VII.Today let’s spend time with our focus passage taking notice of what we learn about God. VIII.Titus 3:3-11 (NRSVue) For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and … Continue reading
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
VII.The Psalmist asks for “understanding.” How do you see the Psalmist affirming what such “understanding” leads to? VIII.Psalm 119:73-80 (NRSVue) Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.Those who fear you shall see … Continue reading
VII.Today, let’s take note of Paul’s reference to Deuteronomy 30:14, “The word is near you,in your mouth and in your heart” How does that image find expression in these words from Paul? VIII.Romans 10:1-17 (NRSVue) Brothers and sisters, my heart’s … Continue reading
IV.Let’s spend a little more time thinking about “zeal.” What do you take to be Paul’s warning about “zeal”? V.Romans 10:1-17 (NRSVue) Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. … Continue reading
I.This week’s focus passage has us thinking about faith and righteousness once again. Paul attempts to contrast for us “righteousness that comes from the law” with “righteousness that comes from faith.” Hold that contrast as you spend time with these … Continue reading
VII.Do you think we can agree that Paul believes we “are justified,” or at the very least can be “justified”? What do you think about that? How do you feel about that? Do you really think and feel “justified” and … Continue reading
IV.As we return to our focus passage, I am already caught by the phrase, “For while we were still weak…” Take that as your starting point with which to meditate on this passage. V.Romans 5:1-11 (NRSVue) Therefore, since we are … Continue reading
I.This week we continue our reflections on faith. Let’s start with the first phrase in this week’s focus passage – “Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have …..” As you spend time with this passage, take note of … Continue reading
VII.Did you pay attention to – “… the words, ‘it was reckoned to him,’ were writtennot for his sake alonebut for ours also. It will be reckoned to us… “ How do we fully catch on “… to us …”? … Continue reading