God's Message

Wages and Gift

2008-08-28T07:19:00.000-05:00

Rom 6:19-23

19 I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification. 20 For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. 21 But what fruit were you getting at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. 22 But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

What attitudes and behaviors remain in your life that you are ashamed of?
What perceived benefit do you receive from keeping these shameful things in your life?
What is the outcome of remaining enslaved to these things?
What is the outcome of your being enslaved to God?
Why is death considered a wage?
Why is eternal life considered a gift?
In purely selfish terms, which is worth more to you: eternal life or the sins that you hang on to?
How does being a slave to righteousness lead to your sanctification, i.e. your being set apart?
What is the endpoint of sanctification?

Slaves

2008-08-27T07:55:00.002-05:00

Rom 6:15-20

15 What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! 16 Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, [1] you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? 17 But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, 18 and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness. 19 I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification. 20 For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness.

Footnotes
[1] 6:16 Greek bondservants. Twice in this verse and verse 19; also once in verses 17, 20

What do you feel when you hear the phrase "you are slaves ..."?
What does it mean to be a slave to sin?
What does it mean to be a slave to righteousness?
What does it mean to be free from sin?
What does it mean to be free from righteousness?
Since no one can truly serve two masters, which will you choose to be: a slave to sin or a slave to righteousness?

Harold's Musings
In the Law of Moses, a Jew who had been the slave of another Jew had to be set free after working for six years. If the slave loved the master and did not want to go free, he was to present himself to the master and make his desire known. The master would take the slave to the doorpost of the master's house and make a hole in the slave's ear for an earring. The slave would now be a slave for life, but by his choice. (see Ex. 21:1-6, Deut 15:12-18). Do we really see ourselves as slaves to righteousness? How about we are friends of righteousness? Maybe we are acquaintances of righteousness?

Dead to sin

2008-08-26T07:26:00.001-05:00

Rom 6:10-14

10 For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. 11 So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. 13 Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. 14 For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.

How might our ignorance of monarchies and their methods hamper our understanding of words like reign, present, master, and obey?
Why should you not let sin reign in your mortal body?
What is involved with obeying something or someone?
What lusts do you find it easy to obey?
How does a lust tell you what to do?
To what sins do you present your physical self?
How do you do you present your physical self to these sins?
How do you present yourself to God?
How does grace change your behavior?

Dead and resurrected

2008-08-25T07:33:00.003-05:00

Rom 6:4-11

4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 We know that our old self [1] was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. 7 For one who has died has been set free [2] from sin. 8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. 10 For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. 11 So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Footnotes
[1] 6:6 Greek man
[2] 6:7 Greek has been justified

How was your baptism like death and resurrection for you?
Was your baptism mostly a theological, ceremonial, or life-changing event?
What were the results of your old self being crucified with Jesus?
What sins were you a slave to before baptizm?
What sins are trying to maintain a hold on you?
How is living to God seen in you?
What does it mean to be alive to God in Christ Jesus?

Grace, not sin

2008-08-22T07:28:00.001-05:00

Rom 5:20-6:4

5:20 Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, 21 so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. 6:1 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

Why is sin so tempting even when you know the results in this life and beyond?
What would happen to you if you tried to be subject to two very different earthly kings? Why?
Why would you ever say "sin so grace can be larger"? What would the opposite statement be?
What does it mean to you personally to die to sin?
How did your decision to be baptized your decision to change?
How can you have a "new life" unless you die to your "old life"?
What changes in your life were prompted by your decision to be baptized?

Transgression and Grace

2008-08-21T07:29:00.001-05:00

Rom 5:17-21

17 For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. 18 Therefore, as one trespass [1] led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness [2] leads to justification and life for all men. 19 For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. 20 Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, 21 so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Footnotes
[1] 5:18 Or the trespass of one
[2] 5:18 Or the act of righteousness of one

What does the word "reign" mean?
How did death reign? Who were its subjects? What was the result?
What is the grace that is given abundantly?
What is the gift of righteousness that is given abundantly?
How does grace reign?
Whose act of righteousness provided the means for grace to reign?
What is the result of grace's reign?
How does knowing this impact you?

Sin and Death

2008-08-20T07:40:00.001-05:00

Rom 5:12-16

12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned— 13 for sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law. 14 Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come. 15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. 16 And the free gift is not like the result of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brought justification.

What was the long standing result of sin?
How did the Law change mankind's approach to sin?
How did the Law change the result of sin?
What were the consequences of Adam's sin?
What were the consequences of Jesus' death and sacrifice?
Why is justification so important?

Harold's Musings
I know a lot of people use this passage to prove that there is original sin. I have a very difficult time with the concept of original sin. I know from Genesis 3 that what man did was learn the difference from good and evil thereby forcing mankind to choose to do good versus evil. Since Jesus was the only person to make all the right choices all the time, we all sin by our choice not from some taint that comes from Adam. We are tempted by our desires and choose to obtain what we desire through avenues that God does not allow. Make the right choices out there today, not excuses.

Undeserved help

2008-08-19T07:26:00.001-05:00

Rom 5:6-11

6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person— though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11 More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Who in your life would you be totally willing to die for? Why?
Who in your life would you be totally unwilling to die for? Why?
How are helplessness and hopelessness similar and dissimilar?
From this passage, what were we before Christ's sacrifice?
What feelings do you have when you are told that:
= you are helpless
= you are a sinner
= you are God's enemy
How frequently do you feel helpless before God? Why or why not?
How frequently do you feel that your relationship with God is strained? What causes these times?
How does believing this passage to be true change your life?

Building character

2008-08-14T07:17:00.000-05:00

Rom 5:1-5

5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we [1] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith [2] into this grace in which we stand, and we [3] rejoice [4] in hope of the glory of God. 3 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Footnotes
[1] 5:1 Some manuscripts let us
[2] 5:2 Some manuscripts omit by faith
[3] 5:2 Or let us; also verse 3
[4] 5:2 Or boast; also verses 3, 11

How frequently do you rejoice because of your troubles?
Which would you most commonly want: Christian growth or comfort?
How do troubles and tribulations result in perseverance and endurance?
How does perseverance and endurance in result in proven character?
How does proven character result in hope?
How often do your hopes disappoint?
What is different about this hope?
Why is hope at the beginning and the end of the list?
What does it take to endure life?
What do you have that non-Christians do not?

Justified by faith

2008-08-13T07:20:00.001-05:00

Rom 4:23-5:2

23 But the words “it was counted to him” were not written for his sake alone, 24 but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, 25 who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification. 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we [1] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith [2] into this grace in which we stand, and we [3] rejoice [4] in hope of the glory of God.

Footnotes
[1] 5:1 Some manuscripts let us
[2] 5:2 Some manuscripts omit by faith
[3] 5:2 Or let us; also verse 3
[4] 5:2 Or boast; also verses 3, 11

Why was Jesus delivered up?
Why was Jesus raised?
How does our justification symbolized by Jesus' resurrection?
What was the result of your justification by faith? How important is this to you?
How and through whom where you introduced into grace?
How frequently do you hope in the glory of God? What does this mean to you?
How does your hope in God's glory relate to the faith by which you are justified?

Faith and Law

2008-08-12T07:46:00.001-05:00

Rom 4:13-22

13 For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. 15 For the law brings wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression. 16 That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspring —not only to the adherent of the law but also to the one who shares the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, 17 as it is written, "I have made you the father of many nations"—in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. 18 In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, "So shall your offspring be." 19 He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah's womb. 20 No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, 21 fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. 22 That is why his faith was "counted to him as righteousness."

Why does it seem that justification by faith has no requirements?
Is justification by faith based on a single event or an entire life?
How does hope play a role in a life of faith?
What was the result of Abraham's faith?
Did Abraham and Sarah have Issac without any action of their own?
What was reckoned to Abraham as righteousness: his "knowing" that there would be a child or his "acting out his faith"?
What things do you believe that you do not act on in faith?

Justified by what?

2008-08-11T07:37:00.003-05:00

Rom 4:1-8

4:1 What then shall we say was gained by [1] Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? 2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” 4 Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but believes in [2] him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, 6 just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works:

7 “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven,
and whose sins are covered;
8 blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”

Footnotes
[1] 4:1 Some manuscripts say about
[2] 4:5 Or but trusts; compare verse 24

What does it mean to be justified?
What is justification by works?
What is involved in believing God? How is this different from believing in God?
Which do you feel more grateful for: your regular paycheck or an unexpected gift of something you really need?
If God were grading you on your works, what do you think your grade would be?
As a believer in Christ, what is your real grade?

Boasting and Faith

2008-08-08T07:28:00.001-05:00

Rom 3:27-31

27 Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28 For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. 29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, 30 since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. 31 Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.

Which is more appealing to you: works-oriented Christianity or faith-oriented Christianity? Why?
What are the "risks" of a works-orientation?
To whom might you boast about your good works?
Who have you "judged" in the last year because their works do not match your own?
How do you measure someone's faith? Is your observation of their works an accurate measure?
Who is real judge? What measure does He use?

All fall short

2008-08-07T06:58:00.001-05:00

Rom 3:19-26

19 Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. 20 For by works of the law no human being [1] will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

Footnotes

[1] 3:20 Greek flesh

When have you done something and later found out it was wrong? How did you feel?
What was the purpose of the Law of Moses?
What problem did the Law of Moses leave us with?
Who could be considered righteous under the Law of Moses?
How can a person be righteous now?
What is involved in having faith in Jesus Christ?

External or internal

2008-08-06T07:32:00.000-05:00

Rom 2:25-3:2

25 For circumcision indeed is of value if you obey the law, but if you break the law, your circumcision becomes uncircumcision. 26 So, if a man who is uncircumcised keeps the precepts of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded [1] as circumcision? 27 Then he who is physically uncircumcised but keeps the law will condemn you who have the written code [2] and circumcision but break the law. 28 For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. 29 But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.3:1 Then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? 2 Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God.

Footnotes

[1] 2:26 Or counted
[2] 2:27 Or the letter

Which is more important to you: outward appearances or inner character? What percentage would you assign to each?
What church-related outward appearance do you maintain because you believe others expect it of you?
What requirement of God do you not keep because no other person will know about it?
At what point do the expectations of others become your personal guidelines?

Law of Moses

2008-08-05T07:11:00.001-05:00

Rom 2:17-24

17 But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God 18 and know his will and approve what is excellent, because you are instructed from the law; 19 and if you are sure that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. 24 For, as it is written, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”

Although this passage is about Jews and the Law of Moses, what does it say to you and your Christian walk?
What areas of Christian life are you willing to preach, teach, discuss, argue, or just know but are not willing to do?
How does knowing how to obey God but also knowing you don't obey God affect your willingness to teach, etc.?
When might the name of God have been blasphemed among unbelievers because of your actions?

Having the law

2008-08-04T06:51:00.001-05:00

Rom 2:11-16

11 For God shows no partiality. 12 For all who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified. 14 For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. 15 They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them 16 on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.

Why is it important for you to know that God is not partial?
What law is Paul talking about here?
Who is justified before God?
What was the difference between the Jew and Gentile stated here?
How far can you extend the "I just knew in my heart it was the right thing to do" approach to life?
What criteria do you use to determine what your thoughts and behavior will be?
What criteria will God use to judge your thoughts and behavior?

Judgment is coming

2008-08-01T07:33:00.001-05:00

Rom 2:5-11

5 But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God's righteous judgment will be revealed. 6 He will render to each one according to his works: 7 to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; 8 but for those who are self-seeking [1] and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury. 9 There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, 10 but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek. 11 For God shows no partiality.

Footnotes
[1] 2:8 Or contentious

What is the outcome of those who obey the truth?
What is the outcome of those who do not obey the truth?
What attitudes result in punishment?
What do stubbornness, unrepentant heart, and selfish ambition have in common?
What will be the basis of God's judgment?
Why is repentance so important in facing God's judgment?

And you did it too!

2008-07-31T07:25:00.001-05:00

Rom 1:32-2:4

32 Though they know God's decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them. 2:1 Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. 2 We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things. 3 Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?

What is the difference between "giving approval" and "passing judgment"?
What is meant by passing judgment?
What is the problem with mankind passing judgment on mankind?
How should you respond to the fact that God judges people who practice sin?
What is the "range of sins" listed in v. 28-32?
How would you rank the sins in the list from worst to less worse?
How does God rank the sins in the list?
What is the reason for God's kindness?
In what way has God's kindness led you to repent in the past?
What sins do you need to repent of now?

Given over (Rom 1:24-32)

2008-07-30T07:14:00.001-05:00

Rom 1:24-32

24 Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. 26 For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; 27 and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error. 28 And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. 29 They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, 30 slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, 31 foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. 32 Though they know God's decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.

What are the consequences of not acknowledging God and serving the creature instead of the Creator?
To what three things does God give over people who reject him?
Which of your problem areas are included in the list?
How close are you to God when you find yourself struggling with your problem areas?
Why would God give someone over to something that would result in sin?
Which is worse: rejecting God or a sinful action? Why?
Why is tolerance of sin not acceptable to God?
What does tolerance of sin reflect?

Exchanging Gods

2008-07-29T07:24:00.002-05:00

Rom 1:18-25

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.

How is the truth suppressed by unrighteousness?
Which comes first: not believing the truth or unrighteous actions?
What parts of creation show God to you most clearly?
In what ways are verses 21-22 true in today's culture?
What is God exchanged for today?
How do people worship and serve the creature instead of the Creator?
Why would God give people over to their lusts?
Why is it sometimes easy to exchange God's truth for Satan's lie?
What personal challenge does this passage confront you with?

Encouraged

2008-07-28T07:13:00.001-05:00

Rom 1:8-15

8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I mention you 10 always in my prayers, asking that somehow by God's will I may now at last succeed in coming to you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— 12 that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine. 13 I want you to know, brothers, [1] that I have often intended to come to you (but thus far have been prevented), in order that I may reap some harvest among you as well as among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, [2] both to the wise and to the foolish. 15 So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.

Footnotes
[1] 1:13 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God's family, the church
[2] 1:14 That is, non-Greeks

How would you feel if someone told you that your faith is being talked about all over the world?
Why might the Roman Christians have been encouraged by these comments?
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase "spiritual gifts"?
What spiritual gift did Paul have in mind for the Roman Christians?
Why would he call this a spiritual gift?
Who in your life encourages you by their faith?
Who do you encourage by your faith?
What is necessary about a relationship for you to encourage and be encouraged by it?
When have you hidden your faith?
What harvest do you hope to reap from what you have sown?

Set apart for the Gospel

2008-07-24T07:04:00.001-05:00

Rom 1:1-7

1:1 Paul, a servant [1] of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 concerning his Son, who was descended from David [2] according to the flesh 4 and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, 5 through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, 6 including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ, 7 To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Footnotes
[1] 1:1 Or slave; Greek bondservant
[2] 1:3 Or who came from the offspring of David

What is your definition of the gospel (good news)?
What do you consider included and excluded in the good news?
Why would Paul consider himself a bondservant [slave by choice] of Christ Jesus?
According to this passage...
- What had God promised through the prophets?
- Who is the gospel about?
- What two aspects of Jesus Christ does Paul point out?
What was the purpose of the grace and apostleship of Paul?
How is the obedience of faith brought about?
Why were the Roman Christians called?
Why is the name of Jesus Christ so important?

Struggle in prayer

2008-07-23T07:14:00.002-05:00

Col 4:12-13

12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis.

How could Epaphras be with Paul (wherever he was) and still struggle for the Colossian church?
Why would prayer be considered a place of struggle?
What did Epaphras pray for?
Who do you struggle for in your prayers?
When you pray for someone, what is your usual requests?
Who do you have such deep concern that you would struggle earnestly in prayer for them?
What does it mean to you that someone you care for is "standing mature and fully assured in all the will of God"?

Seasoned Tongue

2008-07-22T07:23:00.001-05:00

Col 4:5-6

5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

Do prefer your food salted or unsalted? Why?
What does it mean to be act wisely toward non-Christians?
Which do you act more wisely toward: Christians or non-Christians? Why?
What is Paul talking about when he states: make the best use of the time?
What is your opinion of how your speech tastes?
Would others consider your speech enjoyable, bitter, too salty, etc?
What is required for your speech to be pleasing?
How do you answer each person?

Sorry for the absence

2008-07-22T07:17:00.001-05:00

My father-in-law passed away last week after about three months of declining health. He and my mother-in-law were married for 64 years. A Chinese friend of mine stated once, "So Christians are not afraid of death." At the time I fumbled a bit and replied that we should not be. My father-in-law is in the best place possible, but my mother-in-law still hurts as the other part of her is now gone. Perhaps I should have answered my friend something to the effect that the dying Christian has nothing to fear but those left behind will fear their loss. I know a lot of people are going to feel the loss of Hoyce Bailey.

Devoted to prayer

2008-07-10T07:27:00.001-05:00

Col 4:2-4

2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

How devoted are you to prayer? How do you determine how devoted you are?
Why is it necessary to keep alert in prayer?
What are you to be on the look out for in prayer?
How often do you pray for missionaries and evangelists? What do you pray for them?
How often do you pray that a door will be opened for you to spread God's word?

Working...

2008-07-09T07:43:00.001-05:00

Col 3:22-4:1

22 Slaves, [1] obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, [2] not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. 25 For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality. 4:1 Masters, treat your slaves [3] justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.

Footnotes
[1] 3:22 Or Servants; Greek Bondservants
[2] 3:22 Or your masters according to the flesh
[3] 4:1 Or servants; Greek bondservants

Why do you go to work each day?
When you begin work each day, who are you working for? Who do you try to please at work?
What percentage of the time are you working with all your heart?
How frequently do you try to do the best job you can for Christ?
How does working for Christ change your attitudes towards quality of work, personal ambition and materialism?
How does knowing that you are working for Christ change your approach to your fellow workers?

Family in the Name of Christ

2008-07-08T07:27:00.002-05:00

Col 3:18-21

18 Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

How big of a role does Christ play in your family's daily life?
How would your family's daily life differ if it did every thing and said every word in the Name of Christ?
What must happen to a person's self-oriented nature to obey these verses?
What are the limits of a wife's subjection to her husband?
How can a wife know what is fitting in the Lord?
Why is the husband told to love his wife?
Why are children to be obedient to their parents?
At what age should pleasing Christ become the reason for obedience?
How can a father discourage his children?

Harold's Musings:
It is interesting to me that the Holy Spirit chose to drop into family life immediately after the Hardest Verse. Family life (and work life, coming up tomorrow) are where we spend the bulk of our time. Our family drives away from the assembly with us. Our family sees us when we come home from work or after a long day with never ending housework. Christ wants us to act and speak in His Name as we live with our family. That means that regardless how frustrated we are with our child or spouse, we are to realize that Christ needs to approve of what we say or do. Ouch! Even more frustration! That means I cannot put back on the anger and wrath I put off with my old self (Col 3:8). I have to show the compassion, kindness, patience and love that I put on (Col 3:12-14) with my new self. Sunday morning Christianity may be what others see, but the rest of your life is where your true Christian self is displayed. Live it today.

The Hardest Verse

2008-07-07T07:37:00.002-05:00

Col 3:17

17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

What does it mean to do something in the name of another person?
How much of your conversation each day would be Christ-approved?
How many of your actions each day would Christ authorize?
How frequently each day do you consider what Christ would want you to do?
Why should you feel thankful that your words and deeds can be authorized by Christ?

Harold's Musings:
Without a doubt, this is the hardest verse in the Bible for me. The scope it addresses feels overwhelming. I have this huge range of feelings when I consider the prospect of watching every word and every action to see if Christ would do it or at least approve of it. Yes, I know I have the grace of God when I mess up, but the focus of this passage is on getting permission instead of forgiveness. I am used to running on auto-pilot for the bulk of my day. To slow down and consider if my next action is bad, good, or best is unsettling. How will I get anything done? To put my brain in gear before starting my mouth so that my words are acceptable to Christ is unsettling. Will those words tear down or build up? Are they complaints, gossip, or anger? Would Christ say what I am preparing to say in the way I am wanting to say it? Hard, hard, hard verse for old Harold. Hope it is easier for you. In His Name....

Word and Song

2008-07-02T07:47:00.002-05:00

Col 3:16

16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

If the dwelling of the word of Christ in you could be measured as money, what would your account look like? Would you be poor, comfortable, wealthy, or what?
What is one reason to have the word of Christ in you?
How often do you sing lessons to someone from Christ's word?
Why do you sing at church gatherings?
When was the last time you sang with thankfulness?

Harold's Musings:
I must admit this is a frustrating verse for me. First I don't particularly like to sing. I sing along with songs that I like in my car or when I'm listening to my iPod but it is in response to the music, not because I inherently like to sing. I do sing at church gatherings, even though I don't particularly like to. Why? Because I am supposed to sing teaching and encouragement. Because I am supposed to express my thankfulness to God. I don't have a problem teaching, encouraging, or being thankful. I just don't want to sing it, but I do because that is what God wants. Because I don't want to be singing, it annoys me to look around at a church gathering and see people refusing to sing. Now you see I have even worse attitudes than just not singing. My point is this: God wants us to do what he wants us to do even when we don't like it. God does not want me to be annoyed by how others do or do not act; that is His concern. Boy, do I have a lot to work on today!

Peace rules

2008-07-01T07:30:00.004-05:00

Col. 3:15

12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

How much do you want peace in your life?
What things take away your peace?
In what areas do you give or throw away your peace?
How is the peace of Christ different from the peace you desire?
How would letting the peace of Christ rule your heart result in overall peace?
How would wearing the qualities in v. 12-14 help you have peace?

Your New Clothes

2008-06-30T07:14:00.001-05:00

Col 3:12-14

What is the focus of the qualities you are to put on?
What image does the phrase "put on" bring to mind?
Who comes to mind when you hear these qualities listed?
What must die for you to put these qualities on? Why?
Who will you look like if you are wearing these qualities?
If you were to look in a spiritual mirror today, which of these "garments" would be missing or not fitting well?

Harold's Musings:
In Gal. 3:27 we are told that when we are baptized into Christ we put on Christ. Here Paul leads off with us being hidden in Christ, tells us to do an old for new self exchange, and then gives us a list things to be sure we do. One of those is this list of things to put on. I am impressed by how this list states characteristics of Christ. We sometimes grouse about wondering what God's will is for our lives. We seem to ignore the clear statements of what God's will for us is and are perhaps more concerned about the embarrassment of making a wrong choice in a physical realm situation. When I look at this list, I realize that I put these on selectively; much like how I choose what physical clothes I wear. I dress up for special occasions and wear sloppy comfortable clothes when I'm at home. I'm thinking God wants me to dress up like Christ all the time, even when it is not comfortable. So what "clothes" are you going to selectively not wear today? Patience? Forgiveness? Hmmm.... What to wear, what to wear?

Old for New

2008-06-27T07:34:00.002-05:00

Col 3:9-11

9 Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self [1] with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, [2] free; but Christ is all, and in all.

Footnotes
[1] 3:9 Greek man; also as supplied in verse 10
[2] 3:11 Greek bondservant

Whose responsibility is it to get rid of sinful behavior and habits?
Why would you want to pick up the old self you have previously laid aside?
What is your new self beginning to look like?
If everyone in Christ is the image of Christ, how can you distinguish backgrounds, race, etc.?
If everyone in Christ is the image of Christ, why would there ever be divisions and strife in the body?
Would the image of Christ do the things Paul has previously listed, such as greed, anger, and lying?
How does focusing on being the image of Christ help you in your renewal?

Harold's Musings:
It is more rewarding to look towards achieving something than it is to look at the costs that you will have paid to do it. College students look toward graduation and work to achieve the goal. What if they focused on the number of hours of study, the number of boring classes attended, the number of pages read, the number of exams taken, and the amount of money spent? I think they may quit while they are ahead. We have been convinced that as Christians we have to focus on the "do and don't" and not on the goal. We wave the flag of "count the costs" instead of the flag of "becoming the image of Christ". Like the student who attends, reads, studies, and spends, the Christian seeking to look like Christ will "do and don't". will give up things, and will do whatever it takes to be like Christ. Be Christ on earth today!

Cleaning List

2008-06-26T07:12:00.001-05:00

Col 3:3-8

3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your [1] life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: [2] sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 6 On account of these the wrath of God is coming. [3] 7 In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. 8 But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.

Footnotes
[1] 3:4 Some manuscripts our
[2] 3:5 Greek therefore your members that are on the earth
[3] 3:6 Some manuscripts add upon the sons of disobedience

Why does your life in Christ mean changes in how you live?
What are some logical results of "dying"?
What things in your life do you need to consider your body dead to?
Why are anger and other person-to-person sins listed along with immorality and idolatry?
How is living for self and its desires seen in daily life?
How is dying to self and its desires seen in daily life?
Which of the listed sins would Jesus do?

Mind set

2008-06-24T07:17:00.001-05:00

Col 3:1-4

3:1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your [1] life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Footnotes
[1] 3:4 Some manuscripts our

What are the things above that you should be seeking?
Why should you seek the things above?
How is setting your mind on things above more effective than a list of rules?
Which has a higher percentage of your mind: things above or things on earth?
How does your being dead to flesh and your life being hidden in Christ change your daily walk?
What is the result of your fleshly nature being resuscitated?
Which seems more preferable: glory now or glory with Christ when he comes?

Harold's Musings:
Oh that I could be consistent in regard to these verses! The world assaults these attitudes almost every minute of the day. How can I set my mind on things above when my stomach wants the food below? How can I simultaneously seek the things above and seek to do an excellent job at work below? (And yes I do know that in a few days we will look at doing a good job on earth.) The challenge I see in these verses is the all-consuming nature of being in Christ. If I have been raised with Christ, then what does the world really offer me? If I am dead, then what does the world offer a dead man? Perhaps I have had CPR and I'm hanging on by a thread. Perhaps Christ is competing with me to be my life. Think I need to go read Romans 7-8 again.

The dead have no rules

2008-06-23T07:35:00.001-05:00

Col 2:20-23

20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.

What is the difference between God's rules and man's rules?
How can you determine the source of the rules you live by?
When is a rule-based life beneficial to a Christian?
How has dying to the elemental spirits of the world changed your life?
What man-made rules for living drive your life?
Are man-made rules a source of freedom or bondage?

Harold's Musings:
Rules and regulations imply control, yet they are impotent by themselves. Throughout history, countless rules have been made and I suspect every one of them have been broken more than once. Even the best of rules seem to have exceptions, conditional variations. Ultimately rules are guidelines for those who want something. If you want to win a contest, you must at least follow the rules. In recent years, rules and even laws seem to be perceived as optional; the exception is the norm. Rules do not control. They merely appear to control. When you died to Christ, you died to the elemental spirits of the world. It means you should not even want then things that the rules were created to prevent. What rules your life: Christ, rules, or you?

Keep your prize

2008-06-20T07:02:00.001-05:00

Col 2:16-19

16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. 17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, [1] puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.

Footnotes
[1] 2:18 Or about the things he has seen

What are some things today that are mere shadows of what is to come?
What is the prize in this passage?
Where did the self-abasement, angel worship, and personal visions come from?
Why is it so important for you to hold on to Christ, the head of the body?
How does the body grow?

Death and Debt

2008-06-19T07:34:00.002-05:00

Col 2:12-15

12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities [1] and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. [2]

Footnotes
[1] 2:15 Probably demonic rulers and authorities
[2] 2:15 Or in it (that is, the cross)

How were you dead?
How were you made alive?
What was necessary to be made alive?
Why was the law of Moses hostile to man?
What was the certificate of debt that Christ took away?
What did you owe God before you were baptized into Christ?
How did Jesus' death disarm the spiritual rulers and authorities?
What weapons did Christ take away from Satan?

Fill ups

2008-06-18T07:50:00.001-05:00

Col 2:9-12

9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, 10 and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. 11 In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.

What lives in Jesus body?
According to this passage, what happens to you when you are in Christ?
If Christ is the head over all rule and authorities and you are in Christ, what do you have to fear?
What is the body of flesh that baptism removes?
What is the significance of being buried with Christ in baptism?
What is the significance of being raised with Christ?
What is the means through which you were raised?

Harold's Musings:
The phrase "in Christ" and its variants, e.g. in Him, is frequently overlooked in passages. We recognize the "Christ" part but read over the "in" part. This passage tells us that the fullness of deity lives in Christ and then states that as Christians you and I are filled in Him. The various translations use phrases like "made full", "made complete", etc. It is interesting to muse over why the Holy Spirit put the fact that Christ was filled with Deity in Him and that we are filled in Him next to each other in the passage. If Christ is filled with Deity and we are in Christ, then we are at least sharing space with Deity. Perhaps this is related to our receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps this speaks to our being a temple. Perhaps it is about our being partakers of the devine nature. The bigger questions are "what does it mean to me" and "what will I do with it".

Captive to empty things

2008-06-17T07:09:00.001-05:00

Col 2:8

8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits [1] of the world, and not according to Christ.

Footnotes
[1] 2:8 Or elementary principles; also verse 20

What comes to mind from the phrase "takes you captive"?
What is life according to Christ?
How can philosophy take you captive?
When are traditions dangerous?
How do you know when traditions have become dangerous?
What is at the root of everything that directs you away from Christ?
How does the world work in philosophy and traditions to take you captive?

Walk in the Truth

2008-06-16T07:21:00.001-05:00

Col 2:4-7

4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.
6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

What would Paul think about your "good order" and faith?
Why is it important for your faith in Christ to be firm?
How is a firm faith recognized?
Why does walking in Christ require being established in faith?
What does being firmly rooted in Christ mean?
How are you being built up in Christ?
What is your gratitude's rate of flow?

Harold's Musings:
A number of scholars believe that Paul wrote this letter to address an early version of Gnostism. This particular passage seems to be a pointed defense. Beginning in 2:1, Paul talks about true knowledge and wisdom being in Christ. Here he warns about being deluded by plausible arguments. I look around and see so many different religions and even within believers in Christ there are so many different "flavors". My observation is that we want something new and we want someone of our choosing to be the expert. I find it difficult to walk the seemingly fine line between mere tradition and real truth, knowledge, and wisdom. No wonder we are at risk from "plausible arguments". It is critical that you and I be established, firmly rooted in our faith and that faith is based in large part on what is in God's Word. How firm is your faith today?

Goals of the struggle

2008-06-13T07:41:00.002-05:00

Col 2:1-3

2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

How could Paul be struggling for people hundreds of miles away?
What was Paul wanting for these people?
What image comes to mind from "knit together in love"? Why the word "knit"?
How does entwined by love encourage the heart?
What sort of riches is Paul talking about here?
Why is understanding so important?
How is knowledge different from understanding?
What other questions does this passage raise for you?

Harold's Musings
Three little verses with a lot of meat. I first ask myself if I am struggling so that someone is gaining the things Paul lists here. I have to admit that my efforts are scarcely a struggle. Maybe a short scuffle or quick task, but not a struggle. I ask what is Paul really wanting for these children of God. My wife used to do a lot a machine knitting. I watched the process and the results as she worked (even struggled) to change cones of yarn into a single wearable garment. Without the knitting process, the strands of yarn would not hold together and were useless. Then there is the issue of understanding and knowing Christ and what that does to a person. I ask how rich is my assurance of my knowledge and understanding of Him. A lot to chew on today...

Purpose and Power

2008-06-12T07:23:00.002-05:00

Col 1:28-29

…the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

Who is Paul's audience when he proclaims Christ?
What does it mean to be mature in Christ?
How does warning and teaching result in maturity in Christ?
How mature are you in Christ? What areas need work?
What was working in Paul so that he could proclaim Christ?
What power is available to you if you want to be mature in Christ?

Harold's Musings
What a challenge put before us! To proclaim Christ to everyone. To warn everyone. To teach everyone. To present everyone mature in Christ. Or do you think this is only for Paul? That you and I get a pass on this challenge? I know I stuggle with the scope of the challenge, but Paul struggled to achieve the goal. Paul realized that he could not do it alone. He realized the energy that he had been given. Like the electricity that runs throughout our houses, Christ's energy is available but untouched unless we plug ourselves in. Just perhaps that comes with maturity.

The Mystery

2008-06-10T07:19:00.005-05:00

Col 1:24-27

24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

What sort of feelings do you get when you find out a secret?
How would you react if you discovered something that would help a lot of people?
What was the mystery that had been hidden?
How does knowing this mystery influence your life?
Why is this mystery so important to you? To your friends?
What is your hope? How often do you feel hopeless?

Harold's Musings
Maybe this is a reason why we are so reluctant to tell others about Jesus. We simply do not feel that we have anything to offer them. We do not have anything to offer; Jesus does. Perhaps we do not feel the hope of glory that comes from realizing that Christ is in us. We go through our day accomplishing what we do or failing in what we try with our hope of glory firmly resting on our own abilities. Dale Carnegie summarized a number of authors when he wrote "everyone wants to feel important". We frequently fail to recognize just how important we are to God and only focus on how important we are to the humans around us. The secret though is "Christ in you, the hope of glory".

Suffering Your Part

2008-06-06T07:40:00.001-05:00

Col. 1:24

24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church,

How much suffering do you do for another person's sake?
How much suffering do you do for the church?
What lacked in Christ's afflictions for the church?
When do you do your share of the suffering for the church?
How frequently do you find joy in your suffering for the church?

Reconciliation

2008-06-05T06:44:00.001-05:00

Col. 1:18-23

18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation [1] under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.

Footnotes
[1] 1:23 Or to every creature

How do you feel realizing that the one who is over everything died for you?
What does the word reconcile mean to you? What must be present for reconciliation to be needed?
When did you realize you were an enemy of God?
Why would Jesus die for His enemies?
What conditions are stated here for remaining reconciled to God?
How important is hope in this passage?

Our Rescuer

2008-06-02T07:17:00.001-05:00

Col. 1:15-18

15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by [1] him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.

Footnotes
[1] 1:16 That is, by means of; or in

How does it feel to be on the winning team? How about the championship team?
What do you feel about Jesus Christ when you read this passage?
What struggle in your life is outside of Jesus Christ's control?
Where in the universe is something held together outside of Christ?
As the head of the church, what control does he have over you, a member of the body?
When you read this, what feelings does it evoke or is it merely intellectual fluff?

Rescued

2008-05-22T06:59:00.001-05:00

Col 1:12-14

12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

What images come to mind when you compare the domain of darkness to the kingdom of Jesus?
What were you delivered or rescued from?
How were you a captive in the domain of darkness?
How has your transfer into Jesus' kingdom changed your life?
Where must we be in order to have forgiveness of sins?
If you have been rescued from the domain of darkness, why do you sometimes slip back into captivity?
What should be your response to realizing you have been rescued?

Harold's Musings
When I read this passage images from The Lord of the Rings come to mind. The contrast between a kingdom of light and a domain of darkness was vividly shown in the movie. In today's imagery, I see a SEAL team sneaking into an enemy camp to rescue a captured soldier and the group being airlifted out to safety. Why do we not see the domain of darkness as we walk through life? Why do we sometimes give ourselves over to go back into the enemy's camp?

God's will

2008-05-21T06:45:00.002-05:00

Col 1:9-12

9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. 11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, 12 giving thanks [1] to the Father, who has qualified you [2] to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

Footnotes
[1] 1:12 Or patience, with joy giving thanks
[2] 1:12 Some manuscripts us

What do you most frequently ask for when you pray for others?
What are some of the results of being filled with the knowledge of God's will?
When do you usually want to know what God's will is for you?
What are you usually wanting to know when you seek God's will for you? Is it spiritual or physical wisdom you seek?
What will your life look like if you have spiritual understanding of God's will?
Why would increasing in the knowledge of God be a result of being filled with the knowledge of God's will?
What is the stated reason for being strenghtened with God's power?
How does "endurance and patience with joy" fit into knowing God's will?

Faith, Love and Hope

2008-05-20T06:48:00.001-05:00

Col 1:1-8

1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To the saints and faithful brothers [1] in Christ at Colossae. Grace to you and peace from God our Father.3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and growing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, 7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. [2] He is a faithful minister of Christ on your [3] behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

Footnotes
[1] 1:2 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God's family, the church
[2] 1:7 Greek fellow bondservant
[3] 1:7 Some manuscripts our

How often do you consider the hopes that fuel your life? Is it easy
for you to feel hopeless?
Who do you always pray for?
How is the hope you have expressed in your faith and love?
Where does your hope come from?
How is the gospel producing fruit in your life?
Why is it necessary to understand the gospel instead of just hearing it?
What does it mean to understand the grace of God in truth?

Closing comments

2008-05-19T06:48:00.001-05:00

1 Pe 5:12-14

12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of love.Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

What is the true grace of God?
Why did Peter use the word "true"?
How might a false grace be presented?
Why must you stand firm in the true grace of God?
If grace is merely letting Christ die for your sins, how hard is it to stand in it?
If the true grace of God includes holy living and suffering, how hard is it to stand?
How do you greet fellow Christians?
How often do you tolerate fellow Christians instead of greeting them in love?
Why is physical contact(kiss on cheek, handshake, hug, etc.) important?
How might you let your personal comfort zone prevent you from expressing love for other Christians?
How does Peter end a book with a major theme of suffering and persecution? Why?
How can you have peace in the midst of suffering?

He is out to get you

2008-05-15T07:14:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 5:8-11

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

What would you do if you knew for certain that there was a rabid dog in your neighborhood?
Would walk alone in the neighborhood?
Would you go around calling the dog?
Would you leave your garage door open?
What is your attitude about life and righteousness?
Would you consider yourself a person that soberly considers your actions?
Would you consider yourself a person that is on alert?
Would you consider yourself a person that has enemies?
How do you feel knowing you have an adversary that is out to get you?
What do you do to protect yourself from the devil's attacks?
How can the devil devour you?
What is necessary to deal with the devil?
How much of your suffering can you clearly attribute to the devil?
How much of your sin is related to avoiding suffering for doing right?
How does your faith help you deal with sin and suffering?
What does enduring suffering produce?
Who will be responsible for your outcome if you resist the devil and endure suffering?
Where you called to glory with Christ or to an easy, happy life here?

Pride and Worry

2008-05-13T07:41:00.001-05:00

1 Pe 5:5-7

5 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

At what point in life ...
- do children begin to believe they are smarter than adults?
- do younger adults begin to realize the wisdom of age and experience?
- Is the generation gap a cultural thing or a human thing? Why do you think so?
What does it mean to "clothe yourselves in humility toward one another"?
What is implied by the command to clothe yourself?
Why is humility an essential Christian quality for church life and growth?
Why is God opposed to the proud?
Is this opposition just toward pride against God?
What are the dangers of pride?
Is humility a prerequisite for receiving grace? Why?
Why does God consider humility necessary before giving Him your worries?
How much humility is required to let God handled your worries?
How willing are you to suffer (physical or emotional) if God allows it?
Why is humility necessary to trust God with your entire life?
Why is this strong statement about pride and humility given after so many about suffering?
In your daily life, are you more afraid of physical or emotional suffering?
What fears keep you from doing all that you know you should for Christ?
How does pride impact your fears?

Instructions to elders

2008-05-08T07:07:00.001-05:00

1 Pe 5:1-4

5:1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, [1] not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; [2] not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Footnotes
[1] 5:2 Some manuscripts omit exercising oversight
[2] 5:2 Some manuscripts omit as God would have you

What is your understanding of an elder's functions?
What does it mean to shepherd?
What does the phrase "the flock of God" say to you?
How does an elder exercise oversight? What does it look like?
Why might a man be compelled to exercise oversight involuntarily?
Why is it God's will that oversight be performed voluntarily?
How might an elder receive "sordid gain"?
How is not getting money related to eagerness?
How might an elder "lord it over" the flock?
What does being an example accomplish among the flock?
How effective will an elder be if the flock does not want to be overseen?
What is your role in regard to your elders?
Why did Peter wait until he had discussed suffering many times before talking to elders?

Suffer for right reasons

2008-05-07T07:36:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 4:15-19

15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And

“If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” [1]

19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

Footnotes
[1] 4:18 Greek where will the ungodly and sinner appear?

Why might a person suffer because of unrighteousness?
How should a Christian respond to suffering that results from sin?
What shame is associated with suffering because of a sin?
Why does Peter specifically mention not being ashamed for suffering for Christ?
What should result from the Christian's suffering?
What judgement is waiting for everyone?
What does Peter mean by "obey the gospel of God"?
Is obeying the gospel a one-time thing or not?
Why does Peter state that is difficult for the righteous to be saved?
Why does Peter jump from judgement to suffering for Christ?
How does what you put your trust in affect your response to suffering?

Rejoicing in suffering

2008-05-06T07:24:00.002-05:00

1 Pe. 4:12-14

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory [1] and of God rests upon you.

Footnotes
[1] 4:14 Some manuscripts insert and of power

Why do some tout "good-time gospel", i.e. if you become a Christian, everything will be great here on earth?
Why would anyone even expect "good-time gospel" after reading v. 12?
How does Peter state that we should expect suffering?
What connection does Peter make between suffering and rejoicing?
How might it help to consider your suffering as sharing with Christ?
What is the outcome of rejoicing in suffering?
When have you been insulted for the name of Christ?
When have you been ridiculed for behaving in a Christian manner?
What ridicule are you trying to avoid?
Whose ridicule are you trying to avoid?
Is your life different enough from the world that anyone would notice?
How might realizing that the Spirit of glory and God rests on you help you deal with the risk of ridicule and persecution?

Everything to God's Glory

2008-05-05T07:34:00.001-05:00

1 Pe 4:10-11

10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

What gifts/talents has God given you?
What are you supposed to do with the gifts God has given you?
Whom do you commonly serve with your gifts/talents?
What does it mean to be a good steward of something?
How does serving one another reflect stewardship of God's grace?
What should you be aware of when you speak?
What does it mean to speak as if you were speaking God's words?
How often do you say things that God would not say?
What should be the source of strength that supports your service?
How often are you aware of God's strength when you serve others?
How often do you try to serve others from your own strength?
What is the bottom line purpose for all that you do?
How often are you aware of this purpose?
By what means can you do this?
Who do you most commonly seek glory and praise from?

To-do list, pt. 1

2008-04-29T06:39:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 4:7-9

7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.

Why is it valuable to remember that the end is at hand?
Why is it dangerous to believe that you have tomorrow?
How would you change your life if you knew you had a week to live?
According to the Holy Spirit through Peter, what should you do knowing that the end of things is near?
What do you think God considers self-control and a sober mind to be?
How do these two things influence prayer?
Why is it important to have self-control and a sober mind to pray?
When have you prayed without self-control and a sober mind?
What type of love are you to have for one another?
What is the difference between a earnest love and toleration?
How earnestly do you love fellow Christians?
How does love cover a multitude of sins?
Whose sins are covered?
What does it mean to be hospitable to one another?
How hospitable are you?
What stands in the way of your hospitality?
How likely are you to complain about being hospitable?

You are different

2008-04-28T07:14:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 4:1-6

4:1 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, [1] arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.

Footnotes
[1] 4:1 Some manuscripts add for us; some for you

What is the "same way of thinking" that you are to arm yourself with?
What does "arm yourself" imply?
How does suffering in the flesh relate to sin?
How does God want you to live your life in the flesh?
How much of "what the Gentiles want to do" have you done previously?
Why does the changed life of a Christian surprise non-Christians?
What friends did you lose when you became a Christian?
How different is your life from that of the world?
In what ways do/did you suffer for not "pursuing a course" of sin?
What assurance and encouragement is there in knowing that God is the judge of all?
What is the purpose of the gospel and why is it preached?
How does verse 6 indicate the gospel is about more than conversion?
When you look at your life in the flesh...
- how different is it from the world around you?
- how different is it from living in the spirit according to God's will?

Christ suffered to save you

2008-04-25T07:28:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 3:17-22

17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil. 18 For Christ also suffered [1] once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which [2] he went and proclaimed [3] to the spirits in prison, 20 because [4] they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

Footnotes
[1] 3:18 Some manuscripts died
[2] 3:19 Or the Spirit, in whom
[3] 3:19 Or preached
[4] 3:20 Or when

How does your suffering for doing right compare to that of Christ?
Why did Christ die for sins?
- To whom did He bring you?
- What happened to his flesh?
How does knowing (but not understanding fully) that Christ preached to the spirits in prison affect you?
How does the salvation of Noah encourage you today?
How does baptism now save you?
Through what does baptism save?
What appeal is made to God in baptism?
Why would people resist such a simple, yet profound response to Christ's death?
Where is Christ now and how did His suffering get him there?
Who is subject to Christ?
How does this encourage you?

Suffering yet again

2008-04-24T07:42:00.002-05:00

1 Peter 3:13-17

13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.

Why is Peter dwelling on suffering?
How does this epistle go against the flow of "good-time gospel"?
How is this epistle good news?
Who is there to harm you if you are trying to do good?
Who or what do you fear that keeps you from doing right?
Who or what intimidates you and troubles your Christian walk?
Why is it important to clearly recognize Christ as your Lord in your heart?
What does it mean to have a Lord and Master?
Who is competing for lordship of your heart?
How are you as a Christian supposed to act when challenged about your life?
How ready are you to defend the hope that you have?
How ready are you to be gentle and reverent in your defense?
How does your behavior in Christ put those who intimidate you to shame?
If it is God's will that you suffer, what should be the reasons?
How have you suffered for Christ's sake in the past week?
What "questionable" enjoyment have you given up for Christ's sake?
When have you left your comfort zone to do right?

Guidelines for Christian life

2008-04-22T07:13:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 3:8-12

8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For

“Whoever desires to love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

What does it mean to have "unity of mind"? How often are you concerned about your mind being united with other Christians?
What does it mean to have "sympathy"? How much sympathy do you have?
What does it mean to have "brotherly love"? How much brotherly do you have?
What does it mean to have a "tender heart"? How tender hearted are you?
What does it mean to have a "humble mind"? How humble in mind are you?
For what purpose were you called? What will you get?
Why would God want you to not return evil and/or insult others?
How often do you bless those who annoy or even persecute you?
Which is more important to you: getting back at someone or having God on your side?
What does knowing the face of the Lord is against evildoers help?
How does your righteousness influence your prayers?

Husbands

2008-04-21T07:39:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 3:7

7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you [1] of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Footnotes
[1] 3:7 Some manuscripts since you are joint heirs

What does it mean to live in an "understanding way"?
How do women think differently from men?
How are women emotionally different from men?
Why is neither man's nor woman's view automatically the right view?
What can a husband do to understand his wife's differences?
How might a husband suffer if he "lives in an understanding way"?
For Christian spouses, how does being "fellow heirs" change the marital relationship?
When is any Christian permitted to
- treat someone wrongly
- have a selfish attitude towards someone
- have an arrogant, bossy attitude towards some
Why does being fellow heirs of the grace of life require better behavior?
How might your behavior and attitude towards your wife hinder your prayers?

Beautiful wives

2008-04-17T07:10:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 3:1-6

3:1 Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, 2 when they see your respectful and pure conduct. 3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— 4 but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious. 5 For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, 6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

At this point, who has Peter told Christians to be submissive, respectful, and obedient to?
Why does Peter's challenge to wives come immediately after discourses on Jesus' suffering and unreasonable masters?
Why does he specifically address wives of husbands disobedient to the word?
What is one purpose for the wife's submission?
Why might a Christian wife consider herself free from her husband's authority?
How is this any different that governmental or master's authority?
How is the Christian wife supposed to be attentive to beauty?
Which of these things will last and grow more precious?

Called to suffer

2008-04-16T07:10:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 2:21-25

21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Why would God call you for the purpose of suffering for doing right?
How do you feel when you think that you were called to follow Christ's example in suffering?
How well do you live up to the example?
How was Christ able to endure the suffering that he went through?
How often do you entrust your day-to-day suffering to God?
How is your day-to-day suffering similar to Christ's?
How is your day-to-day suffering different from Christ's?
Why did Christ endure his suffering?
What was the result of his bearing your sins on the cross?
What was the result of his wounds?
How often does a part of you long to be straying again?
What would happen if you followed those straying urges?
What role does Christ play now?

Submission to bad bosses

2008-04-15T07:04:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 2:18-21

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

How were free-in-Christ servant/slaves supposed to deal with their masters?
What is different about submission with respect?
How did the master's behavior change things?
How do you treat your employer?
How submissive are you?
How submissive are the following:
- active aggressive responses
- passive aggressive responses
How respectful is the submission you give your employer?
What was the purpose for this submission?
How does your conscience towards God change your work life?
Why would God seem to be unconcerned about your suffering at work?
Why are your to bear up under unjust suffering?
When might you suffer unjustly at work?
When have you been "slammed" after you did the right thing?
How well do you patiently endure unjust suffering?
What is essential to this type of endurance?
What sort of daily suffering do you endure just because you are a Christian trying to do right?
What temptations do you have to suffer through and not give in to?
What activities must you avoid that your friends enjoy?
What ridicule must you endure for not being like the crowd?

Submission to human institutions

2008-04-14T07:06:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 2:13-17

13 Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, [1] whether it be to the emperor [2] as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants [3] of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

Footnotes
[1] 2:13 Or every institution ordained for people
[2] 2:13 Or king; also verse 17
[3] 2:16 Greek bondservants

After saying that Christians are a Holy Nation, Aliens, and otherwise special people, why does Peter stress submission to human institutions?
- For who's sake are Christians to submit?
- Which human institutions are included?
Earlier in the book Peter recognized the suffering and trials his readers have endured, very likely at the hands of human authorities.
- Why should the readers submit to those who are trying them?
- Why is it important for Christians to obey the law of the land?
- Ideally, what are human authorities supposed to do?
What is a Christian responsible for doing?
- Why should a Christian strive do right and not evil?
- How might a Christian use their freedom to as a covering for evil?
- Is it ever right to lie or be dishonest in order to do good?
What did it mean to be a bondservant?
- How can Christians be both bondservants and free?
Why does God want you to ...
- honor all men
- love the brotherhood
- fear Him
- honor earthly leaders (kings, etc)

Sojourners and exiles

2008-04-11T07:38:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 2:11-12

11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

How much do you feel at home in this world?
- How strong is your desire to get back to your homeland?
- How does your desire to fit in here compare with your desire for heaven?
Why did Peter use such strong terms when describing problems with the flesh?
- What imagery comes to mind when you read "wage war"?
- How do passions of the flesh wage war against the soul?
Why are you to have good behavior?
- How do you feel when you realize that it is important what non-Christians see in you?
- How do non-Christians slander Christians as evildoers today?
- When will your good deeds before non-Christians produce their results?
- How does doing things for God's glory compare with doing things for yours?

Harold's Musings
Sojourner is a word that I seldom use. The dictionary states it means "to stay as a temporary resident". Exile means "the state or a period of forced (or voluntary) absence from one's country or home". So we are to consider ourselves to be only temporary residents who are living a forced absence from our home. We might even be considered migrant workers, people who left their home to travel somewhere to work. I don't think of myself this way often enough. How about you?

You are special

2008-04-10T07:18:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 2:9-10

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

How does our culture influence our understanding of v. 9?
What does it mean to be a chosen race?
- What are the distinguishing characteristics of this race?
- How often do you consider yourself chosen?
What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- How often do you consider yourself royalty?
- How often do you consider yourself to be a priest?
What does it mean to be a holy nation?
- Who does this refer to?
- How often do you consider yourself holy?
What does it mean to be a people for God's own possession?
- How often do you consider yourself owned by God?
How often do you consider yourself to one of the people of God?
How often do you recognize the mercy you have received?
What is the purpose for your being these things?
- What changes did God make in or provide for you?
If you realized your position in Christ more frequently, how often would you proclaim God's excellencies?

Corner stones and stumbling stones

2008-04-09T07:28:00.008-05:00

1 Pe 2:6-8

6 For it stands in Scripture:

“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

7 So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,

“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,” [1]

8 and

“A stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense.”

They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

Footnotes
[1] 2:7 Greek the head of the corner

What is the foundation that your life is built upon?
If pieces of your life were removed,
- which one(s) would cause you to crumble
- which one(s) would cause you to shake and tremble
- which one(s) would cause you to breath a sigh of relief
How does your belief in Christ support the various aspects of your life?
Which parts of your life are not based on your belief in Christ?
How is your trust in Christ evident in your life?
How precious is Christ to you?
How is belief and disobedience related?
How is disobedience to God's word like stumbling over Christ?
When has Christ been offensive to you?
Why is it difficult/impossible to truly believe God's word and consistently disobey it?

A Holy Priesthood

2008-04-08T07:18:00.002-05:00

1 Pe. 2:4-5

4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

What is a living stone?
Who was the first living stone?
Who are living stones now?
Why are living stones needed?
What are the living stones being used to build?
Which is more beautiful in God's eyes?
- a huge, marvelously designed cathedral?
- a large functional church building
- a living spiritual church built using living spiritual people
How do you feel knowing that you are a living stone?
- delighted that you can participate with Christ
- pleased to be connected to other living stones in a permanent bond
- unhappy that people seldom see the individual stones in a building
- disappointed to be "just another brick in the wall"
Who makes up the holy priesthood that serves in the spiritual house?
What is the apparent attraction of having a few designated priests instead of all believers being priests?
How would your daily life be different if you realized your priesthood?
What are the spiritual sacrifices that you as a priest are to offer? [Consider Rom. 6:11-13, Rom. 12:1-2, Heb. 13:15-16]
What makes your spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God?
Through what means are you sacrifices offered to God?
Why do we have such a tendency to focus on the physical when God focuses on the spiritual?

Harold's Musings:
If I could just keep this passage in the front of my mind all day every day, I would be more content with my walk here on earth. This passage sums up what should drive a Christian's attitude and actions. My self-image would not be fragile and prone to being hurt. My every action would be a priestly service towards God. What a challenge we have!

Hungry babies

2008-04-07T07:36:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 1:25-2:3

25 but the word of the Lord remains forever. And this word is the good news that was preached to you. 2:1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

What information do you hunger for?
How hungry are you for the following [0 not hungry - 5 famished]
- news about your family
- sports news
- economic news
- national news
- international news
- hobby/special interest news
- new book
How does the eternal, unchanging, abiding nature of God's word influence its attractiveness to you?
- How often do you read other information more than twice?
- How might the Bible's familiarity cause it to be less interesting?
What does your being born again require you to put off?
- How likely is a newborn baby to act like the list in v. 1?
If you have been born again through the living word of God, why would you crave God's word?
- How does God's word help you "grow in respect to salvation"?
- How does tasting the Lord's kindness increase your appetite?

The Word of God

2008-04-04T07:22:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 1:22-25

22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, 23 since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; 24 for

“All flesh is like grass
and all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers,
and the flower falls,
25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.”

And this word is the good news that was preached to you.

How did you obey the truth?
How have you purified your souls?
- What is at least one reason for purifying your soul?
How fervent and sincere is your love for one another?
- Why is it important that your love come from the heart and not just the head?
- Why was the purification necessary before the love?
How does being born again relate to obedience, purification, and love?
- Why is God's word the avenue for this new birth?
What is God's word?
- How does this passage impact you if you consider God's word to be a book?
- How does this passage impact you if you consider God's word to be Jesus?
Realizing that God's word abides forever, why do we spend more time chasing temporary things?
- How long do you read and study God's word each day?
- Compare that time with time spent reading, watching TV, gardening, etc.

You have been ransomed

2008-03-28T07:20:00.001-05:00

1 Pe 1:17-21

17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one's deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

How does being holy lead to a discussion about your conduct on earth?
How does knowing that God judges impartially make you feel?
Why should you conduct yourself in fear while on earth?
- How effective is fear as a motivator?
- How does fear relate to being ransomed by Christ's blood?
What was your futile way of life?
- What does concept of ransom mean to you?
- What was the Jewish concept of ransom / redemption?
- What does ransomed by Christ's blood mean to you?
Why did Christ appear on earth?
- How are you a believe in God through Christ?
- Where is your faith and hope?
How holy has your life been this week?
How often did you go back to your futile way of life?
How would your behavior change if you realized God's presence and holiness?

Harold's Musings:
We have all probably seen a TV show or movie in which someone is kidnapped and a ransom is required to get them back. Most shows have the parent or spouse willing to pay any ransom price for their loved one. Redemption is one of those words that has grown to be a Bible word. I like how the ESV uses ransom. We were kidnapped by our futile lives and Christ paid the ransom price to free us. I can get that. The ransom price was impossibly high, but he was willing to do anything to pay the ransom price.

Results of knowing about your inheritance

2008-03-27T06:59:00.002-05:00

1 Pe. 1:13-16

13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, [1] and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
Footnotes
[1] 1:13 Greek girding up the loins of your mind

What does the "therefore" connect to? [Consider previous days passages]
What is involved with girding your minds for action?
- What action is expected?
What is involved in keeping sober in spirit?
How completely is your hope fixed on the grace to come?
- When will you receive this grace?
- What other things compete as anchors for your hope?
How does obedience relate to not conforming to lusts?
- Why does Peter call them "former lusts"?
- What is involved in dealing with or getting rid of lusts?
What is contrasted with being conformed to lusts?
- What is holy behavior?
- How often do you consider yourself holy?
- Why is being holy sometimes seem impossible?
- Why are you to be holy?
- What are the implications of your not being holy?
- How often is your goal to be holy?
- How often is your goal to fit in with your friends and neighbors?

Harold's Musings:
I suppose this one of the hardest concepts to grasp in a meaningful way. Both the Jews and the Greeks understood the concept of holy. To be holy is to be devoted entirely to the deity or the work of the deity. They had temples and objects that were physical, visible, and recognizable. The culture around them recognized that "this" or "that" is devoted to "the god". While the gods that were being recognized were most often not gods at all, the concept of holy was present. In our culture, we struggle with the concept as God wants it. God is not concerned about a holy building anymore. He is not concerned about holy lampstands, basins, or even arks and altars. God is concerned about his holy people and his holy dwelling, which are the same thing. Oh, that I could completely recognize my call to holiness throughout my day!

Christ was prophesied

2008-03-26T07:14:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 1:9-12

… 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, 11 inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. 12 It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.

Did you realize that the grace you have received was prophesied centuries before?
- What is this grace that was prophesied?
- Which prophets prophesied about it?
Why would _prophets_ search and inquire? Didn't people inquire of prophets?
- What were the prophets trying to find out?
- Who was directing the prophets?
- What did the prophets predict?
Who was being served by the prophets?
- How were you served by the prophets?
- Through what means was the gospel preached?
- Who was unable to look into the gospel?
What is your response to this salvation that you have received?

Distressed by Trials

2008-03-25T07:19:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 1:6-9

6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

How often do you greatly rejoice in your future salvation and inheritance?
- Why is it important to rejoice in these now?
What is your usual response to distressful trials?
- Is enduring distressful trials required to be a Christian?
- What is the outcome of trials from God's perspective?
- What is valuable to God, Creator of the Universe?
- Why must faith be tested and refined?
- What are some ways your faith has been tested?
- What will be the result of your faith? When?
How often have you wanted to "see" so that you could believe more?
- What are you to do even though you have never seen Jesus?
- How often does your faith in Jesus cause you to greatly rejoice?
- How does Peter describe the rejoicing?
- When has your rejoicing been like this?
How is your rejoicing and your salvation intertwined?
- What is the source of your rejoicing?
- What is the object of your rejoicing?
- What are the outcomes of your rejoicing?

Harold's Musings:
This is a very challenging passage for me. I am encouraged by the outcome but not so happy about the path to get there. The readers of the original letter were undergoing hardships I have not had to face and Peter challenges them to rejoice. It makes me ashamed that I might fuss over my relatively small struggles. I think that we must be careful not to grade sufferings any more than we should grade sins. If my small struggle is enough to test my faith (and it is not a test if you cannot fail), then this passage applies. There are just too many things that I try to handle on my own, depending on faith in me not God. I need to learn to rejoice in my little struggles with the knowledge that bigger struggles are likely to follow.

Spiritual inheritance

2008-03-21T07:27:00.002-05:00

1 Pe 1:3-5

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

How did God's mercy cause you to be born again?
- What was the result of your being born again?
- What is living hope?
- Through what means or mechanism were you born again?
What is the object of your living hope?
- How does Peter describe the permanence of your inheritance?
- Where is your inheritance now?
- How does this inheritance reinforce your being alien in this world?
What protects you?
- What is the goal or outcome of this protection?
- What role does faith play in this protection?
- When will you receive your salvation?
How do the following influence your daily life?
- living hope
- reserved inheritance in heaven
- God-powered protection
- waiting salvation

Harold's Musings:
While I was growing up, I don't think I ever thought of what I would inherit from my parents when they went Home. As they get older, they bring up things that they have left in their will for me or for my sister. Some of the things have only sentimental value. Some have financial value. Others are of undetermined value. Regardless they will be mine or my sister's because our parents have chosen to give them to us. God has planned an inheritance for his children that is of matchless value. It is waiting in heaven just for you as His child. The object of your hope should be waiting in heaven. The inheritance is there, but is that where your hope is anchored?

Chosen Aliens

2008-03-20T07:25:00.002-05:00

1 Peter 1:1-2

1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.

When do you feel like aliens, scattered throughout the world?
- How comfortable are you living in the world?
- How often do you feel out of place in the world because you are a Christian?
What was involved in being chosen/elected?
- Is this choosing of individuals or a group (like the nation of Israel)?
- How can God choose/elect individuals and also say He wants all to be saved?
- Why would God choose a group?
- How did God's foreknowledge play a role in the choice?
What role did the Spirit have the choice?
- What does it mean to be sanctified?
- What were you set apart to do?
What was the intended outcome of your being chosen/elected?
- How well do you like commands and rules that you must obey?
- How comfortable are you with the idea of obeying Jesus Christ?
- How well do you obey Jesus Christ?
What is the significance of being sprinkled by his blood?
- How was blood used in the sanctification of the tabernacle and its objects?
- How was blood used in the sanctification of the priests?
How do you feel knowing you were chosen and sanctified to obey Christ?
- How does this passage help you understand your identity in Christ?
- How would realizing you are chosen and sanctified make you an alien?

Harold's Musings:
I generally feel uncomfortable in a group of new people, but feel excited in a new place. Perhaps I am more concerned about my emotional well-being (e.g. being rejected by the new group) than my physical well-being (e.g. walking the streets of New York). I know that I don't like to be an outsider. The word that the ESV translates as exiles has been translated as aliens, strangers, pilgrims, or sojourners. One scholar states that it presents Christians as men who have no country of their own on this earth; they are simply temporary residents. When I'm in a new place for a couple of days on a trip, I know that I'm going home soon and do not look for ways to settle in. In our moves to various places, I want to settle in quickly and feel at home. Perhaps as Christians we have forgotten our transient nature and have settled into the world around us. What do you think? Are you more comfortable in your community that you are with God?

And in conclusion...

2008-03-17T07:15:00.002-05:00

Eccles. 12:13-14

13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. [1] 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with [2] every secret thing, whether good or evil.

Footnotes
[1] 12:13 Or the duty of all mankind
[2] 12:14 Or into the judgment on

What had Solomon tried in his quest for meaning in his life under the sun?
What do you see as Solomon's appraisal of life under the sun?
From what source should a person look for happiness under the sun?
What conclusion did Solomon reach at the end of his quest?
How do you feel about his conclusion?
- Where is your happiness in this conclusion?
- What happiness is there in being afraid?
- What happiness is there in being obedient to a bunch of restrictive rules?
Where in the New Testament is the warning about every act being judged basically repeated?
How often do you need to remember this warning in order to be more obedient?

Wise words and many books

2008-03-14T08:17:00.002-05:00

Eccles. 12:11-12

11 The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd. 12 My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.

Why would the words of wise men prod and goad you?
What is the "natural" path and inclination of man under the sun?
How likely are you to seek out the words of wise men?
How likely are you to heed the words of wise men?
What skills are involved in putting together a collection of wise sayings?
Where do the wise words come from?
Why is it important to be sure of the source of the wisdom?
How does Solomon contrast the collection of Godly wisdom to the writing of books?
How does Solomon's warning about writing books remind you of his previous comments?
What are some of the problems with excessive study?
How do you define excessive study?

Wisdom, knowledge, and words

2008-03-13T06:45:00.003-05:00

Eccles. 12:9-10

9 Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging many proverbs with great care. 10 The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.

What responsibilities does a preacher or teacher have?
What seems to be a prerequisite to being a preacher or teacher?
How can a person teach that which they do no know or have not experienced?
What is involved in preparing to teach or preach?
What is the essential balance between what words are used and what message is expressed?
When have you heard a message of Truth that was anything but delightful?
- What presentation issues hinder you from hearing the Truth?
- What presentation methods help you hear the Truth?
- How might your requirements be different from another person?
When have you heard a delightful message but found out it did not present Truth correctly?
- Why might a teacher/preacher do this?
Which is more important to you: the delightful words or correct words of Truth?

Remember that death comes

2008-03-11T07:10:00.002-05:00

Eccles. 12:6-8

6 before the silver cord is snapped, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is shattered at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern, 7 and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it. 8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.

Why is it wise to remember your Creator before
- your lamp holding the light of life is crushed
- you can no longer draw the water of life
- your body returns to dust
- your spirit returns to God
Why does Solomon consider life under the sun as vanity and meaningless?
How does realizing that you were created by God help you accept life under the sun?
How would you live if you knew that you were merely a product of evolution?
How would you live if you knew that there was no God?
In what ways can you improve how you remember your Creator as your creator

A view of old age

2008-03-10T07:26:00.004-05:00

Eccles. 12:1-5

12:1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”; 2 before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened and the clouds return after the rain, 3 in the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those who look through the windows are dimmed, 4 and the doors on the street are shut—when the sound of the grinding is low, and one rises up at the sound of a bird, and all the daughters of song are brought low— 5 they are afraid also of what is high, and terrors are in the way; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags itself along, [1] and desire fails, because man is going to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets—

Footnotes
[1] 12:5 Or is a burden

Why would God's role as Creator be the focus in a complaint about old age?
Why would it be important to remember God as Creator while a person is young?
Considering the impact of age on physical abilities, why might a person complain against God?
What will your view of God be when ...
- your sight grows dim (the sun, light, moon, and stars darken)
- you get over one trouble to find another behind it (clouds return after rain)
- your body tremors and shakes uncontrollably (keepers of house tremble)
- your body will not let you stand up straight (the strong are bent)
- you lose your teeth (grinders stop because they are few)
- everything looks blurry to you (windows grow dim)
- you won't eat from loss of appetite or poor digestion (doors shut, grinding low)
- you cannot hear and enjoy music (daughters of song sing softly)
- you are afraid of heights and have balance problems (afraid of high places)
- you cannot defend yourself (afraid of terrors on the road)
- your hair turns white (almond tree blossoms)
- your strength is weak and you always move slowly (grasshopper drags himself)
- your sexual desires are gone
- you die

How do you look at life now?

How will you look at life later?

Enjoy youth

2008-03-05T07:15:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 11:9-10

9 Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment. 10 Remove vexation from your heart, and put away pain [1] from your body, for youth and the dawn of life are vanity.

Footnotes
[1] 11:10 Or evil

How many people today need to be told to enjoy their youth?
Why does seem that so many children are growing up too soon?
What are some things that you have seen or heard of that are evidence of this?
What role do parents play in this "too old too soon" situation?
What is your first thought when you read that youth should follow their impulses and desires?
What is the constraint on these impulses and desires?
Why is the young person to put away grief, anger, and pain?
How much control does a person have over grief, anger, and pain in their life?
Why do some older people dwell on their younger days?

Dark Days

2008-03-04T07:20:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 11:7-8

7 Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun. 8 So if a person lives many years, let him rejoice in them all; but let him remember that the days of darkness will be many. All that comes is vanity.

How do the shortened days of winter affect your mood?
What are some ways that sunlight is important to you?
What are some ways that spiritual light is important to you?
Why should a person rejoice in all of their years, even the bad ones?
Why should a person remember the dark days in their life?
How do the dark days of life under the sun keep the bright days in perspective?
If life were always bright and pleasant with no hardships and trials, how can heaven compare?
As pilgrims under the sun why is it important to remember the futility of life here?
If light is pleasant here under the sun, what will life be like in heaven where there is no darkness, either physical, emotional, or spiritual?

Work not knowing what will succeed

2008-03-03T07:33:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 11:6

6 In the morning sow your seed, and at evening withhold not your hand, for you do not know which will prosper, this or that, or whether both alike will be good.

Why would a farmer believe that he should only sow in the morning?
How do most farmers go about planting their crops?
How much trust do farmers have that their efforts will succeed?
When have you been so sure about a work or project related decision that you would not consider other options?
Why is it valuable to keep an open mind in making decisions?
What is your success rate with regard to decisions about work or projects?
How do you handle making an incorrect work or project related decision?

You don't know what God does

2008-02-29T07:21:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 11:5

5 As you do not know the way the spirit comes to the bones in the womb [1] of a woman with child, so you do not know the work of God who makes everything.

Footnotes

[1] 11:5 Some Hebrew manuscripts, Targum; most Hebrew manuscripts As you do not know the way of the wind, or how the bones grow in the womb

In Solomon's day, how accurately could a person know the path of the wind?
Even with all of our science, how well can we know the path that wind is following?
How are predictions different from knowing?
In Solomon's day, who knew the processes involved with a baby's development in the womb?
Even with all of our science, how well do we know how life is formed in the womb?
How does scientific knowledge replace the power of God for some people?
How might scientific knowledge diminish the marvel of God's activity, even for Christians?
What are the dangers of relying heavily on science for answers to life's problems?
What illustrations can you give that would parallel this one from Solomon?

Waiting for just the right time

2008-02-28T07:10:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 11:3-4

3 If the clouds are full of rain,
they empty themselves on the earth,
and if a tree falls to the south or to the north,
in the place where the tree falls, there it will lie.
4 He who observes the wind will not sow,
and he who regards the clouds will not reap.

How can you know how much rain will fall from looking at a cloud?
If a storm comes, what can you do about it?
If the storm uproots a tree, what can you do about it?
Who determines the amount of rain you will receive?
Who determines which way the wind will blow the tree?
When will a person sow seed if s/he waits for just the right time?
When will a person reap if s/he waits for just the right time?
How do you choose between waiting for just the right time and the need to do something?
At what point in life do you have to make a decision and trust God?

Act without knowing the future

2008-02-27T07:19:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 11:1-2

11:1 Cast your bread upon the waters,
for you will find it after many days.
2 Give a portion to seven, or even to eight,
for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.

How can not knowing what the future brings produce fear?
How can having fear of failure insure that you will not succeed?
Why are "sure investments" so attractive?
Why are there no sure investments?
What stock market tip does Solomon give here?
How strong is your fear of failure?
How can a person overcome fear of failure?
Why is it important to realize that life under the sun is always unsure and uncertain?
How likely are you to fail or be rejected in heaven?

Be Careful What You Say

2008-02-26T07:13:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 10:20

20 Even in your thoughts, do not curse the king,
nor in your bedroom curse the rich,
for a bird of the air will carry your voice,
or some winged creature tell the matter.

When have you said something bad about someone in secret/behind their back?
When have you done this and they found out about it?
How careful should you be in what you say about others?
What is the warning here?
Why does Solomon make the point using kings and rich men?
Who can you say something bad about? [Consider Eph. 4:29]

Harold's Musings:
Now old Solomon has gotten to meddling. Haven't we all had a moment (or more than one) where we have said something about someone else and regretted it as soon as it left our lips? The hint for not doing that is given in this passage. "Don't even think about it." So often we think the hurtful words, the condemning judgments, the harsh criticisms. We may have no intention of ever saying them, but they are bullets in the loaded gun we call our mouth. Boy, have I got some work to do!

Under-the-sun Point of View

2008-02-22T07:10:00.003-06:00

Eccles. 10:19

19 Bread is made for laughter,
and wine gladdens life,
and money answers everything.

What do meals mean to you?
How is eating to live different from living to eat?
While there is obviously nothing wrong with enjoying a meal, what are the risks of focusing on the enjoyment of each meal?
How does wine make life merry?
What additional substances are used today to make life merry?
What does wine/drug do to the struggles and hardships of life?
What are the risks of using wine/drug to make life merry?
Why does money seem to be the answer to everything?
How is having money to live different from living to have money?
What are the risks of focusing on gaining money?
What are the risks of depending on money as the answer?
How different was the world view in Solomon's time from ours today?
What are the hazards of centering your world view on the physical pleasures/needs?

Harold's Musings:
Once again something written thousands of years ago echoes life today. Obesity is a major health problem in America today. Why? Because we seek comfort and pleasure in food to offset the struggles and worries of life. What if food doesn't work? We move to heavier things, like alcohol or other drugs. Maybe we will not go that far, but "if only I had [fill in the blank] I would be happy". We want to put our trust in what we can touch and control. The irony is we give up control to untrustworthy things. It is just chasing the wind.

Laziness

2008-02-21T07:05:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 10:18

18 Through sloth the roof sinks in,
and through indolence the house leaks.

How do you define laziness?
How does laziness impact a person's life?
Why do some people seem to be situationally lazy, i.e. industrious about one thing, lazy about another?
Where does laziness originate?
How are laziness and carelessness related?
What is spiritual laziness?
Where does spiritual laziness originate?
How do others see you in regard to laziness?
How does God see you in regard to laziness?

Problems with leadership

2008-02-20T06:57:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 10:16-17

16 Woe to you, O land, when your king is a child,
and your princes feast in the morning!
17 Happy are you, O land, when your king is the son of the nobility,
and your princes feast at the proper time,
for strength, and not for drunkenness!

Why is it bad for a country to have inexperienced leaders?
Why is it bad for a country to have leaders who are very young?
How might youthful tendencies result in poor leadership?
Who were some young kings of Judah who were good leaders?
Who were some young kings of Judah who were poor leaders?
Why is it bad for a country to have drunken leadership?
What happens to decision making when alcohol and other mind-altering substances are involved?
How would you feel about your elected leaders if you knew they started their day drunk?
How would you feel about your accountant, attorney, doctor, etc. if you knew they started their day drunk?

Words from the fool

2008-02-19T07:07:00.004-06:00

Eccles. 10:12

12 The words of a wise man's mouth win him favor, [1]
but the lips of a fool consume him.
13 The beginning of the words of his mouth is foolishness,
and the end of his talk is evil madness.
14 A fool multiplies words,
though no man knows what is to be,
and who can tell him what will be after him?
15 The toil of a fool wearies him,
for he does not know the way to the city.
Footnotes
[1] 10:12 Or are gracious

Why would a wise person normally say gracious or charming words?
Why does a wise person's words bring favor?
How is "sweet-talking" different from gracious or desirable words?
Who have you known who was wise in word? Why do consider them so?
How do a fool's words show his/her foolishness?
How might a fool's words consume him/her?
What is the path that a fool's talk takes?
Even with all the problems his/her talk has brought, what does a fool do?
How does a fool multiply words?
Why is excessive talking dangerous?
Why does talking about something that bothers you sometimes do more harm than good?
Who have you known who was foolish in words? Why do you consider them so?
How does a fool's talk relate to future events?
How are wise plans different from foolish predictions and assurances?
Why is a fool's toil so tiring?
How would you consider your words: wise or foolish?
Would those around you each day agree with you?

Miscellaneous Warnings

2008-02-18T06:49:00.004-06:00

Eccles. 10:8-11

8 He who digs a pit will fall into it,
and a serpent will bite him who breaks through a wall.
9 He who quarries stones is hurt by them,
and he who splits logs is endangered by them.
10 If the iron is blunt, and one does not sharpen the edge,
he must use more strength,
but wisdom helps one to succeed. [1]
11 If the serpent bites before it is charmed,
there is no advantage to the charmer.

Footnotes
[1] 10:10 Or wisdom is an advantage for success

What is the common thread behind these various warnings?
Why do accidents happen?
How can accident be avoided?
How does foolishness frequently result in harm?
How does foolishness make life harder than it has to be?
Why is foolishness like playing with poisonous snakes?
When have you acted foolishly and what were the results?
What is the advantage of wisdom in your daily life?
When have you acted wisely and had success?

Do not exalt folly

2008-02-15T07:06:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 10:5-7

5 There is an evil that I have seen under the sun, as it were an error proceeding from the ruler: 6 folly is set in many high places, and the rich sit in a low place. 7 I have seen slaves on horses, and princes walking on the ground like slaves.

What is the evil that Solomon has seen under the sun?
Why would a ruler's error be considered evil?
How might folly be set in exalted places?
Who might sit folly in exalted places?
Is folly a thing or is it an attitude?
Why is Solomon concerned about the positions of slaves and princes?
What do the position changes suggest had happened?
When have you seen folly exalted to high places?
When have you seen folly as the apparent ruler?

Foolishness is obvious

2008-02-14T07:08:00.004-06:00

Eccles. 10:1-4

10:1 Dead flies make the perfumer's ointment give off a stench;
so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.
2 A wise man's heart inclines him to the right,
but a fool's heart to the left.
3 Even when the fool walks on the road, he lacks sense,
and he says to everyone that he is a fool.
4 If the anger of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your place,
for calmness [1] will lay great offenses to rest.

Footnotes[1] 10:4 Hebrew healing

What illustration would you use to communicate the impact of foolishness?
Why does it seem that foolishness and evil outweigh wisdom, honor, and righteousness?
How does a person's heart demonstrate their wisdom or foolishness?
What did Jesus say about the relationship between the heart and actions?
How does a fool demonstrate his/her foolishness in their daily walk?
Why might society not recognize a fool for what s/he is?
Why did Solomon seemingly jump from talking about fools to talking about rulers?
What would a fool do if a ruler rose against him/her?
How much composure do you have when someone in authority gets upset with you?
In your opinion, are you a wise person or a fool?
What areas of your life are evidence of your wisdom?
What areas of your life are evidence of your foolishness?

The Value of Wisdom

2008-02-13T07:12:00.002-06:00

Eccles. 9:13-18

13 I have also seen this example of wisdom under the sun, and it seemed great to me. 14 There was a little city with few men in it, and a great king came against it and besieged it, building great siegeworks against it. 15 But there was found in it a poor, wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city. Yet no one remembered that poor man. 16 But I say that wisdom is better than might, though the poor man's wisdom is despised and his words are not heard. 17 The words of the wise heard in quiet are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools. 18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.

Why is wisdom better than strength?
What are the risks of strength without wisdom?
When have you seen wisdom win over physical strength or intimidation?
Why are the poor forgotten by the rulers and the wealthy?
Why would the wisdom of a poor man be despised?
Why would the wisdom of a poor man be ignored?
What misconceptions about the poor would rulers and wealthy people have?
Why is quiet wisdom better than loud foolishness?
How is anger, intimidation, and bullying usually displayed?
How is wisdom usually displayed?
Why is the impact of one sinner contrasted with the value of wisdom?
Why is sin even included in this context?
What was the impact on Israel of David's sin with Bathsheba?
What was the impact on Israel of David's sin of taking a census (2 Sam 24)?
How would people consider you: wise or foolish?