Be Still… – Relevant Reflections to Let God's Word Back Into Your Hands and Heart

Romans 1:18-32 – Knowing God

It’s helpful to remember Paul’s first audience are Gentiles, many of whom are familiar with the pagan lifestyle Paul describes. Paul grabs their attention by pointing out that these behaviors are sinful and not approved by God. As new believers in Jesus, Paul is clear on what happens when people choose to turn their back on God.

Have you ever encountered someone who didn’t believe in God? Maybe you have had your own doubts before. Paul suggests that it is impossible to not know the truth about God because we witness creation and can’t deny there must be a creator. Unfortunately, people are still in denial about God no matter how obvious it is. Continue reading “Romans 1:18-32 – Knowing God”

Romans 1:1-17 – The Good News

Read Romans 1:1-17

Earlier this year, I had the fortunate opportunity to visit Rome with my daughter and her family. There is something about being in proximity to where I imagine my Bible stories came to life. Paul was writing to the people who inhabited Rome, the early followers who would have been Gentile like me, not of Jewish descent like Jesus. At the time Paul wrote this letter, he hadn’t even walked the streets himself. He just knew he already loved his fellow believers.

Because he didn’t already have a relationship with the Romans, Paul used his letter as an introduction. Notice that he called himself a “slave of Christ Jesus” yet also “chosen by God to be an apostle.” Those were some serious credentials. Paul’s purpose was to bring the Good News or gospel to the people, but notably the Gentiles. God wanted everyone to hear the life-changing news about Jesus. Continue reading “Romans 1:1-17 – The Good News”

2 Corinthians 13:1-14 – Examine Yourself

Read 2 Corinthians 13:1-14

Paul’s final advice concludes this letter as he prepares for an upcoming visit to the church in Corinth. He warns, instructs, and blesses in these closing remarks. That’s a mini sermon right there!

His warning is more of a clarification as he continues to define his role to them. Paul intends to be their encourager and teacher, but the warning is to be ready for rebuke if that is what they deserve. He says he won’t spare them this time, so that tells me Paul is ready to publicly expose bad behavior and point out poor choices when he arrives. Continue reading “2 Corinthians 13:1-14 – Examine Yourself”

2 Corinthians 12:1-21 – Power in Weakness

Read 2 Corinthians 12:1-21

Paul briefly hints at two distinct thought discussions but then veers back to focus on Jesus. We can’t help but wonder where this third heaven vision took place and speculate on what the “thorn” was in Paul’s side. I ponder why Paul would simply mention these topics if he wasn’t going to enlighten his audience. There must have been a purpose.

Witnessing the third heaven would have been extremely memorable, but Paul chose to keep those details to himself. We can only imagine what being in the presence of God would have been like. If only Paul had given us a few clues. But he did. He said it was “paradise” and things were “astounding.” Paul seems hesitant to share too much, and that’s okay. He’s given us hope and curiosity in what comes next. We want even more to see this exquisite place someday ourselves. Continue reading “2 Corinthians 12:1-21 – Power in Weakness”

2 Corinthians 11:1-33 – “Ready to Move”

Read 2 Corinthians 11:1-33

Paul seems to be on a bit of a rant in this part of his letter. I can’t even begin to fathom the extremes he endured as he lived out his faith and calling. We can all take something away from his experience because the life of a believer can be dangerous if we truly live out loud like Paul did. He didn’t back down from the truth to make it “comfortable” or “welcoming.”

The shocking truth that Paul shares speaks volumes to us, even all years later. “You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed.” How often do we question what we hear preached from the pulpit? How often do we challenge messages on social or mainstream media? Have you ever heard someone trying to explain Jesus to you in a way that sounded wrong or contrary to your beliefs? Continue reading “2 Corinthians 11:1-33 – “Ready to Move””

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