1 Thessalonians 2

Paul's ministry to the Thessalonians (2:1-16)
Paul's desire to see them againg (2:17-20)

Paul's heart for the gospel and for God's work in peoples lives is clearly evident in this chapter. It gives us a glimpse into his devotion to the gospel and gives me a great example of what it means to be sold out for Christ and wholly committed to ministry. He makes it clear that his purposes are not for the praise of men, so he doesn't come to the Thessalonians with flattery or a pretext for greed (v. 5), but rather to share the gospel of God and to share his own self (probably referring to his service, energy, relationship, v. 8). This reminds us all of the imparative need for vision and correct direction in relationships, ministries, and conversation. They are not for us to build us up among men, to make us feel good, or promote ourselves. The gospel is for people whom God has called (v. 12), to bring the sinner to repentance, and to walk in a manner worthy of God.

Paul also praises them for accepting the word "not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers." (13)

Paul also mentions at the beginning and the end the treatment of Christians in Judea and also in Phillipi-- Christians suffered and were shamefully treated by the people around them. Nevertheless, they maintain gospel pronouncement in spite of conflict. Do you do this? Do you continue to lift high the name of Christ and the glory of God even in conflict? Does your life burn hotter in devotion to God when times are tough? Hard questions to answer honestly. Let's be able to answer postively...first by asking for His strength and boldness like Paul did (2).

1 Thessalonians 1

Well, I'm guilty for not posting for a good two weeks. And, to make it worse, my daily studies have not been where I want them to be. Nevertheless, the next book to blog on is 1 Thessalonians.
Will begin posting tomorrow when I'm somewhat awake.

II Corinthians 1

TEXT: I Corinthians 16

The Collection for the Saints (16:1-4)
Plans For travel (16:5-11)
Final Instructions (16:12-18)
Greeting (16:19-24)

OBSERVATIONS:

This chapter could be considered hard to apply since most of it has to do with "inside" relations between the Corinthians and Paul. But, I see this chapter in light of what this book is...a letter. This is Paul's closing words in a personal way to this church. It proves more the authenticity of Paul's letter to the Corinthians. This wasn't a fake letter written to start a religion. This was a real letter to real people concerning life lived before a real God; and, furthermore testifies of a real resurrected Savior Jesus Christ. Paul does give exhortation and instruction in this chapter ie verse 13..."Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love."

Could you imagine receiving the actual letter from Paul with his own signature?
What did you think of I Corinthians? For more on I Corinthians check out Mars Hill Church...Mark Driscoll does a series on I Corinthians: Christians Gone Wild.

Next book: II Corinthians.

Text: I Corinthians 15

TEXT: I Corinthians 13

LOVE

Paul wants the Corinthians to direct their attention not on gifts but on something higher: Love. (12:31b)
He then proceeds with a beautiful poetic description of what love is, looks like, and behaves like.
I'd like to memorize this section. This concept is further development on the selfless qualities Paul describes in earlier chapters. It's not about me (even after God). It's about others and the love we can show them. Both in the church and out in the world. Revolutionary thinking. It really is God thinking. If we truly understand the love of God for His creation, enough to die for it, then we will be loving in its truest form: patient, kind, truthful, hopes, believes...
This attitude and behavior can only come from being transformed by God. We will resort to our unloving selves if we attempt on our own--and we'll come up empty handed. Seek God-from whom comes all righteousness, faith, hope, and love.
If my pursuit is after spiritual gift alone, I am a noise maker, annoying to all around. (13:1)

Memorize this chapter.

TEXT: I Corinthians 12

Spiritual Gifts (12:1-11)

One Body with many members (12:12-31)

OBSERVATIONS:

The spiritual gifts are given by the same Spirit who "apportions to each one individually as he wills." (11) The manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.

Paul reminds the Corinthians and us that the Church is the body of Christ. We do not reject one member, we do not give more favor to one, we do not try to be separate from the body. These are all things that are easy to slide into. More or less out of comfort. But, all believers constitute the body of Christ and have been given certain gifts to make the body complete. The example of the physical body not dividing itself is perfect. We need the body of Christ. But we are all to willing to try life apart from the imperfection that comes along with the Church. I think it should be this way---that a person should do this---or change there personality---or whatever, because I am selfish. Let's get past our selfishness and become a member of the moving body of Christ, ministering to those around us pointing others to God and His glory.