This letter follows quite a bit of going and writing to Corinth. Here’s a bit of history.
Paul spent 18 months in Corinth, living and working with Aquila and Priscilla, preaching and planting the church.
While in Ephesus, he heard of gross immorality and sent them a confrontational letter (which was lost).
He then hears about divisions splitting the church and receives a letter from them asking him to clarify some do’s and don’ts.
Paul writes 1 Corinthians to address this, sending it with Timothy.
News from Timothy describes the arrival of a group of false apostles who “dis” Paul and divide the church.
Paul immediately goes to Corinth for what is known as “the painful visit.” It was not successful.
After returning to Ephesus, Paul writes what is known as “the severe letter.” He sends this one to Corinth with Titus (also lost).
After the “silversmith riot” in Ephesus, Paul goes to Troas. Even though there is an open door for ministry there, Paul is too concerned about the Corinthian church to stay. He leaves for Macedonia (Philippi), hoping to meet Titus there. Titus has good news. The church at Corinth has repented.
Paul then writes this letter (2 Corinthians) to express his relief, defend his apostleship, and confront any false prophets still there.
Later, he goes to Corinth to pick up their offering for the destitute in Jerusalem.
2 Corinthians 1.
You can hear Paul’s joy in “If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken….”
2 Corinthians 2.
After getting the good news about the Corinthian church from Titus, he exclaims, “But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life.”
And, in defense of his own ministry, “For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.”
2 Corinthians 3.
Paul praises them for being “his” letter of recommendation to others, written not with ink but “with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone, but on tablets of human hearts.”
Paul wants them to go on, then to the higher things of the Lord. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. We all, with unveiled faces, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”
2 Corinthians 4.
Paul explains the difference between his ministry and that of the false Apostles. “Having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God’s Word, but by the open statement of the truth, we would commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.
“For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for the sake of Jesus.”
Day 337—We are in the LAST month of Bible reading for the year and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
Day 337 – 1 Corinthians 15 – 16 (Resurrection of Jesus and believers, Offerings for the needy, End talk)
1 Corinthians 15.
Paul now addresses another problem in Corinth. Some had stopped believing in the physical resurrection of the Lord and of those who died (or will die).
He reminds them that at their conversion, when he was first in Corinth, they had believed in the Gospel, which teaches how Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was RAISED ON THE THIRD DAY, all according to the Scriptures. Paul then mentions many who SAW the resurrected Jesus: the disciples, 500 followers, James, and at last, Paul himself.
Therefore, if “Christ raised from the dead” is part of the Gospel that saved them, how can they question it? Indeed, their faith is in VAIN if Christ has not been raised.
He tells them again that Jesus is the FIRST FRUITS of the resurrection. He first, then all who believe shall be made alive at His coming.
The Corinthians also asked what a resurrection body is like. Paul reminded them of growing plants. You plant a withered, brown seed in the ground, and in due time, a glorious, fruitful plant grows. And so, a dead body is sown in dishonor, weakness, and natural form. At the coming of the Lord Jesus, it will be raised in glory and power as a spiritual body. “Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust (Adam), we shall also bear the image of the Man of heaven (Jesus).”
It’s a mystery, Paul agrees, but flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. We will be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet sound. The dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. When that happens, it will fulfill Isaiah 25:8 and Hosea 13:14.
“Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
1 Corinthians 16.
Now for the mundane. Paul is heading to Jerusalem with an offering for destitute believers in the famine-stricken city. He has already collected from Galatia, Macedonia, and Achaia, but now he asks them again. They were to put aside money on the first of every week, and when he arrived, he would collect it all. It was to be a free-will offering of love.
He says a few words about their beloved teacher, Apollos, who will return to them again when he has the opportunity. Meanwhile, they are to be watchful, standing firm in the faith. He reminds them of what he said in chapter 13, that all they do should be done in LOVE.
He sends greetings from all the churches in Asia, and from Aquila and Priscilla (who were there when he first planted the church). He gives his final blessing: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
Day 335—We are in the LAST month of Bible reading for the year and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
Day 335 – 1 Corinthians 9 – 11 (Rights, privileges, & service, Idolatry, the glory of God, Head coverings, The Lord’s supper)
1 Corinthians 9.
In the previous chapter, Paul talked about his freedom to eat meat offered to idols, EXCEPT when it offended a weaker brother. He would never do anything to make such a one stumble.
Now, he talks about his freedoms and rights he does NOT insist upon. Other apostles and missionaries, like Jesus’ brothers and even Peter, took their believing wives with them. Was it only Barnabas and Paul who worked for a living as well as preached? Wasn’t a soldier due his own expenses? Didn’t a vineyard planter eat the fruit? He then quotes Deuteronomy 25:4 about not muzzling an ox who grinds the grain. Does not HE have the same rightful claim?
Yet, Paul chose NOT to claim the privilege but to work and impose no obligation on the people. He would rather die than have anyone deprive him of his ability to “present the gospel free of charge.” He’s made himself a servant of all, that he might win more of them, Jews or Gentiles. He compares this self-discipline to men in a race, running to “win the prize.” He does it to win “the imperishable victory.” (Souls for the Lord Jesus)
1 Corinthians 10.
Next, Paul segues into comparing the Israelites of Moses’ time to those alive in that day. “Those ancient Jews were examples for current believers. Although they saw the miracles of God firsthand, they desired evil, were idolaters, and committed sexual immorality when they worshiped the golden calf Aaron made. That day, 23,000 were killed by God’s wrath. When they complained, thousands were destroyed by serpents.
Paul urges the Corinthian church, “We must not put Christ to the test.” He encourages them, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful and will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
And so, he tells them to FLEE FROM IDOLATRY. (Corinth was full of idolatry, a great temptation.) You can not worship idols (demons) and worship Christ too.
“All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful, but not all things build up.” “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.”
1 Corinthians 11.
Paul then addresses head coverings for both men and women. Culturally, Corinthian men covered their heads when worshiping in pagan temples, while women only covered theirs when married. Paul says men are to stand with heads uncovered because Christ is the head of every man in Christ.
These traditions worked in the early church in Corinth to distinguish Christians from pagans. The same is true for women who covered their heads and had long hair, while men did not. The idea is to glorify Christ in all you do.
Then Paul gives explicit instructions for the Lord’s Supper. Verses 23-26 are often repeated in our services today when we observe Communion.
He reminds us, too, of Jesus’ sacrificial death, his blood as a ransom payment for our sins, and his bodily death in our place. He urges the Corinthians (and us) to examine and judge themselves and partake worthily.
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Day 336 – 1 Corinthians 12 – 14 (Spiritual gifts, the Love Chapter, Prophecy & tongues, orderly worship)
1 Corinthians 12.
Paul next clarifies a controversial subject in the Corinthian church. Spiritual gifts were needed in the newly planted churches because the New Testament had not yet been written. Not many Gentile churches would have the Torah, Prophets, and Teachings scrolls of the Old Testament. And so the Spirit of God distributed to each church what the leaders and congregations needed. The Corinthian church was fully blessed in this way. But they were viewing and using these gifts in the wrong ways.
First, they were to discern if the gifts in question were from the Spirit of God. Paul reminded them how they’d been fooled by worshiping idols and demons. “No one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says that Jesus is accursed. And no one can say Jesus is Lord except in the Holy Spirit.”
Once that is settled, he describes the various spiritual gifts, services, and activities that are given to the church by the Holy Spirit…FOR THE COMMON GOOD, not for individual glory. They are the gifts of wisdom and knowledge spoken to edify the church, extraordinary faith, gifts of healing and working of miracles, prophetic speaking, discernment of spirits, various tongues, and the interpretation of the tongues. (Others are included in lists in Romans 12 and 1 Peter 4)
“All these gifts are empowered by one Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills.” “God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as He chose.”
They were not to quarrel, envy each other’s spiritual gifts, or seek the “flashiest” ones. All the gifts were needed and valuable.
Next, Paul lists the “gifted men” God appointed to lead the church. These were: Apostles, Prophets, Teachers, Miracle workers, Healers, Help ministers, Administrators, and Speakers of various languages. In these, Paul recommends asking God for the “higher” gifts, but ALL were to be used in a “MORE EXCELLENT WAY.”
1 Corinthians 13.
And, that excellent way was/is in…LOVE.
This chapter is known as “The Love Chapter.” Paul says that any of the above gifts and gifted offices, if used purely for selfish motives and not with the Spirit’s fruit of LOVE, are merely annoying noise, less than nothing.
Then, Paul lists the numerous aspects of love that believers will show towards one another if ruled by God’s Spirit. (These are very convicting. Take some time to read verses 4 – 8 and apply them to yourself. Then ask God to make them evident in your life.)
Eventually, all the gifts will disappear when the Lord returns and takes His family to Heaven. But love never ends. “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three, but the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 14.
After that strong teaching on how all the gifts of the Spirit are to be used – with true love – Paul sheds more light on two gifts being abused in the Corinthian church: Prophecy and Tongues.
Paul urges them to pursue love and the spiritual gift of prophesy. (Not necessarily of FORE-telling, but of FORTH-telling the Word of God, for the edification of the whole church.) And if the gift of tongues is used, they were to make sure someone was there to interpret what was said, or else how could the entire church be helped?
Paul tells them that these ministry gifts IN CHURCH MEETINGS were to be performed by men only. Yes, women would be blessed by gifts, but they should use them in the home or as in our times, in women’s ministries.
Paul concludes by saying, “Earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done decently and in order.”
Day 334—We are in the ELEVENTH month of Bible reading and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
Day 334 – 1 Corinthians 5 – 8 (Paul teaches/corrects the Corinthians on immorality, lawsuits, marriage, and food)
1 Corinthians 5.
Paul calls them to task about reports he’s heard concerning flagrant immorality in the church. “This is NOT Christian FREEDOM, but devilish sin.”
Paul then instructs them “not to associate with anyone who bears the name of “brother” if he is guilty of sexual immorality, greed, idolatry, drunkenness or swindling…. no, not even to eat with such a one.”
1 Corinthians 6.
Another grievance Paul has is about them taking each other to court about minor wrongs done. He asks if there is not some WISE brother who could mediate between the parties. After all, Paul reminds them, believers will one day judge ANGELS!! It would be better to suffer wrong than go to the world’s court system with problems in the church. What kind of testimony is that?? He urges them not to be obstinate in such matters.
Paul then lists again the sins they were ALL involved in before they were saved. But now they are washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God! (So act like that!)
He reminds the Corinthians that their bodies are members of Christ. Should they take “Christ’s body” with them into gross sin? Don’t they realize that their bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit who dwells in them?? Glorify God in your body! he urges them.
1 Corinthians 7.
Then Paul discusses marriage, singleness, divorce/widowhood, and unbelieving mates. His own opinion is that everyone should stay single as he is so they can be free to do ministry anywhere, anytime. But he knows God has ordained marriage, and there is nothing wrong with it. He urges widows to remain single. However, those with unbelieving mates should not separate for that reason alone. After all, that spouse may become a believer from the other’s example and testimony.
In conclusion, “let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him/her.” He says the same about other situations. If uncircumcised or a slave, don’t seek circumcision or to be freed. In whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
Returning to marriage, Paul says the same. “In view of the present distress (the appointed time has grown very short and the present form of the world is passing away),” it is good to marry if betrothed but otherwise remain single. And if widowed, don’t remarry. (This last part Paul admits is his opinion, but he “thinks he has the Spirit’s advice too.”
1 Corinthians 8.
Paul again turns to foods with more details, particularly those offered first to idols. (This was part of pagan false worship.) As mature believers, we know that all foods are okay to eat. The problem is, if an immature brother with a weak conscience sees you eating it, he may be conflicted, and it may cause him to sin in his heart if he too partakes along with you.
So, Paul’s advice is: if you are alone or with mature fellow believers, eat up and enjoy, for you are no part of pagan worship. HOWEVER, if new believers recently out of that culture are eating with you, refrain for their conscience’s sake. “If food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble,”
Day 333—We are in the ELEVENTH month of Bible reading and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
Day 333 – 1 Corinthians 1 – 4 (Paul writing to approve and scold the church in Corinth.)
1 Corinthians 1.
In Acts 18, we saw Sosthenes as the ruler of the synagogue in Corinth. Now, he is a believer and a helper of Paul, concerned about what they’ve heard happening in that city. Paul is writing from Ephesus. (This is his second letter to Corinth. We don’t have #1.)
Paul begins by thanking God for the Corinthian church and the grace He showed them in Christ Jesus. However, he scolds them too. They were given great mercy and gifts, but now they had fallen into disunity, a church split. The believers sought importance by bragging about whom they followed; Paul, Apollos, Cephas, or Christ. It was by faith in Christ that they were saved, not by who baptized them.
Paul claimed his ministry was to preach Christ and Him alone, which was foolishness to the Greeks and a stumbling block to the Jews. God CHOSE what was foolish and weak to reveal His glory so that no one could boast. “Let the one who boasts boast in the LORD!”
1 Corinthians 2.
Paul repeats that he did not come to them with fancy words or the world’s wisdom (it hadn’t worked in Athens, after all) but with only the message of Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
1 Corinthians 3.
Paul calls the Corinthian church immature because they persist in divisions. They can be fed only the essential “milk” of God’s wisdom and not the “solid food” of doctrine. Paul says they are not ready for strong teaching while still “in the flesh.”
“Who is Apollos? Who is Paul” he asks. “I merely planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. Apollos and I are fellow workers. YOU are God’s field, God’s building.”
Paul laid the foundation when he first went to Corinth. Apollos and others have built on it. The foundation is Christ, so let anyone who builds on it take care. Use only materials that will last in “the fire of That Day.” You, Corinthians, are the building, the temple, and now the Holy Spirit lives IN you.
1 Corinthians 4.
Paul says that the Corinthians should view them all as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. And yes, it is required that stewards be trustworthy. Paul applied this to himself and to Apollos for the Corinthian church’s benefit, so they would learn from them and not be “puffed up” in favor of one against the other.
“I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world. We are FOOLS for Christ’s sake. We are weak. We are held in disrepute. We hunger and thirst; we are poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless. We labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat. We have become, and are still like the “scum of the world,” the “refuse of all things.” Whoa, Paul!!
Paul doesn’t write the above to shame them but to admonish them as loved children. Paul had become like a father to them through the Gospel of Jesus. He urges them to imitate him in the above ways and not be boastful.
He tells the Corinthians that he sent Timothy to remind them of his ways in Christ and that he will soon personally come to them. He asks them if they want him to arrive with a “paddle” or with a spirit of gentleness.
Stand up and fly right, he says, or Daddy’s coming to spank you!
Day 332—We are in the ELEVENTH month of Bible reading and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
Day 332 – Acts 18 – 19 (Paul in Corinth, Priscilla & Aquila in Ephesus, Apollos, Paul in Ephesus, riots)
Acts 18.
After a minimal harvest of souls in Athens, Paul went to Corinth. There, he met Aquila & Priscilla, recently ejected from Rome. They were tentmakers and believers, so Paul (also a tentmaker) stayed with them and worked. He also reasoned every Sabbath in the synagogue.
Silas and Timothy finally arrived from Macedonia to help. The Jews rejected Christ, so Paul went exclusively to preach to the Gentiles. Titius Justus, a believer, lived next to the synagogue, so Paul set up headquarters there. Crispus, the leader of the synagogue, with his household and many Corinthians, believed and were baptized. The Lord encouraged Paul in a vision, telling him to remain in Corinth and not be afraid, for He was with Paul, and there were many to be saved. Paul stayed for 18 months.
There was an incident with the Roman authorities, but the proconsul, Gallio, dismissed them (like Pilate did), telling the Jews to take care of their own matters.
Meanwhile, Paul had taken a vow, probably in gratitude to God, which included not cutting his hair. That vow was about to end, so he cut his hair. (The shorn hair needed to be presented in the Temple within 30 days.) So, taking Aquila & Priscilla, he sailed for Syria. He left the couple in Ephesus, and after preaching a few times in the synagogue, he set sail for Caesarea. From there, he went up to Jerusalem to fulfill his vow and greet the church there. Then he returned to his sending church in Antioch for a while.
Later, Paul traveled back by land through Galatia, strengthening the churches he and Barnabas had planted on the first missionary journey.
Meanwhile, back in Ephesus, a Jew from Alexandria arrived. He was eloquent and competent in the scriptures. And he preached “the way” of the Lord, being fervent in spirit. He accurately taught the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John (and his sermons). Priscilla and Aquila took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.
Then, Apollos felt the call to Achaia (Greece). Priscilla and Aquila wrote the brothers there to welcome him, which they did. Apollos greatly helped them, for he powerfully refuted the Jews publicly, showing by the scriptures that the Messiah was Jesus.
Acts 19.
So while Apollos was in Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and arrived in Ephesus. He found some disciples there who had been taught by Apollos early on. They hadn’t heard of the Holy Spirit’s work, so Paul caught them up. They all agreed to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. The Holy Spirit came on them too.
Paul stayed in Ephesus for two years, speaking boldly in the synagogue and reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God. Some believed, but others were stubborn in their unbelief. Paul simply moved the meeting place to the Hall f Tyrannus. “All the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.”
Now, seven sons of a Jewish high priest named Sceva lived there. They were “itinerant Jewish exorcists.” They saw the miracles God performed through Paul and were jealous. They tried doing the same things but the evil spirits fought back, saying, “Jesus, I know, and Paul, I recognize… BUT WHO ARE YOU?” The seven “wannabes” were then attacked and stripped naked, so they ran away wounded. This caused the residents to become afraid, and the name of Jesus was extolled.
Many of those who had practiced magic arts brought their books and burned them in the sight of all. So, the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily in Ephesus and surroundings.
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After about two years, Paul resolved in the Spirit to travel up through Macedonia (Philippi, Thessalonica, & Berea), down to Achaia (Athens, Corinth), and afterward go to Jerusalem. “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.” He sent Timothy and Erastus ahead to Macedonia and stayed a bit longer in Ephesus.
However, a disturbance about the teachings of “the Way” (the Gospel) arose in Ephesus, led by a silversmith named Demetrius, whose business was faltering because fewer people were buying his statues. He went to the “union hall” of artisans. and riled them up, saying,
“Men, you know that from this business, we have our wealth. But in Ephesus and almost all of Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great many people, saying that gods made with hands are not gods. He is endangering our trade. Our great temple of Artemis may even be discounted as “nothing.” What should we do??”
Enraged at these words, they shouted, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” The mob rushed everywhere in the city with this cry. They dragged Paul’s companions into the arena. (Paul’s close friends convinced him NOT to go there.) There was so much confusion and shouting that some in the crowd did not even know what was happening.
Alexander, a leader, tried to stop the crowd, but when they recognized him as a Jew, they shouted even louder for two hours. Finally, the town clerk quieted them down by saying that if they continued, the Romans would come and accuse them of rioting. Everyone knew that Artemis was sacred and that the temple was great, so they ought to be quiet. “Let Demetrius and the craftsmen take these men to court in an orderly fashion.”
After being beaten and jailed, loosed in an earthquake, preached to a jailor, and apologized to by the magistrates, Paul and Silas left Philippi. The team (Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke) went through Amphipolis and Apollonia to the city of Thessalonica.
As was Paul’s pattern, he preached in the Jewish synagogue for three Sabbaths, explaining how the scriptures pointed to Christ’s death and resurrection. Some Jews were persuaded, plus many devout Greeks and leading women.
But the majority of the Jews were jealous, mobbed him, and set the city in an uproar, saying they preached against Caesar. The mob attacked Jason’s house, where Paul was staying. After the magistrates took security from him to assure Paul would cause no more trouble, Paul and his team left town that very night.
They went to Berea, and Paul immediately went to the synagogue. “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word eagerly, examining the Scriptures daily to see if the things Paul preached were so.”
(Can you imagine them taking down the scrolls of the scriptures Paul mentioned, turning to the passages, and verifying what he preached? They would read and nod their heads and eagerly look up for more!)
As a consequence, many of them believed, including many Greek women of high standing. (Faith comes by hearing the Word, Romans 10:17.) However, when the Jews from Thessalonica heard of this, they came to Berea and agitated the crowds against Paul. The Bereans immediately sent Paul (and Luke?) off by sea. Silas and Timothy stayed there to continue teaching. But when Paul got to Athens, he sent a message for the two men to come to him as soon as possible. (But they were delayed.)
Meanwhile, while Paul was waiting for them, his spirit was provoked as he saw all the idols in the city. He reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews, as usual. And every day, he spoke with the devout people in the marketplace. He also argued with some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. They took Paul to the Areopagus to defend his teaching, for they thought he was preaching “some foreign divinities.” They enjoyed it immensely, for all the Athenians and foreigners loved to spend time telling or hearing “something new.”
Paul tried. He looked at the one statue dedicated to “the Unknown God” and pointed them towards God, the Lord of heaven and earth, creator of everything.
Paul waxed eloquent, as that’s what his listeners wanted. (Paul was all things to all men, so he could win some to the Gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:22) “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent because He has fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a Man whom He has appointed; and of this, He had given assurance to all by raising Him from the dead.” (verses 30-31)
Now, when they heard about the resurrection of the dead, they mocked Paul. But some said, “Oh, we’ll hear you another time.” Only a few believed: Dionysius, the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and a handful of others.
Perhaps discouraged at the lack of response, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth.
Day 328 & 329—We are in the ELEVENTH month of Bible reading and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
NOTE: Sunday and Monday readings are posted together on Mondays.
Day 328 – Galatians 1 – 3 (Paul, Gospel v Law, Faith v works)
Galatians 1.
Paul writes to the churches he and Barnabas established on their first missionary journey. Paul establishes his authority by relating God’s choice, His revelation to Paul, and commission for his ministry at his conversion.
He is astonished that they have turned back to depending on the works of the law, from the faith in Jesus that he taught. Are they seeking man’s approval, or God’s?
Galatians 2.
Paul continues to give his testimony, how he spoke before the leaders in Jerusalem about Gentiles needing (or not needing!) to be circumcised to be saved. They agreed it was NOT necessary. Both Peter and John agreed and entrusted him with the Gospel to the Gentiles.
Nevertheless, some false brothers were still spreading this error. Even Simon Peter got a bit carried away with it, and Paul had to admonish him.
Paul states that, although a Jew by birth, he knows a person is NOT justified by works of the law (circumcision in this case) but through faith in Christ Jesus. Paul says that he “died” to the law so he might “live” to God. “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. If righteousness were through the LAW, Christ died for no purpose.”
Galatians 3.
“O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you?” Then Paul asks them a series of questions that have obvious answers.
1) Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith?
2) Are you so foolish?
3) Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?
4) Did you suffer so many things in vain, if indeed it was in vain?
5) Does he who supplies the Spirit in you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law or by hearing of faith (like with Abraham who believed God and was counted righteous)?
No one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.” (Habakkuk 10:38) Christ redeemed us from the ‘curse of the law’ by becoming a curse for us (He hung on a tree. (Deut. 21:23)). So, in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles (all nations will be blessed through Abraham’s offspring – Jesus.).
Why then, the law? They might ask. Because of transgressions! “The law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus, you are all sons of God, through faith. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male or female, for you are all ONE in Christ Jesus. And if you are in Christ, then you (Gentiles) are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.”
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Day 329 – Galatians 4 – 6 (Sons v slaves, Hagar v Sarah, Freedom Works of flesh v Fruit of Spirit, Burdens)
Galatians 4.
Paul continues the illustration/allegory from Abraham’s life, using his two sons, Ishmael & Isaac, and their mothers, Hagar & Sarah, as examples of the “flesh” and the “spirit.” The way the Galatians were trying to “earn” their salvation through circumcision and other works of the law was like Hagar and Ishmael. Paul urges them to be people of faith alone, as illustrated by Sarah and Isaac. Be a true “son,” in which God has sent His Spirit to live.
Galatians 5.
Paul proclaims that through Christ, they have been “set free” from the burden of the law, which he calls the yoke of slavery. He urges them NOT to return to bearing that yoke.
As true children of God, they are free, but, they are not to use that freedom for the flesh. Let LOVE guide their every thought, word, and action. “WALK by the Spirit,” he says, “and you will not fulfill the desires of the flesh.” Then Paul lists fifteen appalling “works of the flesh,” including sexual immorality, idolatry, jealousy, drunkenness, etc. for them to avoid.
Alternately, the fruit of the Spirit is nine-fold; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is NO LAW against these, and those who are Christ’s exhibit them.
Galatians 6.
Paul teaches how the Galatians should act/react to those who continue in sin: restore them in a spirit of gentleness, testing their own motives and actions.
Those who are taught should share all good things with their teacher (supporting those who minister to them financially). In fact, they are to do good to everyone, especially fellow believers.
In conclusion, Paul returns to the topic of circumcision, saying, “Neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.”
“Far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world. From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear in my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.
Some Pharisees believers caused trouble by going to Antioch and teaching the new Gentile converts that they needed to be circumcised according to Mosaic custom as a part of salvation. Paul and Barnabas object and head to Jerusalem to have a conference with the elders.
Both sides present their cases. Peter eventually stands up and recounts his experience with the Roman Centurion and his household. “God bore witness to them by giving them the Holy Spirit just as He did to us, having cleansed their hearts by faith. Why are we now putting God to the test by placing the yoke of the law on them? We are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they are.” Paul and Barnabas relate the signs and wonders done among the Gentiles in their ministry, too.
Then, James, the leader of the Council, quotes Zechariah 8:20-23 about salvation being a ‘light to the Gentiles.’ All agree that the Gentiles should have no greater burden required of them except that which would disrupt unity. Letters would be sent to the churches that they should 1) abstain from eating meat sacrificed to idols, 2) abstain from sexual immorality, and 3) abstain from eating things strangled and from blood. (These things all were a part of their former pagan worship.)
All agreed. Judas Barsabbas and Silas were sent with a letter to the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. The letter was well received. Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the Word. Judas and Silas also encouraged and strengthened the brethren with many words.
Then Paul decided to “return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the Word and see how they are.” Barnabas thought it a great idea and wanted to take John Mark with them again. (They were cousins.) Paul strongly objected, and there was a sharp disagreement between them.
God used this to organize TWO missionary teams. Barnabas took John Mark and left for Cyprus. Paul chose Silas and went by land through Syria and Cilicia to strengthen the churches.
Acts 16.
When Paul and Silas came to Lystra and Derbe, they met a young disciple named Timothy. The young man was half Jew (mother) and half Gentile (father). His believing mother and grandmother had taught him the scriptures thoroughly, and all had been saved during Paul’s first journey there. The lad had not been circumcised, probably because of his Gentile father. And Paul did an unusual thing, especially thinking of the recent Council in Jerusalem. After inviting Timothy to join his team and travel with him, he circumcised him. Say what?? Why?
Everybody in the synagogue (where he and his mom and grandma attended) knew about his Greek father and that he hadn’t taken the step to join the Jewish community. And since Paul’s permanent personal rule was to go to the town’s synagogue (the Jews) FIRST with the message of salvation, he saw that an uncircumcised Jewish lad might be a problem with unity. It doesn’t seem that Timothy objected at all.
So the 3-man team went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia. Paul attempted to lead them into Asia but was prevented by the Holy Spirit. When they arrived at Troas (a port city) Paul had a vision of a man across the Sea in Macedonia calling to him for help. He decided that it was in Macedonia that God was calling them to preach the gospel. At this point, Dr. Luke (the book’s narrator) joined the team. (Nope, we don’t know the details.)
They set sail and docked at Samothrace and Neapolis before finally disembarking at Philippi, a leading city in the area AND a Roman colony. On the Sabbath, they went outside the gate to the riverside where they’d heard there was a place of prayer. They sat down and spoke to the women who had gathered there. One, named Lydia, a wealthy woman who sold valuable purple material was a worshiper of God. The Lord “opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul said.” She became a believer and was baptized, as well as her household. She invited the missionary team to come and stay at her house.
One time, as they were going to that place of prayer, they were met by a demon-possessed girl slave. Her owners made much money by her fortune-telling. She followed the mission team and kept crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” Now, those words were true (demons have to speak truth in the presence of the Holy Spirit). Paul did not want their witness. Besides, the crowds probably thought she was talking about the Greek/Roman god Zeus.
“I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her! Paul demanded.
The demon had to come out, but the girl’s owners were VERY DISPLEASED. There went their income. They grabbed Paul and Silas, dragged them before the magistrates, and accused them of disturbing the peace. The crowd started attacking them, too (mob rule). The magistrates ripped off their clothes and beat Paul and Silas, then threw them into prison with stocks on their feet. Whoa!
But…. Paul and Silas prayed and sang hymns while the other prisoners listened. Suddenly an earthquake happened. Their stocks fell off, the prison doors opened, and all the prisoners’ bonds were unfastened. When the jailer came in, he was terrified that they all had escaped and was about to take his own life. But Paul stopped him, saying that they all were still there. He then went on to preach the Gospel. (The jailor had said, “What must I do to be saved?”) Paul told him to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and he’d be saved.
The man and his whole house believed. The jailor took Paul and Silas, washed their wounds, and fed them. Paul then baptized them all.
The next day, the magistrates sent police to let Paul and Silas go. BUT Paul refused to go secretly. He claimed his Roman citizenship which terrified the leaders. To whip and imprison a Roman citizen without a trial was a deadly error. So, they, at Paul’s request, came personally to them and apologized. They politely asked them to leave the city.
When they left prison, Paul and Silas (and the others) visited Lydia, saw the other believers, and encouraged them. THEN they left Philippi.
Day 326—We are in the ELEVENTH month of Bible reading and studying The ACTS of the Apostles with the LETTERS of the Apostles.
Day 326 – James 1 – 5 (Faith, wisdom, the Word, works, the tongue, worldliness, prayer)
James, the brother of Jesus and the leader of the Jerusalem church, writes to believing Jews living outside of Israel. His letter is rich in practical ways to live a life of faith.
James 1.
Be joyful when you experience trials, for they strengthen your faith. Ask God for the wisdom you need, and He will give it. Temptation is not from God but from your own sinful desires. Don’t just hear the teaching of the word, but work it out as well. Watch your tongue! True “religion” is shown by visiting orphans and widows and keeping yourself unstained by worldly things.
James 2.
Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ show no partiality to the rich. Even if you are “righteous” in all other ways, this is lawbreaking. Mercy triumphs over judgment. Faith without actions is dead faith. Yes, it is great that you believe, but even demons do that. Show your inner faith by how you live. Check out the actions and faith of Abraham and Rahab in the Old Testament.
James 3.
Teachers, beware, for you will be judged with greater strictness. “Be careful little tongue, what you say!” Bits in horses’ mouths and rudders on ships control them. YOU must control your speech. What you say can be a scorching fire from hell, a world of unrighteousness, a restless evil full of deadly poison. Watch your tongue! Remember, true wisdom is from God. It is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. Your good conduct will show you have this wisdom.
James 4.
Control your passions! They will cause fights, quarrels, dissatisfactions, and even murders. They make your prayers foolish, desiring things to lavish on yourself. God gives grace to the humble, so submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and his ways…and he will flee from you. Draw near instead to God, who will respond. Again, humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. Don’t boast about tomorrow. Who knows anything about tomorrow? Commit it all to the Lord. And it’s a sin if you know the right thing to do, and you don’t do it.
James 5.
Don’t boast or have confidence in riches. They won’t help you on judgment day. Be patient in your work for the Lord. You know He is coming; work patiently till then and don’t grumble. Let all your praying be done by faith. Whether praying for the sick or a sinning brother, your prayer of faith accomplishes much. Remember how Elijah prayed, and there was NO rain. Then he prayed again, and there was an abundance of rain. If any one of you strays from the truth, bring him back. His soul will be saved and his sins covered.
Day 338 – 2 Corinthians 1 – 4 (Greetings, comfort, delayed coming, forgiving, preaching, Gospel ministers)
Morning Meditations 