Members phkrause Posted August 10, 2011 Author Members Posted August 10, 2011 August 10, 2011 Philippians 3:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction Philippians 3:1-21: Paul warns the Philippians about following people who insist put their trust in external ceremonies. Then he compares the journey of faith to a physical contest, running toward the goal of God’s realm. He argues that to live apart from God is to deny oneself the joy of heaven. Today’s Scripture: Philippians 3:3b We worship God by means of his Spirit and rejoice in our life in union with Christ Jesus. Today’s Reading 1 In conclusion, my friends, be joyful in your union with the Lord. I don't mind repeating what I have written before, and you will be safer if I do so. 2 Watch out for those who do evil things, those dogs, those who insist on cutting the body. 3 It is we, not they, who have received the true circumcision, for we worship God by means of his Spirit and rejoice in our life in union with Christ Jesus. We do not put any trust in external ceremonies. 4 I could, of course, put my trust in such things. If any of you think you can trust in external ceremonies, I have even more reason to feel that way. 5 I was circumcised when I was a week old. I am an Israelite by birth, of the tribe of Benjamin, a pure-blooded Hebrew. As far as keeping the Jewish Law is concerned, I was a Pharisee, 6 and I was so zealous that I persecuted the church. As far as a person can be righteous by obeying the commands of the Law, I was without fault. 7 But all those things that I might count as profit I now reckon as loss for Christ's sake. 8 Not only those things; I reckon everything as complete loss for the sake of what is so much more valuable, the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have thrown everything away; I consider it all as mere garbage, so that I may gain Christ 9 and be completely united with him. I no longer have a righteousness of my own, the kind that is gained by obeying the Law. I now have the righteousness that is given through faith in Christ, the righteousness that comes from God and is based on faith. 10 All I want is to know Christ and to experience the power of his resurrection, to share in his sufferings and become like him in his death, 11 in the hope that I myself will be raised from death to life. 12 I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself. 13 Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. 14 So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above. 15 All of us who are spiritually mature should have this same attitude. But if some of you have a different attitude, God will make this clear to you. 16 However that may be, let us go forward according to the same rules we have followed until now. 17 Keep on imitating me, my friends. Pay attention to those who follow the right example that we have set for you. 18 I have told you this many times before, and now I repeat it with tears: there are many whose lives make them enemies of Christ's death on the cross. 19 They are going to end up in hell, because their god is their bodily desires. They are proud of what they should be ashamed of, and they think only of things that belong to this world. 20 We, however, are citizens of heaven, and we eagerly wait for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven. 21 He will change our weak mortal bodies and make them like his own glorious body, using that power by which he is able to bring all things under his rule. Reflect Why does Paul compare faith to the physical challenge of running toward a goal? How is faith like fitness? What does spiritual fitness require? What sorts of “exercises” might a spiritually fit person do each day? What discipline is required? Pray God of Power and Might, spiritual fitness requires discipline and daily practice. These can be challenges for me. Strengthen my resolve, that I may become fit to serve you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those working to develop a spiritual discipline Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 11, 2011 Author Members Posted August 11, 2011 August 11, 2011 Philippians 4:1-23 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction Philippians 4:1-23: Paul tells the Philippian followers to give all their worries to God, promising that if they do so, they will find peace. He says that whether he is full or hungry or whether he has too much or too little, Christ gives him the strength to face anything. Today’s Scripture: Philippians 4:13 I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. Today’s Reading 1 So then, my friends, how dear you are to me and how I miss you! How happy you make me, and how proud I am of you!—this, dear friends, is how you should stand firm in your life in the Lord. 2 Euodia and Syntyche, please, I beg you, try to agree as sisters in the Lord. 3 And you too, my faithful partner, I want you to help these women; for they have worked hard with me to spread the gospel, together with Clement and all my other fellow workers, whose names are in God's book of the living. 4 May you always be joyful in your union with the Lord. I say it again: rejoice! 5 Show a gentle attitude toward everyone. The Lord is coming soon. 6 Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. 7 And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. 8 In conclusion, my friends, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable. 9 Put into practice what you learned and received from me, both from my words and from my actions. And the God who gives us peace will be with you. 10 In my life in union with the Lord it is a great joy to me that after so long a time you once more had the chance of showing that you care for me. I don't mean that you had stopped caring for me—you just had no chance to show it. 11 And I am not saying this because I feel neglected, for I have learned to be satisfied with what I have. 12 I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have more than enough. I have learned this secret, so that anywhere, at any time, I am content, whether I am full or hungry, whether I have too much or too little. 13 I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. 14 But it was very good of you to help me in my troubles. 15 You Philippians know very well that when I left Macedonia in the early days of preaching the Good News, you were the only church to help me; you were the only ones who shared my profits and losses. 16 More than once when I needed help in Thessalonica, you sent it to me. 17 It is not that I just want to receive gifts; rather, I want to see profit added to your account. 18 Here, then, is my receipt for everything you have given me—and it has been more than enough! I have all I need now that Epaphroditus has brought me all your gifts. They are like a sweet-smelling offering to God, a sacrifice which is acceptable and pleasing to him. 19 And with all his abundant wealth through Christ Jesus, my God will supply all your needs. 20 To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever! Amen. 21 Greetings to each one of God's people who belong to Christ Jesus. The believers here with me send you their greetings. 22 All God's people here send greetings, especially those who belong to the Emperor's palace. 23 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Reflect Of all the things Paul commands, which would be the easiest for you to do? Which would be the hardest? Why? What do you need to let go of worries and be satisfied with what you have? Pray Almighty God, through your wondrous creation and your abundant love and care, you sustain me along with all your people. Calm my worrying mind, that I may focus my energies on following your will. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are burdened with worry Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 12, 2011 Author Members Posted August 12, 2011 August 12, 2011 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10: In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he sends greetings to the followers of Christ at Thessalonica. He thanks them for becoming examples of faithfulness and love for all the followers throughout Greece, and he affirms their worship. Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 1:4 Our friends, we know that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own. Today’s Reading 1 From Paul, Silas, and Timothy— To the people of the church in Thessalonica, who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be yours. 2 We always thank God for you all and always mention you in our prayers. 3 For we remember before our God and Father how you put your faith into practice, how your love made you work so hard, and how your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ is firm. 4 Our friends, we know that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own. 5 For we brought the Good News to you, not with words only, but also with power and the Holy Spirit, and with complete conviction of its truth. You know how we lived when we were with you; it was for your own good. 6 You imitated us and the Lord; and even though you suffered much, you received the message with the joy that comes from the Holy Spirit. 7 So you became an example to all believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For not only did the message about the Lord go out from you throughout Macedonia and Achaia, but the news about your faith in God has gone everywhere. There is nothing, then, that we need to say. 9 All those people speak about how you received us when we visited you, and how you turned away from idols to God, to serve the true and living God 10 and to wait for his Son to come from heaven—his Son Jesus, whom he raised from death and who rescues us from God's anger that is coming. Reflect Most of the followers in the Thessalonian church were Gentiles whose previous religious practices had included the worship of local gods or goddesses. They turned away from cultural norms to follow Christ. What cultural norms must you challenge in order to follow Christ? Pray Lord God, there are times when you call me to be loving when it might be hard to do so, to give when I would rather receive, and to stand for justice in an unjust world. Strengthen me to hear your call and follow it as your faithful disciple. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who speak out for justice Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 13, 2011 Author Members Posted August 13, 2011 August 13, 2011 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16: Paul claims that his message came straight from God, and that his actions are honest and pure. Others may have tried to teach another message in order to make money or to get a reputation, but Paul is motivated by a desire to share God’s love. Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:13b When we brought you God’s message, you heard it and accepted it, not as a message from human beings but as God’s message, which indeed it is. For God is at work in you who believe. Today’s Reading 1 Our friends, you yourselves know that our visit to you was not a failure. 2 You know how we had already been mistreated and insulted in Philippi before we came to you in Thessalonica. And even though there was much opposition, our God gave us courage to tell you the Good News that comes from him. 3 Our appeal to you is not based on error or impure motives, nor do we try to trick anyone. 4 Instead, we always speak as God wants us to, because he has judged us worthy to be entrusted with the Good News. We do not try to please people, but to please God, who tests our motives. 5 You know very well that we did not come to you with flattering talk, nor did we use words to cover up greed—God is our witness! 6 We did not try to get praise from anyone, either from you or from others, 7 even though as apostles of Christ we could have made demands on you. But we were gentle when we were with you, like a mother taking care of her children. 8 Because of our love for you we were ready to share with you not only the Good News from God but even our own lives. You were so dear to us! 9 Surely you remember, our friends, how we worked and toiled! We worked day and night so that we would not be any trouble to you as we preached to you the Good News from God. 10 You are our witnesses, and so is God, that our conduct toward you who believe was pure, right, and without fault. 11 You know that we treated each one of you just as parents treat their own children. 12 We encouraged you, we comforted you, and we kept urging you to live the kind of life that pleases God, who calls you to share in his own Kingdom and glory. 13 And there is another reason why we always give thanks to God. When we brought you God's message, you heard it and accepted it, not as a message from human beings but as God's message, which indeed it is. For God is at work in you who believe. 14 Our friends, the same things happened to you that happened to the churches of God in Judea, to the people there who belong to Christ Jesus. You suffered the same persecutions from your own people that they suffered from the Jews, 15 who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and persecuted us. How displeasing they are to God! How hostile they are to everyone! 16 They even tried to stop us from preaching to the Gentiles the message that would bring them salvation. In this way they have brought to completion all the sins they have always committed. And now God's anger has at last come down on them! Reflect When the Thessalonians listened to Paul’s teachings and began to follow Jesus, others in the community made trouble for them (see Acts 17:5). What kinds of troubles do Christians in other countries face today? How can Christians in the United States support them? Pray Holy God, Christians in many parts of the world face serious persecution for their faith. Grant your faithful followers peace and mercy, and empower Christians here to advocate for religious freedom. Amen. Prayer Concern Christians facing government persecution Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 14, 2011 Author Members Posted August 14, 2011 August 14, 2011 1 Thessalonians 2:17—3:13 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Thessalonians 2:17—3:13: Paul writes that he hopes to visit the church in Thessalonica again. He is inspired and encouraged by the faith of its followers. Paul prays that the love of the church will help the people’s love of God to grow. Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:12a May the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow more and more. Today’s Reading 17 As for us, friends, when we were separated from you for a little while—not in our thoughts, of course, but only in body—how we missed you and how hard we tried to see you again! 18 We wanted to return to you. I myself tried to go back more than once, but Satan would not let us. 19 After all, it is you—you, no less than others!—who are our hope, our joy, and our reason for boasting of our victory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes. 20 Indeed, you are our pride and our joy! 1 Finally, we could not bear it any longer. So we decided to stay on alone in Athens 2 while we sent Timothy, our brother who works with us for God in preaching the Good News about Christ. We sent him to strengthen you and help your faith, 3 so that none of you should turn back because of these persecutions. You yourselves know that such persecutions are part of God's will for us. 4 For while we were still with you, we told you ahead of time that we were going to be persecuted; and as you well know, that is exactly what happened. 5 That is why I had to send Timothy. I could not bear it any longer, so I sent him to find out about your faith. Surely it could not be that the Devil had tempted you and all our work had been for nothing! 6 Now Timothy has come back, and he has brought us the welcome news about your faith and love. He has told us that you always think well of us and that you want to see us just as much as we want to see you. 7 So, in all our trouble and suffering we have been encouraged about you, friends. It was your faith that encouraged us, 8 because now we really live if you stand firm in your life in union with the Lord. 9 Now we can give thanks to our God for you. We thank him for the joy we have in his presence because of you. 10 Day and night we ask him with all our heart to let us see you personally and supply what is needed in your faith. 11 May our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus prepare the way for us to come to you! 12 May the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow more and more and become as great as our love for you. 13 In this way he will strengthen you, and you will be perfect and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all who belong to him. Reflect The author of Acts reports that Paul went to Athens after Jewish leaders caused trouble for him in Thessalonica and Berea (Acts 17:5-34). This may be the trouble that kept Paul from visiting again. Have you ever been separated from a faith community that was important to you? What happened? How did it make you feel? How did you find strength during that time? Why are faith communities important? Pray God of community, in times when I am separated from those who provide me with spiritual support, strengthen my faith, that the love they have shown me in the past may sustain me in the present. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are away from their church homes Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 15, 2011 Author Members Posted August 15, 2011 August 15, 2011 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18: Paul reminds the Thessalonians that God wants them to be holy, which means treating one another with respect. He asks the community to love one another more than ever, and to always be mindful of their actions. He also describes new life in God’s realm. Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:7 God did not call us to live in immorality, but in holiness. Today’s Reading 1 Finally, our friends, you learned from us how you should live in order to please God. This is, of course, the way you have been living. And now we beg and urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to do even more. 2 For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. 3 God wants you to be holy and completely free from sexual immorality. 4 Each of you should know how to live with your wife in a holy and honorable way, 5 not with a lustful desire, like the heathen who do not know God. 6 In this matter, then, none of you should do wrong to other Christians or take advantage of them. We have told you this before, and we strongly warned you that the Lord will punish those who do that. 7 God did not call us to live in immorality, but in holiness. 8 So then, whoever rejects this teaching is not rejecting a human being, but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. 9 There is no need to write you about love for each other. You yourselves have been taught by God how you should love one another. 10 And you have, in fact, behaved like this toward all the believers in all of Macedonia. So we beg you, our friends, to do even more. 11 Make it your aim to live a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to earn your own living, just as we told you before. 12 In this way you will win the respect of those who are not believers, and you will not have to depend on anyone for what you need. 13 Our friends, we want you to know the truth about those who have died, so that you will not be sad, as are those who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will take back with Jesus those who have died believing in him. 15 What we are teaching you now is the Lord's teaching: we who are alive on the day the Lord comes will not go ahead of those who have died. 16 There will be the shout of command, the archangel's voice, the sound of God's trumpet, and the Lord himself will come down from heaven. Those who have died believing in Christ will rise to life first; 17 then we who are living at that time will be gathered up along with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord. 18 So then, encourage one another with these words. Reflect Paul describes the coming of Christ in the same way that others throughout the Greek-speaking world described a great event, such as when a king made a formal appearance before his people. Why did Paul use this kind of language? How do you imagine the coming of Christ? Pray Lord Jesus Christ, you promise to complete your claim on all people in your time. As we wait for you, help us to work here and now to bring your kingdom and your will on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who work to eliminate poverty Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 18, 2011 Author Members Posted August 18, 2011 August 16, 2011 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28: Many biblical writers reflected on how the present times would end and human plans would be replaced by God’s purposes. In today’s passage, Paul’s description of how the Thessalonians should live fits into a vision of God’s purposes for all people. Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May the God who gives us peace make you holy in every way and keep your whole being – spirit, soul, and body – from every fault at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today’s Reading 1 There is no need to write you, friends, about the times and occasions when these things will happen. 2 For you yourselves know very well that the Day of the Lord will come as a thief comes at night. 3 When people say, “Everything is quiet and safe,” then suddenly destruction will hit them! It will come as suddenly as the pains that come upon a woman in labor, and people will not escape. 4 But you, friends, are not in the darkness, and the Day should not take you by surprise like a thief. 5 All of you are people who belong to the light, who belong to the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 6 So then, we should not be sleeping like the others; we should be awake and sober. 7 It is at night when people sleep; it is at night when they get drunk. 8 But we belong to the day, and we should be sober. We must wear faith and love as a breastplate, and our hope of salvation as a helmet. 9 God did not choose us to suffer his anger, but to possess salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us in order that we might live together with him, whether we are alive or dead when he comes. 11 And so encourage one another and help one another, just as you are now doing. 12 We beg you, our friends, to pay proper respect to those who work among you, who guide and instruct you in the Christian life. 13 Treat them with the greatest respect and love because of the work they do. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 We urge you, our friends, to warn the idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 See that no one pays back wrong for wrong, but at all times make it your aim to do good to one another and to all people. 16 Be joyful always, 17 pray at all times, 18 be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from you in your life in union with Christ Jesus. 19 Do not restrain the Holy Spirit; 20 do not despise inspired messages. 21 Put all things to the test: keep what is good 22 and avoid every kind of evil. 23 May the God who gives us peace make you holy in every way and keep your whole being—spirit, soul, and body—free from every fault at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you will do it, because he is faithful. 25 Pray also for us, friends. 26 Greet all the believers with the kiss of peace. 27 I urge you by the authority of the Lord to read this letter to all the believers. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Reflect How does Paul suggest the Thessalonian Christians live in preparation for Christ’s return? How should they live before Christ’s return? Are the two different? What part of his instructions would be most challenging for you? Pray God of every time and place, embolden me to live as though your kingdom is right here, right now. Show me the way to respect and love all people, encouraging those who need it and having patience with everyone. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who work to resolve conflicts Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 18, 2011 Author Members Posted August 18, 2011 August 17, 2011 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12: This letter was probably written shortly after 1 Thessalonians. Paul greets the Thessalonians and tells them he is pleased with their faith and love, which has grown in spite of their suffering. He says God is using this suffering to get them ready for Christ’s return. Today’s Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 1:11b We ask our God to make you worthy of the life he has called you to live. May he fulfill by his power all your desire for goodness and complete your work of faith. Today’s Reading 1 From Paul, Silas, and Timothy— To the people of the church in Thessalonica, who belong to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: 2 May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. 3 Our friends, we must thank God at all times for you. It is right for us to do so, because your faith is growing so much and the love each of you has for the others is becoming greater. 4 That is why we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God. We boast about the way you continue to endure and believe through all the persecutions and sufferings you are experiencing. 5 All of this proves that God's judgment is just and as a result you will become worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. 6 God will do what is right: he will bring suffering on those who make you suffer, 7 and he will give relief to you who suffer and to us as well. He will do this when the Lord Jesus appears from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 with a flaming fire, to punish those who reject God and who do not obey the Good News about our Lord Jesus. 9 They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and from his glorious might, 10 when he comes on that Day to receive glory from all his people and honor from all who believe. You too will be among them, because you have believed the message that we told you. 11 That is why we always pray for you. We ask our God to make you worthy of the life he has called you to live. May he fulfill by his power all your desire for goodness and complete your work of faith. 12 In this way the name of our Lord Jesus will receive glory from you, and you from him, by the grace of our God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. Reflect Some members of the Thessalonian church were upset because people were saying that Christ had already come back again and that they had missed out on this event. The purpose of this letter was to reassure them that they would recognize Christ’s return and to encourage them to keep working for the glory of God. Do you ever find yourself wondering if you somehow missed God’s call? How can you reconnect with the Holy Spirit in your life? Pray Redeemer God, there are times when I feel out of touch with your call on my life. Keep me tuned in to your will, that I may live in your Spirit each and every day. Amen. Prayer Concern Those seeking God’s presence in their lives Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 19, 2011 Author Members Posted August 19, 2011 August 18, 2011 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17: In Jesus’ time, evil was described as the realm of “the Wicked One” (2:3). Paul says that forces of evil will claim to be God, opposing all things that demonstrate the goodness of God. Today’s Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and in his grace gave us unfailing courage and a firm hope, encourage you and strengthen you to always do and say what is good. Today’s Reading 1 Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to be with him: I beg you, my friends, 2 not to be so easily confused in your thinking or upset by the claim that the Day of the Lord has come. Perhaps it is thought that we said this while prophesying or preaching, or that we wrote it in a letter. 3 Do not let anyone deceive you in any way. For the Day will not come until the final Rebellion takes place and the Wicked One appears, who is destined to hell. 4 He will oppose every so-called god or object of worship and will put himself above them all. He will even go in and sit down in God's Temple and claim to be God. 5 Don't you remember? I told you all this while I was with you. 6 Yet there is something that keeps this from happening now, and you know what it is. At the proper time, then, the Wicked One will appear. 7 The Mysterious Wickedness is already at work, but what is going to happen will not happen until the one who holds it back is taken out of the way. 8 Then the Wicked One will be revealed, but when the Lord Jesus comes, he will kill him with the breath from his mouth and destroy him with his dazzling presence. 9 The Wicked One will come with the power of Satan and perform all kinds of false miracles and wonders, 10 and use every kind of wicked deceit on those who will perish. They will perish because they did not welcome and love the truth so as to be saved. 11 And so God sends the power of error to work in them so that they believe what is false. 12 The result is that all who have not believed the truth, but have taken pleasure in sin, will be condemned. 13 We must thank God at all times for you, friends, you whom the Lord loves. For God chose you as the first to be saved by the Spirit's power to make you his holy people and by your faith in the truth. 14 God called you to this through the Good News we preached to you; he called you to possess your share of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, our friends, stand firm and hold on to those truths which we taught you, both in our preaching and in our letter. 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and in his grace gave us unfailing courage and a firm hope, 17 encourage you and strengthen you to always do and say what is good. Reflect When people think of “the Wicked One,” they often imagine a devilish figure with horns and a pitchfork. What larger understanding does the concept of “the Wicked One” represent? How do you define evil? How do you see evil in the world today? Have you experienced God’s love overcoming evil? Pray Sovereign God, we see evil made manifest in many ways: in war, in environmental degradation, in greed, and in all things that violate the integrity of your creation and your creatures. Forgive me when I participate in evil systems. Help me find new ways to live. Amen. Prayer Concern Environmental justice Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 19, 2011 Author Members Posted August 19, 2011 August 19, 2011 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18: Paul asks the Thessalonians to pray that he and his companions may be kept safe from evil people. In turn he prays that God will continue to make them loving and patient. Finally, he warns them to stay away from people who do not work, and people who refuse to obey his instructions. Today’s Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 3:5 May the Lord lead you into a greater understanding of God’s love and the endurance that is given by Christ. Today’s Reading 1 Finally, our friends, pray for us that the Lord's message may continue to spread rapidly and be received with honor, just as it was among you. 2 Pray also that God will rescue us from wicked and evil people; for not everyone believes the message. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and keep you safe from the Evil One. 4 And the Lord gives us confidence in you, and we are sure that you are doing and will continue to do what we tell you. 5 May the Lord lead you into a greater understanding of God's love and the endurance that is given by Christ. 6 Our friends, we command you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to keep away from all believers who are living a lazy life and who do not follow the instructions that we gave them. 7 You yourselves know very well that you should do just what we did. We were not lazy when we were with you. 8 We did not accept anyone's support without paying for it. Instead, we worked and toiled; we kept working day and night so as not to be an expense to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to demand our support; we did it to be an example for you to follow. 10 While we were with you, we used to tell you, “Whoever refuses to work is not allowed to eat.” 11 We say this because we hear that there are some people among you who live lazy lives and who do nothing except meddle in other people's business. 12 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ we command these people and warn them to lead orderly lives and work to earn their own living. 13 But you, friends, must not become tired of doing good. 14 It may be that some there will not obey the message we send you in this letter. If so, take note of them and have nothing to do with them, so that they will be ashamed. 15 But do not treat them as enemies; instead, warn them as believers. 16 May the Lord himself, who is our source of peace, give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all. 17 With my own hand I write this: Greetings from Paul This is the way I sign every letter; this is how I write. 18 May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Reflect What advice does Paul have for the Thessalonians as they wait for Christ’s return? What are some of the hazards of laziness? What can you do to avoid becoming “tired of doing good” (3:13)? Pray Lord God, there are days when I am bored or frustrated by my work. Sometimes I would rather not work at all. Renew my energy and remind me of the ways in which my work can bring about your goodness in this world, that I may be an agent of your peace for all people. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who struggle at work Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 20, 2011 Author Members Posted August 20, 2011 August 20, 2011 1 Timothy 1:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Timothy 1:1-20: In this first letter to Timothy, general instructions are given for life in the church, which include giving thanks and staying away from false teachings. The false teachings mentioned here might have been myths about Greek and Roman gods and goddesses. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 1:15a This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Today’s Reading 1 From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by order of God our Savior and Christ Jesus our hope— 2 To Timothy, my true son in the faith: May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace. 3 I want you to stay in Ephesus, just as I urged you when I was on my way to Macedonia. Some people there are teaching false doctrines, and you must order them to stop. 4 Tell them to give up those legends and those long lists of ancestors, which only produce arguments; they do not serve God's plan, which is known by faith. 5 The purpose of this order is to arouse the love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a genuine faith. 6 Some people have turned away from these and have lost their way in foolish discussions. 7 They want to be teachers of God's law, but they do not understand their own words or the matters about which they speak with so much confidence. 8 We know that the Law is good if it is used as it should be used. 9 It must be remembered, of course, that laws are made, not for good people, but for lawbreakers and criminals, for the godless and sinful, for those who are not religious or spiritual, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, 10 for the immoral, for sexual perverts, for kidnappers, for those who lie and give false testimony or who do anything else contrary to sound doctrine. 11 That teaching is found in the gospel that was entrusted to me to announce, the Good News from the glorious and blessed God. 12 I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength for my work. I thank him for considering me worthy and appointing me to serve him, 13 even though in the past I spoke evil of him and persecuted and insulted him. But God was merciful to me because I did not yet have faith and so did not know what I was doing. 14 And our Lord poured out his abundant grace on me and gave me the faith and love which are ours in union with Christ Jesus. 15 This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. I am the worst of them, 16 but God was merciful to me in order that Christ Jesus might show his full patience in dealing with me, the worst of sinners, as an example for all those who would later believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 To the eternal King, immortal and invisible, the only God—to him be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen. 18 Timothy, my child, I entrust to you this command, which is in accordance with the words of prophecy spoken in the past about you. Use those words as weapons in order to fight well, 19 and keep your faith and a clear conscience. Some people have not listened to their conscience and have made a ruin of their faith. 20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have punished by handing them over to the power of Satan; this will teach them to stop their blasphemy. Reflect How is the relationship between Paul and Timothy described? What advice is given to Timothy? How can sharing faith strengthen a relationship? Who has served as a mentor in faith for you? Pray Lord God, you are our great teacher and guide, and you provide wonderful people along life’s path to offer wisdom and guidance. Help me recognize your teachers and mentors, that I may open myself to their wisdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Mentors Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 21, 2011 Author Members Posted August 21, 2011 August 21, 2011 1 Timothy 2:1-15 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Timothy 2:1-15: Instructions are offered on how and for whom to pray, including praying for kings and others in power because it was important for Christians to show respect to authorities so that they could avoid trouble. Also prescribed are restrictions on women’s dress and freedom of expression. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:5, 6a For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Jesus Christ, who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. Today’s Reading 1 First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, requests, and thanksgivings be offered to God for all people; 2 for kings and all others who are in authority, that we may live a quiet and peaceful life with all reverence toward God and with proper conduct. 3 This is good and it pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth. 5 For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. That was the proof at the right time that God wants everyone to be saved, 7 and that is why I was sent as an apostle and teacher of the Gentiles, to proclaim the message of faith and truth. I am not lying; I am telling the truth! 8 In every church service I want the men to pray, men who are dedicated to God and can lift up their hands in prayer without anger or argument. 9 I also want the women to be modest and sensible about their clothes and to dress properly; not with fancy hair styles or with gold ornaments or pearls or expensive dresses, 10 but with good deeds, as is proper for women who claim to be religious. 11 Women should learn in silence and all humility. 12 I do not allow them to teach or to have authority over men; they must keep quiet. 13 For Adam was created first, and then Eve. 14 And it was not Adam who was deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and broke God's law. 15 But a woman will be saved through having children, if she perseveres in faith and love and holiness, with modesty. Reflect What is your prayer for those “who are in authority”? How do you interpret what is stated in verses 8-15? How do you understand these verses in light of Paul’s claim that “there is no difference…between men and women; you are all one in union with Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28) and that “anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17)? Pray Gracious God, in Christ our human hierarchies are flattened as we become new creations through you. Empower me to work for justice and equality for all people, that we may experience Christ’s love anew in our world. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of sexual harassment Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 22, 2011 Author Members Posted August 22, 2011 August 22, 2011 1 Timothy 3:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Timothy 3:1-16: Today’s reading offers explicit instructions for “church leaders” (3:1), known also as bishops. In the early church, a bishop was the chief leader of a local congregation. The passage also gives instructions for “church helpers” (3:8) also known as deacons. They had the task of serving people and taking care of their needs. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 3:13 Those helpers who do their work well win for themselves a good standing and are able to speak boldly about their faith in Christ Jesus. Today’s Reading 1 This is a true saying: If a man is eager to be a church leader, he desires an excellent work. 2 A church leader must be without fault; he must have only one wife, be sober, self-controlled, and orderly; he must welcome strangers in his home; he must be able to teach; 3 he must not be a drunkard or a violent man, but gentle and peaceful; he must not love money; 4 he must be able to manage his own family well and make his children obey him with all respect. 5 For if a man does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of the church of God? 6 He must be mature in the faith, so that he will not swell up with pride and be condemned, as the Devil was. 7 He should be a man who is respected by the people outside the church, so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the Devil's trap. 8 Church helpers must also have a good character and be sincere; they must not drink too much wine or be greedy for money; 9 they should hold to the revealed truth of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They should be tested first, and then, if they pass the test, they are to serve. 11 Their wives also must be of good character and must not gossip; they must be sober and honest in everything. 12 A church helper must have only one wife, and be able to manage his children and family well. 13 Those helpers who do their work well win for themselves a good standing and are able to speak boldly about their faith in Christ Jesus. 14 As I write this letter to you, I hope to come and see you soon. 15 But if I delay, this letter will let you know how we should conduct ourselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. 16 No one can deny how great is the secret of our religion: He appeared in human form, was shown to be right by the Spirit, and was seen by angels. He was preached among the nations, was believed in throughout the world, and was taken up to heaven. Reflect According to this passage, what kinds of people should be leaders in the church? What instructions are given to church leaders? Which instructions might still be useful today? Are there any that no longer seem relevant? Think of strong church leaders that you know. What makes them strong leaders? Pray Holy God, bless and care for the leaders of your church. Equip them with integrity, good sense, wisdom, boldness, courage and love, that they may help the church become a reflection of your realm. Amen. Prayer Concern Church leaders Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 24, 2011 Author Members Posted August 24, 2011 August 23, 2011 1 Timothy 4:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Timothy 4:1-16: Today’s passage includes warnings about false teachings, along with personal advice to Timothy. Timothy is told not to let anyone undermine him because of his youth and to continue sharing his gifts by reading Scripture, preaching and teaching. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:12b Be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith, and purity. Today’s Reading 1 The Spirit says clearly that some people will abandon the faith in later times; they will obey lying spirits and follow the teachings of demons. 2 Such teachings are spread by deceitful liars, whose consciences are dead, as if burnt with a hot iron. 3 Such people teach that it is wrong to marry and to eat certain foods. But God created those foods to be eaten, after a prayer of thanks, by those who are believers and have come to know the truth. 4 Everything that God has created is good; nothing is to be rejected, but everything is to be received with a prayer of thanks, 5 because the word of God and the prayer make it acceptable to God. 6 If you give these instructions to the believers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, as you feed yourself spiritually on the words of faith and of the true teaching which you have followed. 7 But keep away from those godless legends, which are not worth telling. Keep yourself in training for a godly life. 8 Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is valuable in every way, because it promises life both for the present and for the future. 9 This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed. 10 We struggle and work hard, because we have placed our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all and especially of those who believe. 11 Give them these instructions and these teachings. 12 Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith, and purity. 13 Until I come, give your time and effort to the public reading of the Scriptures and to preaching and teaching. 14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift that is in you, which was given to you when the prophets spoke and the elders laid their hands on you. 15 Practice these things and devote yourself to them, in order that your progress may be seen by all. 16 Watch yourself and watch your teaching. Keep on doing these things, because if you do, you will save both yourself and those who hear you. Reflect Timothy was probably younger than other church leaders of his time. What advice does he receive that could help him be a respected leader despite his youth? How are younger leaders treated in the church today? How do you respond to young church leaders? How can the church embrace new styles of leadership from young people? Pray God of Grace, at the height of his ministry, Jesus was a young man. May his example remind the church that young people are particularly gifted to share your word. Lift them up and empower them. Amen. Prayer Concern Young clergy Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 24, 2011 Author Members Posted August 24, 2011 August 24, 2011 1 Timothy 5:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Timothy 5:1-25: Timothy is given further advice on how to treat others. Widows are to be cared for. However, particular restrictions are given concerning who should be treated as a widow. Once a widow is placed on the list of widows, the expectation is that her life is marked by the performance of good deeds. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 5:25b Good deeds are plainly seen, and even those that are not so plain cannot be hidden. Today’s Reading 1 Do not rebuke an older man, but appeal to him as if he were your father. Treat the younger men as your brothers, 2 the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, with all purity. 3 Show respect for widows who really are all alone. 4 But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn first to carry out their religious duties toward their own family and in this way repay their parents and grandparents, because that is what pleases God. 5 A widow who is all alone, with no one to take care of her, has placed her hope in God and continues to pray and ask him for his help night and day. 6 But a widow who gives herself to pleasure has already died, even though she lives. 7 Give them these instructions, so that no one will find fault with them. 8 But if any do not take care of their relatives, especially the members of their own family, they have denied the faith and are worse than an unbeliever. 9 Do not add any widow to the list of widows unless she is over sixty years of age. In addition, she must have been married only once 10 and have a reputation for good deeds: a woman who brought up her children well, received strangers in her home, performed humble duties for other Christians, helped people in trouble, and devoted herself to doing good. 11 But do not include younger widows in the list; because when their desires make them want to marry, they turn away from Christ, 12 and so become guilty of breaking their earlier promise to him. 13 They also learn to waste their time in going around from house to house; but even worse, they learn to be gossips and busybodies, talking of things they should not. 14 So I would prefer that the younger widows get married, have children, and take care of their homes, so as to give our enemies no chance of speaking evil of us. 15 For some widows have already turned away to follow Satan. 16 But if any Christian woman has widows in her family, she must take care of them and not put the burden on the church, so that it may take care of the widows who are all alone. 17 The elders who do good work as leaders should be considered worthy of receiving double pay, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18 For the scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox when you are using it to thresh grain” and “Workers should be given their pay.” 19 Do not listen to an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or more witnesses. 20 Rebuke publicly all those who commit sins, so that the rest may be afraid. 21 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the holy angels I solemnly call upon you to obey these instructions without showing any prejudice or favor to anyone in anything you do. 22 Be in no hurry to lay hands on people to dedicate them to the Lord's service. Take no part in the sins of others; keep yourself pure. 23 Do not drink water only, but take a little wine to help your digestion, since you are sick so often. 24 The sins of some people are plain to see, and their sins go ahead of them to judgment; but the sins of others are seen only later. 25 In the same way good deeds are plainly seen, and even those that are not so plain cannot be hidden. Reflect The term “widow” in this passage referred to a woman devoted to ministry who was not dependent on a male relative or other family members. What are your thoughts concerning what is stated about widows in verses 3-16? What roles do women play in the church today? How does the church support or not support women? Pray Creator God, bless the ministries of women in the church. Empower them to use their particular gifts in ways that enhance and grow your kingdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Women in ministry Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 25, 2011 Author Members Posted August 25, 2011 August 25, 2011 1 Timothy 6:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 1 Timothy 6:1-21: This passage discusses the richness that faith brings to life—not monetary riches, but rather spiritual fulfillment. Warnings are given against the temptation of desire for wealth and the danger of trusting in wealth rather than in God. Sharing God’s resources generously will lay the foundation for a rich future. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:10a For the love of money is a source of all kinds of evil. Today’s Reading 1 Those who are slaves must consider their masters worthy of all respect, so that no one will speak evil of the name of God and of our teaching. 2 Slaves belonging to Christian masters must not despise them, for they are believers too. Instead, they are to serve them even better, because those who benefit from their work are believers whom they love. You must teach and preach these things. 3 Whoever teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the true words of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the teaching of our religion 4 is swollen with pride and knows nothing. He has an unhealthy desire to argue and quarrel about words, and this brings on jealousy, disputes, insults, evil suspicions, 5 and constant arguments from people whose minds do not function and who no longer have the truth. They think that religion is a way to become rich. 6 Well, religion does make us very rich, if we are satisfied with what we have. 7 What did we bring into the world? Nothing! What can we take out of the world? Nothing! 8 So then, if we have food and clothes, that should be enough for us. 9 But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and are caught in the trap of many foolish and harmful desires, which pull them down to ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a source of all kinds of evil. Some have been so eager to have it that they have wandered away from the faith and have broken their hearts with many sorrows. 11 But you, man of God, avoid all these things. Strive for righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 12 Run your best in the race of faith, and win eternal life for yourself; for it was to this life that God called you when you firmly professed your faith before many witnesses. 13 Before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who firmly professed his faith before Pontius Pilate, I command you 14 to obey your orders and keep them faithfully until the Day when our Lord Jesus Christ will appear. 15 His appearing will be brought about at the right time by God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. 16 He alone is immortal; he lives in the light that no one can approach. No one has ever seen him; no one can ever see him. To him be honor and eternal power! Amen. 17 Command those who are rich in the things of this life not to be proud, but to place their hope, not in such an uncertain thing as riches, but in God, who generously gives us everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share with others. 19 In this way they will store up for themselves a treasure which will be a solid foundation for the future. And then they will be able to win the life which is true life. 20 Timothy, keep safe what has been entrusted to your care. Avoid the profane talk and foolish arguments of what some people wrongly call “Knowledge.” 21 For some have claimed to possess it, and as a result they have lost the way of faith. God's grace be with you all. Reflect Some false teachers wanted to make lots of money by teaching religion. But this passage states that being part of the church isn’t about wealth, and that those who love money cause trouble. What do you think it means to love money? Is having money inherently bad? How can money get in the way faithful living? How can wealth be used in positive ways to serve God? Pray Generous God, all we have is yours. I want to use your resources wisely, but sometimes my mind is clouded with my own desires. Open my eyes to the ways in which I can use the resources in my care to serve your people. Amen. Prayer Concern Non-profit organizations Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 27, 2011 Author Members Posted August 27, 2011 August 26, 2011 2 Timothy 1:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Timothy 1:1-18: Timothy is encouraged to speak out for the Lord, no matter what happens, and Paul’s life is described as a model for Timothy to follow. Today’s Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit that God has given us does not make us timid; instead, his Spirit fills us with power, love, and self-control. Today’s Reading 1 From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God's will, sent to proclaim the promised life which we have in union with Christ Jesus— 2 To Timothy, my dear son: May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace. 3 I give thanks to God, whom I serve with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did. I thank him as I remember you always in my prayers night and day. 4 I remember your tears, and I want to see you very much, so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I remember the sincere faith you have, the kind of faith that your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice also had. I am sure that you have it also. 6 For this reason I remind you to keep alive the gift that God gave you when I laid my hands on you. 7 For the Spirit that God has given us does not make us timid; instead, his Spirit fills us with power, love, and self-control. 8 Do not be ashamed, then, of witnessing for our Lord; neither be ashamed of me, a prisoner for Christ's sake. Instead, take your part in suffering for the Good News, as God gives you the strength for it. 9 He saved us and called us to be his own people, not because of what we have done, but because of his own purpose and grace. He gave us this grace by means of Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but now it has been revealed to us through the coming of our Savior, Christ Jesus. He has ended the power of death and through the gospel has revealed immortal life. 11 God has appointed me as an apostle and teacher to proclaim the Good News, 12 and it is for this reason that I suffer these things. But I am still full of confidence, because I know whom I have trusted, and I am sure that he is able to keep safe until that Day what he has entrusted to me. 13 Hold firmly to the true words that I taught you, as the example for you to follow, and remain in the faith and love that are ours in union with Christ Jesus. 14 Through the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives in us, keep the good things that have been entrusted to you. 15 You know that everyone in the province of Asia, including Phygelus and Hermogenes, has deserted me. 16 May the Lord show mercy to the family of Onesiphorus, because he cheered me up many times. He was not ashamed that I am in prison, 17 but as soon as he arrived in Rome, he started looking for me until he found me. 18 May the Lord grant him his mercy on that Day! And you know very well how much he did for me in Ephesus. Reflect In the provinces where Paul and Timothy were preaching, the Roman authorities were arresting people who worshiped Jesus. Some Roman emperors insisted on being worshiped by their subjects. Titles they gave themselves included “son of god,” “lord,” and “savior.” Most Jews and followers of Christ would have refused to worship these emperors, making them targets for arrest. How might this have impacted Timothy’s ministry? Pray Lord God, Creator of all, empower me to share the light of Jesus Christ with others. Give me courage and strength to live your promise of peace, love and justice. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who need encouragement in faith Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 27, 2011 Author Members Posted August 27, 2011 August 27, 2011 2 Timothy 2:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Timothy 2:1-26: Timothy’s ministry is compared to that of a soldier: enduring suffering, staying focused on the task at hand, and obeying his leader. Timothy is encouraged to keep his mind on Christ, and he is reminded that, even though Paul was locked in jail, the good news of Jesus Christ is free and available for all to hear. Today’s Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:1a Be strong through the grace that is ours in union with Christ Jesus. Today’s Reading 1 As for you, my son, be strong through the grace that is ours in union with Christ Jesus. 2 Take the teachings that you heard me proclaim in the presence of many witnesses, and entrust them to reliable people, who will be able to teach others also. 3 Take your part in suffering, as a loyal soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 A soldier on active duty wants to please his commanding officer and so does not get mixed up in the affairs of civilian life. 5 An athlete who runs in a race cannot win the prize unless he obeys the rules. 6 The farmer who has done the hard work should have the first share of the harvest. 7 Think about what I am saying, because the Lord will enable you to understand it all. 8 Remember Jesus Christ, who was raised from death, who was a descendant of David, as is taught in the Good News I preach. 9 Because I preach the Good News, I suffer and I am even chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not in chains, 10 and so I endure everything for the sake of God's chosen people, in order that they too may obtain the salvation that comes through Christ Jesus and brings eternal glory. 11 This is a true saying: “If we have died with him, we shall also live with him. 12 If we continue to endure, we shall also rule with him. If we deny him, he also will deny us. 13 If we are not faithful, he remains faithful, because he cannot be false to himself.” 14 Remind your people of this, and give them a solemn warning in God's presence not to fight over words. It does no good, but only ruins the people who listen. 15 Do your best to win full approval in God's sight, as a worker who is not ashamed of his work, one who correctly teaches the message of God's truth. 16 Keep away from profane and foolish discussions, which only drive people farther away from God. 17 Such teaching is like an open sore that eats away the flesh. Two men who have taught such things are Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the way of truth and are upsetting the faith of some believers by saying that our resurrection has already taken place. 19 But the solid foundation that God has laid cannot be shaken; and on it are written these words: “The Lord knows those who are his” and “Those who say that they belong to the Lord must turn away from wrongdoing.” 20 In a large house there are dishes and bowls of all kinds: some are made of silver and gold, others of wood and clay; some are for special occasions, others for ordinary use. 21 Those who make themselves clean from all those evil things, will be used for special purposes, because they are dedicated and useful to their Master, ready to be used for every good deed. 22 Avoid the passions of youth, and strive for righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who with a pure heart call out to the Lord for help. 23 But keep away from foolish and ignorant arguments; you know that they end up in quarrels. 24 As the Lord's servant, you must not quarrel. You must be kind toward all, a good and patient teacher, 25 who is gentle as you correct your opponents, for it may be that God will give them the opportunity to repent and come to know the truth. 26 And then they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the Devil, who had caught them and made them obey his will. Reflect In verses 3-7, three types of people are described as hard workers. What qualities do these different types of people have that Timothy is to imitate? Which type of person do you think best depicts the life of a Christian? Why? Pray Dear God, as a soldier in faith, embolden me to stand for justice. As an athlete in faith, give me the endurance to stay strong in your will. As a farmer in faith, equip me to plant seeds of love and truth. In your name, amen. Prayer Concern Those serving in the armed forces Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 28, 2011 Author Members Posted August 28, 2011 August 28, 2011 2 Timothy 3:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Timothy 3:1-17: This passage warns Timothy that some of Christ’s followers will be fooled by evil teachers who will be disobedient, sneaky and reckless. In the end, their foolishness will be overcome by God’s truth. Timothy is encouraged to be faithful to what he has been taught, remembering that everything in Scripture is useful for helping people know how to live. Today’s Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living. Today’s Reading 1 Remember that there will be difficult times in the last days. 2 People will be selfish, greedy, boastful, and conceited; they will be insulting, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, and irreligious; 3 they will be unkind, merciless, slanderers, violent, and fierce; they will hate the good; 4 they will be treacherous, reckless, and swollen with pride; they will love pleasure rather than God; 5 they will hold to the outward form of our religion, but reject its real power. Keep away from such people. 6 Some of them go into people's houses and gain control over weak women who are burdened by the guilt of their sins and driven by all kinds of desires, 7 women who are always trying to learn but who can never come to know the truth. 8 As Jannes and Jambres were opposed to Moses, so also these people are opposed to the truth—people whose minds do not function and who are failures in the faith. 9 But they will not get very far, because everyone will see how stupid they are. That is just what happened to Jannes and Jambres. 10 But you have followed my teaching, my conduct, and my purpose in life; you have observed my faith, my patience, my love, my endurance, 11 my persecutions, and my sufferings. You know all that happened to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, the terrible persecutions I endured! But the Lord rescued me from them all. 12 Everyone who wants to live a godly life in union with Christ Jesus will be persecuted; 13 and evil persons and impostors will keep on going from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived themselves. 14 But as for you, continue in the truths that you were taught and firmly believe. You know who your teachers were, 15 and you remember that ever since you were a child, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, 17 so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed. Reflect In verses 1-5, Timothy is given a brief description of how difficult the “last days” will be. According to these verses, what will people be like at that time? How are the behavior and thoughts of the people described here different from the kinds of behavior and thoughts Christians are to practice? Pray Holy God, thank you for the gift of your Scriptures. Help me to read them carefully and interpret them wisely, that I may find the timeless truths in your ancient words. Amen. Prayer Concern Bible study groups Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 29, 2011 Author Members Posted August 29, 2011 August 29, 2011 2 Timothy 4:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction 2 Timothy 4:1-22: Timothy is told to preach the Good News, even in the face of opposition. He is given advice on correcting people graciously, while also acknowledging that some will reject his guidance. Since the followers of Christ will be tempted to turn from the truth, they need to remain faithful and to be willing to endure suffering. Today’s Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:5 You must keep control of yourself in all circumstances; endure suffering, do the work of a preacher of the Good News, and perform your whole duty as a servant of God. Today’s Reading 1 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and because he is coming to rule as King, I solemnly urge you 2 to preach the message, to insist upon proclaiming it (whether the time is right or not), to convince, reproach, and encourage, as you teach with all patience. 3 The time will come when people will not listen to sound doctrine, but will follow their own desires and will collect for themselves more and more teachers who will tell them what they are itching to hear. 4 They will turn away from listening to the truth and give their attention to legends. 5 But you must keep control of yourself in all circumstances; endure suffering, do the work of a preacher of the Good News, and perform your whole duty as a servant of God. 6 As for me, the hour has come for me to be sacrificed; the time is here for me to leave this life. 7 I have done my best in the race, I have run the full distance, and I have kept the faith. 8 And now there is waiting for me the victory prize of being put right with God, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day—and not only to me, but to all those who wait with love for him to appear. 9 Do your best to come to me soon. 10 Demas fell in love with this present world and has deserted me, going off to Thessalonica. Crescens went to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he can help me in the work. 12 I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring my coat that I left in Troas with Carpus; bring the books too, and especially the ones made of parchment. 14 Alexander the metalworker did me great harm; the Lord will reward him according to what he has done. 15 Be on your guard against him yourself, because he was violently opposed to our message. 16 No one stood by me the first time I defended myself; all deserted me. May God not count it against them! 17 But the Lord stayed with me and gave me strength, so that I was able to proclaim the full message for all the Gentiles to hear; and I was rescued from being sentenced to death. 18 And the Lord will rescue me from all evil and take me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen. 19 I send greetings to Priscilla and Aquila and to the family of Onesiphorus. 20 Erastus stayed in Corinth, and I left Trophimus in Miletus, because he was sick. 21 Do your best to come before winter. Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, and Claudia send their greetings, and so do all the other Christians. 22 The Lord be with your spirit. God's grace be with you all. Reflect In today’s passage, Timothy is exhorted to insist on proclaiming the Good News “whether the time is right or not” (4:2). Are there some times that are better than others for sharing the good news of Christ? How do you go about sharing your faith with others? When is it important to speak up in faith? When might your actions “preach” better than words? Pray Sovereign God, inspire and surround me with the wisdom of your Holy Spirit that I may discern how best to share my faith with others. Speak through my words and my actions so that others will know you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those looking for ways to share their faith Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 30, 2011 Author Members Posted August 30, 2011 August 30, 2011 Joshua 23:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction Joshua 23:1-16: Joshua has successfully led the tribes into the Promised Land, dividing up the land and creating order for the people. It is time for him to say goodbye, and he urges the people to remain faithful to the Lord. Today’s Scripture: Joshua 23:8 Be faithful to the LORD, as you have been till now. Today’s Reading 1 Much later the LORD gave Israel security from their enemies around them. By that time Joshua was very old, 2 so he called all Israel, the elders, leaders, judges, and officers of the people, and said, “I am very old now. 3 You have seen everything that the LORD your God has done to all these nations because of you. The LORD your God has been fighting for you. 4 I have assigned as the possession of your tribes the land of the nations that are still left, as well as of all the nations that I have already conquered, from the Jordan River in the east to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. 5 The LORD your God will make them retreat from you, and he will drive them away as you advance. You shall have their land, as the LORD your God has promised you. 6 So be careful to obey and do everything that is written in the book of the Law of Moses. Do not neglect any part of it, 7 and then you will not associate with these peoples left among you or speak the names of their gods or use those names in taking vows or worship those gods or bow down to them. 8 Instead, be faithful to the LORD, as you have been till now. 9 The LORD has driven great and powerful nations out as you advanced, and no one has ever been able to stand against you. 10 Any one of you can make a thousand men run away, because the LORD your God is fighting for you, just as he promised. 11 Be careful, then, to love the LORD your God. 12 If you are disloyal and join with the nations that are still left among you and intermarry with them, 13 you may be sure that the LORD your God will no longer drive these nations out as you advance. Rather, they will be as dangerous for you as a trap or a pit and as painful as a whip on your back or thorns in your eyes. And this will last until none of you are left in this good land which the LORD your God has given you. 14 Now my time has come to die. Every one of you knows in his heart and soul that the LORD your God has given you all the good things that he promised. Every promise he made has been kept; not one has failed. 15 But just as he kept every promise that he made to you, so he will carry out every threat. 16 If you do not keep the covenant which the LORD your God commanded you to keep and if you serve and worship other gods, then in his anger he will punish you, and soon none of you will be left in this good land that he has given you. ” Reflect What were the key points of Joshua’s farewell speech? What were his instructions concerning how the Israelites were to live in relationship to the other people in the land? Would Joshua’s advice work in today’s world? Why or why not? Pray Lord God, you are ever faithful. Just as you kept your promise to the Israelites to bring them into a good land, so you keep your promises to sustain your people today. Empower me to do your will in reaching out to those in need of food, shelter, and clothing. Amen. Prayer Concern Refugees Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted August 31, 2011 Author Members Posted August 31, 2011 August 31, 2011 Joshua 24:1-33 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Encourage One Another in Faith Introduction Joshua 24:1-33: Joshua addresses the tribes of Israel for the last time at Shechem. He calls for them to renew their agreement with the Lord and then sends them back to their homes. He soon dies and is buried. Today’s Scripture: Joshua 24:14a “Now then,” Joshua continued, “honor the LORD and serve him sincerely and faithfully.” Today’s Reading 1 Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel together at Shechem. He called the elders, the leaders, the judges, and the officers of Israel, and they came into the presence of God. 2 Joshua said to all the people, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, has to say: ‘Long ago your ancestors lived on the other side of the Euphrates River and worshiped other gods. One of those ancestors was Terah, the father of Abraham and Nahor. 3 Then I took Abraham, your ancestor, from the land across the Euphrates and led him through the whole land of Canaan. I gave him many descendants. I gave him Isaac, 4 and to Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau. I gave Esau the hill country of Edom as his possession, but your ancestor Jacob and his children went down to Egypt. 5 Later I sent Moses and Aaron, and I brought great trouble on Egypt. But I led you out; 6 I brought your ancestors out of Egypt, and the Egyptians pursued them with chariots and cavalry. But when your ancestors got to the Red Sea 7 they cried out to me for help, and I put darkness between them and the Egyptians. I made the sea come rolling over the Egyptians and drown them. You know what I did to Egypt. You lived in the desert a long time. 8 Then I brought you to the land of the Amorites, who lived on the east side of the Jordan. They fought you, but I gave you victory over them. You took their land, and I destroyed them as you advanced. 9 Then the king of Moab, Balak son of Zippor, fought against you. He sent word to Balaam son of Beor and asked him to put a curse on you. 10 But I would not listen to Balaam, so he blessed you, and in this way I rescued you from Balak. 11 You crossed the Jordan and came to Jericho. The men of Jericho fought you, as did the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. But I gave you victory over them all. 12 As you advanced, I threw them into panic in order to drive out the two Amorite kings. Your swords and bows had nothing to do with it. 13 I gave you a land that you had never worked and cities that you had not built. Now you are living there and eating grapes from vines that you did not plant, and olives from trees that you did not plant. ’ 14 “Now then,” Joshua continued, honor the LORD and serve him sincerely and faithfully. Get rid of the gods which your ancestors used to worship in Mesopotamia and in Egypt, and serve only the LORD. 15 If you are not willing to serve him, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your ancestors worshiped in Mesopotamia or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are now living. As for my family and me, we will serve the LORD. ” 16 The people replied, “We would never leave the LORD to serve other gods! 17 The LORD our God brought our fathers and us out of slavery in Egypt, and we saw the miracles that he performed. He kept us safe wherever we went among all the nations through which we passed. 18 As we advanced into this land, the LORD drove out all the Amorites who lived here. So we also will serve the LORD; he is our God. ” 19 Joshua said to the people, “But you may not be able to serve the LORD. He is a holy God and will not forgive your sins. He will tolerate no rivals, 20 and if you leave him to serve foreign gods, he will turn against you and punish you. He will destroy you, even though he was good to you before. ” 21 The people said to Joshua, “No! We will serve the LORD. ” 22 Joshua told them, “You are your own witnesses to the fact that you have chosen to serve the LORD. ” “Yes,” they said, “we are witnesses.” 23 “Then get rid of those foreign gods that you have,” he demanded, “and pledge your loyalty to the LORD, the God of Israel. ” 24 The people then said to Joshua, “We will serve the LORD our God. We will obey his commands. ” 25 So Joshua made a covenant for the people that day, and there at Shechem he gave them laws and rules to follow. 26 Joshua wrote these commands in the book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up under the oak tree in the LORD's sanctuary. 27 He said to all the people, “This stone will be our witness. It has heard all the words that the LORD has spoken to us. So it will be a witness against you, to keep you from rebelling against your God. ” 28 Then Joshua sent the people away, and everyone returned to their own part of the land. 29 After that, the LORD's servant Joshua son of Nun died at the age of a hundred and ten. 30 They buried him on his own land at Timnath Serah in the hill country of Ephraim north of Mount Gaash. 31 As long as Joshua lived, the people of Israel served the LORD, and after his death they continued to do so as long as those leaders were alive who had seen for themselves everything that the LORD had done for Israel. 32 The body of Joseph, which the people of Israel had brought from Egypt, was buried at Shechem, in the piece of land that Jacob had bought from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for a hundred pieces of silver. This land was inherited by Joseph's descendants. 33 Eleazar son of Aaron died and was buried at Gibeah, the town in the hill country of Ephraim which had been given to his son Phinehas. Reflect Why did Joshua call the Israelites together in Shechem? What did he ask them to do? What does Joshua’s speech reveal about what God is like? What does it mean to recommit to following God? Pray Almighty God, you are our great sustainer. Thank you for the ways in which you have journeyed with me in life, faithfully leading me into new places. I commit once again to following your loving ways, illuminated by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Amen. Prayer Concern Survivors of natural disasters Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 2, 2011 Author Members Posted September 2, 2011 September 1, 2011 Matthew 5:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 5:1-20: Today’s passage introduces a section in Matthew’s Gospel often referred to as the “Sermon on the Mount” (5:1—7:29). The sermon begins with blessings and sayings (verses 3-16) and with Jesus describing a vision of God’s realm. Jesus then teaches about the Law. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 5:16 In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven. Today’s Reading 1 Jesus saw the crowds and went up a hill, where he sat down. His disciples gathered around him, 2 and he began to teach them: 3 “Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor; the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them! 4 Happy are those who mourn; God will comfort them! 5 Happy are those who are humble; they will receive what God has promised! 6 Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires; God will satisfy them fully! 7 Happy are those who are merciful to others; God will be merciful to them! 8 Happy are the pure in heart; they will see God! 9 Happy are those who work for peace; God will call them his children! 10 Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires; the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them! 11 Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are my followers. 12 Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven. This is how the prophets who lived before you were persecuted. 13 You are like salt for the whole human race. But if salt loses its saltiness, there is no way to make it salty again. It has become worthless, so it is thrown out and people trample on it. 14 You are like light for the whole world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15 No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl; instead it is put on the lampstand, where it gives light for everyone in the house. 16 In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven. 17 Do not think that I have come to do away with the Law of Moses and the teachings of the prophets. I have not come to do away with them, but to make their teachings come true. 18 Remember that as long as heaven and earth last, not the least point nor the smallest detail of the Law will be done away with—not until the end of all things. 19 So then, whoever disobeys even the least important of the commandments and teaches others to do the same, will be least in the Kingdom of heaven. On the other hand, whoever obeys the Law and teaches others to do the same, will be great in the Kingdom of heaven. 20 I tell you, then, that you will be able to enter the Kingdom of heaven only if you are more faithful than the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees in doing what God requires. Reflect Verses 3-12 are often referred to as Beatitudes. In a number of Bible translations, these nine statements begin with the word “blessed.” The word “beatitude” is another word for “blessing” (or true happiness) and declares God’s favor. Reread these verses. Whom does God favor? Why? Do the Beatitudes have anything to say about valuing power, wealth, and status? What do they say to you about how the realm of God is envisioned? Pray Lord Jesus, thank you for teaching me about God’s love. Help me to follow you and to be salt and light so that others will come to know you. May my actions this day be a reflection of your teachings and give glory to God. Amen. Prayer Concern People suffering under oppressive regimes Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 2, 2011 Author Members Posted September 2, 2011 September 2, 2011 Matthew 5:21-48 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 5:21-48: In this passage, Jesus continues to interpret Scripture, and he offers six examples of life in community that portray God’s realm. He teaches about anger, adultery, divorce, vows, revenge, and love for enemies. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 5:44, 45a But now I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may become the children of your Father in heaven. Today’s Reading 21 You have heard that people were told in the past, “Do not commit murder; anyone who does will be brought to trial.” 22 But now I tell you: if you are angry with your brother you will be brought to trial, if you call your brother “You good-for-nothing!” you will be brought before the Council, and if you call your brother a worthless fool you will be in danger of going to the fire of hell. 23 So if you are about to offer your gift to God at the altar and there you remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar, go at once and make peace with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift to God. 25 If someone brings a lawsuit against you and takes you to court, settle the dispute while there is time, before you get to court. Once you are there, you will be turned over to the judge, who will hand you over to the police, and you will be put in jail. 26 There you will stay, I tell you, until you pay the last penny of your fine. 27 You have heard that it was said, “Do not commit adultery.” 28 But now I tell you: anyone who looks at a woman and wants to possess her is guilty of committing adultery with her in his heart. 29 So if your right eye causes you to sin, take it out and throw it away! It is much better for you to lose a part of your body than to have your whole body thrown into hell. 30 If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away! It is much better for you to lose one of your limbs than to have your whole body go off to hell. 31 It was also said, “Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a written notice of divorce.” 32 But now I tell you: if a man divorces his wife for any cause other than her unfaithfulness, then he is guilty of making her commit adultery if she marries again; and the man who marries her commits adultery also. 33 You have also heard that people were told in the past, “Do not break your promise, but do what you have vowed to the Lord to do.” 34 But now I tell you: do not use any vow when you make a promise. Do not swear by heaven, for it is God's throne; 35 nor by earth, for it is the resting place for his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Do not even swear by your head, because you cannot make a single hair white or black. 37 Just say “Yes” or “No”—anything else you say comes from the Evil One. 38 You have heard that it was said, “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” 39 But now I tell you: do not take revenge on someone who wrongs you. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, let him slap your left cheek too. 40 And if someone takes you to court to sue you for your shirt, let him have your coat as well. 41 And if one of the occupation troops forces you to carry his pack one mile, carry it two miles. 42 When someone asks you for something, give it to him; when someone wants to borrow something, lend it to him. 43 You have heard that it was said, “Love your friends, hate your enemies.” 44 But now I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may become the children of your Father in heaven. For he makes his sun to shine on bad and good people alike, and gives rain to those who do good and to those who do evil. 46 Why should God reward you if you love only the people who love you? Even the tax collectors do that! 47 And if you speak only to your friends, have you done anything out of the ordinary? Even the pagans do that! 48 You must be perfect—just as your Father in heaven is perfect. Reflect What Jesus teaches constitutes a description of an alternative community – one that stands in sharp contrast to an imperial empire that values power, wealth, and status. Which of these teachings do you find most challenging? Why? Are these teachings relevant for today? Why or why not? Pray Lord God, you know that at times it is hard for us to put aside anger and how easy it is to seek revenge. Teach me to strive for peace and reconciliation, to live according to your will, and to pray for those with whom I may be at odds. Amen. Prayer Concern Nations embroiled in civil conflict Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 4, 2011 Author Members Posted September 4, 2011 September 3, 2011 Matthew 6:19-34 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 6:19-34: Jesus describes what a life of discipleship entails – trusting in God rather than seeking to acquire wealth. Jesus reminds his followers that they are always in God’s tender care. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 6:20, 21 Store up riches for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and robbers cannot break in and steal. For your heart will always be where your riches are. Today’s Reading 19 Do not store up riches for yourselves here on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and robbers break in and steal. 20 Instead, store up riches for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and robbers cannot break in and steal. 21 For your heart will always be where your riches are. 22 The eyes are like a lamp for the body. If your eyes are sound, your whole body will be full of light; 23 but if your eyes are no good, your body will be in darkness. So if the light in you is darkness, how terribly dark it will be! 24 You cannot be a slave of two masters; you will hate one and love the other; you will be loyal to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. 25 This is why I tell you: do not be worried about the food and drink you need in order to stay alive, or about clothes for your body. After all, isn't life worth more than food? And isn't the body worth more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds: they do not plant seeds, gather a harvest and put it in barns; yet your Father in heaven takes care of them! Aren't you worth much more than birds? 27 Can any of you live a bit longer by worrying about it? 28 And why worry about clothes? Look how the wild flowers grow: they do not work or make clothes for themselves. 29 But I tell you that not even King Solomon with all his wealth had clothes as beautiful as one of these flowers. 30 It is God who clothes the wild grass—grass that is here today and gone tomorrow, burned up in the oven. Won't he be all the more sure to clothe you? What little faith you have! 31 So do not start worrying: “Where will my food come from? or my drink? or my clothes?” 32 (These are the things the pagans are always concerned about.) Your Father in heaven knows that you need all these things. 33 Instead, be concerned above everything else with the Kingdom of God and with what he requires of you, and he will provide you with all these other things. 34 So do not worry about tomorrow; it will have enough worries of its own. There is no need to add to the troubles each day brings. Reflect Reread verses 25-34. Are there things you worry about or are anxious about? Do you find what Jesus teaches to be comforting? Why or why not? How do Jesus’ teachings in this entire passage shape your identity as a disciple or follower of Jesus? Pray Gracious God, you call me to trust and depend on you. My identity comes through my relationship with you and not on any status that is based on material gain. May I seek after your Kingdom first, trusting in your love and care. Amen. Prayer Concern Loan officers serving in financial institutions Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
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