2 Corinthians 7 - Nathanael

Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.  

2 Corinthians 7:1

The promises that he refers to from the previous chapter are that God will be a father to us and we will be his sons and daughters if we are not yoked to the world. They are very great and precious promises indeed! 

In light of those promises, there is a great call to holiness - separation from sin and all that defiles both body and spirit. Sins certainly defile our spirit. Some objects, activities and places that are tainted with or from sin can defile our bodies. Paul describes sexual immorality as a sin that also defiles our bodies. Objects devoted to destruction such as idols or objects used to perform sin can have a stain of sin on them that effect us. Other passages tell us to hate even the clothing stained by sin. These statements are all made to protect us and not condemn us, to be a caution not a law. 

Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one. I do not say this to condemn you; I have said before that you have such a place in our hearts that we would live or die with you. I have spoken to you with great frankness; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.  

2 Corinthians 7:2-4

 It is interesting to see how Paul talks to the believers. They are instructive for parents and leaders in various areas. 

He makes a command but then softens it by explaining that he is not saying this to condemn but in fact he has already said that he loves them enough to die for them. He says also that he is proud of them. He recalls their actions and praises three things that they have done that are good. Sometimes we wonder as parents if we should say that we are proud of our children to them because isn't pride bad? We see that there is a good form of pride. A pride not in one's self but a pride rather in the  good actions of others, especially those who we may oversee in some way. 

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

2 Corinthians 7:‬10 NIV

A good compare and contrast in different types of sorrow. Godly sorrow comes from conviction of wrong and leads to repentance. Worldly sorrow is from condemnation and leads to despair and hopelessness. 

http://bible.com/111/2co.7.1-10.NIV

2 Corinthians 6 - Nathanael

through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.  

2 Corinthians 6:8‭-‬10

This passage is always striking to me. Paul willingly goes through hardships and joys all for the sake of Jesus and for the lives of those he is reaching out to in love. The beginning of the passage is more good alongside the bad and the transitions to bad but still with hope. In the face of disaster we can still have hope and joy in Christ because he is calling us to a life beyond this life. In him we have hope of eternity in his presence. In that hope we can endure whatever comes and realize that we possess all that really matters! 

We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also.  2 Corinthians 6:‬11,13

 Paul speaks in love to the Corinthians - he had opened his words, life, actions and heart to them. He asks that they do the same. 

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 

2 Corinthians 6:14

This idea of yoking - being bound together in common purpose - has many applications: marriage, business partnerships, fraternal orders and others. We are called not to be joined with unbelievers in these situations. Clearly we are to have love for, relationships with,  and reach out to unbelievers. The key difference is in that promise or covenant of commitment. We can walk beside and we can help, but when yoking and committing to a common endeavor, that should be done with those of like mind and heart. 

And, "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."

2 Corinthians 6:18 NIV

This is quite a promise! I love being a son of God! He is my daddy, my father and my God. His love surrounds, supports and grounds me. God is my source and my hope and I love him! 

http://bible.com/111/2co.6.8-18.NIV

2 Corinthians 4 - Nathanael

The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 

2 Corinthians 4:4

This is a reminder that there is a spiritual battle that we face. When we are reaching or to others the key is prayer. We need God to open eyes and back off the god of this age. 

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 

2 Corinthians 4:7

Our bodies are frail, breakable and not glorious. But as we follow Jesus, they are filled with God living in us - the power that changes the world. 

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:17‭-‬18 NIV

We often focus on the troubles, the hardships and pain. But Paul reminds us to keep our eyes and focus on God and his kingdom. Though they are unseen now, they are eternal and of greatest importance. 

http://bible.com/111/2co.4.4-18.NIV

2 Corinthians 3 - Nathanael

Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? 

2 Corinthians 3:1

It seems that Paul was struggling with persons who were coming into the church and trying to take over. They were bringing letters of recommendation to try to prove that they should be listened to and followed. Paul is simply saying in response that they believe in Christ because of Paul's work there so they in fact are his letter of recommendation and that they should not turn away from what God has done in their lives. 

But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. 

2 Corinthians 3:14

But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 

2 Corinthians 3:16

I've seen this literally be the case for a young man that tried to read the Bible before coming to Jesus and the pages were blank. After he gave his life to Christ he was excited that the pages now contained words - though it was the same physical Bible before and after. 

Certainly it is the same in a spiritual way for most of us. The Bible is dull and boring until Jesus opens our eyes to see. 

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

2 Corinthians 3:‬17 NIV

This can also bee translated to be "where the Spirit  is Lord" - in other words, when we surrender our lives to the Spirit then he brings freedom to our lives. 

http://bible.com/111/2co.3.1-17.NIV

2 Corinthians 2 - Nathanael

For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? 

2 Corinthians 2:15‭-‬16

Being the fragrance of Christ is no small honor, but who is up to it? Certainly Christ is far beyond us in every respect: in righteousness, in love, in service and honor. In fact, we don't even measure in comparison - we are nothing! But God had called us, changed us, redeemed us and justified us. Not that we deserve it, but because he loves us! Praise be to God for his wonderful gift! 

Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.

2 Corinthians 2:17 NIV

Seeking to get rich from God's word is a common thing today just as it wad in Paul's day. God calls us to serve, not be served, to give and not to take, to live freely and without reward because that is what he did. When God is our all in all, we need nothing else.

http://bible.com/111/2co.2.15-17.NIV

2 Corinthians 1 - Nathanael

The church in Corinth seems to now be facing persecution and difficulties. Paul is sending a word of comfort and hope, letting them know that he too faced much difficulties but God rescued him from them all and gave him comfort in the midst off them. 

We to face many difficulties in life and it is important to know that God loves us and is able and will deliver us. 

who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 

2 Corinthians 1:4

God is the God of comfort. That is a part of who he is and what he does. Just add a father who comforts a hurting child, God comforts us and wants us to in turn comfort others with the experience of comfort that  we have received. 

We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. 

2 Corinthians 1:8

I often think that Paul went through the difficulties, beatings and stonings with no problem. But here we see that for Paul too these were difficult situations where he despaired for life itself - feeling that he would die. 

He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 

2 Corinthians 1:10

But even in the greatest problem, God showed himself faithful and delivered him. In the same way God will deliver us! 

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

2 Corinthians 1:21‭-‬22 NIV

God enables us to stand firm. Not only that but he gives us his Holy Spirit to guarantee our future. He is the deposit and proof of what goodness is to come! 

http://bible.com/111/2co.1.4-22.NIV

1 Corinthians 16 - Nathanael

This chapter had a lot of practical instructions for various situations that are happening in the church then and which have applicability to many situations faced by the church today. 

Now about the collection for the Lord's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. 

1 Corinthians 16:1‭-‬2‭

Money is a topic that many shy away from because there has been much misuse and abuse. However it should be discussed in an open and honest manner as Paul does here. He gives quite a practical instruction for weekly collection of monies to send to God's people who are in need. He has used this same instruction to the Galatian church.

You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord's people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it. 

1 Corinthians 16:1‭5-16

Two interesting things here: 1) Paul openly and publicly gives specific commendation to individuals 2) he gives instructions about which people are leaders that the church should submit to

For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.

1 Corinthians 16:18 NIV

Again he gives public recognition to specific people

http://bible.com/111/1co.16.1-18.NIV

1 Corinthians 14 - Nathanael

As in any situation where there is something powerful, there is danger of misuse and great harm. Dynamite can be extremely beneficial when needing to dig out rocks for a road or another purpose. However if it isn't treated carefully, great harm can come to those who use it as well as to those around. So it is with the gifts of the Spirit. They are powerfully beneficial but also can cause harm when abused. Often people simply give up on using these gifts because if the danger. But then we are without a major benefit that God provided to the church to build it up! 

Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. 

1 Corinthians 14:1‭

Prophesy us powerfully beneficial for the church of God, but when not used in love, it can harm and separate. But Paul encourages us to "eagerly desire" these gifts, especially prophesy! 

Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. 

1 Corinthians 14:29

One potential problem is chaos where many are trying to speak at the same time. 

The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. 

1 Corinthians 14:32

This is an important fact and test for prophesy from God. A prophet us not being controlled and forced to speak.  that can be the case where there is demonic control trying to imitate the Spirit of God. But the Holy Spirit doesn't force us - he guides and leads us - and we still are in  control of our bodies.

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.

1 Corinthians 14:39‭-‬40 NIV

 Even tongues should not be forbidden in worship, but all should be done in an orderly way. 

http://bible.com/111/1co.14.1-40.NIV

1 Corinthians 13 - Nathanael

 The love chapter: A very famous and important chapter.

I am challenged each time i read this to up my game and ask God to help me to love like he does. 

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  

1 Corinthians 13:4‭-‬7

Amen!

For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.  

1 Corinthians 13:9-10,12

As a side note, some claim that prophecy no longer is valid or in action from God based on verses 9-10. The claim is that "completeness" is the completion of the New Testament. While certainly that is important and of great benefit to us, the context here points to the fact that the completion comes when we see face to face and "know fully".

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV

Amen again! 

http://bible.com/111/1co.13.4-13.NIV

1 Cor. 14 - Jason

1 Cor. 14:39-40. Brothers and sisters, you should want to prophesy. And don't stop people from speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a proper and orderly way.
It is interesting to see how much structure and regulation God wants us to have in the church services. If we act disorderly or improperly then unbelievers may be turned away and/or believers may not be encouraged in God's ways.

Sent from my iPhone

1 Corinthians 12 - Nathanael

God has given us gifts of the Spirit that have great power. The challenge of great power is great problems: fighting, jealousy and comparison. 

Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 

1 Corinthians 12:1

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 

1 Corinthians 12:4

Differences often cause comparison and separation. Paul highlights that though the outward effects are different, we must remember that the source is the same. We have the same thing: the Spirit of God, but the Spirit is doing different things in different people. 

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 

1 Corinthians 12:7

The purpose of the gifts is to build one another up - the common good - not for just the good of the individual. 

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:12

The body comparison makes it clear that we all belong together even though each person may be very different I  many ways. 

 Now eagerly desire the greater gifts. And yet I will show you the most excellent way.

1 Corinthians 12:31 NIV

We can and should desire greater gifts but they should be desired so to bring help and benefit to the body and boot for personal benefit. We are to serve in love. 

http://bible.com/111/1co.12.1-31.NIV

1 Corinthians 11 - Nathanael

This chapter covers some issues which some people believe are culturally bound (head coverings and prayer) and others which all agree apply today but there are some differences in how people apply the statements (taking Lord's supper in unworthy manner).

Let me start by saying that I don't believe these statements are culturally bound. I believe that God included them because he wanted us to be aware and protected. 

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.  

1 Corinthians 11:1

This is quite a high call. I strive to be worthy to say this as Paul did. 

Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved. 

1 Corinthians 11:4-5

The instructions about head covering are largely ignored today. Paul in verse 10 says that it is because of the angels. I believe that this statement refers to Satan's angels and that the head covering is a spiritual protection for women against the attacks of these angels. Ignoring this instruction doesn't mean that someone is going to hell but rather that they are opening themselves up to attack and difficulties that they could avoid. 

Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves

1 Corinthians 11:28‭-‬29 NIV

We need to consider others in the body of Christ as we eat and we need to remember Christ and the price he paid for us. 

http://bible.com/111/1co.11.1-29.NIV

1 Corinthians 9 - Nathanael

Paul is dealing with several issues in this chapter: testing/temptation, holiness and love. The testing portion - encouragements and warnings; holiness - flee from idolatry and sexual immorality; and love - considering others when making choices in life. 

For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 

1 Corinthians 10:1

I've read this before but it just struck me that to say this implies that the readers were Jewish. I'd have to check but most, if not all, of the churches started by Paul had a significant gentile component as well. So this just was interesting. 

Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: "The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry."  We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. 

1 Corinthians 10:6-8

The encouragement is that the difficulties we face are faced by others as well, so keep going.  The warning here are in lessons learned from bad choices of others and the consequences they faced. Idolatry and sexual immorality ruined many lives, so stay away from them. 

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.  

1 Corinthians 10:12-13

A warning against pride and complacency. If we think we are standing firm, that is a dangerous place. 

Temptations come to all of us. God allows them and he is faithful and doesn't give us beyond what we can bear. 

You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord's table and the table of demons.

1 Corinthians 10:‬21 NIV

The warning of idols is that while they aren't gods, there is spiritual power behind them so we shouldn't mess with them. 

http://bible.com/111/1co.10.1-21.NIV

1 Corinthians 9 - Nathanael

Paul has a clear focus on his life: namely to make Jesus known - to proclaim the good news about Jesus! 

Everything he did was measured through this filter and his actions were clearly focused by this. 

To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 

1 Corinthians 9:22

Paul's practice was to become - in external ways - like those he spoke to so that they could hear his message and not get distracted by the externals. 

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 

1 Corinthians 9:24

No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

1 Corinthians 9:‬27 NIV

http://bible.com/111/1co.9.22-27.NIV

1 Corinthians 6 - Nathanael

Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men  nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.  

1 Corinthians 6:9‭-‬11

Here we have two important things: 1) a clear description of the sinfulness and eternal consequences of sexual immorality and other sin 2) a powerful description of the power of Jesus to change lives!

Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. 

1 Corinthians 6:18

Sexual immorality should not be endured nor tolerated but fled from! It is a powerful sin that effects people at a deep level. 

you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

1 Corinthians 6:20 NIV

1) our bodies don't belong to us - they have been bought by Jesus

2) our bodies are a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit 

Therefore we should only do in and with our bodies those things that honor God 

http://bible.com/111/1co.6.9-20.NIV

1 Corinthians 5 - Nathanael

The topic of church discipline is quite uncomfortable for most and few churches exercise it. On the other hand, there are those who are eager to control and have a judgemental attitude toward all, including those who are unbelievers.

Paul here is striking a balance between these polar opposites, protecting the body of Christ and reaching out in love to the hurting world around us. 

I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.

1 Corinthians 5:9‭-‬11 NIV

http://bible.com/111/1co.5.9-11.NIV

1 Corinthians 1, 2, 3 and 4 - Jason

"For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of Spirit and of power, that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God." 1 Corinthians 2:2-5

Father God, please help me not to rest in the wisdom of men but in Your power. I pray that your power will work in my life, and help me to work for you in my job and in my daily life.

1 Corinthians 3 - Nathanael

If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person; for God's temple is sacred, and you together are that temple. 

1 Corinthians 3:17

God protects and cares about his people. He executes justice when his beloved are harmed. 

 Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become "fools" so that you may become wise.

1 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

Human wisdom can be a trap that puffs up with pride and draws away from Christ. We are called to turn from this false wisdom - even looking foolish to those around us - so that we can find the wisdom of God that saves us. 

http://bible.com/111/1co.3.17-18.NIV

1 Corinthians 2 - Nathanael

There is a tension between the mind and the spirit. Though we need our mind to understand and we are to live God with our mind, it is with our spirit that we hear God, are led by God and believe in God. 

There is also a difference between God's wisdom and human wisdom. God's wisdom brings life and can seem foolish to men. 

My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power.  

1 Corinthians 2:4-5

Our faith and trust in God is not anchored or built on human wisdom or it will fail and is not the faith that comes from God. Our faith must be built on God and his power alone. Otherwise it will fail. 

We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 

1 Corinthians 2:6

That is not to say that there isn't wisdom that our faith is built on our that God's good news isn't wise. On the contrary! The gospel is the wisdom of God! Yet God's wisdom is rejected by the world because human wisdom often fights against God as it elevates humans to the state of God and doesn't submit to God. 

What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. 

1 Corinthians 2:12

God's Spirit teaches us and gives us wisdom from God sms understanding of God's ways. 

The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

1 Corinthians 2:14 NIV

It seems foolish to man that the eternal and unchanging God would come to earth and die. But God's wisdom is made clear by his Spirit as we understand that this is a demonstration of the depths of God's love for us and it is the ONLY way that God's justice and mercy could both be met. 

http://bible.com/111/1co.2.4-14.NIV

Romans 16 - Nathanael

One thing is clear by reading Romans 16 is that Paul was a people person - he knew a lot of people by name and shared relationships with them. 

I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 

Romans 16:17

Though contrary to some expectations, there are some people we should avoid - here those who are causing divisions and putting obstacles in peoples paths that are contrary to the teaching they received. 

The goal isn't being friendly to all. To those who we are reaching out to, to them we become all things to all people. But to those who come into the church and start causing problems, then the need is to protect the flock. 

Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.

Romans 16:19 NIV

Obedience to Christ is commendable. Our focus should be on what is right and we should stay away from evil. 

http://bible.com/111/rom.16.17-19.NIV

Romans 16 - Jason

I was interested to see all the people that are named by Paul and the things he says about them. He mentions people who were the first believers in different regions, and people who are beloved in the church. He sends greetings to people who are approved in Christ, workers in the church, and people who have supported his ministry. It is a blessing to see many people involved in the work of God, and they are being recognized and greeted by Paul.

"I appeal to you, brothers,to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive." Romans 16:17-18

I think it's good to remember that I should be careful not to be one who causes divisions and obstacles for people that are different from what the Lord says in Scripture. I should also be careful to not spend time with people who are distorting the word of God and trying to gain followers by smooth talk and flattery. Lord God, please help me to be a part of your body of believers that encourages others and helps them with various needs. I want to serve you, Lord, and I want to live a manner that is worthy of your calling.

Romans 15 - Nathanael

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 

Romans 15:2‭

Our focus in dealing with others should be that of love and blessing. We should look to strengthen, encourage and build them up. 

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.  

Romans 15:4

The scriptures teach, provide encouragement so to be able to endure and have hope. 

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 

Romans 15:5

God is the one who gives endurance and encouragement! 

Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. 

Romans 15:7

Accepting others brings praise to God! 

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13 NIV

This is quite a blessing! God is a God is hope - he knows and provides us a good future. The blessing is that from God we may be filled with joy and peace. I think that these are the two most sought after experiences in life. The blessing is not for some of them but a filling! These in turn will cause us to overflow with hope! And all this is through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Lord Jesus, we need more if your Holy Spirit, more of you, more of your joy and peace! Fill us I pray! 

http://bible.com/111/rom.15.2-13.NIV

Romans 14 - Nathanael

This chapter describes many situations that are the working out of love. We

Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. 

Romans 14:1

Whay catches my eye is that there are things that are disputable. In other words it is a matter of opinion and not God's command. These are areas where we should display love and let people believe whay they wish.

The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. 

Romans 14:3

Not only should we not argue with them but we should not think bad of them or treat them in any way badly. 

Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. 

Romans 14:19

Our goal towards others: peace and mutual edification. 

It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.  

Romans 14:21

Not only should we not fight we should alter or behavior so as not to offend - even if what we are doing is not sinful. 

But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

Romans 14:‬23 NIV

The key for an individual is that they should follow their conscience. 

http://bible.com/111/rom.14.1-23.NIV

Romans 13, 14, and 15 - Jason

"Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." Romans 13:2

It is good to remember that even the unholy rulers and authorities in the world are under God and the Lord allows them to be in power. They have power to bring fear to evildoers, and if there are evil governments in the world, sometimes the Lord still uses them to accomplish his purposes, and sometimes the Lord uses other forces to bring them low.

"Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother." Romans 14:13

I think that I tend to have negative judgments of Christians who do certain things that I disagree with, but I need to be careful to take note of whether or not what they are doing is openly violating a principle of Scripture or not. If not, then I should not quarrel with them, and I need to be careful how I raise objections so that it is appropriate and not just starting fights in the body of Christ. I want to be careful not to have anything or do anything that is a hindrance to my brothers and sisters in Christ--Lord God, please give me wisdom in how to do this.

"Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."" Romans 15:2-3

I think it is important to remember that in Christ I am a servant of anyone and everyone around me. I do not want to live for myself, but I want to live for God and fulfill what God calls me to do. I want to take care of my family, yes, as an example to them of love and service, but we want to also love and serve other, not just ourselves. Lord God, please give me wisdom to do what you want me to do in serving others.

Romans 13 - Nathanael

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 

Romans 13:1‭

A clear call to obey the authorities in our lives. Though they seem like just natural people and positions, in fact they have been put there by God. 

Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.  

Romans 13:7

Another clear call to pay what we owe and not hold back. It is out of obedience to God that we pay taxes and bills and honor those in authority. 

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 

Romans 13:8

Love is the greatest commandment. It encompasses all good and right behavior toward others. Paul describes it as a debt that we owe. 

Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

Romans 13:13‭-‬14 NIV

God calls us out of sin and darkness and into the light. We should not even consider how to gratify the desires is the sinful nature. In  other words,  the desires will be there but we must choose to ignore them and focus instead on serving Jesus. 

http://bible.com/111/rom.13.1-14.NIV

Romans 12 - Nathanael

Wow! This chapter is packed with practical and important instruction! I'm fact, when looking at what verses stand out to me, every single verse does! 

I'm always reminded of Chip Ingram's excellent book on Romans 12 - True Spirituality or R12 when I read the first few verses. These are really critical for a Christian to grow in Christ! 

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 

Romans 12:1‭

A foundational verse! Because of God's love for us we should give him all of us - surrender completely to him

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.  

Romans 12:2

In order to know God's will for our lives we need to clear out the clutter and renew our minds. This means changing what we listen to, what we fill our minds with. We often live passively, letting the world form us into its mold. We need to take action and not let that happen. 

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 

Romans 12:3

 We need to have a humble approach to life, not a proud one. All we have is from God so we should not look down on others as if what we have is because of ourselves - it is a gift from God. 

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 NIV

When we are attacked, we need to respond with good, kindness and love. That is what Jesus did! 

http://bible.com/111/rom.12.1-21.NIV

Romans 11 and 12 - Jason

"They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you." Romans 11:20-21

I think it's important to recognize from the Old Testament that when the Israelites were unfaithful to God they were punished with increasing intensity until they repented and sometimes there were long consequences for their sin which was designed to reconcile them to God. If we are unbelieving, then we can expect that we will not remain in covenant relationship with God. It is not right for me to expect that God will not punish me or I will not have consequences when I sin. God wants me to be with him, and He will not let me go unless I consistently reject Him and His ways.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2

I do not want to be like the people and nations I have seen in the world because they do not achieve what God wants us to have. He has the best plans and his will is perfect. I want to find and do what God wants me to do, but I need to be transformed in my mind and not allow myself to be conformed to this world. I need to test and pray to discern what it is that God wants me to do. Thank you Lord for your word and your love for us!

Romans 11 - Nathanael

Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.  

Romans 11:20-21

We need to be humble and grateful to God that he has saved us. We should not look down on Jews  (nor anyone) nor consider them an enemy. They are God's chosen people. Our relationship to God is based on his underserved gift to us. 

Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 

Romans 11:22

At the same time as we are thankful to God for his kindness, we need to also have a healthy respect (fear) of God and his sternness as well. 

For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.

Romans 11:36 NIV

Thank you Jesus that everything comes from you - you created everything - and everything is for you and your glory as well. So I choose to give you the glory you deserve! 

http://bible.com/111/rom.11.20-36.NIV

Romans 10 - Nathanael

Romans 10 is another chapter with some very important verses that speak to me every time I read them. 

Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness. 

Romans 10:3‭

When we try to earn our way to God we are actually rebelling against him. He has made a way - the only way - to God and to salvation. It is through Jesus and faith in and through him alone!

If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 

Romans 10:9-10

Believing in the context of faith in Jesus is a heart action not a mind action. That is one reason that I prefer the word "trust" over "believe" in such a context.

for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."   

Romans 10:13

A powerful promise and instruction to us as we need help and salvation. When we find ourselves in need we should call on the name of Jesus! 

How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 

Romans 10:14

This reminds us of the importance of not being silent but speaking to others about Jesus. 

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.

Romans 10:‬17 NIV

An important clarification of the origin of faith.  It has its beginning and fulfillment in Jesus. His word both creates faith and it is what we should have faith in (as opposed to our own thoughts ite ideas) 

http://bible.com/111/rom.10.3-17.NIV