ISSL Reflections Titus 1:1–3; 2:11–15 Post 3

VII.Paul speaks of himself as “a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ….” A very bold claim. But I wonder if his next claim is even more bold – “for the sake of the faith of God’s elect … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections Titus 1:1–3; 2:11–15 Post 2

IV.Let’s start our reflection today by taking notice of the phrase, “For the grace of God has appeared ….” For Paul, what follows from the appearance of the “grace of God”? V.Titus 1:1-3; 2:11-15 (NRSVue) Paul, a servant of God … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections Titus 1:1–3; 2:11–15 Post 1

I.In almost the last sentence of this week’s focus passage tells a young minister to “Declare … exhort … and reprove…” As you spend time with this passage, what do you find that Paul “declares”? II.Titus 1:1-3; 2:11-15 (NRSVue) Paul, … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections 1 John 3:1–10 Post 3

VII.Today as we return to this passage, let the full impact of the opening words rest with you – “See what love the Father has given us …” Keep that thought ever before you as you take time to meditate … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections 1 John 3:1–10 Post 2

IV.When you were reading this passage did you notice “… no one who sins has either seen him or known him.” And “Those who have been born of God do not sin…” Should we take that to mean no true … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections 1 John 3:1–10 Post 1

I.Who are you? Our focus Scripture this week has suggestions on how to answer. As you spend time with this Scripture, what answers do you see the writer offering? II.1 John 3:1-10 (NRSVue) See what love the Father has given … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 4 2024 1 Thessalonians 2:13–3:5 Post 3

VII.I’ve already mentioned that Paul wrote to the disciples at Thessalonica they were “… our glory and joy!“ Let’s take that as our starting place today and see if you notice how this sense of joy and hope is expressed … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 4 2024 1 Thessalonians 2:13–3:5 Post 2

IV.What is Paul’s concern for the disciples in Thessalonica? You might ask Paul, “Why are you so worried about the folk?” “What could go wrong?” Take that thought with you as you spend time with Paul’s words today. V.1 Thessalonians … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 4 2024 1 Thessalonians 2:13–3:5 Post 1

I.I guess what most holds my attention in this passage is seeing how Paul speaks of thankfulness and joy and yet also of discouragement and concern (should I rather say fear) for the community of believers in Thessalonica. The passage … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 28 2024 Psalm 130 Post 3

VII.Today as you spend time with this Psalm hear it as a call to “hope.” VIII.Psalm 130 (NRSVue) Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.       Lord, hear my voice!Let your ears be attentive       to the voice of my supplications! … Continue reading