ISSL Reflections October 29 2023 Galatians 3:23–4:7 Post 1

I.Where has God been for you in different “seasons” of your life? II.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 Christ … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 22 2023 Galatians 3:1–14 Post 3

VII.Before you reread these words directed to Jesus’ disciples in Galatia, still your spirit, open your mind and heart to any words of encouragement you find. VIII.Galatians 3:1-14 (NRSVue) You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 22 2023 Galatians 3:1–14 Post 2

IV.If the “promise of the Spirit” and living a life “with the Spirit” are so great, why would anyone be “bewitched” by “doing the works of the law”? As you read these words of Paul keep that question in mind. … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 22 2023 Galatians 3:1–14 Post 1

I.We continue this week listening to Paul contrast living by the law and living by the Spirit. As you read this passage today, look for and make a note of how he contrasts the two ways of life. II.Galatians 3:1-14 … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 15 2023 Galatians 2:11–21 Post 3

VII.Paul remarks, “… if I build up the very things that I once tore down …” Take time today to reread these paragraphs and see if you notice what he means when he writes of “… the very things that … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 15 2023 Galatians 2:11–21 Post 2

IV.In the last post I concentrated on what I saw as the passion with which Paul recalled his confirmation with Peter. Today let’s look at the second paragraph in this week’s reading and look for the energy and passion he … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 15 2023 Galatians 2:11–21 Post 1

I.As I read (and listen) to Paul in what follows, I am impressed by the passion he brings to these words. Do you hear it? Do you feel it? Some might call it “energy“.” Some might call it “anger.” What … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 8 2023 Romans 7:1–12 Post 1

I.In our Scripture for this week Paul sets his focus on “the law.” As you spend time with this passage, set your own focus on what says about “the law.” Pay attention to what he might say about the positive … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 1 2023 Romans 2:12–24, 28–29 Post 3

VII.Let’s go to a couple of things Paul wrote in other epistles. “… even though I, too, have reason for confidence in the flesh. If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections October 1 2023 Romans 2:12–24, 28–29 Post 2

IV.Did you hear, “… will you not teach yourself?” Take some time to slowly read this passage and take note of what Paul thinks his readers should be able to “teach” themselves. V.Romans 2:12-24, 28-29 (NRSVue) All who have sinned … Continue reading