Mission

Jesus gives Mary the task of proclaiming the good news of His resurrection: “Go to my brothers and tell them…” (John 20:17). She becomes the first witness of the resurrection and the messenger of the Gospel.

• • Lesson for Us: Everyone who encounters Jesus is called to share this message. We are invited to be witnesses of the resurrection and to share the hope we have in Christ with others.

4. A New Relationship

Jesus reveals that He is ascending “to my Father and your Father and to my God and your God.” These words emphasize the new relationship made possible through His resurrection: God is now not only Jesus’ Father but also our Father.

• • Lesson for Us: Through Jesus’ victory over death, we are granted a deep and personal relationship with God as our Father. This gives our faith a new dimension of closeness and trust.

5. A Changed Perspective

For Mary, realizing that Jesus is alive completely changed her perspective. The empty tomb was no longer a sign of loss but a sign of life and hope.

• • Lesson for Us: When we recognize that Jesus lives, our perspective changes. Death is defeated, and we can live our lives in the assurance that God’s power is greater than any darkness.

Conclusion

Mary Magdalene’s encounter with Jesus shows that the Risen Lord speaks to us personally, transforms our grief into joy, and gives us a new mission and relationship with God. Her story reminds us that Jesus sees us, knows us, and includes us in His work of hope and redemption. This encounter calls us to live this joy and hope in our daily lives and to share it with others.

Read 1 Corinthians 15:12–20. According to Paul, what is the use of our Christian faith if Christ had not been raised?

In 1 Corinthians 15:12–20, Paul emphasizes the central importance of Jesus’ resurrection for the Christian faith. He makes it clear that without the resurrection, our faith would be meaningless, as the entire hope of the Gospel relies on it.

1. Without Resurrection, Our Faith is Futile

• • Paul writes: “But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?” (v. 12). Without the resurrection, there would be no foundation for our message or our faith.

  • Meaning: Faith in Christ is not just moral or philosophical but is based on the historical event of the resurrection. Without it, there is no hope for redemption and new life.

2. We Would Still Be in Our Sins

• • Paul explains: “But if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (v. 17). The resurrection confirms that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was effective and brought victory over sin.

  • Meaning: Without the resurrection, there would be no forgiveness and reconciliation with God. We would remain separated from Him by our guilt.

3. Our Hope Would Be Empty

• • Paul writes: “If we have hope only in this life, we are of all people most to be pitied” (v. 19). Without the resurrection, there would be no hope beyond this life.

  • Meaning: Faith in Jesus brings not only comfort for earthly life but also hope for eternal life. Without the resurrection, this hope would be an illusion.

4. The Resurrection as the Foundation of Our Faith

• • Paul testifies: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (v. 20). The resurrection is proof that death is not the end and that we will also be raised one day.

  • Meaning: Jesus’ resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It not only offers forgiveness and reconciliation but also the hope of new life and eternal communion with God.

Conclusion

Without Jesus’ resurrection, the Christian faith would be meaningless, the forgiveness of sins impossible, and the hope of eternal life nonexistent. However, Paul affirms that Christ has indeed been raised, providing our faith with an unshakable foundation. The resurrection is proof of God’s faithfulness and power, assuring us that our lives and our faith are not in vain. Through Jesus’ resurrection, we have a living hope that transcends this life.

Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus shows how much faith, hope, and a personal relationship with Jesus can transform our lives and daily experiences.

1. Jesus Sees Us in Our Grief

Mary was in deep despair and did not notice that Jesus was already with her. It was only when He called her by name that she recognized Him.

• • Connection to Daily Life: In our darkest moments, when we feel alone and lost, Jesus is with us. He knows us personally and speaks to us. This realization can bring us comfort and peace, even in difficult times.

2. Faith Changes Our Perspective

Initially, Mary saw only loss and death in the empty tomb. But her encounter with Jesus changed everything: her pain turned to joy, her confusion to certainty, and she received a new perspective.

• • Connection to Daily Life: When we let Jesus into our lives, we can find new hope and clarity in seemingly hopeless situations. Our perspective changes because we know that God can bring light into darkness.

3. A Personal Relationship with Jesus

When Jesus called Mary by name, she recognized Him. This personal revelation transformed her life and gave her deep joy and assurance.

• • Connection to Daily Life: Our faith is not an anonymous religion but a personal relationship with a living God. Jesus knows each of us by name, understands our struggles, and invites us to trust Him.

4. A New Mission

Jesus gives Mary the task of proclaiming the good news of His resurrection. She becomes the first witness of the resurrection and shares the hope with the disciples.

• • Connection to Daily Life: Each of us is invited to carry this hope into the world—through our words, actions, and lives. We can convey to others the joy and hope we have found in Christ.

5. A New Relationship with God

Jesus reveals that God is not only His Father but also our Father. The resurrection opens a new dimension of our relationship with God as our loving Father.

• • Connection to Daily Life: This close relationship with God gives us strength, comfort, and trust in every situation. It reminds us that we are never alone and always have access to God.

Conclusion

Mary Magdalene’s encounter with Jesus shows us that faith changes our lives—it moves us from sorrow to joy, from confusion to clarity, and from loneliness to deep communion with God. This story invites us to seek Jesus in our daily lives, trust Him, and share the hope of the resurrection with others. In every life situation, Jesus is near—He calls us by name and gives us new courage and perspectives.

Jesus calls us by name, transforms our grief into joy, and gives us hope that transcends death.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-resurrection-12-5-jesus-and-mary-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/