VII.Today as we reread this passage, let this be our guide through the passage, “… holding fast to the head.” VIII.Colossians 2:16-23 (NRSVue) Therefore, do not let anyone condemn you in matters of food or drink or of observing festivals, … Continue reading
IV.As we return to this passage, please notice the last sentence, “These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-imposed piety, humility, and severe treatment of the body, but they are of no value in checking self-indulgence.” What does … Continue reading
I.As we turn to these few sentences to the Epistle to the disciples in Colossae, do you hear Paul tell them, “Do Not submit to regulations.” Take that waring from Paul and listen to him speak of “regulations” that are … Continue reading
VII.Let’s give another reading to both of these passages. Take note that Paul speaks of what fulfills, what never ends, and what ceases. Read the passages again, looking for how the eternal might break into our lives that are often … Continue reading
IV.Today, let’s read both of these passages and then return to the 1 Corinthians passage and reread it. In part this passage deals with time. What do you hear it telling you about time and the ending of things? V.Romans … Continue reading
I.This week we will focus on passages from two of the Pauline epistles, Romans and 1 Corinthians. Both passages stress “love.” After you read both passages, come back to the Romans passage and listen for how love “fulfilled the law.” … Continue reading
VII.“After much debate Peter stood up and said to them …” As you read this passage today, think of what those who wanted the Gentile believers “to be circumcised and ordered to keep the law of Moses” wanted to hear … Continue reading
IV.From where we stand in the history of the spread of the Christian religion, I think we know which side “won” this argument? Right? What if it wasn’t resolved in the way it was? V.Acts 15:1-11 (NRSVue) Then certain individuals … Continue reading
I.We find some tension here – “… certain individuals came down from Judea … others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem …” But it is not merely a tension in geography – “… were teaching … unless you are … Continue reading
VII.What does Paul say about those who are no longer “under the law”? VIII.Galatians 3:23-4:7 (NRSVue) Now before faith came, we were imprisoned and guarded under the law until faith would be revealed. Therefore the law was our disciplinarian until … Continue reading