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Our Outrage as Christians Is a Window Into Who We Are

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by Benjamin Cremer  |  9 December 2024  | I grew up as a conservative Christian. I pastored for the majority of my adult life in conservative churches. I have always heard staunch advocacy for the lives of the unborn—yet such advocacy seems to stop with the unborn alone. Then I watched with great embarrassment and […] Source: https://atoday.org/our-outrage-as-christians-is-a-window-into-who-we-are-and-where-our-priorities-stand/

Lesson 11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit | 11.4 The Holy Spirit | THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN | LIVING FAITH

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11.4 The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit: Renewing and Leading into All Truth
Read John 1:10–13. What does this passage teach us about the significance of the Holy Spirit for conversion?
In the Gospel of John, it becomes clear that the Holy Spirit plays a central role in Jesus’ mission and the salvation of humanity, even though He is less prominently featured than the Father and the Son. His role is crucial for the fulfillment of the divine plan.
The Significance of the Holy Spirit for Conversion (John 1:10–13):
John describes that those who received Jesus Christ and believed in Him became children of God. This new identity—being “born of God”—is not the result of human effort or natural descent but solely the work of God, accomplished through the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is the one who awakens people’s hearts, convicts them, and empowers them to accept Jesus as their Savior. Without His work, true conversion would not be possible, as the natural person is alienated from sin and cannot recognize God on their own. The Holy Spirit brings new life, makes us a “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17), and enables us to live in fellowship with God as His children.
Role of the Holy Spirit in the Gospel of John:
  • Born of God (John 1:13): The Spirit grants us the new birth necessary to become part of God’s family. This spiritual rebirth is the foundation of our faith life.
  • Revealer of Truth (John 14:26; 16:13): The Spirit reminds us of Jesus’ words and leads us into the truth. He reveals God’s will and helps us understand the Bible.
  • Helper and Comforter (John 14:16–17): The Spirit remains with us and fills believers with God’s presence. He comforts, strengthens, and guides us in daily life.
  • Convictor of the World (John 16:8): The Holy Spirit convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment. He opens people’s eyes to their separation from God and their need for redemption.
  • Empowerer of Believers: The Spirit enables us to live a life that honors God and to be witnesses for Jesus.
Significance for Our Lives Today:
  • The Holy Spirit is not just a concept but a personal presence that changes and guides us.
  • He gives us the power to grow in faith and remain steadfast in difficult times.
  • He reminds us that our identity as children of God does not rest on our efforts but on God’s work through the Spirit.
  • Through the Spirit, we have access to a living relationship with God that shapes us for eternity.
What Do the Following Verses Say About the Work of the Holy Spirit? John 3:5–8; 6:63; 14:26; 15:26; 16:7–11
The mentioned verses in the Gospel of John provide us with a deep understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit and demonstrate how central His role is in the life of believers. Here are the key points:
John 3:5–8 “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, “You must be born of water and the Spirit.” The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’”
  • Teaching: The Holy Spirit works the spiritual rebirth (“born of water and the Spirit”) necessary to be part of God’s kingdom. His work is like the wind: invisible but felt and transformative.
  • Role of the Spirit: He brings new life, renews the heart, and changes a person’s spiritual identity.
John 6:63 “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.”
  • Teaching: The Holy Spirit is the source of true life, which cannot be attained through human efforts (“flesh”). God’s word, inspired by the Spirit, grants life.
  • Role of the Spirit: He invigorates faith and leads us through God’s word into a new, spiritual life.
John 14:26 “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
  • Teaching: The Holy Spirit is our teacher and reminder. He helps us understand Jesus’ words and apply them in our lives.
  • Role of the Spirit: He deepens our understanding of Scripture and reminds us of God’s truth, especially in difficult times.
John 15:26 “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me.”
  • Teaching: The Holy Spirit bears witness to Jesus and reveals Him to believers. His work is always aimed at glorifying Christ.
  • Role of the Spirit: He is the Spirit of truth who helps us better know Jesus and remain in Him.
John 16:7–11 “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment, concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will receive the Spirit of truth; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”
  • Teaching: The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, reveals righteousness in Jesus, and announces judgment. His work uncovers spiritual realities and leads people to repentance.
  • Role of the Spirit: He is the convictor who touches hearts, makes people aware of their guilt, and shows the need for redemption.
In Summary:
  • Renewer: The Holy Spirit effectuates spiritual rebirth and grants new life (John 3:5–8).
  • Life-Giver: He brings life and places God’s word in our hearts (John 6:63).
  • Teacher and Reminder: The Spirit leads us into truth and helps us understand Jesus’ words (John 14:26).
  • Witness of Jesus: The Spirit glorifies Jesus and deepens our relationship with Him (John 15:26).
  • Convictor of the World: He exposes sin, reveals righteousness, and points to judgment (John 16:7–11).
Significance for Our Lives:
The Holy Spirit is a powerful gift that guides us in our faith and daily lives. Without Him, we could not recognize God’s truth, understand Scripture, or walk the path of righteousness. His work is not limited but fills us with divine power to overcome sin, walk in truth, and be a living testimony for Jesus.
By opening our lives to the Holy Spirit, we experience deep renewal and are empowered to discern and live out God’s will. He is our constant companion who guides, strengthens, and encourages us to live a life that honors God.
The connection is profound, as the Holy Spirit is not just a theological truth but an immediate, personal presence that changes and guides us. Here’s how this affects us:
  1. The Holy Spirit Effectuates Spiritual Renewal
    • Connection: We cannot begin a new life by our own strength. Spiritual rebirth (“born of water and the Spirit”) is the work of the Holy Spirit, who changes our hearts and connects us with God (John 3:5–8).
    • Significance: Through the Spirit, we receive a new identity as children of God. This truth gives us security and direction.
    • Practical: We can pray for daily renewal of our hearts and rely on the Spirit to walk in truth.
  2. The Holy Spirit Leads into Truth
    • Connection: The Holy Spirit helps us understand Jesus’ words and apply them in our daily lives (John 14:26). Without His guidance, God’s truths would often remain incomprehensible or abstract.
    • Significance: The Spirit is our teacher, allowing us to delve deeper into God’s word and reminding us how to live according to His will.
    • Practical: We can begin our Bible study with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to teach us and help us recognize God’s will.
  3. The Holy Spirit Provides Strength and Help
    • Connection: The Holy Spirit is our comforter and helper who strengthens us in difficult times (John 14:16–17). He is the presence of God within us, giving us courage and hope.
    • Significance: In moments of weakness or challenge, we can turn to the Spirit for the strength to continue.
    • Practical: In the midst of stress or difficulties, we can pause and seek the Spirit’s comfort and guidance through prayer.
  4. The Holy Spirit Convicts and Guides
    • Connection: The Spirit exposes sin, reveals righteousness, and points to judgment (John 16:7–11). He guides us on the path of repentance and obedience.
    • Significance: He helps us avoid self-righteousness and allows God to correct and lead us in grace.
    • Practical: We can continually examine our lives and ask the Spirit to show us areas where we need to change.
  5. The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Be Witnesses
    • Connection: The Spirit bears witness to Jesus and enables us to proclaim the Gospel and be a testimony to the world (John 15:26).
    • Significance: He gives us the courage and words to share our hope and faith with others.
    • Practical: We can be mindful that the Spirit works within us as we pray for others or share our faith.
Significance for Our Lives Today:
  • Daily Guidance: The Holy Spirit is our companion who helps us make decisions in line with God’s will.
  • Power to Overcome: He gives us the strength to resist temptations and face challenges in faith.
  • Living Relationship: Through the Spirit, we experience intimate fellowship with God that sustains us each day.
  • Renewal: The Spirit works within us to transform us, making us more like Jesus.
Final Thought:
The Holy Spirit is the heart of our spiritual life. He renews us, leads us into truth, and empowers us to live a life that honors God. By consciously opening ourselves daily and trusting in His guidance, we can experience the depth of His presence and lead a fulfilled life in faith.

Let the Holy Spirit renew your heart today, guide your steps, and strengthen you in the truth of God—for in Him you find strength, peace, and hope.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-the-father-the-son-and-the-spirit-11-4-the-holy-spirit-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

11.11.2024 – 1 Corinthians Chapter 1 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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The Message of the Book of 1 Corinthians
The message of the book of 1 Corinthians in the Bible is multifaceted, as the Apostle Paul addresses a variety of challenges and questions that arose in the church of Corinth. However, the central message can be summarized as follows:
  1. The Unity of the Church in Christ
    Paul emphasizes that divisions and disputes within the church are incompatible with the message of Christ. He calls the Corinthians to recognize their unity in Christ and not to rely on human leaders or wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:10-13). The focus should always remain on Christ and His cross, which is the foundation of salvation (1 Corinthians 1:18-25).
  2. God’s Wisdom Surpasses the Wisdom of the World
    Paul demonstrates that God’s wisdom is revealed through the cross of Jesus Christ, even though it appears foolish to the world (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). The true mysteries of God are revealed by the Holy Spirit, not through human philosophy or intellect (1 Corinthians 2:10-16).
  3. Sanctification and Spiritual Maturity
    Paul calls the Corinthians to live a holy life. He criticizes them for their carnal thinking and immoral behavior, which hinder their spiritual growth (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). Believers are reminded that they are the temple of the Holy Spirit and must therefore live in purity and holiness (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
  4. The Importance of Love in the Christian Community
    In the famous chapter on love (1 Corinthians 13), Paul emphasizes that love is the highest virtue and the foundation of all Christian values. Even the greatest gifts and achievements are meaningless without love. Love is patient, kind, and does not seek its own – it is the standard for all relationships within the church.
  5. Order and Spirituality in Worship
    Paul addresses questions regarding order in worship, particularly concerning the Lord’s Supper, spiritual gifts, and behavior during church gatherings (1 Corinthians 11-14). He emphasizes that everything should be done for the edification of the church and in an orderly manner (1 Corinthians 14:40).
  6. The Resurrection as the Foundation of Hope
    In chapter 15, Paul presents the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the central element of the Christian faith. The resurrection is the foundation of the hope for eternal life and the assurance that believers will one day rise in new, imperishable bodies (1 Corinthians 15:12-22).
Summary Message
The book of 1 Corinthians calls believers to live lives characterized by unity, love, holiness, and hope. Paul shows that the Christian faith is not merely theoretical but transforms every aspect of a believer’s life. At its center is Christ – His wisdom, His cross, and His resurrection – and the practical application of this message in personal and communal life.

 

December 11, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 1
1 Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,
2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both their’s and our’s:
3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;
6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:
7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:
8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
11 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.
12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;
15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other.
17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction
The First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians is one of the central documents of the New Testament, addressing a variety of problems and challenges in the early Christian community in Corinth. Chapter 1 serves as the introduction to this letter and sets the tone for the subsequent themes. Paul begins with a warm greeting, expresses gratitude for the gifts of the church, and then addresses the divisions within the community. He contrasts the wisdom of the world with divine wisdom and emphasizes the central role of the crucified Christ as the foundation of the Christian faith.
Commentary
Gratitude for God’s Abundant Gifts in Corinth (1:1-9)
Paul opens his letter with a formal salutation, emphasizing his calling as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God. He addresses the “Church of God in Corinth” and the “saints in Christ Jesus.” In verses 3 to 9, Paul expresses his deep gratitude for the grace of God given to the Corinthians in Christ. He praises their spiritual enrichment in teaching and knowledge and acknowledges that the preaching of Christ has become powerful among them. Paul assures them that they are richly provided with every gift and that the revelation of Jesus Christ will sustain them to the end. This gratitude highlights the positive development of the church despite the problems that are later addressed.
Divisions in the Church (1:10-17)
Despite the positive developments, there are serious divisions and disputes in the Corinthian church. In verse 10, Paul appeals to the Corinthians to speak in unity and not allow divisions among them. He criticizes the factionalism centered around different leaders such as Paul, Apollos, Cephas (Peter), and Christ Himself. These factions cause discord and weaken the church. Paul questions whether Christ is divided or if he himself was crucified for them to show the futility of such divisions. He emphasizes that his primary mission is not baptizing but preaching the Gospel so that the cross of Christ is not emptied of its power.
The Wisdom of the World Is Foolishness to God (1:18-31)
Paul contrasts the wisdom of the world with the wisdom of God. The “word of the cross” appears foolish to unbelievers but is the power and wisdom of God to believers. He quotes Isaiah 29:14 to underline that God will nullify the wisdom of the wise and the understanding of the intelligent. The world, in its own wisdom, does not recognize God; thus, God chose to save believers through the seemingly foolish preaching of the Gospel. Paul argues that divine wisdom is superior because it is based on the cross, and God intentionally chooses the weak and insignificant to humble the strong and wise. This prevents humans from boasting and highlights Christ as the source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.
Summary
In 1 Corinthians Chapter 1, Paul lays the foundation for his letter by first expressing his gratitude for the spiritual gifts of the church. Despite these gifts, serious divisions persist, which Paul addresses with an urgent call for unity. He contrasts human wisdom with divine wisdom, showing that God deliberately chooses the insignificant and weak to reveal His power and wisdom. Central to the chapter is the emphasis on the crucified Christ as the foundation of faith, which surpasses all worldly wisdom. Paul encourages the Corinthians to rely not on human leaders but on Christ, who has come to be the wisdom and salvation of all believers.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 79—“It is Finished”
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
The chapter “It Is Finished!” describes the climax of Christ’s work of redemption, completed with His final breath on the cross. This victory over sin and death deeply impacted not only humanity but also heaven and the unfallen worlds. Jesus’ cry, “It is finished!” proclaimed the triumph over Satan and his rebellion. This chapter highlights how Christ perfectly revealed God’s love, justice, and mercy and how the cross established the foundation for the eternal security of the universe.
Commentary
The chapter emphasizes the universal significance of Jesus’ victory on the cross. His declaration, “It is finished!” signals that the work of redemption is complete and that God’s love and justice have triumphed.
Satan, once a highly exalted angel, was finally exposed at the cross. Through his betrayal and the execution of Christ, his true character was revealed to heaven and the unfallen worlds. God allowed Satan to fully develop his principles to make the nature of sin visible. This revelation was necessary to affirm the inviolability of God’s law and the inseparability of grace and justice.
Jesus’ sacrifice demonstrated that grace does not nullify justice but fulfills it completely. His life was the ultimate example of obedience, and through His death, Christ proved that God’s law is righteous and can be upheld. Satan claimed that justice and mercy were incompatible. However, the cross showed that both principles are harmoniously united in God.
The chapter also illustrates how Christ remained steadfast despite Satan’s relentless attacks from His birth to His crucifixion. His faithfulness and obedience to God surpassed all attempts by the enemy to overcome Him. In doing so, He refuted Satan’s claims and secured humanity’s redemption.
Summary
Chapter 79: “It Is Finished!” reveals the depth and completeness of Christ’s victory on the cross. His sacrifice fully displayed God’s love, justice, and mercy, refuting all of Satan’s accusations. The cross demonstrated that sin and rebellion inevitably lead to destruction, while God’s law and principles provide the foundation for eternal security. Through His obedience and triumph over death, Christ brought salvation to humanity and the assurance that sin and Satan will be defeated once and for all. This chapter reminds us that redemption in Christ is the central event in the history of creation and conveys an eternal message of hope and love.

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

Embracing Self-Sacrifice: Preparing for Christ’s Return

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Join us in reflecting on the timeless message of self-sacrifice at the heart of Christ's teachings, as we anticipate His imminent return. The urgency of the hour compels us to recognize that time is short, and millions of souls still await the transformative power of the gospel. Join us in heeding the call to self-sacrifice, as we prepare for Christ's imminent return and strive to spread His gospel to every corner of the earth. To learn more about the transformative power of self-sacrifice and how you can make a difference, paste this link into your browser:
https://youtu.be/qAT591UYBgU?si=1KgQMWC_8XNAvRbN Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cfz52hcfT7Y

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