1.Worse Than the Thought That There Is No God Would Be the Thought That God Hates Us. How Would Our World Look Different if That Were True?

The thought that God could hate us would profoundly shake the foundation of our world and faith. Such a notion would completely overturn the concept of a loving, gracious, and just God as depicted in the Bible and would have far-reaching effects on our lives, morals, and worldview.

1. Loss of Hope and Comfort

• As It Is Today: The thought that God loves us gives us hope in difficult times. His grace and forgiveness offer comfort and a perspective for the future.

• If God Hated Us: Hope and comfort would vanish. People would fall into despair, as the source of life and love would no longer be seen as supportive but as a hostile force.

2. Destroyed Relationships

• As It Is Today: God’s love serves as a model for our relationships. It teaches us to practice love, forgiveness, and mercy.

• If God Hated Us: Relationships could be marked by fear, distrust, and selfishness. Without a divine model of love and forgiveness, maintaining genuine, selfless relationships would be challenging.

3. Morality Without Foundation

• As It Is Today: God’s love is the foundation of morality. It motivates us to act justly and mercifully.

• If God Hated Us: Morality could descend into chaos, as it would no longer be based on love and grace. Fear of punishment or arbitrariness might dominate human behavior, leading to a cold and callous society.

4. A Life Without Purpose

• As It Is Today: God’s love gives our lives meaning and purpose. We know that we are loved and have a calling.

• If God Hated Us: A life without divine love might be perceived as meaningless. People could question the value of their existence, seeing no purpose or reason for their lives.

5. The Loss of Freedom to Love

• As It Is Today: God’s love allows us to freely choose to love Him and maintain relationships with Him and others.

• If God Hated Us: Love might be replaced by fear. People might try to avoid God’s wrath instead of acting out of free will, leading to a relationship based on coercion rather than genuine affection.

Conclusion

The notion that God hates us would be an existential catastrophe. However, the Bible presents a different picture: God is the source of love, and His affection for us is unconditional. This thought provides us with hope, strengthens our trust, and inspires us to carry love into the world. Without this love, the world would be a much darker place. It is a great comfort that we can trust God loves us and that His will is always directed toward good.

2.Why Do You Think God’s Nature Is So Misunderstood in Our World Today? Consider and Discuss How You Can Help People Clearly Recognize God’s Loving Character.

Why Is God’s Nature Often Misunderstood Today?

God’s nature is often misunderstood in today’s world for various reasons, including cultural, societal, and personal factors. These influences shape how people perceive God and whether they can recognize His loving character.

1. Misinterpretations Through Religion and History

• Influence of History: Many view God through the lens of religious conflicts, power abuses, and intolerance committed in His name.

• Distorted Theology: Concepts of God as a strict judge or a distant, indifferent power shape many people’s images of Him.

• How to Help: People need genuine encounters with God’s love, not just rules or dogmas. Through our actions, characterized by forgiveness, compassion, and genuine devotion, we can make God’s character visible.

2. The Influence of Suffering and Injustice

• Problem of Suffering: Many question how a loving God can allow so much suffering and injustice in the world.

• God Felt Distant: Suffering is often seen as evidence that God either does not exist or is not loving.

• How to Help: We can show people that God is present in suffering and that through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, He Himself has suffered. By offering comfort and hope, we make God’s compassionate character visible.

3. Secularization and Individualism

• Growing Distance from God: In an increasingly secular world, God is often seen as irrelevant, with a focus on self-determination and individualism.

• Science as a Substitute: Some reject God because they believe science provides all the answers.

• How to Help: Demonstrate that faith and reason can coexist. Personal testimonies of God’s work in your life can often be more impactful than abstract arguments.

4. Media Influence

• Caricatures of God: Movies, media, and pop culture often portray a one-sided or mocking image of God that does not reflect His true nature.

• How to Help: We can convey an authentic image of God’s love through creative media content, art, and conversations. Stories that highlight God’s intervention and love can be powerful tools.

5. Lack of Authentic Testimonies

• Unlived Faith: When Christians do not live their faith authentically, it can be off-putting and reinforce misunderstandings about God’s character.

• How to Help: Live your faith consistently and compassionately. When people see love, patience, and forgiveness in your behavior, God’s character becomes visible through you.

How Can We Clearly Communicate God’s Loving Character?

1. Through Our Own Behavior

   • Perform loving and compassionate actions that reflect God’s love.

   • Live out forgiveness, mercy, and willingness to help others in daily life.

2. Through Honest Conversations

   • Listen without judgment. Many people have questions or wounds related to faith and religion.

   • Be ready to explain your faith authentically and understandably.

3. Through Community and Engagement

   • Create spaces where people can experience God’s love—through worship services, social projects, or supportive communities.

   • Demonstrate practical neighborly love that mirrors God’s nature.

4. Through Proclaiming the Gospel

   • Share the story of Jesus, which most clearly shows God’s love.

   • Connect the Gospel to people’s everyday realities to show that God knows and loves them personally.

5. Through Patience and Prayer

   • Misunderstandings about God do not disappear overnight. Remain patient and pray for those who struggle to recognize God’s love.

Conclusion

God’s nature is often misunderstood because people are influenced by pain, false notions, or societal trends. As Christians, we are called to convey an authentic image of God’s character through our lives, words, and love. By reflecting Jesus’ love, we can help people recognize God’s true nature: a God who loves unconditionally, heals, and invites fellowship.

3.What is the Message That Should Be Proclaimed About God’s Nature Today? How Would You Explain This Message to Someone Unfamiliar with the Reality of God’s Love? What Evidence Can You Provide to Show the Reality of God’s Love and His Wonderful Character?

The Message About God’s Nature: God is Love

The central message to be proclaimed today about God’s nature is: God is love. This love is unconditional, universal, and full of grace. It is demonstrated in His actions, in creation, in His patience, and most importantly, in the dedication of Jesus Christ on the cross.

How Would I Explain This Message to Someone Unfamiliar with God’s Love?

1. Start with the Essence:

   • “God is not a distant or stern judge but a loving Father who knows you, who created you, and who loves you unconditionally. His love is independent of who you are or what you have done.”

2. Connect It with Experiences:

   • “Think of the deepest form of love you have ever experienced—whether through family, friends, or a special moment. God’s love surpasses all of that because it is perfect and unwavering.”

3. Refer to Jesus’ Life and Death:

   • “The greatest proof of God’s love is Jesus Christ. God became human to show us how much He loves us, and He gave His life to save us and reconcile us with Him. The cross is the greatest sign of His love.”

4. Show the Invitation:

   • “This love is open to you, regardless of your mistakes or background. God calls you into a relationship with Him where you can find comfort, forgiveness, and hope.”

What Evidence Can I Provide for God’s Love and His Wonderful Character?

1. Creation:

   • “Look around you—the beauty of nature, the diversity of life. Creation itself is proof of God’s generosity and His desire to bring us joy.”

2. Jesus’ Life and Death:

   • “Jesus’ dedication on the cross shows that God’s love knows no bounds. Jesus did not die only for those who love Him but also for those who reject Him. This is the ultimate proof of selfless love.”

3. Forgiveness and Patience:

   • “God continually forgives us, even when we disappoint Him. His patience shows that He never gives up on winning us back.”

4. Testimonies of People:

   • “Many people have experienced God’s love in their lives—through prayer, comfort in difficult times, or unexpected turns that brought hope. These stories demonstrate how real God’s love is.”

5. The Transformation God’s Love Brings:

   • “People who accept God’s love often experience profound change. They find peace, hope, and a new perspective on their lives.”

How Can This Message Be Carried into the World?

1. Through Love in Action:

   • “Live out this message by showing compassion, forgiveness, and mercy. Let others see God’s love through your behavior.”

2. Through Honest Testimony:

   • “Share your personal experiences with God’s love. Stories have the power to touch hearts.”

3. Through Community:

   • “Invite people to be part of a community where they can experience God’s love through relationships and prayer.”

4. Through Patience and Listening:

   • “Many people carry doubts or wounds related to God. Be ready to listen, answer questions, and walk the path to God with them.”

Conclusion

The message about God’s nature is simple yet powerful: God loves you. This love is real, experiential, and has the power to transform our lives. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, God shows the depth of His love. By living out and sharing this truth, we can help others recognize and experience the reality of this love.

4.Speaking About God’s Love Is One Thing. Showing and Reflecting This Love in Our Lives Is Another. What Works of Sanctification Can Be Signs of God’s Love to the People Around Us?

Works of Sanctification as Signs of God’s Love

Showing and reflecting God’s love in our lives requires intentional action and a heart transformed by His Spirit. Works of sanctification are visible signs through which we can bring God’s love to others. These actions stem from our relationship with God and demonstrate His love in the world.

1. Charity and Compassion

• Practical Help:

  • “Supporting those in need—whether through material aid, time, or attention—reflects God’s care.”

• Showing Empathy:

  • “Listening to people, comforting them, and encouraging them shows that they are not alone and are valued.”

• Example:

  • “Visiting the sick, helping someone in need, or having an uplifting conversation can be powerful signs of God’s love.”

2. Practicing Forgiveness

• Reflecting God’s Forgiveness:

  • “When we forgive others, we show how God forgives us, even when we do not deserve it.”

• Promoting Reconciliation:

  • “Taking active steps to heal broken relationships demonstrates God’s desire for peace and community.”

• Example:

  • “Forgiving someone who has hurt you and building a bridge of reconciliation makes God’s love tangible.”

3. Justice and Mercy

• Advocating for the Weak:

  • “Standing up for justice—supporting the poor, oppressed, or disadvantaged—shows that God’s love encompasses all people.”

• Showing Mercy:

  • “Helping even when it costs us reflects God’s boundless mercy.”

• Example:

  • “Engaging in social projects or defending those who have no voice demonstrates God’s heart for justice.”

4. Patience and Gentleness

• Being Patient with Others:

  • “Responding patiently and gently to difficult people or situations mirrors God’s patience with us.”

• Devotion in Service:

  • “Spending time and energy helping others, even when it’s inconvenient, shows true devotion.”

• Example:

  • “Staying calm and loving in conflicts or approaching others with understanding can make God’s love tangible.”

5. Sharing the Gospel

• Spreading God’s Message:

  • “Sharing the story of Jesus, which most clearly demonstrates God’s love, invites others to experience it themselves.”

• Speaking Through Our Lives:

  • “An authentic life that reflects God’s love is often the strongest way to proclaim the Gospel.”

• Example:

  • “Personal testimonies or offering to pray with someone can open hearts to God’s love.”

6. Fostering Community and Unity

• Building Community:

  • “Inviting people into our community creates an environment where God’s love can be experienced through relationships and prayer.”

• Promoting Unity:

  • “Overcoming tensions in groups or families shows the value of love and forgiveness.”

• Example:

  • “An inclusive, welcoming attitude that embraces everyone reflects God’s universal love.”

7. Living in Gratitude and Praise

• Showing Gratitude:

  • “A life full of gratitude for God’s love inspires others to recognize this love.”

• Testifying to God’s Love:

  • “Praising God and placing our trust in Him shows that His love is the foundation of our lives.”

• Example:

  • “Expressing gratitude, whether through words, actions, or prayer, can make God’s goodness visible to others.”

Conclusion

Works of sanctification are a powerful expression of God’s love in the world. They show that our faith is not just words but concrete actions that can touch and inspire others. By living out charity, forgiveness, justice, patience, and other virtues, we reflect God’s character and make His love visible. Our lives become a living testimony of His presence and work.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-god-loves-freely-1-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 4, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 9

¹ For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

² For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.

³ Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:

⁴ Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.

⁵ Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.

⁶ But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

⁷ Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

⁸ And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

⁹ (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.

¹⁰ Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

¹¹ Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

¹² For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

¹³ Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

¹⁴ And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.

¹⁵ Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In 2 Corinthians Chapter 9, Paul discusses the importance of financial support for the saints in Jerusalem. He encourages the believers in Corinth to demonstrate their goodwill and generosity, linking material aid to spiritual principles. This chapter highlights not only the practical significance of giving but also its spiritual impact, as it fosters gratitude and glorifies God. It teaches us that generosity is both an expression of love for God and a means to magnify His grace.

Commentary

Motivation for Generosity (Verses 1-5):
Paul commends the Corinthians’ willingness to support the collection for the saints. He mentions their exemplary role, which inspired other congregations, and emphasizes the importance of their gifts being ready to meet the call. The key focus here is that the gift should be a “blessing” – not given reluctantly or out of greed but with a free and generous spirit.

The Principle of Sowing and Reaping (Verses 6-7):
Paul illustrates giving with an agricultural metaphor: those who sow sparingly will reap sparingly, and those who sow generously will reap generously. This underscores the spiritual truth that generosity bears fruit in both the lives of the givers and the recipients. Notably, verse 7 emphasizes that God loves a cheerful giver, placing the attitude of the heart above the mere act of giving.

God’s Grace and Provision (Verses 8-11):
Paul reminds the Corinthians that God is the one who provides everything – both the means to give and the reward. God’s grace enables believers to be generous without lacking anything themselves. Here, giving is described as a way to manifest God’s righteousness and promote good works.

Spiritual Impact of Giving (Verses 12-14):
Financial support not only addresses the practical needs of the saints but also has spiritual effects. It results in thanksgiving and praise to God. The recipients glorify God for the generosity of the givers, recognizing their obedience to the gospel of Christ.

The Unspeakable Gift (Verse 15):
Paul concludes with a note of praise: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” Here, the ultimate gift of God – Jesus Christ – takes center stage. Every gift from believers is ultimately a response to God’s great gift to humanity.

Summary

2 Corinthians Chapter 9 connects practical generosity with profound spiritual truths. Paul shows that giving is not merely a material act but a way to reveal God’s grace and righteousness. Generosity flows from a heart that acknowledges God’s indescribable gift – Jesus Christ. This attitude leads to a wave of gratitude and glorification of God. For us today, this chapter is an invitation to give generously and cheerfully, trusting that God will bless and multiply our gifts to make His glory known.

 

 

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 84—“Peace Be Unto You”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:33-48; John 20:19-29.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

The chapter “Peace be with you!” describes the events following the resurrection of Jesus, where He appears to the disciples, strengthens their faith, and brings them peace. It is based on the accounts in Luke 24:33-48 and John 20:19-29. These encounters reveal the deep mercy and patience of Jesus towards His disciples, who, despite His repeated teachings, struggled to comprehend His resurrection.

Commentary

The appearances of Jesus after His resurrection are marked by a message of peace, forgiveness, and new life. Jesus unexpectedly enters the midst of the disciples and greets them with the words “Peace be with you!” This greeting reflects the core message of the Gospel: reconciliation with God and inner peace despite external uncertainty. By showing them His pierced hands and feet, He strengthens their faith by answering doubt with the reality of His resurrection.

A key message of this chapter is that Jesus approaches the doubters with love and patience, as in the case of Thomas. Thomas, who reacts skeptically to the reports of the others, receives exactly the evidence he demands from Jesus. However, Jesus gently admonishes that greater blessings await those who believe without seeing. This is an invitation to trust, even when not all questions are answered.

Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus breathes into the disciples to prepare them for their mission. Without the Spirit of God, they are unable to preach the forgiveness of sins and spread the Gospel to the world. The gift of the Holy Spirit is essential to continue Christ’s work.

Summary

The chapter “Peace be with you!” demonstrates Jesus’ loving manner in renewing the faith of His disciples, dispelling their doubts, and preparing them for their mission. His words and actions after the resurrection call for finding peace and faith, even when external evidence is lacking. The disciples were equipped with the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection and sent out to share this message with the world. This chapter reminds us that Jesus meets every doubt with patience and love and that the Holy Spirit is the key to serving in His name.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/04-01-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/

1.6 Summary
The Essence of Divine Love: Faithfulness, Freedom, and Invitation

The first lesson highlights the depth and breadth of God’s immeasurable and unconditional love. This love is the heart of our faith and is evident in all aspects of His actions, regardless of human worthiness or reciprocation.

1.1 Beyond Reasonable Expectations

God’s Love Surpasses All Human Notions

Despite the rebellion of the people of Israel after their liberation from Egypt (e.g., the golden calf), God remains faithful and gracious. He chooses, out of free will, to continue extending love and grace to His people, even when they do not deserve it.

1.2 Unrequited Love

God’s Love Endures Even When Not Reciprocated

God’s love remains steadfast, even when it is not reciprocated. The story of Hosea illustrates God’s unwavering faithfulness, even when His people repeatedly turn away. This love is unconditional, given voluntarily and without coercion. It calls for repentance and demonstrates that God’s love is an invitation to a relationship.

1.3 Unconditionally Granted Love

God Created the World Out of Love, Not Necessity

God did not create the world out of necessity but out of love. Creation is a voluntary expression of His generosity and His desire for fellowship with us. Even after the fall, God upheld creation in His grace and set His plan of reconciliation in motion.

1.4 Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet (Matthew 22:1–14) Clarifies God’s Invitation

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet illustrates that God’s invitation to fellowship is open to all, but not everyone accepts it. Those who are chosen are those who accept the invitation with an open heart and are willing to be transformed by God. God’s love respects human freedom, and with this freedom comes responsibility.

1.5 Crucified for Us

The Ultimate Devotion: Revealing God’s Love at the Cross

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

Conclusion

God loves unconditionally, regardless of our mistakes, worthiness, or response. His love invites us to accept it, allow it to shape our lives, and reflect it in our relationships. This lesson encourages us to respond to God’s love with gratitude, trust, and dedication.

The lesson “God Loves Unconditionally” is not only a theological truth but also provides us with concrete guidance for our daily lives and faith. God’s love calls us to recognize, accept, and reflect it in our lives.

1. God’s Love Beyond All Expectations (1.1)

• In Daily Life: We can trust that God’s grace is greater than our mistakes or failures, even in difficult moments. This assurance grants us peace and courage, even in challenging situations.

• In Faith: It invites us to approach God with an open heart and experience His faithfulness, even when we have disappointed Him.

2. Love That Remains Despite Unfaithfulness (1.2)

• In Daily Life: God’s example teaches us to practice patience, forgiveness, and mercy in our relationships. We can learn to love others even when they disappoint us.

• In Faith: His faithfulness inspires us to return to Him and revive our relationship with Him during times of doubt or distance.

3. Unconditional and Voluntary Love (1.3)

• In Daily Life: Recognizing that our lives are a gift from God allows us to live with gratitude and deeper meaning. We are called to consciously and responsibly shape our lives.

• In Faith: This truth encourages us to serve God out of gratitude, not out of a sense of duty. It strengthens our trust that we are accepted unconditionally.

4. Freedom to Love (1.4)

• In Daily Life: God’s invitation to fellowship teaches us to make conscious decisions and live in freedom. Our response to His love should be reflected in a life marked by gratitude, love, and dedication.

• In Faith: The freedom to reciprocate God’s love reminds us that our faith is a living relationship that we must nurture daily.

5. The Cross as Hope and Devotion (1.5)

• In Daily Life: Christ’s sacrifice on the cross shows us that no situation is hopeless. We can find comfort and strength in difficult times because God’s love is greater than our suffering.

• In Faith: It motivates us to live our lives in devotion to God, to serve others, and to act in the power of His love.

Conclusion

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

The Cross Shows Us That True Love Involves Sacrifice – God’s Voluntary Devotion Invites Us to Live in Gratitude and Dedication

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-god-loves-freely-1-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/