Romans 9-11 Observation: These three chapters are strongly linked in theme as Paul talks about how the Jews, who are God’s chosen people, are missing out on God’s love for them in Jesus. Yet, Paul is making it clear that God is still faithful and that there is still a future for the Jews. Question:…
Posts from May 2022
Romans 6-8 Observation: When Paul describes being dead to sin and tells us to not let sin reign in our mortal bodies, it is clear he is saying we do not have to sin. Sometimes it feels like temptation is overwhelming, but the Spirit inside us is sufficient in all temptation. Question: Is Paul a…
Romans 3-5 Observation: Apparently being credited righteousness is the same thing as forgiveness. When you compare the start of Romans 4 with the quote from David it is clear that when God forgives us He is crediting us with righteousness and vice versa. Question: Why would we rejoice in affliction? The answer seems to be…
Galatians 6; Romans 1-2 Observation: In Romans 1, it is very notable that no one is ignorant of God. God has revealed Himself to everyone and the question is whether we receive that revelation or suppress it. Question: Are we supposed to carry our own burdens or help each other carry burdens? There seems to…
Galatians 3-5 Observation: Paul is dealing with a problem of people coming to know Jesus, but feeling like the way they walk with Jesus is by following the Old Testament law. He uses a lot of Old Testament imagery and scripture to explain why this is wrong and why adding anything to Jesus’ work causes…
2 Corinthians 13; Galatians 1-2 Observation: Sometimes people will suggest that we should never correct anyone else. Who am I to judge, right? Paul clearly doesn’t follow that model (neither does the Bible). Paul’s correction of Peter reminds us that when God’s word is being disobeyed by people who say that they are Christians, we…
2 Corinthians 10-12 Observation: Can you believe the amount of trials Paul went through to serve Jesus? When you read through his list in chapter 11 it is hard not to be humbled at his suffering and challenged by his perseverance. Question: Who is this man Paul describes as being caught up to heaven? In…
2 Corinthians 7-9 Observation: These two chapters on giving financially to worship Jesus are interesting and encouraging. I find it most encouraging that Jesus’ sacrifice in coming to earth seems to be the best motivation for our sacrificial giving. Question: What letter is Paul describing that grieved the Corinthians? Our first assumption is that it…
2 Corinthians 4-6 Observation: It is hard not to feel the effect of bodies wearing out. What a great hope in these verses to fix our eyes on heaven in the midst of this experience. Question: How does standing before the judgment seat of Christ impact how I live? An interesting note is that the…
2 Corinthians 1-3 Observation: When we experience difficulties in life, they serve as a reminder that we rely upon a God who raises the dead and not upon ourselves. Question: How does Christ lead me in triumphal procession? There are actually two possibilities. One is that Jesus has won a victory that we are part…