December 3, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 9

¹ I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

² That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.

³ For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:

⁴ Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;

⁵ Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

⁶ Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:

⁷ Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.

⁸ That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.

⁹ For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son.

¹⁰ And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac;

¹¹ (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)

¹² It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.

¹³ As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.

¹⁴ What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.

¹⁵ For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

¹⁶ So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

¹⁷ For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.

¹⁸ Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?

²⁰ Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?

²¹ Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

²² What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:

²³ And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,

²⁴ Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

²⁵ As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.

²⁶ And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.

²⁷ Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:

²⁸ For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.

²⁹ And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.

³⁰ What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.

³¹ But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.

³² Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;

³³ As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Romans 9 is a challenging yet profound chapter of the New Testament. Here, the Apostle Paul addresses the difficult questions of God’s election, Israel’s position, and the role of faith. During a time when many pondered their identity and place in God’s plan, Paul provides a clear, though demanding, answer: it is neither physical lineage nor works that matter, but God’s sovereign grace and the promise activated through faith. Let us approach this chapter with open hearts and a seeking spirit to better understand the message of hope and grace.

Commentary:

Israel’s Divine Sonship (Verses 1–5):
Paul begins with a personal expression of his love for Israel and his sorrow over their rejection of the gospel. He highlights Israel’s unique privileges: divine sonship, the promises, the law, and the glory. However, he makes it clear that these blessings alone do not lead to salvation.

Children of the Promise (Verses 6–13):
Paul demonstrates that God’s promises are not limited by physical descent. Instead, God works sovereignly, as illustrated in the examples of Isaac and Jacob. God’s election is not based on human merit but solely on His grace.

God’s Sovereign Election (Verses 14–24):
The question of God’s justice is raised. Paul emphasizes that God is sovereign and just in exercising election. This choice is not arbitrary but follows God’s plan to reveal His glory and mercy.

The True Israel and the Gentiles (Verses 25–29):
Using prophecies, Paul shows that God’s plan has always included the Gentiles. While Israel is not rejected, only a remnant will be saved.

Righteousness by Law vs. Righteousness by Faith (Verses 30–33):
Finally, Paul makes it clear that righteousness comes by faith, not by works of the law. The Gentiles have attained this righteousness through faith, while many Israelites have stumbled over Christ, the “stone of stumbling.”

Summary:

Romans 9 reveals the depth of God’s plan of salvation, which is based not on human merit but solely on His sovereign grace. Paul explains that God’s promises have never failed and that the true Israelite is one who lives by faith. The Gentiles have accessed righteousness through faith, while many Israelites have clung to works-righteousness. God’s sovereign election is a manifestation of His grace, and Christ remains the central “rock” upon which salvation is determined. This message encourages us to place our trust in God’s grace rather than our works.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/3-11-2024-romans-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/

10.2 I Will Certainly Come Again
The Second Coming of Christ: Assurance from the Faithfulness of the Redeemer

Read John 14:1–3. In what context does Jesus say these words?

Jesus’ words in John 14:1–3 are a powerful promise that strengthens the faith and hope of the disciples—and continues to offer comfort and assurance today. In the context of His impending crucifixion and farewell to the disciples, Jesus speaks not only of His departure but also of His return. His words reveal three important aspects:

1. Comfort in Times of Uncertainty

Jesus recognizes the confusion and fear of His disciples, triggered by the announcement of His departure. His assurance that their hearts should not be troubled shows His care and desire to calm them. This “troubled” (Greek: tarassō) describes a deep inner upheaval, which Jesus overcomes through His words of comfort. Even in our own times of uncertainty, this promise reminds us that we can trust in Him.

2. The Place of Hope: The Father’s House

Jesus speaks of the “house of His Father,” a picture of eternity with God. The “many rooms” illustrate that there is room for all who believe in Him in God’s kingdom. This image conveys security, community, and the assurance that everyone will have their fixed place in God’s presence. It shows us that eternity is not an abstract idea but a reality that Jesus has prepared for us.

3. The Absolute Certainty of His Return

Jesus does not just say that He will return; He expresses this promise in the Greek future perfect tense, conveying unwavering certainty. His words “I am coming” emphasize that His return is as sure as if it were already happening. The foundation of this trust is not only the fulfillment of prophetic predictions but also the very nature of Jesus Himself: His character, love, and faithfulness make this promise absolutely reliable.

The Significance for Our Faith Today

1. Hope in Difficult Times: Jesus’ words direct our gaze beyond life’s storms to eternity. They remind us that even amid suffering and uncertainty, a reliable hope awaits us.

2. A Home with God: The “Father’s house” symbolizes the ultimate redemption and the goal of our journey as Christians. It invites us to view our lives from the perspective of eternity.

3. Trust in His Promises: Confidence in Jesus’ return is based on His faithfulness. This promise is not a vague hope but a firm assurance grounded in the very character of God.

Conclusion

The words “I will surely come again” are an invitation to trust Jesus—even in times of doubt and uncertainty. His return is not only a prophetic reality but also an expression of His love and desire to have us with Him forever. In this promise lies comfort, hope, and the assurance that our faith has a secure anchor: Jesus Christ Himself.

What Does the Cross Teach Us About the Certainty of Christ’s Return? What Would Jesus’ Death Have Been Useful Without His Return?

The cross is the central symbol of the Christian faith, revealing not only the depth of God’s love but also the certainty of Christ’s return. Here are the essential teachings that connect the cross with the Second Coming:

1. The Fulfillment of God’s Redemptive Plan

At the cross, Jesus cried out, “It is finished” (John 19:30). These words indicate that the work of redemption was completed through His death. However, the story of redemption does not end at the cross—it is fulfilled with His return. The cross was the first step in restoring the relationship between God and humanity. The Second Coming will complete this process by fully bringing us back into God’s presence.

2. The Cross as a Guarantee of the Return

Through His death on the cross, Jesus demonstrated His willingness to give everything to save humanity. This dedication is the foundation for trusting His promise of return. If He was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice, we can be certain that He will also come back to gather the fruits of that sacrifice—us—to Himself (John 14:3).

3. Victory Over Sin and Death

The cross marks Jesus’ victory over sin, and His resurrection seals the triumph over death. His return will make this victory visible by completely eliminating the power of sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). Without the Second Coming, the world would remain plagued by sin and suffering, and the victory of the cross would not be fully manifested.

What Would Jesus’ Death Be Useful Without the Second Coming?

Without the Second Coming of Christ, Jesus’ death, while a profound expression of love and sacrifice, would remain incomplete in its purpose:

1. Incomplete Redemption: Jesus’ death brought the forgiveness of sins, but without His return, there would be no final liberation from sin, suffering, and death. Humanity would remain trapped in a world full of pain, without the hope of complete restoration.

2. No Hope for Eternity: Jesus promised to prepare a place for us in the Father’s house (John 14:2-3). Without the Second Coming, there would be no ultimate fulfillment of this promise, and the goal of our faith—eternal life with God—would remain unattainable.

3. Loss of Hope and Purpose: The promise of Jesus’ return gives believers hope, comfort, and direction. Without this perspective, the cross would lose its transformative power, and our faith would be, as Paul says, “futile” (1 Corinthians 15:19).

Conclusion

The cross and the Second Coming of Christ are inseparably linked. The cross shows us how far Jesus would go to save us, and His return ensures that this salvation is complete and final. Without the Second Coming, Jesus’ death would be an act of love without ultimate purpose or eternal hope. The Second Coming gives the cross its universal and eternal significance: the fulfillment of God’s plan to bring His people to Himself.

The promise of Jesus’ return not only holds profound theological meaning but also shapes how we live our faith and daily lives. Here are the most important connections:

1. Hope in Difficult Times

In daily life, we encounter uncertainties, suffering, and challenges that test our faith. Jesus’ words in John 14:1–3 remind us that this world is not the end. His promise to bring us to Himself gives us strength and hope to remain steadfast even in the toughest moments. This perspective allows us to live with confidence and trust in what God has prepared for us.

2. An Eternal Perspective

The promise of a place in the Father’s house invites us to focus not only on the here and now but to see our lives in the light of eternity. This influences our decisions:

• Valuing What Lasts: We prioritize what has lasting significance, such as love, justice, and faith.

• Living with Purpose: It motivates us to live our lives with a goal that transcends the world.

3. A Life of Trust

The certainty of Jesus’ return calls us to rest in His faithfulness. Even when circumstances sometimes discourage us, we can trust in Jesus’ promise to come and make all things new. This trust gives us peace, even when we do not fully understand God’s plan.

4. Encouragement to a Life of Discipleship

The Second Coming is not only a hope but also an encouragement:

• Holiness and Vigilance: Jesus’ return reminds us of the importance of growing in our faith and living in a way that honors God.

• Serving in Love: Knowing that Jesus is coming back, we are invited to make His love visible in our relationships and service.

5. Forgiveness and Patience

Jesus’ promise inspires us to be patient and to forgive others. The hope of His return helps us let go of conflicts because we know that God will ultimately make everything right. It gives us the strength to live in peace with others and to strive for justice.

Conclusion: Faith in Daily Life

The promise “I will surely come again” is an anchor for our lives. It teaches us to:

1. Walk Through Difficulties with Hope.

2. Align Our Priorities with Eternity.

3. Live in Trust, Holiness, and Love.

Jesus’ return is not only a future event but a reality that shapes our everyday lives today. It provides us with a perspective of comfort, responsibility, and hope that defines our lives as Christians.

The certainty of Jesus’ return gives us hope, strength, and a perspective that goes beyond today.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-2-i-will-certainly-come-again-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 2, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 8

1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.

11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.

13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.

20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,

21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.

26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.

34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans 8 is considered one of the most outstanding chapters in the entire New Testament. The Apostle Paul demonstrates in an overwhelming manner the effects of redemption through Jesus Christ on the lives of believers. This chapter highlights the Christian hope and assurance by illuminating the new life in the Spirit of God, the role of creation, and the inseparable love of God. It provides a theological foundation for understanding life in the Spirit and encourages believers to live in this truth.

Commentary

Life in the Spirit (Verses 1–11)
The section begins with the triumphant statement that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. This is a key declaration of the Gospel. Paul emphasizes that believers are no longer under the law of sin and death but under the law of the Spirit, which grants life and freedom. This liberation is the work of God, who sent His Son to condemn sin in the flesh and fulfill the righteousness of the law.

The dichotomy between the flesh and the Spirit runs through this section. “To be in the flesh” means hostility against God and leads to death, while “to be in the Spirit” brings life and peace. Paul highlights that the Spirit of Christ dwells in believers, thereby not only freeing them from the power of sin but also giving them the hope of the resurrection of their mortal bodies.

Sonship and Heirship (Verses 12–17)
Paul further addresses the identity of believers, explaining that they are children of God, led by the Spirit. This spiritual sonship frees them from fear and grants believers the privilege to call God “Abba, Father.” The Holy Spirit Himself testifies that believers are children of God, giving them unwavering assurance.

With sonship comes heirship. Believers are co-heirs with Christ, encompassing both suffering and glory. This theme of co-heirship seamlessly leads to the hope of future glory.

Hope for Creation and Certainty of Salvation (Verses 18–30)
The central statement of this section is that the present sufferings are not comparable to the coming glory. Paul describes creation as “groaning” in anticipation of the revelation of the children of God. Creation suffers under its futility, yet it hopes for the freedom of glory.

Believers themselves are included in this expectation. Although they have the firstfruits of the Spirit, they long for the final redemption of their bodies. Paul describes hope as that which is not seen and encourages patience in waiting.

A particular highlight is the role of the Holy Spirit, who helps believers in their weakness and intercedes for them in prayer. This intervention of the Spirit provides assurance that all things work together for the good of those who love God. Paul anchors this truth in God’s eternal purpose, which ranges from predestination through calling and justification to glorification.

The Inseparable Love of God (Verses 31–39)
The last section is a hymn-like confession of the invincibility of God’s love in Christ. Paul poses the rhetorical question: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” He reminds that God did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for all of us. From this, Paul concludes that nothing can separate believers from the love of God.

The list of potential threats—tribulation, persecution, hunger, dangers, or powers—is overcome by the certainty that believers in Christ are more than conquerors. Paul ends the chapter with the triumphant statement that neither death nor life, neither angels nor powers, neither present nor future things, can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

Summary

Romans 8 is a chapter of victory and hope. It begins with the declaration that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ and ends with the assurance that nothing can separate believers from God’s love. Paul explains life in the Spirit, liberation from the power of sin, and the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. The hope of future glory and the promise of resurrection give strength to remain steadfast amidst suffering. Finally, Paul assures that God’s love in Christ is unshakable and eternal. This chapter encourages believers to live in the certainty of their salvation and to experience the freedom and joy given through the Spirit.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/2-11-2024-romans-chapter-8-believe-his-prophets/

Lesson 10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life
Jesus: The Way to Redemption and the Source of Divine Truth

In Lesson 10, the words of Jesus from John 14:6 are central: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This statement is not only one of Jesus’ most profound revelations, but it also contains answers to the most important questions of human life: How do we find God? What is truth? And what gives our lives meaning and purpose?

Through this lesson, we discover:

• Jesus as the Way, leading us to God and providing direction in our faith.

• Jesus as the Truth, which liberates us, offers clarity, and provides stability in a world full of uncertainties.

• Jesus as the Life, giving us not only hope for eternity but also fulfilling and renewing our daily lives.

This lesson invites us to recognize Jesus as the center of our faith and life, to value the Bible as a living testimony to Him, and to place our trust in Him. It challenges us to understand the connection between His claim and our everyday lives and inspires us to shape our lives in His truth and love.

10.1 I Have Given You an Example
Humility and Service: Jesus’ Legacy to His Followers

Read John 13:1–20. What happened here and why is this event very important? What teachings did Jesus intend to convey?

The Foot Washing by Jesus in John 13:1–20 is a powerful symbol of humility, servanthood, and the true nature of Christian leadership. In this act, Jesus not only shows His love for the disciples but also sets a standard for what it means to follow His example.

The Act of Jesus: A Profound Symbol

At that time, foot washing was a task for servants, typically carrying no significance or honor. Jesus, the Master and Lord, takes on this task Himself. His action turns the usual social order upside down: the one who was to be served serves the others. John reports this in detailed form to emphasize the radical message of Jesus’ humility and love.

The Meaning of Foot Washing

1. Symbol of Cleansing: Jesus emphasizes that foot washing has a spiritual significance. It points to the cleansing from sin that is only possible through Him. Peter’s initial refusal to accept the foot washing illustrates that even the disciples were to understand the deeper meaning later.

2. Teaching of Humility: Through His action, Jesus teaches that true greatness lies in serving others. In John 13:14, He urges His disciples to follow this example. The act of foot washing is therefore more than a one-time event; it is an enduring lesson that clarifies the relationship between discipleship, humility, and love.

3. Preparation for Mission: Jesus’ actions call for selfless service to others, regardless of one’s own status or authority. The disciples should understand that their future mission should be marked not by power or prestige, but by serving love.

Jesus’ Example and Contemporary Practice

In the Adventist Church, foot washing is celebrated as the “Rite of Humility,” a conscious imitation of Jesus’ example. It serves not only as preparation for the Lord’s Supper but also as a reminder of how we should interact within our community: with love, humility, and a willingness to serve.

Conclusion

In John 13:1–20, Jesus demonstrates that true leadership and greatness consist of humbling oneself and serving others. His example is a model for every Christian called to live not only words but also acts of love and humility. Jesus’ words, “I have set an example for you,” challenge us to emulate His example in daily life and put the meaning of service into practice.

What does the Rite of Humility teach you about following in Jesus’ footsteps and serving others humbly?

The Rite of Humility teaches me how to live Jesus’ example in everyday life and serve others with love and humility. It imparts several key lessons:

1. True Greatness is in Serving Others

The rite reminds us that true greatness is not in power, status, or authority, but in the ability to serve others with a humble heart. Like Jesus, who took on the lowest task, I am called to embrace even the small, often unnoticed services that bless and support others.

2. Humility is the Foundation of Christian Community

The act of foot washing symbolizes the willingness to lay down pride and accept others in their needs. It challenges me to set aside my own desires and opinions and focus on the needs of others. Humility is not a sign of weakness but of spiritual strength.

3. Forgiveness and Cleansing as the Core of Service

Jesus used foot washing to point to the spiritual cleansing made possible through His death. The rite teaches me to be ready to forgive others and seek reconciliation in my attitude. Serving often means helping others carry their burdens and making God’s love tangible.

4. Putting Practical Love into Action

Service is more than good intentions or words—it requires concrete actions. The rite encourages me to actively seek ways to help others, to encourage them, and to support them with practical love, whether through time, resources, or compassion.

5. Equality in the Community

The Rite of Humility reminds us that all members of the Christian community are equal—no one is too great to serve, and no one is too small to be served. This awareness challenges me to respect and value others regardless of their status or role.

6. Discipleship as Daily Service

Jesus says in John 13:15, “I have set an example for you, that you should do as I have done for you.” The rite challenges me to show this attitude not only in a symbolic act but to look for daily opportunities to follow in Jesus’ footsteps and become a humble servant in my environment.

Conclusion

The Rite of Humility is a constant reminder of how I can follow in Jesus’ footsteps: by serving lovingly, selflessly, and without expectations. It is an invitation to continually examine my heart and, through my actions, show others the character of Jesus.

The Rite of Humility, as depicted in Jesus’ foot washing, holds deep significance for our daily lives and our faith. It reminds us that following Jesus is not a theoretical idea but is put into practice through practical, loving, and selfless actions. The connection is evident in several dimensions:

1. Daily Life: Humility in Our Relationships

In daily life, the rite calls us to approach one another with humility. This means:

• Respect and Appreciation: No one is too great or too important to help others. Likewise, no one is too small to be served. This calls us to show mutual respect in all relationships—family, work, friendships.

• Servant Attitude: In our fast-paced world, we often tend to think first of ourselves. The rite teaches us to consciously recognize the needs of others and ask, “How can I help you?”

2. Faith: Following Jesus

Belief in Jesus calls us to follow His example. This means:

• Active Discipleship: Being a Christian is not only about professing faith but also about living as Jesus lived—through loving service.

• Humility as the Core of Faith: The rite shows that true greatness lies in serving and challenges us to substantiate our beliefs through practical acts of love.

3. Daily Life: Forgiveness and Reconciliation

The rite points to the cleansing from sin. In daily life, this means:

• Learning to Forgive: The act of foot washing calls for resolving conflicts and approaching others with a reconciled heart.

• Sharing Burdens: Just as Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, we should be willing to help others carry their burdens and support them in difficult times.

4. Faith: Preparation for Mission

The rite prepares us to share the Gospel through our lifestyle:

• Love in Action: Christian service becomes visible through concrete actions, as Jesus demonstrated. This means helping people in their need, whether through practical assistance or spiritual support.

• Testimony of Humility: A life characterized by humility and service is a powerful testimony of faith.

5. Daily Life: Strengthening Community

In a world often marked by selfishness and competition, the rite teaches us:

• Unity and Equality: The rite highlights the equality of all. Whether a leader or an employee, everyone is called to serve one another and live in community.

• Helping Without Expectation: Humility means helping without expecting anything in return. This principle can be practiced in friendships, families, and communities.

Conclusion: A Life of Service

Jesus’ foot washing is an invitation to adopt a servant attitude in both daily life and faith. It involves:

1. Living Out Love and Humility in All Areas of Life

2. Overcoming Conflicts Through Forgiveness

3. Making Faith Visible Through Practical Acts

4. Strengthening Our Relationships Through Respect and Helpfulness

The Rite of Humility shows that living in Jesus’ footsteps is not a one-time act but a continuous process of change—a process that brings us closer to God and our fellow human beings.

True greatness is shown in humble service and love for others.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-1-i-have-given-you-an-example-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 1, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 7

1 Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth?

2 For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband.

3 So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.

4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.

5 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.

6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.

7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.

8 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.

9 For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.

10 And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.

11 For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.

12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.

13 Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.

14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.

15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.

17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.

20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans Chapter 7 is a theological masterpiece in which Paul examines the relationship between humans, the law, and sin. This chapter offers an in-depth analysis of how the law reveals sin and makes the inner struggle of humans visible. It serves not only as a reflection on the limitations of the law but also as a moving depiction of human weakness and the necessity of divine redemption through Jesus Christ. This passage is directed at all who know the law and shows how faith in Christ opens up a new way of life.

Commentary

Romans 7 is a multifaceted text that deals with two central themes: freedom from the law through Christ and the inner conflict of humans under the power of sin.

Freedom from the Law
Paul begins with an analogy from marriage: A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives, but after his death, she is free to marry another man. This metaphor illustrates that death in Christ frees humans from being bound to the law. The law is not a negative thing—it is holy, righteous, and good—but it reveals sin and intensifies its effects. The sinful nature of humans uses the law to arouse desires and plunge people into guilt.

Christ has created a new reality through his death. Paul emphasizes that we no longer live under the old “letter of the law” but in the new “spirit of the flesh.” This distinction shows that the Christian life is not characterized by external regulations but by the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Humans under the Law
In the second section, Paul describes his personal experience, which is also universal for humans. The law shows what sin is (“Do not covet!”), but it offers no solution to overcome it. Humans recognize their sinfulness through the law, which throws them into an insoluble conflict. Paul describes this inner struggle with painful openness: Humans want to do good but are unable in their members because of sin. This description is not a devaluation of the law but a revelation of the power of sin, which is made visible through the law.

The most well-known verses in this section (“For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing”) summarize human frailty. There are two laws within humans: the law of God, which they love, and the law of sin, which they are enslaved to. This struggle leads to a poignant lament: “Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?”

The Solution in Christ
Paul concludes with the triumphant answer: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Only through Christ is humans freed from the power of sin and the law. Acknowledging their own helplessness leads to dependence on God’s grace. Humans remain weak and flawed in their flesh, but their spirit can serve the law of God through Christ.

Summary

Romans Chapter 7 shows that while the law is holy, it does not bring redemption. It reveals sin and makes human weakness visible. Paul illustrates this state with a personal testimony about the inner conflict of humans: the desire to do good is thwarted by the power of sin. This struggle leads to the realization that only Christ can set humans free. Through his death and resurrection, Christ provides a new reality in which humans are no longer led by the law but by the Spirit of God.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/1-11-2024-romans-chapter-7-believe-his-prophets/