Bible Pathways - Nov. 29, 2008
November 29
Highlights In Today's Reading:
Why give ourselves into ministry for Christ, mind, soul, and body (Chapter 5)? We live supernaturally having nothing, and yet possessing all things (6:1-10). An appeal for separation and cleansing (6:11-7:1). The heart of Paul (7:2-16). Example, exhortation, and encouragement of Christian giving (Chapter 8).
Among the Corinthians there were abundant gifts of the Holy Spirit. But, there was also much lacking. For Paul had to say: We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest (exposed) unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences (5:10-11). Pity the poor saint who is intent on displaying "his" gift or talent, satisfied with what he “does" and yet unconcerned with what is the greatest gift: The greatest of these is charity (I Corinthians 13:13). He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (5:21). We all need the same desire to reflect the likeness of Christ.
The true source of defilement of the flesh is self-gratification, which includes the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16). In relation to God, it manifests itself in doing our will rather than His. In relation to our fellow men, it shows itself in envy, hatred, strife, backbitings, and cold harsh judgment of others. In relation to ourselves, it is seen as pride and the ambition to make self the center around which all must move. A Christian should separate himself from actions, influences, or people that will contaminate him. Victory is available through our Lord Jesus Christ (I Corinthians 15:57). Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (II Corinthians 7:1).
For the discovery of such defilement of spirit, the believer needs the true desire to know the Word of God. As we read the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit does His work by stirring us up and enabling us in His strength to cast out whatever there is of self. Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure (I John 3:3). If our heart condemn us, God (who) is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things (3:20).
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death (II Corinthians 7:10).
Thought for Today:
Probably nothing is more detestable to the world than fake spirituality. Whatever we do or say should be measured by the truth of the Word of God.
Word Studies:
5:5 wrought =b> prepared; 5:13 beside ourselves =b> insane; sober =b> of sound mind; 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin =b> Christ was without sin but took the guilt of our sins upon Himself; 6:5 In stripes =b> Having been beaten; tumults =b> riots; 6:6 unfeigned =b> genuine; 6:11 our heart is enlarged =b> we love you with all our heart; 6:12 Ye are not straitened in us =b> our love toward you is not restrained; bowels =b> emotions; 6:13 a recompence in the same =b> in return for our love; be ye also enlarged =b> open your hearts to us; 7:9 that ye might receive damage by us in nothing =b> that you not be offended in what we did or did not say; 7:10 not to be repented of =b> without regret; 7:11 carefulness =b> diligence, seriousness; 8:1 we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on =b> we want you to know what the grace of God has accomplished in; 8:4 Praying us with much intreaty =b> they urged us to allow them the privilege; 8:7 abound =b> excel; 8:8 forwardness =b> earnestness.
Cross References:
For II Corinthians 6:2: See Isaiah 49:8. II Corinthians 6:16: See Leviticus 26:11; Ezekiel 37:27. II Corinthians 6:17: See Isaiah 52:11. II Corinthians 8:15: See Exodus 16:18.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Rahm Emanuel (IL), Gov. Janet Napolitano (AZ), and Rep. Jean Schmidt (OH) • Country: Paraguay (5 million) in southern South America • Major languages: Spanish and Guarani • Religious freedom • 96% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord when you are oppressed (Psa. 102:8-13).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28
