1:4 - We must continue to carry on the tradition of raising spiritual children. A mature believer should come alongside non-believers or new Christians and act as a spiritual guide. Not an arrogant-know-it-all-jerk, but as a person who wants to journey with them towards Christ. This is also a great way to push yourself and grow your own faith.
1:13-14 - When a Christian is spouting lies about God and twisting the faith, he must be confronted...for his sake and the sake of the Gospel.
1:15 - This verse is like a slap in the face. I have seen impurity corrupt my own life. How many times have I twisted the innocent words of others' into some sort of perverted joke? If you look back at your hearts and thoughts honestly, you can see firsthand how what you allow your mind to dwell on begins to shape all your thoughts. We must fight for purity, not just of body, but of mind, heart and sight - everything.
1:16 - Look at the words Paul uses as adjectives in this verse. Detestable...disobedient...unfit for any good work! What is he describing? He is describing Christians who claim to follow Christ and deny him every day through their actions and words. Hypocrisy isn't just vile to the rest of the world Christians...it sickens God. God please let me live a life unified with your way.
1 comment:
a really good chapter.
i pray that we all will "have a good grip on the Message, knowing how to use the truth to either spur people on in knowledge or stop them in their tracks if they oppose it." vs 9 Msg.
peace,
j
Post a Comment