Chronological Bible Blog

Acts 24:1-26:32
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Today we read about Paul before the Roman Governor Felix.  I love this image below of Paul expertly laying out his case!

(image courtesty of https://www.lamp.ac.uk/hogarth/81to100.htm)

The close of today’s readings are interesting.  It seems to me that Felix has a double-edged reason for keeping Paul in prison for two years.  1.  Felix enjoys talking to Paul!  Why do you suppose this is?  Do you suppose Felix was hearing the Truth from Paul?  I’m sure that he was…   2. Verse 27 tells us: “And because Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jewish leaders, he left Paul in prison.”  So, Felix gets to hear the Truth from Paul and hopefully keep his job by appeasing the Jewish leaders.  Sounds reasonable, right?  However… it is interesting to see that he is balancing the Truth with the World.  How often in our lives do we try to balance the Truth with the World?  I am afraid this is a tough balance to keep…  Remember always that we are to be “in the world, but not of it.”  Don’t let the World outweigh the Truth in your life…

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “Paul Stands Before Felix: The Preacher and the Politician” is at this link.

We see continued incredible wisdom displayed by Paul in today’s readings!  His appeal to Caesar may look like on first glance he was trying to save his life.  Many commentators believe that Paul was actually doing this strategically to get to Rome so he could preach the Gospel in Rome!  Yes, he’d be arriving in Rome as a prisoner, but, if we know Paul at all, we know that being a prisoner will not stop him from preaching the Gospel!  I love this whole scenario.  Paul certainly seems a bit “down and out” on the ways things are going in his life.  He’s been imprisoned for two years, he is barely avoiding being killed or beaten, and yet he’s continuing to think of every way to preach the Gospel and advance the Kingdom of God!  I wonder about this in our lives today?  Are we like Paul in this regard?  Are we constantly thinking of ways to preach the Gospel and advance the kingdom?  My hunch is that most of us are living very nice lives – no real threat of being killed or imprisoned.  And I sometimes wonder if our comfort is maybe the real enemy?  Are we not focused on preaching the Gospel or advancing the Kingdom of God because we are simply too comfortable?  I do think one of the devil’s greatest tricks is to simply distract us.  Not to get us to do evil.  But to distract us.  Make us too comfortable perhaps?  I don’t know…  I’m just so impressed with how Paul was so focused on the Gospel and building the Kingdom, in the midst of all his challenges.  And I worry about why we are not so focused – and I think it might be our comfortable distractions…

Below is a great image of Festus’ conversation with King Agrippa about Paul’s case from verses 21 & 22: “^“But Paul appealed to the emperor. So I ordered him back to jail until I could arrange to send him to Caesar.” “I’d like to hear the man myself,” Agrippa said. And Festus replied, “You shall–tomorrow!”

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “Paul’s Appeal” is at this link.

Today in Acts 26 verses 24 & 25 we read: “At this point Festus interrupted Paul’s defense. “You are out of your mind, Paul!” he shouted. “Your great learning is driving you insane.” “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable.””  Have you ever questioned your sanity when thinking about Christianity? 🙂 Don’t worry – I think it is okay if you have. I honestly think that Christianity is the most logical thing of all time – but, I do understand why many in the world may view Christianity as crazy. (or that maybe even we ourselves at times have thought “this is crazy”) The bottom line is this – I believe every human being has faith in something. We may have faith in Jesus. Or we may have faith in a “cosmic being.” Or we may have faith in crystals. Or we may have faith in atheism. (yes, I believe atheism is too a faith – in nothingness – but a faith nonetheless.) Or we may have faith in altruism or government or nature. We all have faith in something. Faith is our human nature. I believe the statistic is that 85%+ of the world’s population believes in something beyond themselves. We are spiritual beings. And if then we are spiritual beings, then I think it is perfectly logical for us to seek out who our Maker truly is. And to seek out whom our Savior truly is. And to seek out what will lead us to Eternal life. I’ve gone through this seeking phase big time in my early life. And I do believe it was the Holy Spirit that led me to Jesus ultimately. And now, once in relationship with Jesus, I believe that Christianity is the most logical faith there is. Do you believe what Paul says to Festus in these verses? Do you believe that Christianity is true and reasonable?  I believe even Spock would find Christianity logical! 🙂

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “Paul’s Appeal to Aggripa” is at this link.  Below is an image of Paul´s Defense Before Agrippa by C.F. Vos:

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Acts remind me of the Michael W. Smith singing the song “Mighty to Save:”

Has our mighty God saved you? Click here for salvation!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Acts 21:37-23:35
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We get some classic Paul in today’s Acts readings!  You’ll recall from yesterday’s readings, the crowd in Jerusalem got riled up against Paul and the crowd was beating on Paul.  Then, some Roman soldiers come to try to keep the peace and end up arresting Paul and putting him in chains. But what does Paul do?  Go quietly into that good night?  No way!  He speaks to the Roman commander in Greek – which surprises the commander.  (It is thought that Paul spoke 4 languages – Greek, Aramaic, Hebrew & Latin)  And then he speaks to the crowd in Aramaic.  The crowd that was just beating on him!  He turns around and speaks with Love and Truth.  So amazing…  What do you think you or I would do in this type of situation today?  Could we continue to speak Love and Truth to people that were just beating on us?  I am not so sure that I could… I pray that I could!  I pray that I would…  Below is an oil on canvas painting by the Spanish painter El Greco from the year 1614 of “St. Paul”:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “Paul’s Defense to the Jews in Jerusalem” is at this link.

Today at the end of Acts 22 Paul threw out this incendiary statement that shocked the crowd:  “”But the Lord said to me, `Leave Jerusalem, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles!’”  This reminds me that the Gospel today still shocks people.  The Gospel is still moving forward in our world to people that we sometimes may not think “deserve” it, like this crowd didn’t think the Gentiles deserved relationship with “their” God of Israel.  God is bigger than we think He is.  God is pursuing the whole world.  Let us pray he continues to shock crowds like he did in Acts 22…  It’s so interesting – looking at this image below of Paul’s presence and words creating chaos in a crowd and the Roman guards being there in the midst.  This is so reminiscent of Jesus’ final day in Jerusalem before he walked up the hill to Golgotha.  Think Paul was emulating his Savior?  How about you?  Are you emulating your Savior?  Or are you playing it safe?

We can see Paul’s wisdom at work in today’s Acts readings!  First he shares at the appropriate time that he is a Roman citizen – by birth – which means he cannot be punished until proven guilty.

Then, before the High Council he wisely throws out in Acts 23 verse 6 – “”Brothers, I am a Pharisee, as were all my ancestors! And I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead!”  This instantly divides the Pharisees and Sadducees at the council – and allows things to get heated enough that the soldiers take Paul out of the council for his safety.  Bible.org’s fantastic look at “Paul’s Trial before the Sanhedrin” is at this link.

Our readings in Acts today open up with a very encouraging word to Paul from Jesus in verse 11 – “That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, “Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have told the people about me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome.””  That is awesome that this occurred in the midst of all of Paul’s trials and imprisonment.  Jesus was there with him.  How about in our lives today – think Jesus is always with us?   Is there any circumstance you can find yourself in that Jesus won’t be there?  Is there anywhere on this earth you can go where Jesus won’t be there?

An interesting note on verses 12 & 13 in today’s readings – “The next morning a group of Jews got together and bound themselves with an oath to neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul. There were more than forty of them.”  It is believed by some scholars that these 40 men may have been part of the Zealots – the group that later led the revolt against Rome in A.D. 66-70.

Paul is taken to Governor Felix at the end of today’s readings in Acts.  Felix is in the same position that Pontius Pilate was.  I find it kind of interesting that both Jesus and Paul were brought before the same-positioned Roman ruler.  It reminds me of Jesus’ words in John 15 verse 20 to his disciples – “Remember the words I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” If Jesus was brought before a Roman governor, it’s no surprise that Paul was too.  I think you and I should remember Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John as well.  I know oftentimes we don’t seem persecuted at all – maybe most of the time really.  But, I think we need to remember, it can happen.  If we are truly living our faith and truly following Jesus, persecution will come in some form or another.  No servant is greater than his master… Have you ever been persecuted for your faith? Are you willing to be persecuted for your faith?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Acts reminds me of the Needtobreathe song “Washed by the Water:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CozhYXk5N1I

Have you been washed by the water? Click here and be Clean!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Acts 20:13-21:36
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To start our readings today, Paul gives a powerful farewell address to the elders of the church in Ephesus.  Great stuff…  Verses 36 & 37 do kind of bring a tear to the eye, no? – “When he had finished speaking, he knelt and prayed with them. They wept aloud as they embraced him in farewell, sad most of all because he had said that they would never see him again. Then they accompanied him down to the ship.”

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “Paul’s Parting Words” is at this link.

Wow.  Check out Paul’s words in Acts 21 verse 13 after it was prophesied that he would be jailed in Jerusalem: “But Paul said, “Why all this weeping? You are breaking my heart! For I am ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem but also to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus.””  What about you?  Are you ready to be jailed for your faith?  Are you willing to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus?  These are challenging questions to consider I realize.  But, I think they are useful for us to ask.  If we are not ready to be jailed for our faith or not willing to die for the sake of Jesus, are we truly following Jesus?  Or are we just pretending?

Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem wraps up his 3rd missionary journey.  Below is a quick recap of this journey of Paul’s we’ve been reading about the past couple of days:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “The Giving and Taking of Advice” is at this link.

– Wow… tough week for Paul in today’s readings.  Scary how the readings end today – with the mob chanting “Kill Him!  Kill Him!”  Does this remind you of anyone else?  Perhaps Paul’s Savior?

You might be asking why did Paul agree to take part in the Jewish purification ceremony in today’s readings?  I think you’ll find the answer to this question in Paul’s own words from his first letter to the Corinthians, verses 19 through 23 – “Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”  How about you in your life today?  Do you make yourself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible?  Do you become all things to all people so that by all possible means you might save some?  Below is an image of the Apostle Paul, by Rembrandt, from 1657:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Acts readings titled “The Giving and Taking of Advice” is at this link.

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Acts reminds me of this video by Jars of Clay for their song “Two Hands:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0h2sUC6wPg

Do you have two hands? Click here to meet the One who gave you your Hands!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “But Paul said, ‘Why all this weeping? You are breaking my heart! I am ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem but even to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus.’” Acts 21:13 NLT

Prayer Point: Pray that you are willing to die for the sake of your Lord, Jesus. Pray that you are prepared to not only be jailed for your faith in Jesus, but to die for your faith in Jesus.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

2 Corinthians 6:14-10:18
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Second Corinthians chapter 7 verse 1 today is powerful – “Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete purity because we fear God.” How does this verse speak to you?  What promises do we have as followers of Jesus Christ?  In light of these promises, should we cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body?  And cleanse ourselves of everything that can defile our spirit?  Are you living your life in such a way that you are moving toward complete purity?  Do you believe that the Cross of Jesus Christ purifies you?  What does the Cross of Jesus ultimately purify you for?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians titled “Choosing Sides” is at this link.

Second Corinthians chapter 7 verses 9 & 10 teaches us a great lesson – “It was the kind of sorrow God wants his people to have, so you were not harmed by us in any way. For God can use sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin and seek salvation. We will never regret that kind of sorrow.”  Do you believe that God can use sorrow for redemptive purposes?  Do you believe there is such a thing as godly sorrow?  Can sorrow turn us away from sin and toward salvation?  Have you ever experienced such a sorrow?  I know that I have.  There have been times in my life in the past where I was pursuing the false glamour of sin.  And that pursuit of sin delivered great sorrow.  But, thanks be to God for that sorrow!  It was a godly sorrow that turned me away from sin and toward God’s salvation.  So, if you are experiencing sorrow in your life right now, or when you do, please seek God in the midst of the sorrow.  Perhaps the sorrow was not caused by your sin, as it was in my case.  But perhaps God can still use that sorrow ultimately for his redemptive purposes.

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Second Corinthians readings titled “Good Grief” is at this link.

Second Corinthians chapter 8 verse 9 today is one of those verses that can really make you think about how blessed you truly are and why through Jesus: “You know how full of love and kindness our Lord Jesus Christ was. Though he was very rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich.”  I imagine that most of us reading this blog right now are living pretty nice lives overall.  In most respects it may be fair to call us “rich.”  Many of us have rich lives in terms of where we live, our spiritual freedoms, and other freedoms.  And why do we have these riches in our lives today?  Because Jesus, the Son of God, came to this earth and made himself poor for our sakes.  Jesus was born in a manger.  He lived his life “homeless” in many ways.  He was sinless, but yet died a criminal’s death by execution on a cross.  Jesus was very rich in heaven.   But yet, because of his love and kindness, he made himself poor and died on a cross for us, so that we would be “rich.”  And now, realizing this, how are we utilizing our riches?  Are we demonstrating love and kindness to others like Jesus did to us?  Are we investing our lives – lives that were given to us by God and saved by Jesus – for Kingdom purposes?  Are you living your life as if you are literally working for God in all that you do?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians today titled “Learning To Be Liberal” (it is a great essay on Paul’s call to give generously to the church in Jerusalem) is at this link.

Second Corinthians chapter 8 verse 23 stood out to me today – “If anyone asks about Titus, say that he is my partner who works with me to help you. And these brothers are representatives of the churches. They are splendid examples of those who bring glory to Christ.”  I like that last sentence a lot.  I believe each of us are called to be splendid examples of those who bring glory to Jesus!  How is your example these days?   Below is an icon painting of Paul ordaining Titus on the island of Crete:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s (and tomorrow’s) readings in Second Corinthians titled “Keeping Your Commitments” is at this link.  Below is a great image for Second Corinthians 8:20-21 today:

Today in Second Corinthians chapter 9 verses 6 through 8 we read these words of Paul’s – “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” Great verses! A lot of ground is covered in these verses. Do you believe that we reap what we sow? What are you sowing? What have you decided in your heart to give? Do you give without reluctance? Do you give without compulsion? Are you a cheerful giver? Do you realize that God gracefully gives you all that you need so that you will participate in good works? Are you participating in God’s grace that he is freely giving to you? Related to these verses, I just recently finished reading Randy Alcorn’s wonderful little book, The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving. Has anyone else read this book? It is a wonderful book about how it truly is more blessed to give than to receive! I highly recommend it!

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s (and yesterday’s) readings in Second Corinthians titled “Keeping Your Commitments” is at this link.  Below is a great image for 2 Corinthians 9:10 from our readings today:

Wow… I love Paul’s words to the church in Second Corinthians chapter 10 verses 3 through 5: “We are human, but we don’t wage war with human plans and methods. We use God’s mighty weapons, not mere worldly weapons, to knock down the Devil’s strongholds. With these weapons we break down every proud argument that keeps people from knowing God. With these weapons we conquer their rebellious ideas, and we teach them to obey Christ.”  This is incredibly powerful for us to realize.  We are human.  God is God.  We are not God.  But, good news is that we have access to God’s “weapons” through our relationship with his son Jesus.  And trust me.  In this fallen world, we need God’s weapons.  We need his strength.  We need his grace.  We need his forgiveness.  We need his miracles.  We need his Son.  These are the only ways that we will knock down the Devil’s strongholds in our lives and in others lives.  How do we access God’s mighty weapons?  My personal opinion is that prayer is one of the best things we can do in this regards.  I don’t know about you, but I do not pray enough.  However, just lately I’ve been praying a bit more, and I’ll tell you, God has moved!  Prayer is such a beautiful mystery.  We need it like the air we breathe.  Please pray.  Other ways to access God’s mighty weapons are certainly reading and studying God’s Word daily, investing in a church community at least weekly (even more is better via small groups, etc.), and confessing and repenting and fleeing from sin.  Then, with God’s weapons we are called to introduce others to who God is and teach them to obey Christ.  How are you accessing God’s mighty weapons these days?  Are you praying?  Are you reading and studying the Bible daily?   Are you investing in a church community weekly?   Are you confessing and repenting and fleeing from sin?  Or are you relying on your human plans and methods to make it through the day?  Are you relying on worldly weapons?  Will you seek instead God’s mighty weapons?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians titled “Contrasting Christian Leaders With the Cultists” is at this link.

Worship Video: Our 2nd Corinthians readings today reminded me of the MercyMe song “So Long Self,” which has a fun video:

Have you said So Long to your Self? Click here and say Goodbye!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

2 Corinthians 2:5-6:13
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

I absolutely love and appreciate Paul’s words today in Second Corinthians chapter 2 verses 14 through 16: “But thanks be to God, who made us his captives and leads us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Good News like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those being saved and by those perishing. To those who are perishing we are a fearful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved we are a life-giving perfume.”  What great imagery!  Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God!  I love it.  It does get sad – but true – in verse 16 when Paul says that to those who are perishing we are a fearful smell of death and doom.  Why do you suppose this is?  I think it because when someone is living their life completely enslaved to sin and they encounter the light – the fragrance – of the Gospel, they either will embrace it or push it away.  Unfortunately I am afraid some folks – perhaps even us in our past – are so enslaved to sin that the sin literally makes us fear / flee from the light and fragrance of the Gospel.  Unfortunately sin can ensnare someone such that the Gospel is the fragrance of death and gloom because that is where the sin is leading someone who is enslaved to it – to death and gloom.   Sad… and this reminds us of how urgent it is for us to pray for others who are enslaved to sin.  Let us pray the fragrance of the Gospel and the grace of God will turn them back toward the Savior of the World who can free them forever – Jesus Christ.  Jesus – is there a name more fragrant?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians titled “The Sufficiency of God Through his Spirit” is at this link.

I love Paul’s words in Second Corinthians verse 3: “Clearly, you are a letter from Christ prepared by us. It is written not with pen and ink, but with the Spirit of the living God. It is carved not on stone, but on human hearts.”  That is a great concept!  We are living letters from Jesus sent out to the world!  Have you ever thought of yourself as a letter from Jesus?  I have not, but I like it!  It’s also interesting to realize that the Spirit living within us as Christians professes and gives witness to the glory of God oftentimes without us even realizing it.  I heard a quote once that said something like, “Who you are is so strong that I cannot hear a word you are saying.”  Basically this quote means that the inherent nature of who we are overshadows our very words.  It’s more important than our words – people notice our inherent nature!  Be it good or be it not so good…  So, if the Spirit of Jesus is within us I do believe that the Holy Spirit gives witness and gives glory to God to others that we come in contact with – even if we don’t say a word!  This is the letter that we are from Christ to the world.  The letter that is written on our hearts.  And of course there is St. Francis of Assisi who said: “Preach the Gospel at all times – use words only when necessary.”  Again, the Spirit of Jesus within us preaches the Gospel to the world even without us consciously saying words.  Don’t get me wrong – sometimes words are exactly what are needed.  But oftentimes our very presence through the Spirit of Jesus living within us is more than enough.  So, let us go forth into our world this week as living letters from Jesus to a hurting and dying world that so needs the Good News of the Gospel!  Are you a letter from Jesus?!

I love Second Corinthians chapter 4 verse 1 today.  In fact, if there is nothing else you remember from today’s readings I hope you will remember the last 4 words of this verse always – “And so, since God in his mercy has given us this wonderful ministry, we never give up.”  We never give up.  That is powerful for each of us to remember.  Why?  Because we will have good and bad days.  Days when we are happy.  Days when we might be feeling sad.  And there will be days when we make mistakes.  When we will stumble.  When we will fall.  But you know what has often gotten me through days like those?  This simple prayer or statement or something that fortunately comes into my mind – “I’m not giving up!”  We shouldn’t say this as justification for our falling short of God’s plan for our life.  But, when we do fall short, I have found it helpful.  Or, if I haven’t fallen short, but bad stuff is happening to me, I say it.  And I don’t say it just to myself – as if my own will power will get me through the tough times.  I say it to God.  I say it really as a prayer.  I say it almost as a statement against the devil, who would love nothing more than for us to give up.  The devil would love it if we stumbled and stayed on the ground.  If we decided this Christianity thing was just not for us.  But you know what – don’t give up!  When times are tough.  When you stumble, pray it to God – “I’m not giving up.”  Tell it to yourself.  We’re not giving up!  We’re never giving up….  (go frog!)  🙂

Verse 7 today is indeed a wonderful reminder that we humans are but jars of clay – “But this precious treasure–this light and power that now shine within us–is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own.’”  We really do have very fragile bodies.  They are wonderful!  But they are fragile.  They break.  They will die.  As one writer puts it, “our condition is terminal.”  And it’s true.  This side of heaven, our bodies will eventually wear out.  But – as Paul tells us in this verse – there is light and power that shines within us when we are in relationship with Jesus!  The Holy Spirit indwells our earthen vessels.  Our jars of clay.  And hopefully we and others recognize that the glory within us is not our own.  It is of God.  And it is a glory that is available to anyone.  Free of charge.  It is grace and it beckons us to receive God’s glory in our jars of clay so that we will live eternally in heavenly bodies.  But for now, we are simply in the hands of the Potter…

Paul’s words in Second Corinthians chapter 4 verses 16 through 18 are incredible for each of us to take to heart: “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.”  I don’t know about you, but I confess that I all too often get caught up in the troubles we can see right now.  I forget about the joys to come that will last forever.  It’s sad when I forget about the joys to come.  There is so much hurt and disaster in our world that I am afraid all too often I focus only on these negative things and forget that this is a world where bad things happen.  Through our faith and relationship with Jesus we will one day be in heaven where there will be no more tears.  No more crying.  No more suffering.  But, this side of heaven, we will suffer.  Each of our bodies will deteriorate and these earthly bodies will die.  But, as Paul says in these verses above, though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day!  I pray this is the case for you.  I pray this is the case for me.  Are you experiencing renewal in your spirit every day?  Let us pray for renewal!

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Second Corinthians readings titled “Death: No Longer a Foe, but a Friend” is at this link.

Today in Second Corinthians chapter 5 verses 17 and 18 we read – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone and the new has come. All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” How do these 2 verses speak to you? I have a hunch that you have probably heard the first of these 2 verses before? (Michael W. Smith has a child reciting this verse at the beginning of one of his Worship albums.) I find it interesting to consider the first verse – being a new creation – along with the second verse – because God reconciled us through Jesus. I absolutely love the first verse. If we confess with our mouths and believe in our hearts that Jesus is our Lord and Savior, we are indeed a new creation. Our old self has gone and the new self has come. And why do we receive this amazing gift? Because the Creator of All has reconciled his Creation (us) to himself through Jesus and the ministry of reconciliation. We have been reconciled to God! This is a powerful thought to consider. It is a joyful thought! It is also a thought that should make us realize that there was a time in our life when we were not reconciled with God. And it should make us realize that there are people in this world right now whom we know who are hurting and are not reconciled with God. Are you reconciled with God through Jesus? Do you rejoice frequently in the Spirit and in prayers of thanksgiving that you are a new creation? Are you working and praying for reconciliation for your family and friends and others God has brought into your life? Do you believe that they want to leave their old self behind and become a new creation?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians titled “Out With the Old, In With the New” is at this link.

I love Paul’s opening words in Second Corinthians chapter 6 verses 1 and 2 today, as he quotes from the prophet Isaiah – “As God’s partners, we beg you not to reject this marvelous message of God’s great kindness. For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, God is ready to help you right now. Today is the day of salvation.”  How does this verse speak to you?  What does it mean to you?  Do you believe that God is ready to help you right now?  Do you believe that today is the day of salvation?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians titled “Authentic Apostleship” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Our Second Corinthians readings today reminded me of the Delirious song “Majesty.”  I had the good fortune to worship to this song with Delirious a few years back just before it was released.  They were playing some of their “new stuff” and this was a great song to worship to live!  You’ll notice the crowd in this video is definitely worshiping.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNjH8QDpBFY

Do you know our Majestic Lord? Click here for your Majesty!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you will never lose heart. Pray that you are being renewed day by day through your saving faith with Jesus Christ. Pray that your relationship with Christ encourages you and strengthens you, even while outwardly you may be wasting away.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Romans 15:1-16:27; 2 Corinthians 1:1-2:4
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Romans: Romans 15 verses 2 and 3 definitely give us much to think about: “We should please others. If we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn’t please himself.”  That’s a bit of a counter-intuitive statement compared to what our culture preaches.  We should please others?  I think our culture would say instead, “We should please ourselves!  It’s all about you!  You are #1!”  and so on.  This is the beauty of the Gospel.  It is counter-cultural in so many beautiful ways.  It’s the great revolution.  It turns the world upside down.  The last shall be first.  Blessed are the peacemakers.  Rejoice when you are persecuted.  We should please others.  So, are you living your life to please others?  Are you doing what helps them?  Are you building them up in the Lord?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Pleasing Others and Praising God” is at this link.  Below is a great image for Romans 15:5 –

Paul’s words in Romans 15 verse 30 stood out to me today – “Dear brothers and sisters, I urge you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. Do this because of your love for me, given to you by the Holy Spirit.”  The thing that stood out to me in these verses is Paul’s encouragement to his brothers and sisters in Christ in Rome to pray for him.  Not only to pray for him – but to “join me in my struggle.”  That is pretty powerful to consider.  That we can actually join someone in their struggle – in their work for the Kingdom of God – by praying for them!  And I’ll be honest – I do not do this enough.  I rarely join my pastors and family and friends and spiritual mentors in their struggle by praying to God for them.  I rarely join my missionary friends in their struggle by praying for them.  I rarely join my brothers and sisters in Christ who are persecuted in other countries for being Christian by praying for them.  I simply do not pray for others enough.  And in not doing so, I honestly think I am missing out on something powerful.  I am missing out on joining them in their struggle for the Kingdom of God!  My selfishness in not praying for others doing Kingdom work in this world is my loss.  But – this actually sounds selfish – “my missing out – my loss.”  Sometimes I guess I try to trick myself into doing something good (praying for others) by attaching a selfish reason (so I won’t miss out).  The truth here is that our pastors and priests and missionaries and spiritual mentors need us to take up the struggle with them by praying to God for them.  Even Paul needed this prayer coverage – and he asked for it!  I am afraid that too often our pastors and priests and missionaries and others doing God’s work may not ask us for our prayers.  But they need them!  So – are you regularly praying for others in your life who are in ministry?   Are you joining them in their struggle?  Will you begin today / tonight by praying for someone in your life that you know who is in ministry?  Will you take up the struggle with them?

Below is a great image for Romans 15:32 today –

We finish up Romans today! Romans has been a powerful book for me to read and study this year.  I hope it has been for you as well?  I love the closing words in this book today from Paul in Romans 16 verses 25 through 27: “God is able to make you strong, just as the Good News says. It is the message about Jesus Christ and his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they might believe and obey Christ. To God, who alone is wise, be the glory forever through Jesus Christ. Amen.” Do you believe that God is able to make you strong?  Are there areas of your life currently where you feel weak?  Will you turn these areas over to God completely, so that he can strengthen you?  To God, who indeed alone is wise, be the glory forever through Jesus Christ!  Amen.

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Watching Out for Wolves” is at this link.

Second Corinthians: Today we begin Paul’s Second Letter to the church in Corinth!  Corinth was a city known in the 1st century for its wealth and lust.  It was a trade center with thousands of sailors who disembarked there.  Its pagan temples encouraged the practice of sexual immorality along with idol worship.  Thus, this was not an easy place for the early church!  But clearly a place where the church was so needed!  Below is a map of where Corinth is in Greece – it is about 48 miles west of Athens.  And below that is a modern day photo of ancient remains of the pagan temple to Apollo from ancient Corinth:

~ Second Corinthians ~
Author: Paul the apostle
Place: Ephesus
Date: A.D. 57
Content: Paul’s earlier letter to the Corinthians had not settled all of the problems. It had some good effect upon them but much more remained to be done. In particular, Paul had to settle the problem concerning his own authority. Deep suspicions had been aroused concerning him, for what reasons we do not fully understand. But in great anguish Paul writes to reestablish his own apostolic authority. He also attempts to deal with some more practical matters, like supporting the poor believers elsewhere.
Theme: Triumph over adversity is seen throughout this letter. It is a very personal one, written by one who loved his people but had been deeply wronged by them. As Paul catalogs the experiences of his life and the nature of the Christian ministry, it is possible to see the grace of God at work bringing good from evil. Satan is active, seeking to destroy God’s work, but God is greater still, establishing those who trust in him. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 25) More commentary on Second Corinthians is at this link. Below is “The Apostle Paul”, by the artist Rembrandt from the year 1657:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Second Corinthians chapter 1 titled “Why Bad things happen to God’s people” is at this link.  Below is a great image for 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 from today’s readings from what looks to be Guatemala to me.  (though maybe this picture is more South America/Andes region?)  I had the good fortune to travel to Guatemala two years ago – and I miss it!  It is a beautiful country with beautiful people!

I love that Paul calls Jesus the “Divine Yes” in today’s readings in Second Corinthians chapter 1 verse 19 in the NLT!  Here are verses 18 through 20 in the NIV – “But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by me and Silas and Timothy, was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ.”  Amen!  Do you realize that Jesus is the fulfillment of all of God’s promises in the Old Testament?  The Law pointed to Jesus in the OT and the Law is fulfilled in Jesus.  The sacrificial system pointed to Jesus in the OT and the sacrificial is fulfilled in Jesus.  Jesus is indeed the Divine Yes!  In your life each and every day, is Jesus your Divine Yes?

Worship Video – Today’s readings in Romans reminded me of Britt Nicole’s song “You:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iduL7r_8sWs

Are you coming back to You? Click here to make your heart more like the ultimate You!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” Romans 15:1-2 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are bearing with the failings of the weak every days. Pray that you are building up your neighbor. Pray for strength – to serve.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Romans 11:1-14:23
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~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Paul bursts out in some great praise and worship of God today in Romans 11 verses 33 through 36: “Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! For who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who knows enough to be his counselor?  And who could ever give him so much that he would have to pay it back? For everything comes from him; everything exists by his power and is intended for his glory. To him be glory evermore. Amen.”  Great stuff!  I love that second to last full sentence that tells us that everything is intended for God’s glory.  So true.  And yet so easy for us to forget.  You my friend are intended for God’s glory!  It is a beautiful truth to consider.  Are you living your life fully for God’s glory?  Are there any areas of your life that would not be seen as giving glory to God?  Will you let those un-glorious aspects of your life go?  Will you walk fully in the LIGHT of God’s glory?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings from Romans titled “The Kindness and Severity of God” is at this link and “The Wisdom of God and the Wisdom of Man” is at this link.

Wow!  Could Romans chapter 12 be one of the most powerful chapters in the Bible??  I love this chapter…  Please take a moment to re-read this chapter if you can. Verses 1 through 3 have been so powerful for me personally since the early days of my Christian walk – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”   I really don’t know what commentary I could add to these words of Paul’s. I love the thought of our bodies being living sacrifices to God.  (There is of course the old joke that the only problem with a living sacrifice is that it tends to crawl off the altar… 🙂  And the warning to not conform any longer to the pattern of this world is so so so true…. and we all know it.  But I find myself still falling prey to the pattern of this world.  Its temptations do not cease.  But!  We can be transformed by the renewing of our minds to test and approve what God’s will is.  Through a loving and growing relationship with Jesus, we can overcome the temptations and the death this world will offer us all too frequently.  In view of God’s mercy, will you offer your body today as God as a living sacrifice?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “The Road to Renewal” is at this link and “Thinking Straight about Spiritual Gifts” is at this link and “What is this Thing Called Love” is at this link.  Below are 2 wonderful images for Romans chapter 12 verse 2 and verses 4 & 5:

Tyndale’s One Year Bible Companion has a great overview of three historical interpretations of how Christians are to submit to the government per Paul’s writings in Romans chapter 13 verse 1 today:  “1. Some Christians believe the state is so corrupt that Christians should have as little to do with it as possible. 2. Others believe that God has given the state authority in certain areas and the church authority in others.  Christians can be loyal to both and can work for either.  They should not however confuse the two.  3. Still others believe that Christians have a responsibility to make the state better.  They can do this politically by electing high-principled leaders.  None of these 3 views advocate rebelling against or refusing to obey the government’s laws or regulations unless those laws clearly require you to violate the moral standards revealed by God.”  Bible.org’s commentary on this subject titled “The Christian and Civil Government” is at this link.  I lean toward a mix of #2 and #3 these days.  I think there is much value in Christians paying attention to local and national and international governments, and getting involved.  Let us not just throw our hands up in the air and think that our government is nothing but this image below…  🙂   (or if we do think our government is nothing but this image below, then let us work to change the reality!)

How incredibly powerful are Paul’s words in Romans 13 verses 8 through 10 – “Pay all your debts, except the debt of love for others. You can never finish paying that! If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill all the requirements of God’s law. For the commandments against adultery and murder and stealing and coveting–and any other commandment–are all summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to anyone, so love satisfies all of God’s requirements.”  Wow… great stuff.  Love satisfies all of God’s requirements.  Do you believe this to be true?  What type of love do you think Paul is talking about here?  A passive love?  An active love?  Who is the last person you paid the debt of love to?  Who is the next person you will pay the debt of love to?  Will you pay the debt of love to somebody in your life each and every day?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Love, Law, and the Last Days” is at this link.

Paul’s writings in Roman’s chapter 14 about the dangers of criticizing and judging others are powerful!  I love verses 12 & 13: “Yes, each of us will have to give a personal account to God. So don’t condemn each other anymore. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not put an obstacle in another Christian’s path.”  Wow…  that is something for each of us to consider.  That we ourselves can actually put obstacles in another Christian’s path toward God!  Do you think that you have ever done this in your life?  I do think that I have.  Never intentionally. But, when I have stopped loving and serving others and instead began judging and criticizing others, I do believe I have placed obstacles in other people’s paths!  Not to mention my own path!  Let us pray that we are not obstacles to others by judging and criticizing…

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Love and Liberty: Liberties Love Won’t Take” is at this link.  Below is a great image for Romans 14:8 from today’s readings –

Worship Video:  Romans chapter 12 today reminded me of JJ Heller’s fantastic song “True Things:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8O_yjPngfw

Are there true things inside of you? Click here for Truth!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is true worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are offering your body as a living sacrifice to God today. Pray that you are not conforming to the pattern of this world, but are being transformed by the renewing of your mind. Pray you are walking and living in the center of God’s will for your life – His good, pleasing and perfect will.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Romans 8:18-10:21
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~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Tyndale’s One Year Bible Companion has a very interesting Q & A today on Romans 8 verses 24-25: “Now that we are saved, we eagerly look forward to this freedom. For if you already have something, you don’t need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don’t have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.” Tyndale’s commentary says:  “In Romans, Paul presents the idea that salvation is past, present, and future.  It is past because we were saved the moment we believed in Jesus Christ as Savior; our new life (eternal life) begins at that moment.  And it is present because we are being saved.  But at the same time, we have not yet fully received all the benefits and blessings of salvation that will be ours when Christ’s new kingdom is completely established.  That’s our future salvation.”   This is pretty amazing to consider that our salvation is past, present and future!  Do you appreciate being saved from your past?  Are you living fully for God in the present?  Are you waiting patiently and confidently for the future?

Today in Romans chapter 8 verses 27 through 29 we read these famous words of Paul’s: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Do you believe that we are more than conquerors through our relationship with Jesus? Does it encourage you to know this? Are you living your life in such a way that truly reflects that you know that you are more than a conqueror? Do you believe that there is absolutely nothing in this world that can separate you from the love of God because of your relationship with Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “From Groaning to Glory” is at this link and “Comforting Questions” is at this link.  A fun image for Romans 8:28 from today’s readings is below:

Powerful readings from Paul today in Romans chapter 9!  In verse 5 we read one of the clearest statements in the New Testament about the deity of Jesus!  “Their ancestors were great people of God, and Christ himself was a Jew as far as his human nature is concerned. And he is God, who rules over everything and is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.”  Paul says here that Jesus is God!  So, what say you?  Is Jesus God?

A portion of verse 6 made me think about Christians today: “Not everyone born into a Jewish family is truly a Jew!” Do you think that everyone born into a Christian family today is truly a Christian?  I know our various denominations will have various degrees / times / ceremonies that will mark becoming a Christian.  But I think many of us would agree that just because you are born into a Christian family doesn’t mean that you are necessarily Christian.  Meaning, I think there has to come a time in each of our lives where we consciously believe in faith that Jesus is our Lord and Savior.  We need to own our faith at some point – not just be a “cultural” Christian because that’s what our family and friends are.  I believe at some point in our life we need to enter into relationship with God through his son Jesus through faith.  Let us pray for our friends and family members who are perhaps currently “cultural” Christians.  Let us pray that they will enter into a loving and growing relationship with God through Jesus.  Side note – I was prayed into the Kingdom by some amazing friends!  (thanks Chad & Becky & Becky & others!)  It is true.  Prayer for your friends and family is powerful.  Please pray for them tonight…

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Man Opposes; God Disposes” is at this link and “Divine Election is Questioned” is at this link.

In Romans chapter 10 verse 1 today, Paul reminded me of the modern-day ministry called Jews for Jesus: “Dear brothers and sisters, the longing of my heart and my prayer to God is that the Jewish people might be saved.”  Paul was certainly a Jew for Jesus!  How about you – are you a Gentile for Jesus?  Or perhaps you are also a Jew for Jesus?  Whoever you are – are you for Jesus?

Below is a wonderful image courtesy of heartlight.org of Romans chapter 10 verse 4 from today’s readings:

Without a doubt, Romans chapter 10 verses 9 & 10 are the most important verses some of us will read this year and really take to heart: “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. “  Do you believe these verses to be true?  Have you prayed these verses with your heart and your mouth to God?  If not, will you today?

image courtesy of heartlight.org

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Israel’s Failure is the Scripture’s Fulfillment” is at this link and “The Only Road to Righteousness” is at this link.

Romans 10 verses 14 & 15 are a powerful call to share the Gospel with a world that so desperately needs it! “But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!””  Are you bringing good news to people in your life?  Do you realize that you do not necessarily need to go abroad to share the Gospel with people who really have probably never heard it before?  Yeah, sure, maybe in our hometowns people have heard the name Jesus.  But have they really heard about the love and life and forgiveness and healing that Jesus offers?  Do they really know who Jesus truly is?  How will they know unless you tell them? Will you utilize the gift of your beautiful feet?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Without Excuse” is at this link and “Man’s Failures Do Not Frustrate the Purposes of God” is at this link.

Worship Video:  I think this video and song ties in very well with the transformation we’re reading about – and hopefully experiencing – in the book of Romans.  The great thing about this video is that the artist, Brandon Heath, opens and closes the song with some great comments.  Be forewarned – this video just might make you cry…  Beautiful stuff.  Enjoy Brandon Heath’s “I’m Not Who I Was.”  And as you watch this video and listen to the song, take some time to reflect on how God has changed you over time…  Does this song tell the story of who you are today too?

Are you who you were? Click here to become who you were meant to be!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray in thanksgiving to God that all things in your life are working for your good, because of your love for Him and because you have been called according to his purpose. Pray that you see the good that is happening in your life, even in challenging circumstances.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Romans 5:1-8:17
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Wow.  Romans 5 verses 1 & 2 are so true: “Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.”  It is important to note that these verses are talking about more than just a “sense of peace.”  They are talking about literal “peace with God”!  Peace with God is gifted to us through faith in Jesus’ life, death and resurrection to redeem us from the depravity and consequences of our sin.  Have you experienced literal peace with God?  I know that we do not always “sense the peace” with God – but I do not think it leaves us once we’ve entered into an eternal right relationship with Jesus.  I think we can certainly distract ourselves enough or make ourselves worried or frantic enough that we might think the peace is gone.  But eternal peace doesn’t ever leave us.  I do think we need to take time to connect with and rediscover Christ’s peace within us each and every day.  Reading, prayer and meditation on Scripture are great ways to do this.  I have also found getting outdoors and taking a walk in nature helps me connect with Christ’s peace again.  What are other ways that you connect with Christ’s peace within you?  Please post up in the Comments section below for others to learn from!  Thanks!

Verses 3 through 5 are incredible today as well: “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us–they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”  Note that these verses are not saying to rejoice “because” of problems and trials (that would be morbid), but that we can still rejoice even “when we run into” the problems and trials.  It is often difficult for us to remember to rejoice when problems and trials come our way – but please do remember these words of Paul in Romans about rejoicing during a time of trial.  Remember our readings in Acts?  Paul was ridiculed, beaten, jailed and shipwrecked – and yet, he never gave into a defeatist attitude.  He kept preaching God’s love!  If anyone knows about trials and problems, it is Paul.  And he tells us to rejoice through problems and trials because in this we learn to endure.  I love that Paul says that character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation!  And that this expectation will not disappoint!  Do you believe this?  Do you have a confident expectation of salvation?

Image above courtesy of stonesoupmusic.org.  Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “The Object of Our Faith” is at this link.

Wow… I don’t know what it is about Romans this year, but it is speaking to me like never before.  For those of you that have gone through the One Year Bible multiple times, you probably know how this is.  One year a book will kinda sorta speak to you – God’s Word always does.  And then the next year a book will just blow you away with its wisdom.  Romans is one of those books for me this year…  Paul’s words in Romans 5 verses 6 through 8 today spoke to me right away: “When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, no one is likely to die for a good person, though someone might be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”  This is so powerful to think about.  Jesus died for us sinners.  Think about how selfless this is. Would you die for someone right now?  Perhaps your family or maybe someone who is especially good, as this Psalm says.  But would you die for a liar, a thief, a cheat, or a hopeless addict?  Maybe so…  but probably not.  Jesus came for us.  He died for us.  Us thieves.  Us liars.  Us cheat.  Us addicts.  He came to save us!  Have you been saved by Jesus?

We are now called friends of God as Paul tells us in verse 11: “So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God–all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God.”  Do you rejoice in knowing that you are a friend of God?  If someone were to look at how you interact with others and how you spend your time and your days, would they know that you are a friend of God?  Do you often spend quality time with God like you would with any other friend?  Do you think spending time with God is more valuable than anything else you could do in this world?

Paul’s contrast of Adam and Jesus in today’s readings is so powerful for us to meditate upon… Verses 18 & 19 stood out to me today: “Yes, Adam’s one sin brought condemnation upon everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness makes all people right in God’s sight and gives them life. Because one person disobeyed God, many people became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many people will be made right in God’s sight.”

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “From the Curse to the Cure” is at this link.

Today in Romans chapter 6 verses 17 & 18 we read: “But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” Do you believe that you were ever a slave to sin? Is it possible that you are still a slave to sin now? How can you be freed from being a slave to sin? Or, better yet, Who do you think can free you from being a slave to sin? Are you wholeheartedly obeying the teaching to which you have been entrusted? Where can you consistently find the teaching to which you have been entrusted? Do you consider yourself a slave to righteousness? Do you like the idea of being a slave to righteousness?

Today we read Romans 6:23! I pray that this is a verse of Scripture that you have truly memorized, meditated upon, and fully understand and agree with:

Bible.org’s fantastic commentaries on today’s Romans readings titled “An End to the Reign of Death” is at this link and “The Stupidity of Sin” is at this link.

Great writings by Paul in Romans 7 today about the Law!  I love how he wraps up today’s readings in verses 12 & 13 by saying: “But still, the law itself is holy and right and good.  But how can that be? Did the law, which is good, cause my doom? Of course not! Sin used what was good to bring about my condemnation. So we can see how terrible sin really is. It uses God’s good commandment for its own evil purposes.” Great theology in this chapter today!  Indeed – the law itself is holy and right and good.  But, we couldn’t keep the law and sin tempted us to break the law.  And thanks to Jesus, Paul tells us in verse 6 today: “But now we have been released from the law, for we died with Christ, and we are no longer captive to its power. Now we can really serve God, not in the old way by obeying the letter of the law, but in the new way, by the Spirit.”  We now serve God by the Spirit!  We are free indeed!

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s Romans readings titled “The Loveliness of the Law and the Ugliness of Sin” is at this link.

Romans chapter 7 today has some amazing teachings about struggling with sin.  I imagine that all of us at one point or another have concurred with Paul – and remember this is the apostle Paul writing this! – in verses 15 through 17: “I don’t understand myself at all, for I really want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do the very thing I hate. I know perfectly well that what I am doing is wrong, and my bad conscience shows that I agree that the law is good. But I can’t help myself, because it is sin inside me that makes me do these evil things.” These verses get at Original Sin in a big way.  We all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.  Sin can live inside of us and make us do evil things that we hate doing.  What do you suppose – or Whom do you suppose – frees us from this bondage to sin?  Jesus.  Yes, Jesus frees us.  How?  He paid the penalty on the cross for our sins.  And he gives us the free gift of salvation and the Holy Spirit to free us from the bondage of sin.  Take a look at these verses again above from Paul.  Is sin living inside of you making you do things you hate?  Do you want to be free from this slavery to sin?  Will you pray to accept Jesus as your savior today and allow him to free you from you bondage to sin?  Please do.  It’s the best decision you will ever make.  Please spend a few minutes prayerfully at this website – https://needhim.org/

Bible.org’s fantastic commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “The War Within” is at this link.

Wow… I love Paul’s writings today in Romans 8 verses 12 through 14!  “So, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation whatsoever to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you keep on following it, you will perish. But if through the power of the Holy Spirit you turn from it and its evil deeds, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.”   How do these verses speak to you?  Can you imagine that these words were written for you and your life today?  Do you believe that you have no obligation whatsoever to do what sin urges you to do?  Are you led in your life today by the Spirit of God?

Bible.org’s fantastic commentary on today’s readings in Romans titled “Siding with the Spirit” is at this link and “From Groaning to Glory” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings in Romans today reminds me of Jeremy Camp’s song “Healing Hand of God:”

Have you felt the healing hand of God? Click here for Healing!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture this week: “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 TNIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you know the full expanse of God’s love for you and the full cost Jesus paid for your sins on the Cross. Pray that you know that while you were still a sinner, Christ died for you. Pray that you have been saved from your sins through saving faith in Jesus.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

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