In this part of James' letter to the faithful scattered afar, is this well-known question, "14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works?" Indeed. My thought this morning rested on the beginning of the chapter. 2 My brothers and sisters, do not show prejudice if you possess faith in … Continue reading James 2.
Month: March 2023
James 1.
James packs in so many thoughts, commands, etc. into each chapter of his letter it's hard to focus on just one or two of them. But right at the beginning of the chapter this jumped out at me: 2 My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, 3 because … Continue reading James 1.
Galatians 6.
As Paul finishes this letter, he reveals the motivation of those trying to get the Galatians circumcised -- so that they won't get persecuted by the Jews who believe these new believers must be circumcised. He also makes this bold statement that certainly we should meditate on and try to understand all of its implications … Continue reading Galatians 6.
Galatians 5.
I confess, that in this time of reading Galatians it has taken me all the into chapter 5, before I connected the actions Paul is warning against, works of the law especially in getting circumcised, to my own "works". Good grief. Paul says it so clearly in verses five and six. 5 For through the Spirit … Continue reading Galatians 5.
Galatians 4.
This chapter is dripping with passion or zeal. On Paul's side, he is begging that the Galatians would not abandon their faith and the gospel that he taught them. So much so that he admits his tone is strident, and he would prefer to be in their midst so he could talk to the Galatians … Continue reading Galatians 4.
Week 12.
Here's a post where you can comment on last week's readings.
Galatians 3.
This is Paul's bedrock -- his understanding of what Jesus has done for us, and how we are reconciled to God. 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there … Continue reading Galatians 3.
Galatians 2.
I don't have anything really to add to this verse, except that it is essential for us to understand, and live by. So it is much worth considering. 20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by … Continue reading Galatians 2.
Galatians 1.
As we begin the letter to the churches in Galatia, I want to make clear that I'm personally trying not to read ahead of each day. I am also trying to ignore information I know about this letter from prior readings, staying focused on the text before us each day. In doing so, I note … Continue reading Galatians 1.
Hebrews 13.
The letter ends with a worthy set of exhortations for the readers, and for us. This is what I'm taking away today: 20 Now may the God of peace who by the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, 21 equip you with every good thing … Continue reading Hebrews 13.