December 9, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 15

¹ We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

² Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.

³ For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.

⁴ For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

⁵ Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:

⁶ That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

⁷ Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

⁸ Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:

⁹ And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.

¹⁰ And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.

¹¹ And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people.

¹² And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.

¹³ Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

¹⁴ And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

¹⁵ Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,

¹⁶ That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.

¹⁷ I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God.

¹⁸ For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,

¹⁹ Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

²⁰ Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation:

²¹ But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand.

²² For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.

²³ But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you;

²⁴ Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.

²⁵ But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

²⁶ For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.

²⁷ It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.

²⁸ When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain.

²⁹ And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.

³⁰ Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;

³¹ That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;

³² That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.

³³ Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans 15 is a chapter that highlights the practice of Christian community. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of unity, mutual acceptance, and the joy that springs from the hope in Christ. Additionally, he provides insights into his personal mission and the universal dimension of the Gospel. This chapter invites us to reflect the love of Christ in our interactions with one another and to testify to our faith through our actions.

Commentary

Romans 15 begins with a call to care for the weak. Paul urges the strong in the community not to seek their own advantage but to consider the well-being of their neighbors. This aligns with the example of Christ, who lived selflessly and took on the suffering of humanity (verses 1–3). Such an attitude requires patience and comfort derived from the Scriptures, which provide us with hope (verse 4).

A central theme of the chapter is unity among believers. Paul describes the harmony and mutual understanding that should arise from following Christ, so that God may be glorified (verses 5–6). This unity extends to both Jews and Gentiles, as Christ was faithful to the promises made to the patriarchs while also revealing God’s mercy to the Gentiles (verses 7–13). The scriptures Paul cites underscore the prophetic significance of this universal dimension.

In the second part of the chapter, Paul reflects on his calling and his mission to bring the Gospel to the Gentiles (verses 14–21). He describes his ministry as priestly, viewing the proclamation of the Gospel as an offering acceptable to God. He emphasizes that his work was not accomplished through his own strength but through Christ’s power and the Holy Spirit’s guidance (verses 18–19). Paul is dedicated to preaching the Gospel in places where Christ’s name was previously unknown, ensuring he builds on no other foundation (verses 20–21).

In the final section, Paul shares his travel plans and expresses his willingness to serve the needy in Jerusalem (verses 25–28). He sees the financial support provided by the Gentile Christians for the poor believers in Jerusalem as a sign of unity and gratitude. Paul asks the church in Rome to pray for his ministry and expresses his hope to visit them soon (verses 30–33).

Summary

Romans 15 is an appeal to the Christian community to live in unity and mutual care. Paul illustrates how Christ’s selfless service serves as a model for our actions, calling believers to live in harmony and praise God together. The chapter emphasizes the universal grace of God, encompassing both Jews and Gentiles. Through his travel plans and ministry to the needy, Paul exemplifies dedication, humility, and faithfulness to the Gospel. Finally, he encourages the church to be strengthened in the hope and joy of faith through the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/9-11-2024-romans-chapter-15-believe-his-prophets/

Lesson 11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit
The Trinity: Unity in Love, Truth, and Redemption Plan

Lesson 11 invites us to understand and appreciate the unity and work of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—in creation, salvation, and the daily lives of believers. The Bible reveals God not only as the Creator but also as a loving Father who never abandoned humanity, despite the rupture caused by sin. Through Jesus Christ, the Son, the Father’s love became visible and tangible, and through the Holy Spirit, we experience God’s continual presence and power in our lives.

This lesson explores the deep relationship between the three persons of the Godhead, demonstrating how their unity teaches us to live in love, truth, and fellowship with God and others. It reminds us that the Trinity is not merely a theological concept but the foundation of our identity, faith, and daily lives.

As we consider the Father as the source of love, the Son as the revealer of the Father, and the Holy Spirit as the renewer and guide, we are encouraged to shape our lives in the light of this divine truth. Together, we discover how the Trinity invites us into eternal fellowship with God.

11.1 The Heavenly Father
The Father: Origin of Love and Source of Redemption

The Gospel of John provides a profound understanding of the Trinity, showing how the Heavenly Father acts as the source and center of all existence. The creation story in Genesis 1:1 is interpreted in the light of the Trinity, revealing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as co-creators of all things. This unity in creation reflects a fundamental truth: God’s love and harmony should be the foundation for humanity’s relationship with Him and one another.

Sin, introduced by Lucifer, shattered this harmony and distorted the true image of God. However, God’s plan for restoration was both intentional and loving. Through Jesus Christ, who came in human form, the true nature of the Father was revealed. Jesus demonstrated that the Father is not a distant or unapproachable judge but a loving, caring God deeply concerned for His creation.

Jesus lived in complete dependence on the Father, revealing God’s character through His life, actions, and teachings. His statement, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30), attests to this intimate relationship and unity. This unity is not just a theological concept but also a model for humanity—a call to live in love and dependence on the Father, just as Jesus did.

Through Jesus, we can recognize the Father in Heaven and experience His invitation into a loving relationship with Him. The Father, working in Christ, reveals that the Trinity is not only the origin but also the goal of our lives—eternal fellowship in love and harmony with Him.

What were some of the roles of the Father as described in the following passages?

Key Roles of the Father in the Gospel of John

The Gospel of John highlights various roles and attributes of the Heavenly Father, reflecting His love, care, authority, and relationship with humanity:

1. Loving Redeemer (John 3:16–17):

   • The Father loved the world so much that He gave His only Son, not to condemn the world but to save it.

   • Key Role: The Father is the initiator of the plan of redemption.

2. Source of Life (John 6:57):

   • Jesus explains that He lives because of the Father, just as the believer lives through Him.

   • Key Role: The Father is the source of physical and spiritual life.

3. Judge (John 5:22, 30):

   • The Father entrusts judgment to the Son, who judges in accordance with the Father’s will.

   • Key Role: The Father is the source of divine justice.

4. Provider and Speaker (John 6:32; 14:10, 24):

   • The Father provides the true bread from heaven, giving life to the world. Jesus speaks and acts only as directed by the Father.

   • Key Role: The Father is the provider and source of divine revelation.

5. Teacher (John 6:45):

   • All who come to the Father are taught by Him.

   • Key Role: The Father is the teacher and revealer of truth.

6. Answerer of Prayers (John 15:16; 16:23):

   • The Father answers prayers offered in Jesus’ name.

   • Key Role: The Father hears and answers the prayers of His children.

Summary of the Roles of the Father:

1. Loving Redeemer – He initiated salvation by sending His Son.

2. Source of Life – The Father gives and sustains life.

3. Judge – He delegates judicial authority to the Son.

4. Provider and Revealer – He provides the true bread and reveals Himself through the Son.

5. Teacher – He draws people to Himself through His truth.

6. Answerer of Prayers – He responds to prayers and chooses His children.

These roles show that the Father is the origin and central figure in the divine story of salvation, always in close relationship with the Son and the Holy Spirit.

What do these truths teach us about God’s love for us?

The close connection between the Father and Jesus Christ, as well as His active involvement in our world, reveals profound truths about God’s love:

1. God’s love is sacrificial

   John 3:16 demonstrates that the Father was willing to give His most precious gift—His only Son—to save humanity. This love is not passive or distant but active and selfless, giving everything to reconcile us to Himself.

2. God’s love is personal

   The Father is deeply connected to our world, not just as Creator but as someone who cares for each individual. He is not a distant, unreachable God but a loving Father who knows us and deeply cares for our well-being.

3. God’s love is initiating

   It was the Father who initiated the plan of salvation and sent Jesus into the world. His love is not a response to our efforts or merit but a gift that flows from His very nature (1 John 4:19: “We love because He first loved us.”).

4. God’s love is purposeful

   The Father’s love has a clear goal: our salvation and restoration into fellowship with Him. He desires for us to have eternal life and to know the truth (John 6:45). His love is not arbitrary but leads us to a new life in Christ.

5. God’s love is steadfast

   The Father’s roles as Teacher, Provider, Answerer of prayers, and Judge demonstrate that His love is not just an emotional gesture but a lasting commitment. He is active in our lives and walks with us on our journey.

6. God’s love is revealed through Jesus Christ

   Through Jesus, we see who the Father is and how much He loves us. Jesus says, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). Everything Jesus does reflects the love and character of the Father. The Father is directly present in our world through Jesus.

What does this mean for us?

This truth teaches us that we are infinitely loved and valued by God. His love is not just a concept but a reality demonstrated through His actions—most profoundly in the sending of His Son. It challenges us to respond to this love through trust, gratitude, and devotion. It also assures us that God is not distant but is present in our challenges as our Father, Savior, and Companion.

The truth about the Father in Heaven has profound implications for our daily lives and faith. Here are some key connections:

1. God’s Love Gives Our Lives Meaning and Purpose

The understanding that the Father is the source of love and the Creator of life gives us identity and value. We are not random products of chance but intentionally created to live in relationship with God. This provides direction and encourages us to shape our lives in the harmony He intended.

2. Security and Trust in God’s Presence

The Father’s active role in the story of salvation shows us that God is not a distant observer but a personal, caring Father. He provides for us, hears our prayers, and is present in every moment of our lives. This gives us the assurance that we are never alone, even in challenges and suffering.

3. Inspiration for Devotion and Dependence on God

Jesus Himself lived in complete dependence on the Father, showing that true life flows from this connection. We too are invited to submit our lives to God’s will, trust Him, and live in close relationship with Him. This strengthens our faith and fosters a life that is guided by God’s leadership.

4. A Model for Our Relationships

The unity between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit serves as a model for us. God’s love is focused on healing relationships and fostering community. This truth challenges us to live in harmony with others, to forgive, and to extend love.

5. Responsibility and Hope Through Redemption

The Father initiated the plan of salvation because of His infinite love for us. This not only gives us forgiveness and hope for eternal life but also a responsibility: our lives should be a response to this love. This means living with gratitude and making God’s love visible through our actions.

6. Prayer as a Direct Connection to God

The Father’s role as the one who hears and answers prayers shows us that we can approach Him at any time to pour out our hearts and concerns. This strengthens our prayer life and encourages us to trust Him in every situation.

7. An Invitation to Know the Truth

As a teacher, the Father draws people to Himself and reveals His truth. This motivates us to study the Bible, grow in our relationship with Him, and apply His wisdom in our daily lives.

Practical Implications:

• In Faith: We can live with the assurance that God loves us, provides for us, and hears our prayers. This brings peace and confidence.

• In Daily Life: God’s love inspires us to practice patience, forgiveness, and kindness in our relationships.

• In Discipleship: We are invited to live like Jesus in dependence on the Father, seeking His guidance and aligning our lives with His love.

Conclusion:

This truth about the Father in Heaven shapes our faith and challenges us to deepen our relationship with God and live out our identity as His beloved children in our daily lives.

God’s love is the source of our lives and the strength that sustains us every day.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-the-father-the-son-and-the-spirit-11-1-the-heavenly-father-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 8, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 14

¹ Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.

² For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.

³ Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.

⁴ Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.

⁵ One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.

⁶ He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

⁷ For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.

⁸ For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.

⁹ For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.

¹⁰ But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

¹¹ For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

¹² So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

¹³ Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.

¹⁴ I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

¹⁵ But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.

¹⁶ Let not then your good be evil spoken of:

¹⁷ For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

¹⁸ For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.

¹⁹ Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

²⁰ For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.

²¹ It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.

²² Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.

²³ And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans 14 addresses a central theme for Christian fellowship: acceptance and tolerance within the faith community. In a time when early Christians often came from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, Paul calls for respecting the faith and convictions of others. Instead of judging differences in rituals or lifestyles, believers are encouraged to accept one another in love and strive for peace and unity. This chapter reminds us that our actions should be guided by love, as each individual must give an account before God alone.

Commentary

In Romans 14, Paul exhorts believers not to judge or despise one another based on differing convictions. He addresses disputes about dietary rules and the observance of certain days, which were significant to some Christians but not to others. Paul emphasizes that it is more important for every action to be “unto the Lord” (verse 6). As long as someone acts out of faith and gives thanks to God, their actions are pleasing to Him.

A central idea in this chapter is that no one lives or dies for themselves alone (verses 7-8). Christ is Lord over both the living and the dead, and every individual will give an account to God (verses 10-12). This frees us from the temptation to judge others, as only God is the righteous Judge.

Love is highlighted as the guiding principle of Christian life. If exercising a freedom, such as eating certain foods, causes another believer to be hurt or weakened in their faith, love compels us to forgo that freedom (verses 15, 21). The Kingdom of God is not defined by external matters like eating and drinking but by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (verse 17). Paul urges believers to pursue peace and the edification of one another (verse 19).

Summary

Romans 14 teaches us to approach differences in beliefs and practices within the faith community with love and respect. Paul emphasizes that we should not judge anyone, as each person will give an account to God. Christian life should be characterized by love and consideration, avoiding actions that might harm or weaken others. The Kingdom of God is not about external rituals but about inner righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. This chapter encourages us to live out our faith in unity and strengthen the community through love.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/8-11-2024-romans-chapter-14-believe-his-prophets/

1.Discuss your answers to the last question in the Thursday section. What decisive truths that the Bible conveys could we never, not even approximately, learn from science? For example, the cross? Or the resurrection? Or the second coming? What other important biblical truths must be revealed to us—otherwise, we would never experience them?

Science is a valuable tool for understanding the natural world, but it has its limits. There are essential truths about God, our lives, and eternity that we could never discover through science alone. The Bible reveals these truths, which fundamentally shape our lives and our faith. Here are some crucial examples:

1. The Cross: God’s Plan of Redemption

• • The Significance of the Cross: Science can examine the historical facts surrounding the crucifixion, but it cannot explain why Jesus died. The Bible reveals that Jesus bore the punishment for our sins through His death and reconciled us with God (John 3:16; Isaiah 53:5).

  • The Depth of God’s Love: Only Scripture shows us that the cross is an expression of God’s unconditional love that redeems and renews us.

2. The Resurrection: Victory over Death and Sin

• • Historical Uniqueness: While science might investigate the existence of the tomb or the circumstances of the resurrection, it cannot explain the reality of overcoming death.

  • Biblical Truth: The resurrection of Jesus gives us hope for eternal life and victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:20–22). Without this revelation, we would not know that death is not the end.

3. The Second Coming of Jesus: Hope for Completion

• • A Future Promise: Science cannot provide an answer to the ultimate future of humanity. However, the Bible promises that Jesus will return to establish His kingdom and make all things new (John 14:1–3; Revelation 21:1–4).

  • Comfort and Expectation: This truth gives us hope and perspective, especially in difficult times.

4. The Nature of God

• • The Trinity: The Bible reveals the relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, a truth that goes far beyond human understanding (Matthew 28:19).

  • God’s Character: Only Scripture shows us that God is simultaneously holy, just, merciful, and full of love.

5. The Meaning and Purpose of Life

• • Our Purpose: Science cannot tell us why we exist. The Bible teaches that we were created to love God, serve Him, and have fellowship with Him (Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 22:37–39).

  • Our Value: The Bible reveals that every person is created in God’s image and therefore has infinite value and special dignity (Genesis 1:27).

6. The Reality of Sin and Redemption

• • The Problem of Sin: Science can examine the effects of wrongdoing, but it does not fully explain why humanity is inherently sinful.

  • God’s Solution: Only the Bible shows that Jesus Christ is the answer to sin, redeeming us through His sacrifice (Romans 3:23–24).

7. Eternal Life

• • Our Destiny Beyond Death: Science has no answer for what happens after death. The Bible reveals that believers are promised eternal life with God (John 11:25–26).

Other Essential Truths

• • The Work of the Holy Spirit: The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit works within us, guiding, comforting, and transforming us (John 14:26).

  • The Importance of Prayer and Fellowship with God: Science can study the psychological benefits of prayer, but it does not explain the spiritual reality and relationship with God that prayer enables (Philippians 4:6–7).

Conclusion

The Bible reveals truths that go beyond the scope of science, providing us with profound insights into God’s plan, our existence, and our future. Without these revelations, we would never be able to answer the most important questions of life—about our origin, our purpose, and our hope. These truths are the foundation of our faith and give our lives direction, meaning, and hope.

2.Think about the fall of Lucifer, a perfect being with so much intellectual knowledge about God and who God is. And yet he rebelled against Him—despite all this knowledge. What does this tell us about the reality of free will—the same free will that we have—and why we must choose moment by moment to submit this will to God?

Lucifer’s rebellion shows that knowledge alone is not enough to guarantee faithfulness to God. Despite his perfect understanding of God’s nature and character, Lucifer chose to rebel against God. This event reveals essential truths about free will and the necessity of consciously choosing to submit our will to God.

1. Free Will: An Expression of God’s Love

• • God’s Gift: Free will is an expression of God’s love and respect for His creations. He did not create us as machines programmed to love Him, but as beings who can choose to enter into a relationship with Him out of free will.

  • Freedom with Responsibility: However, this freedom comes with responsibility. Our decisions have consequences—for our lives, our relationship with God, and our surroundings.

2. Lucifer’s Rebellion: An Example of Misusing Free Will

• • Pride and Self-Will: Lucifer allowed pride, selfishness, and the desire for independence to enter his heart. These thoughts led him to turn his God-given freedom against God Himself (Isaiah 14:12–14).

  • Knowledge without Submission: His intellectual knowledge about God did not protect him from rebellion. This shows that true faithfulness to God depends not only on the mind but on the submission of our heart and will.

3. Free Will and Our Daily Lives

• • Daily Decision: Like Lucifer, we also have the freedom to follow God or turn away from Him. This choice is not one-time but happens daily, even in every moment.

  • Danger of Pride: Lucifer’s fall reminds us how easily pride, selfishness, or the rejection of God’s authority can infiltrate our lives if we do not consciously choose God.

4. Why We Must Submit Our Will to God

• • God’s Guidance: By submitting our will to God, we allow Him to guide us and protect us from the consequences of wrong decisions.

  • Transformation through God’s Spirit: Only through daily submission to God’s will can the Holy Spirit transform our hearts and help us lead lives of faithfulness and obedience (Romans 12:2).

  • Protection from Rebellion: Lucifer’s example shows how dangerous it is to place our will above God’s. The conscious decision to trust God and follow His plan safeguards us from the consequences of self-will.

5. Love as the Foundation of Our Decision

• • Relationship, Not Coercion: God does not force us to follow Him. Our decision to follow Him should come out of love and trust, not fear or compulsion.

  • Motivated Faithfulness: When we recognize how much God loves us and what He has done for us, our desire to submit our will to Him and accept His guidance grows.

Conclusion

The fall of Lucifer reminds us of the reality of free will and the responsibility that comes with it. It shows us that knowledge alone is not sufficient—it is the conscious decision to submit our will to God that preserves us in our relationship with Him. This choice is not only a one-time action but a daily, even constant decision that shapes our lives and anchors us in God’s love and truth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-7-questions-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/