ISSL Reflections June 2 2024 Colossians 1:24–2:3 Post 3

VII.Today let’s spend time with these words of Paul and pay attention to what he identifies as his hope for the recipients of his letter. VIII.Colossians 1:24-2:3 (NRSVue) I am now rejoicing in my sufferings for your sake, and in … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections June 2 2024 Colossians 1:24–2:3 Post 2

IV.In the last post we focused on Paul’s statement, “ … I want you to know …” and that led us to consider his focus on knowing, knowledge, understanding and wisdom. With that still in mind, today notice Paul calling … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections June 2 2024 Colossians 1:24–2:3 Post 1

I.In the second paragraph of this week’s Scripture focus Paul writes, “ … I want you to know …” As you spend time with this passage, what do you think Paul wants us to know? II.Colossians 1:24-2:3 (NRSVue) I am … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 26 2024 Romans 10:1–17 Post 3

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

ISSL Reflections May 26 2024 Romans 10:1–17 Post 2

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

ISSL Reflections May 26 2024 Romans 10:1–17 Post 1

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

ISSL Reflections May 19 2024 Romans 5:1–11 Post 3

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

ISSL Reflections May 19 2024 Romans 5:1–11 Post 2

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

ISSL Reflections May 19 2024 Romans 5:1–11 Post 1

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

ISSL Reflections May 12 2024 Romans 4:13–25 Post 3

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