Tuesday, May 19, 2015

2 Corinthians 10

Summary: Paul talks the language of war and arbitration, but does it all backwards: he touts his side as the more meek side, and he places clear limits on his boasting, yet he expects his side to win out in the end.

Response: Paul mentions being humble in person, preferring actions rather than haughty words. Cover me in Your grace, Lord, that Your words and actions might be mine.

Friday, May 15, 2015

2 Corinthians 9

Summary: Paul hits home that giving and service is the primary duty of a follower of Christ and the primary action of the Church.

Response: I feel like I have this backwards most times, that we have worship services first and giving and such at the tail end. But I know I can always give and serve more.

Thursday, May 14, 2015

2 Corinthians 8

Summary: Paul challenges the church in Corinth to literally put its money where its mouth is; after explaining why, he gives an example of their prior giving before asking specifically for their aid again.

Response: I know I am blessed with an amazing spouse who takes care of our giving to the church; as a new board member, I can see more and more how our giving contributes to God's kingdom.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

2 Corinthians 7

Summary: Paul talks about taking action to deal with the consequences of getting right with God and gives his audience, the church at Corinth, a concrete example: after reading the last letter from Paul, they changed their attitudes and took care of business.

Response: May our church prayerfully consider how to move ever closer to You.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

2 Corinthians 6

Summary: Paul points out that the grace and reconciliation God offers is of no use if we don't accept it and get out into the world to give it back.

Response: I know I've been put to use, but I can't slouch in that regard. Lord, keep using me and keep saving me.

Monday, May 11, 2015

2 Corinthians 5

Summary: Paul has two main points: first, that we as Christians are transient here on earth, living in the future expectation of God's manifest presence; and second, that God sent Jesus primarily to get us living in that way and to spread that message.

Response: I get too easily distracted by the day-to-day to notice anything higher. Lord, help me to see Your will, as small as my attention span seems to be. Include me in Your plans and use me for the furthering of Your Kingdom.

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

2 Corinthians 4

Summary: Paul acknowledges that ministry is hard, but worth it. Through our suffering and even death, he says, we help build Jesus's eternal kingdom.

Response: it will suffice to say that a lot in my personal ministries has been hard lately. Even though I haven't touched this blog (and therefore bible study in general) in weeks or months, still the Word speaks to me.