Here’s how the study works: Read the chapter mentioned in the heading several times during the week and share any words, thoughts, verses that stood out to you. Having a week for a chapter creates the opportunity to reread it several times and make additional comments as you feel inclined as well as make comments on other people’s insights.
v.7 Reflect on what I am saying…
I find too many people who don't reflect, and don't think about their faith. As if their faith won't stand up to thoughtful consideration.
v.7 Reflect on what I am saying…
I find too many people who don't reflect, and don't think about their faith. As if their faith won't stand up to thoughtful consideration.
v.1 …be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
Not strong in ourselves but strong in his grace.
v.1 …be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
Not strong in ourselves but strong in his grace.
v.21 Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for noble purposes…
It is up to us what kind of instrument we become. The Message puts it this way: Become the kind of container God can use…
By allowing God greater access into our lives we can be used more fruitfully.
v.21 Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for noble purposes…
It is up to us what kind of instrument we become. The Message puts it this way: Become the kind of container God can use…
By allowing God greater access into our lives we can be used more fruitfully.
v.9
……. But God's Word is not chained.
What wonderful freedom!
Great study.
v.9
……. But God's Word is not chained.
What wonderful freedom!
Great study.
v.5 Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules.
". . . competitors at the Olympic Games had to swear an oath before the statue of Zeus that they had been in strict training for ten months (Pausanias, Graec. deser. v. 24.9)."
v.5 Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules.
". . . competitors at the Olympic Games had to swear an oath before the statue of Zeus that they had been in strict training for ten months (Pausanias, Graec. deser. v. 24.9)."
v.3-6
All three illustrations in these verses: soldier, farmer, athlete show perseverance, discipline and difficulty
v.3-6
All three illustrations in these verses: soldier, farmer, athlete show perseverance, discipline and difficulty
v.10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
It seems that salvation here is referring to sanctification. Paul has mentioned elsewhere that his suffering is for the church’s sanctification (4:6 & Philippians 2:17).
v.10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
It seems that salvation here is referring to sanctification. Paul has mentioned elsewhere that his suffering is for the church’s sanctification (4:6 & Philippians 2:17).
v.19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.”
(From Constable’s commentary) “Seals in New Testament times indicated ownership, security, and authenticity.”
v.19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.”
(From Constable’s commentary) “Seals in New Testament times indicated ownership, security, and authenticity.”
v.22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace.
v.22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace.
v.23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
We are not obligated to get involved in these types of discussions, and can simply refuse to answer questions about foolish and stupid arguments.
v.23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
We are not obligated to get involved in these types of discussions, and can simply refuse to answer questions about foolish and stupid arguments.