Daily Reading Week 38
Sunday
Colossians 2
DISCOVER
In this week’s message we talked about the church being a place where others feel like they “belong.” In what ways are you creating that environment or that sense of belonging?
The goal of what we attempt to do weekly is lead others to a place of belief. A key part to accomplishing this goal is to embrace our differences and acknowledge that we’re “knit together in love.” What does it mean to be “knit together in love?”
What does it really mean to “become” more like Christ? How are you striving to do this in your own faith journey?
RESPOND
Colossians 2 addresses various false teachings which threatened the believers. These include a reliance on human, worldly-based philosophy, Jewish legalism, and mysticism. These ideas are all consistent with a philosophy known as Gnosticism, one of the earlier heresies troubling the church.
The first section of this chapter begins with Paul's concern regarding the Colossian believers. His goal was for them to be established in the faith. They were not to be taken "captive" by philosophy, but were to remain focused on Christ. Paul's trouble here is not with all philosophy, or all deep thinking. Instead, he refers to an approach dependent on explicitly anti-Christian principles.
As Paul continues, he deals with issues related to Jewish legalism. He discusses the Jewish rite of circumcision, noting that believers receive the "circumcision of Christ" and so do not require human circumcision to please God.
In addition, he addresses areas of mysticism. This included ascetic living, worship of angels, and visions. This self–made religion was of no value in following Christ. In fact, such practices contradict both the commands and the example of Jesus.
Lastly, he discusses ascetic living or human rules about spiritual or religious matters. Paul said these have the "appearance of wisdom" but do not keep a person from sinning. It is Christ alone that can change the heart.
Monday
1 Thessalonians 4
DISCOVER
In the first eight verses Paul encourages his readers to live in ways that please God. What does this lifestyle look like?
In a world where everyone feels the need to know everything about one another, verse 11 of this chapter reminds us to live a quiet life and mind our business. How does this lifestyle reflect the life of a believer?
Towards the end of this chapter we read about the return of Christ. This truth sometimes scares people. How does Paul use this idea to encourage the church?
RESPOND
This chapter begins the second division of Paul's letter to the Thessalonian believers. Whereas chapters 1—3 are mainly personal, chapters 4 and 5 contain instructions about personal purity and behavior. The first part of chapter 4 contains exhortations about holy living. Paul urges the Thessalonians to avoid sexual immorality by practicing self-discipline and by recognizing that God calls believers to lead a pure life and will judge those who engage in sexual immorality.
Paul then exhorts his readers to practice brotherly love, to live a peaceful life, to mind their own business, and to work in order to provide for their needs instead of depending on others for assistance. By working hard the Thessalonians would maintain a good testimony. Living an exemplary life provides evidence to all about the power of Christ in a person's life.
The end of 1 Thessalonians, as well as much of 2 Thessalonians, is focused on the return of Jesus Christ. Based on these passages, we surmise the Christians of Thessalonica might have been struggling with false teachings, rumors, or fears. In response to those who wondered what happens to a believer who dies before Jesus returns, Paul exhorts his readers not to grieve as the unsaved grieve. He explains that when Jesus returns, He will resurrect the bodies of departed Christians and then catch up living Christians to be with Him forever. Paul called upon the Thessalonians to use these truths for each other's encouragement.
Tuesday
1 Thessalonians 5
DISCOVER
What are some of the contrasts that Paul makes between those who are followers of Jesus and those who are not? What do you think Paul means when he says that “you are all children of the light and children of the day?”
What are some challenges you face in showing love to everyone, as Paul suggests? How can you overcome these challenges?
Given Paul's teaching, how can you make a positive impact within your community and encourage others to live in the light of Christ's return?
RESPOND
This final chapter of 1 Thessalonians continues to discuss the day of the Lord, assuring Christians that it will not overtake them. It is associated with what Paul calls the night, in this passage, and it will overtake those who are children of the night. The day of the Lord will arrive like a thief in the night, which is not a welcome event. Also, it brings God's wrath upon unbelievers, whereas Christians—children of the light—will experience full salvation when Christ returns. This prospect of receiving final salvation motivates Christians to encourage one another.
In addition, Paul instructs believers to warn those who are lazy busybodies, encourage those who are easily discouraged, and assist those whose faith is weak. Furthermore, Christians should not try to get even with those who offend them. On a positive note Christians should keep on doing good to everyone and rejoice.
Lastly, Paul instructs believers not to ignore or reject what the Spirit wants them to do, nor take a dim view of prophesying. Instead of rejecting messages delivered by alleged prophets, they should put those messages to the test. This testing allows believers to accept that which agrees with the Word of God, and reject anything which does not. Finally, Christians should stay clear of every form of evil.
Wednesday
2 Thessalonians 1
DISCOVER
According to verse 1, who is this letter written to? Why is that important as you read the rest of the chapter?
In what ways can your faith and love for others be a testimony to those who don't know God?
How does this chapter influence your understanding of how to live in the present day world?
RESPOND
Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians expands on the same themes he addressed in his first message. He opens this second letter with his customary greeting, evoking peace and the grace of God. He identifies himself, Timothy, and Silvanus as the nominal authors of the letter.
As he did in 1 Thessalonians, Paul makes a point of praising the Thessalonian Christians for their faithfulness. While this depiction made up a significant portion of his first letter, Paul makes a much shorter reference to it here.
This letter, 2 Thessalonians, makes it clear that the persecution and suffering these Christians experienced was not part of the day of the Lord. Paul reassures his readers that God sees their struggles and will use them for His own glory. At the same time, God's awareness means impending judgment for those who afflict Christians with persecution. Among these consequences, Paul invokes the ultimate end for those who reject God: an eternity of destruction and separation from God—what the Bible calls hell. Paul's intent here is to reassure believers and encourage them to continue their good works.
Thursday
2 Thessalonians 2
DISCOVER
What does the chapter teach about the importance of standing firm in the teachings of the faith? How can we practically achieve this in our lives?
How does Paul pray for the Thessalonians in verses 16-17, and how does this prayer give encouragement for perseverance?
Think through the tension between fear and hope as seen in this chapter. How can we navigate this tension in our lives today?
RESPOND
This chapter tackles a weak point in this church's faith. Despite their spiritual growth, and Paul's earlier letter, it seems that the church at Thessalonica was plagued with wrong thinking about "the day of the Lord." So, here in this second chapter, Paul clarifies the subject.
Paul first asks his readers to put aside their concerns that they might have entered that day. He writes about the timing of that upcoming period and cites prerequisites that must be met before the day of the Lord begins. There are two particular signs which will precede this judgment. The first is described as a rebellion, the second as the rise of a notable figure.
The first occurrence which must precede the day of the Lord is a rebellion. The idea here suggests a distinctive, special event or movement, rather than a general, long-term trend.
Secondly, restraint against lawlessness will be removed and the man of lawlessness will be revealed. The implication is that God will stop, to some extent, holding back evil, and allow sin freer rein on earth. This mysterious figure, the man of lawlessness, opposes all worship except the worship of himself. In part, this means sitting in the temple and declaring that he is God. Empowered by Satan, this figure will deceive unbelievers by showing signs and wonders. However, at His second coming, Jesus will destroy the man of lawlessness and all who refused the truth and revealed it in unrighteousness.
Paul closes this chapter by thanking God for the believers at Thessalonica, whom God called to obtain the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. In view of this bright prospect, Paul appeals to his readers to stand firm and adhere to the truths they had been taught. He prays that Jesus and the Father would encourage the Thessalonians and strengthen them in every good deed and word.
Friday
2 Thessalonians 3
RESPOND
How does Paul's request for protection/rescue from “wicked and evil people” apply to the spiritual challenges Christians might face today?
In verse 5, Paul prays for the Thessalonians’ hearts to be directed toward God's love and Christ's perseverance. How can these two qualities help believers in challenging times?
What does the theme of God's enduring presence revealed in this chapter mean for you during personal trials or hardship?
RESPOND
This final chapter of 2 Thessalonians begins with a prayer request and ends with a benediction. In between, Paul assures his readers that the Lord would accomplish his purposes in the lives of the Thessalonian believers and gives some final exhortations.
Paul's initial prayer request centers around the successful spread of the gospel. This ties directly into a wish that he and his companions, as well as the Thessalonian believers, would be kept safe from evil. Paul also indicates his confidence that the faithful Christians of Thessalonica are following his teachings.
The letter then turns to address the issue of laziness. While charity is a crucial aspect of Christian living, it is not meant to be given out blindly or foolishly. Paul says in no uncertain terms that those who claim to be believers yet exhibit laziness should be avoided, not enabled. As a counter-example, Paul points to his own testimony among the believers of Thessalonica. He demonstrated a selfless work ethic. He provided for himself as much as possible. His instruction is clear: those who are able, but unwilling, should not be coddled by giving them charity.
The final passage of 2 Thessalonians contains Paul's sincere prayer for peace in the lives of these Christian believers. It also makes a point of establishing Paul's identity. This might refer to a literal signature, or his distinctive handwriting in that particular sentence. Though the letter began with a condemnation of those who persecuted the church, it ends with an invocation of grace.
Saturday
1 Timothy 1
DISCOVER
The first part of this letter deals with false teaching. Paul comments that it’s possible to “waste time in endless discussions.” What does this idea look like in our current day and time? How do people waste time with meaningless discussions?
Based on verse 5, Paul lays out the purpose of his writing. What’s his purpose? How have some missed that purpose?
As the chapter concludes, Paul has some specific instructions for Timothy. In fact, he details in verse 19 some things that will assist Timothy in fighting well. What 2 big ideas does Paul share with Timothy in verse 19? How do you strive to do the same daily?
RESPOND
1 Timothy 1 includes a greeting typical of Paul's letters, followed by three areas of emphasis. He strongly warns against false teachings, gives details on his testimony, and highlights his commands to Timothy with some encouragement.
Timothy's primary role in Ephesus needs to be fighting false teaching. This is not only meant to preserve truth, it is meant to show a good Christian example. The proper method for a Christian is love. In particular, Timothy needs to avoid bickering over irrelevant details. Some debates are simply useless when it comes to our Christian faith. Arguing over these nonessentials is a poor form of stewardship.
The false teachers in Ephesus are misusing the law. Paul makes an interesting turn of phrase by saying they use the law "unlawfully." The point is that these men are applying the law in ways it was never meant to be used. Law is called "good" when used lawfully, but some were using it to both justify personal sins and to force Gentile Christians to live according to the Jewish law in order to be faithful Christians.
As Paul continues to write, he gives a brief version of his testimony. More than likely Timothy already knew this story, but he would have been encouraged that Paul referred to himself as "foremost" of sinners. Paul brings up these details for several reasons. One is to point out that he is not any better or more deserving than the men he is criticizing. On the contrary, Paul sees how serious his own sins were. Paul also means to highlight the fact that his redemption is entirely the work of God—an act of mercy, not something Paul earned on his own.
As the chapter closes, he returns to Timothy's obligation to stand against heresy. Paul specifically uses two men as examples of those who rejected a clear conscience, and so were ruined: Hymenaeus and Alexander. These men, Paul has "handed over to Satan." The purpose of this is not to punish the men, but to keep them from polluting the rest of the church , and in the hopes that they would repent and come back to the truth.