This document is an excerpt from the biblical book of 2nd Corinthians. It discusses Paul comforting the Corinthians during times of trouble and encouraging them to remain faithful. Paul explains that God comforts believers so they can comfort others. He talks about having faced hardships in Asia but relying on God's strength. Paul wants the Corinthians to be joyful in their faith and removes any doubts about his sincerity and God-given authority in preaching to them.
This is a study of Jesus being the one believers waited for. He was to be revealed and they were waiting for that amazing event, and so should it be for all believers as we live our daily life looking for His coming again.
This document provides encouragement to remain focused on spiritual things like prayer, Jesus Christ, and living according to God's will rather than earthly concerns. It emphasizes seeing ourselves as new people in Christ and living gratefully for what He has done. We are called to represent Christ to others through withstanding hardships joyfully by His power and spreading the message of reconciliation.
Praying in the Spirit refers to praying according to the Spirit's leading and for things the Spirit leads us to pray for, as the Spirit himself intercedes through wordless groans when we don't know what to pray. It involves the Holy Spirit praying within us and for us. True praying in the Spirit engages the emotions and heart, focuses on themes like those in the Lord's Prayer, prays in line with God's will even without words, and approaches God as a sinner saved only by Christ.
This document discusses building Christ-centered relationships. It explains that having a Christ-centered identity improves our relationship with God and increases our power and abilities. However, Satan uses lies and deception to destroy our perception of our identity and blind us from discerning truth. We are called to seek God, love Him, and take upon us the name of Christ. Having an honest understanding of ourselves as children of God can help us defend against Satan's attacks and strengthen our relationships.
1. The document discusses how Jesus Christ is the righteousness of God, and outside of Him there is none righteous. It explains that Jews and Gentiles must be born again to attain righteousness.
2. It then discusses how Jews had advantages over others by being God's chosen people and knowing His truths from scripture. However, some Jews did not believe God's promises while others were unfaithful. Their unbelief did not make God untruthful.
3. The document argues that no one does good or seeks God, and all have sinned. It explains that the law was given so people recognize their sinfulness and need for a savior. Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ,
This document contains the text of the first letter to the Thessalonians from Paul. In the letter, Paul thanks the church in Thessalonica for their faith, work, and love. He reminds them to continue living moral, holy lives as they await the return of Jesus Christ. Paul also encourages the church to have hope, as they will be resurrected to be with Jesus upon his return. The letter concludes with final exhortations to continue living in a way that pleases God.
1) Living according to the Spirit rather than the flesh allows believers to experience abundant life through Christ.
2) The fruit of the Spirit, including love, joy and peace, produces qualities of life in believers filled with God's Spirit.
3) Believers should make daily confessions of their abundant life in Christ rather than negative confessions, and trust that God's Spirit gives them life.
The document discusses the key themes of Paul's letter to the Galatians. It notes that Galatians addresses deviations from the pure gospel that were occurring, with some Jews trying to impose traditions on Gentile believers. Paul argues that people are justified by faith in Christ, not by works of the law. The letter emphasizes that through faith in Christ, believers have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer they who live but Christ lives in them. Believers belong to Christ and are heirs according to God's promise.
This is a study of Jesus being the one believers waited for. He was to be revealed and they were waiting for that amazing event, and so should it be for all believers as we live our daily life looking for His coming again.
This document provides encouragement to remain focused on spiritual things like prayer, Jesus Christ, and living according to God's will rather than earthly concerns. It emphasizes seeing ourselves as new people in Christ and living gratefully for what He has done. We are called to represent Christ to others through withstanding hardships joyfully by His power and spreading the message of reconciliation.
Praying in the Spirit refers to praying according to the Spirit's leading and for things the Spirit leads us to pray for, as the Spirit himself intercedes through wordless groans when we don't know what to pray. It involves the Holy Spirit praying within us and for us. True praying in the Spirit engages the emotions and heart, focuses on themes like those in the Lord's Prayer, prays in line with God's will even without words, and approaches God as a sinner saved only by Christ.
This document discusses building Christ-centered relationships. It explains that having a Christ-centered identity improves our relationship with God and increases our power and abilities. However, Satan uses lies and deception to destroy our perception of our identity and blind us from discerning truth. We are called to seek God, love Him, and take upon us the name of Christ. Having an honest understanding of ourselves as children of God can help us defend against Satan's attacks and strengthen our relationships.
1. The document discusses how Jesus Christ is the righteousness of God, and outside of Him there is none righteous. It explains that Jews and Gentiles must be born again to attain righteousness.
2. It then discusses how Jews had advantages over others by being God's chosen people and knowing His truths from scripture. However, some Jews did not believe God's promises while others were unfaithful. Their unbelief did not make God untruthful.
3. The document argues that no one does good or seeks God, and all have sinned. It explains that the law was given so people recognize their sinfulness and need for a savior. Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ,
This document contains the text of the first letter to the Thessalonians from Paul. In the letter, Paul thanks the church in Thessalonica for their faith, work, and love. He reminds them to continue living moral, holy lives as they await the return of Jesus Christ. Paul also encourages the church to have hope, as they will be resurrected to be with Jesus upon his return. The letter concludes with final exhortations to continue living in a way that pleases God.
1) Living according to the Spirit rather than the flesh allows believers to experience abundant life through Christ.
2) The fruit of the Spirit, including love, joy and peace, produces qualities of life in believers filled with God's Spirit.
3) Believers should make daily confessions of their abundant life in Christ rather than negative confessions, and trust that God's Spirit gives them life.
The document discusses the key themes of Paul's letter to the Galatians. It notes that Galatians addresses deviations from the pure gospel that were occurring, with some Jews trying to impose traditions on Gentile believers. Paul argues that people are justified by faith in Christ, not by works of the law. The letter emphasizes that through faith in Christ, believers have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer they who live but Christ lives in them. Believers belong to Christ and are heirs according to God's promise.
A message by Pastor Luke Lepago
International Bible Baptist Church Bangkok, Thailand
152 Intharaphithak Road ], Soi 1, Bangyeerua, Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand
10600
Contact Numbers: +66846529839, +6670453402
Email: lepagoluke@yahoo.com, ruthlepago@yahoo.com
Personal evangelism is one of those difficult responsibilities that all Christians know they need to do more regularly, but often we become distracted or make excuses that help us procrastinate fulfilling this great and needed work. This examines many of these excuses, answers them, and helps us overcome.
1. The document is from Gospel Baptist Tabernacle and includes information about an upcoming children's church and a visiting music ministry.
2. Several passages from the Bible are quoted to discuss themes of carnality versus spirituality and controlling one's anger and pride.
3. Uncontrolled emotions like anger are said to come from indulging the "carnal mind" rather than submitting to God, and pride can make people think they can do things themselves rather than relying on God.
The document provides an overview and summary of the key themes in the New Testament book of Colossians. It discusses that Paul's letter to the Colossians emphasizes complete maturity and growth in Christ. It outlines some of the false doctrines that had influenced the Colossian church. The summary then examines several aspects of maturity according to Colossians, including maturity from Christ as the leader who completely suffered for believers, and maturity of Christians who have complete knowledge of God's will, understanding of Christ, thankfulness, speech, and confidence.
The document discusses the need to study the books of Daniel and Revelation more closely as we near the end of time. It emphasizes keeping attention focused on God and His law rather than human beings. It notes how God worked throughout history to humble human pride. The second part discusses various biblical passages about election, calling, and salvation through accepting Christ's righteousness. It stresses that true election is dependent upon continual faith and obedience to God's word. Overall the document examines theological concepts around judgment, salvation, and preparing for Christ's return.
The document provides an overview and analysis of the key themes in the New Testament book of 2 Corinthians. It discusses Paul defending his apostleship against critics in Corinth. Paul emphasizes his weaknesses and suffering to show that God's power works through him. He describes having visions and revelations from God. Paul presents his ministry model of planning, personal example through hard work, and influencing both Jews and Gentiles. The document also examines Paul's teachings on money matters like fundraising for others and receiving support for ministry.
Jesus was warning us that saying is not doing vol 2GLENN PEASE
This is vol. 2 of Jesus warning us that saying is not doing. It is folly to have words of loyalty to Jesus and not have works verify the words. Big talk can end in big judgment.
The document discusses how believers are sanctified and born again by the Word and the Spirit. It states that sanctification comes from the Holy Spirit through accepting the word of truth, and that the word creates an environment for the Spirit to work on the mind. It also says Jesus imparts himself to the soul through a vital transfusion, and that the Holy Spirit comes through the messages of God's word. Finally, it discusses how the same creative power that created all things through God's word is now used to beget new spiritual life in believers.
This document provides a summary of the key themes and teachings in the New Testament book of 2 Thessalonians. It discusses how Paul wrote to counter a false letter saying Christ had returned, to encourage the Thessalonians, and to highlight signs of Christ's second coming including the rise of an antichrist figure. It also contrasts the paths of rejecting or obeying God's truth, and emphasizes having confident hope through obedience and grace.
The document summarizes key aspects of the book of Philippians from the New Testament. It discusses how Paul wrote Philippians around 62 AD while imprisoned to express love for the Philippians and encourage their spiritual growth. The main topic is developing the "mind of Christ" by cultivating a humble, focused, harmonious, joyful and peaceful mindset like Jesus through obedience, suffering, perseverance and gentleness.
The document summarizes key events and themes in the book of Acts. It describes Acts as documenting the birth of the early church at Pentecost, the conversion and missionary journeys of Paul, and the spread of the gospel across the Roman Empire, ending with Paul's imprisonment in Rome. The early church is highlighted as having extreme power, unity, discipline, boldness, focus and risk-taking that resulted in their extreme impact and rapid growth, despite facing extreme opposition.
1) The document provides an overview and analysis of chapter 3 verses 1-21 of Paul's letter to the Philippians.
2) Paul's priority in the letter was to safeguard the joy of the church by warning them about those who threaten their joy in Christ, and by explaining that true joy comes from knowing Christ rather than earthly accomplishments or status.
3) Paul contrasts those who are enemies of Christ, with earthly minds and destruction as their destiny, from believers whose citizenship and hope is in heaven and who will receive glorious resurrected bodies.
The document provides an overview and discussion of the book of Romans from the New Testament. It notes that Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around 56-57 AD to answer questions about salvation, predestination, God's sovereignty, and spiritual growth. Key points include that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory; salvation comes only through faith in God's righteousness; and believers should present their bodies as living sacrifices through holiness and transformed minds rather than conforming to the world.
1) Adoption refers to being made a son of God through receiving the Holy Spirit.
2) Only those indwelt by the Holy Spirit truly belong to Christ and are his sons.
3) It is the Holy Spirit dwelling in our hearts that enables us to cry "Abba, Father" and confirms our sonship.
4) Without the Holy Spirit, one cannot be considered a son of God or experience intimacy with him.
Paul summarizes the first part of his letter of correction before heading on to other issues in the church at Corinth. Godly leadership as well as godly followers are needed both then and today. This is the last in the series Build in Right.
This document discusses how people who reject God and claim to be wise instead become fools. It notes how God has revealed himself through creation, but some deny this and instead worship idols. Living according to God's word through obedience and faith brings life, peace and blessings, while rejecting God leaves one with a darkened heart and empty life. The conclusion exhorts the reader to fear God by keeping his commandments and coming to Christ, who gives rest.
This document provides a summary of a sermon given on Philippians 1:1. It discusses the key themes of joy and being servants/slaves of Christ. Some main points:
- True joy comes from being at peace with God and others, not from circumstances. It is a gift from God produced by the Holy Spirit.
- Believers are called to be bond-servants or slaves of Christ, willingly submitting to his authority like an Old Testament slave. Paul referred to himself as a bond-servant, though he had great status and credentials.
- At the judgment seat of Christ, believers will be evaluated for rewards based on the eternal works and motives, not saved or unsaved.
This letter from Paul and Timothy is addressed to the faithful Christians in Colosse. Paul writes to encourage them to continue living according to Jesus' teachings and to beware of empty philosophies that are not rooted in Christ. He emphasizes that through faith in Christ, believers share in God's divine plan and are made complete. Paul warns against following mere human rules and traditions, as believers now live under Christ's lordship and are citizens of God's kingdom.
In 2007 the congregation read through "The Message" New Testament by Eugene Peterson. This lesson is taken from the assigned reading from Apr 29-May 5.
This document summarizes key passages from the biblical book of Ecclesiastes. It discusses how the Teacher/preacher finds life to be meaningless and that everything done under the sun is futile. He tries various pursuits like wisdom, pleasure, work and wealth but finds them all empty. The document emphasizes that there is nothing truly new and that in the end everyone dies. It conveys the Teacher's perspective that the best use of life is to enjoy what God has given while you can.
This document is a summary of the first 4 chapters of the book of Ephesians in the Bible. It describes how Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Ephesus to encourage them in their faith. Some key points include: God chose believers before the creation of the world to be holy; believers have received spiritual blessings through being united with Christ; Gentiles and Jews are now brought together as one people through Christ's sacrifice; and believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their faith through humility, patience, and unity.
A message by Pastor Luke Lepago
International Bible Baptist Church Bangkok, Thailand
152 Intharaphithak Road ], Soi 1, Bangyeerua, Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand
10600
Contact Numbers: +66846529839, +6670453402
Email: lepagoluke@yahoo.com, ruthlepago@yahoo.com
Personal evangelism is one of those difficult responsibilities that all Christians know they need to do more regularly, but often we become distracted or make excuses that help us procrastinate fulfilling this great and needed work. This examines many of these excuses, answers them, and helps us overcome.
1. The document is from Gospel Baptist Tabernacle and includes information about an upcoming children's church and a visiting music ministry.
2. Several passages from the Bible are quoted to discuss themes of carnality versus spirituality and controlling one's anger and pride.
3. Uncontrolled emotions like anger are said to come from indulging the "carnal mind" rather than submitting to God, and pride can make people think they can do things themselves rather than relying on God.
The document provides an overview and summary of the key themes in the New Testament book of Colossians. It discusses that Paul's letter to the Colossians emphasizes complete maturity and growth in Christ. It outlines some of the false doctrines that had influenced the Colossian church. The summary then examines several aspects of maturity according to Colossians, including maturity from Christ as the leader who completely suffered for believers, and maturity of Christians who have complete knowledge of God's will, understanding of Christ, thankfulness, speech, and confidence.
The document discusses the need to study the books of Daniel and Revelation more closely as we near the end of time. It emphasizes keeping attention focused on God and His law rather than human beings. It notes how God worked throughout history to humble human pride. The second part discusses various biblical passages about election, calling, and salvation through accepting Christ's righteousness. It stresses that true election is dependent upon continual faith and obedience to God's word. Overall the document examines theological concepts around judgment, salvation, and preparing for Christ's return.
The document provides an overview and analysis of the key themes in the New Testament book of 2 Corinthians. It discusses Paul defending his apostleship against critics in Corinth. Paul emphasizes his weaknesses and suffering to show that God's power works through him. He describes having visions and revelations from God. Paul presents his ministry model of planning, personal example through hard work, and influencing both Jews and Gentiles. The document also examines Paul's teachings on money matters like fundraising for others and receiving support for ministry.
Jesus was warning us that saying is not doing vol 2GLENN PEASE
This is vol. 2 of Jesus warning us that saying is not doing. It is folly to have words of loyalty to Jesus and not have works verify the words. Big talk can end in big judgment.
The document discusses how believers are sanctified and born again by the Word and the Spirit. It states that sanctification comes from the Holy Spirit through accepting the word of truth, and that the word creates an environment for the Spirit to work on the mind. It also says Jesus imparts himself to the soul through a vital transfusion, and that the Holy Spirit comes through the messages of God's word. Finally, it discusses how the same creative power that created all things through God's word is now used to beget new spiritual life in believers.
This document provides a summary of the key themes and teachings in the New Testament book of 2 Thessalonians. It discusses how Paul wrote to counter a false letter saying Christ had returned, to encourage the Thessalonians, and to highlight signs of Christ's second coming including the rise of an antichrist figure. It also contrasts the paths of rejecting or obeying God's truth, and emphasizes having confident hope through obedience and grace.
The document summarizes key aspects of the book of Philippians from the New Testament. It discusses how Paul wrote Philippians around 62 AD while imprisoned to express love for the Philippians and encourage their spiritual growth. The main topic is developing the "mind of Christ" by cultivating a humble, focused, harmonious, joyful and peaceful mindset like Jesus through obedience, suffering, perseverance and gentleness.
The document summarizes key events and themes in the book of Acts. It describes Acts as documenting the birth of the early church at Pentecost, the conversion and missionary journeys of Paul, and the spread of the gospel across the Roman Empire, ending with Paul's imprisonment in Rome. The early church is highlighted as having extreme power, unity, discipline, boldness, focus and risk-taking that resulted in their extreme impact and rapid growth, despite facing extreme opposition.
1) The document provides an overview and analysis of chapter 3 verses 1-21 of Paul's letter to the Philippians.
2) Paul's priority in the letter was to safeguard the joy of the church by warning them about those who threaten their joy in Christ, and by explaining that true joy comes from knowing Christ rather than earthly accomplishments or status.
3) Paul contrasts those who are enemies of Christ, with earthly minds and destruction as their destiny, from believers whose citizenship and hope is in heaven and who will receive glorious resurrected bodies.
The document provides an overview and discussion of the book of Romans from the New Testament. It notes that Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around 56-57 AD to answer questions about salvation, predestination, God's sovereignty, and spiritual growth. Key points include that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory; salvation comes only through faith in God's righteousness; and believers should present their bodies as living sacrifices through holiness and transformed minds rather than conforming to the world.
1) Adoption refers to being made a son of God through receiving the Holy Spirit.
2) Only those indwelt by the Holy Spirit truly belong to Christ and are his sons.
3) It is the Holy Spirit dwelling in our hearts that enables us to cry "Abba, Father" and confirms our sonship.
4) Without the Holy Spirit, one cannot be considered a son of God or experience intimacy with him.
Paul summarizes the first part of his letter of correction before heading on to other issues in the church at Corinth. Godly leadership as well as godly followers are needed both then and today. This is the last in the series Build in Right.
This document discusses how people who reject God and claim to be wise instead become fools. It notes how God has revealed himself through creation, but some deny this and instead worship idols. Living according to God's word through obedience and faith brings life, peace and blessings, while rejecting God leaves one with a darkened heart and empty life. The conclusion exhorts the reader to fear God by keeping his commandments and coming to Christ, who gives rest.
This document provides a summary of a sermon given on Philippians 1:1. It discusses the key themes of joy and being servants/slaves of Christ. Some main points:
- True joy comes from being at peace with God and others, not from circumstances. It is a gift from God produced by the Holy Spirit.
- Believers are called to be bond-servants or slaves of Christ, willingly submitting to his authority like an Old Testament slave. Paul referred to himself as a bond-servant, though he had great status and credentials.
- At the judgment seat of Christ, believers will be evaluated for rewards based on the eternal works and motives, not saved or unsaved.
This letter from Paul and Timothy is addressed to the faithful Christians in Colosse. Paul writes to encourage them to continue living according to Jesus' teachings and to beware of empty philosophies that are not rooted in Christ. He emphasizes that through faith in Christ, believers share in God's divine plan and are made complete. Paul warns against following mere human rules and traditions, as believers now live under Christ's lordship and are citizens of God's kingdom.
In 2007 the congregation read through "The Message" New Testament by Eugene Peterson. This lesson is taken from the assigned reading from Apr 29-May 5.
This document summarizes key passages from the biblical book of Ecclesiastes. It discusses how the Teacher/preacher finds life to be meaningless and that everything done under the sun is futile. He tries various pursuits like wisdom, pleasure, work and wealth but finds them all empty. The document emphasizes that there is nothing truly new and that in the end everyone dies. It conveys the Teacher's perspective that the best use of life is to enjoy what God has given while you can.
This document is a summary of the first 4 chapters of the book of Ephesians in the Bible. It describes how Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Ephesus to encourage them in their faith. Some key points include: God chose believers before the creation of the world to be holy; believers have received spiritual blessings through being united with Christ; Gentiles and Jews are now brought together as one people through Christ's sacrifice; and believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their faith through humility, patience, and unity.
This document describes events surrounding the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem after the exile in Babylon. It details how King Cyrus of Persia allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple. Many Jews returned, including priests, Levites, and other families. They rebuilt the altar and resumed sacrifices. When the enemies of Judah heard of this, they tried to discourage the rebuilding. They wrote letters to later Persian kings accusing the Jews of rebellion in order to stop construction of the Temple.
This document summarizes chapters 1-8 of the book of Zechariah in the Bible. It describes Zechariah receiving visions from God through an angel about rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple after the exile. God promises to return to Jerusalem and comfort his people. Zechariah sees visions of horses patrolling the earth, a flying scroll containing God's curses, a woman in a basket representing wickedness, and chariots. God instructs Zechariah to make a crown for the high priest Joshua as a sign that the Branch will rebuild the Temple. God tells the people to stop fasting in mourning and instead be just and merciful to one another.
The document provides an account of Ezekiel's visions from God. Some key details:
- Ezekiel sees a vision by the Kebar River of Babylon where he is exiled with other Judeans. In the vision he sees fantastic beings and wheels within wheels, surrounded by God's glory.
- God commissions Ezekiel as a prophet to the rebellious nation of Israel, telling him to deliver warnings and prophecies of coming judgment, though the people may not listen.
- Ezekiel acts out sieges on a model of Jerusalem to symbolize its coming destruction. He lies on his side for months representing the years of Israel's and Judah's sins.
- Further visions involve shaving his head and beard and
This document lists genealogies and descendants of important biblical figures like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. It traces lineage from these patriarchs down through their sons and grandsons, detailing the tribes and nations that emerged. Specific lineages mentioned include the descendants of Shem, Ham and Japheth; the sons and grandsons of Ishmael, Keturah, Esau and others; and the lineage of David and his sons.
This passage describes events involving the prophet Samuel. It introduces Elkanah and his wives Hannah and Peninnah, with Hannah unable to bear children. Hannah prays intensely for a son at the tabernacle and promises to dedicate the child to God. She gives birth to Samuel and keeps her vow, leaving Samuel at the tabernacle to serve God under Eli the priest. Eli's sons mistreat the offerings and people, and God promises to punish Eli's household and raise up Samuel in their place.
This document provides an overview of the biblical book of Hosea. It summarizes God instructing the prophet Hosea to marry a prostitute to illustrate how Israel has been unfaithful to God. It then recounts Hosea and his wife Gomer having three children, whose names represent messages from God about punishing Israel. The document continues summarizing God accusing Israel of unfaithfulness and idolatry, promising future restoration while also threatening further punishment. It concludes by summarizing calls for Israel to repent and return to God.
The document is a summary of the creation story from the book of Genesis in the Bible. It describes how God created the heavens and earth in 6 days, forming light and darkness on the first day, the sky on the second day, dry land and plants on the third day, the sun and moon on the fourth day, birds and sea creatures on the fifth day, and land animals and mankind on the sixth day. On the seventh day God rested. It then describes how God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden but they disobeyed and ate the forbidden fruit, bringing sin into the world. They were banished from the garden and God cursed the ground.
This document is a summary of chapters 1-4 of the biblical book of First Corinthians. It discusses how Paul writes to the church in Corinth to address divisions within the church caused by arguments over which church leaders they follow. Paul urges them to unity and reminds them that Christ, not any human leader, is most important. He explains that though his message may seem foolish, it is the power of God.
This letter from Paul, Silas, and Timothy is written to the church in Thessalonica to encourage them during times of persecution and hardship. It discusses how God will use their suffering to show His justice and make them worthy of His kingdom. It also warns the church about false teachings regarding the second coming of Christ and the man of lawlessness. The letter encourages the church to stand firm in their faith and work hard to support themselves.
This sermon discusses how true Christians no longer desire to sin after being born again by the Holy Spirit. It argues that while Christians can choose to sin, sin no longer has power over them. It encourages believers to walk in obedience to God in order to experience blessing and have confidence in their salvation.
- The document is a sermon discussing the importance of unity, peace, and harmony within the church through being filled with the Holy Spirit and pleasing others rather than ourselves.
- It encourages readers to focus on God, submit to the Holy Spirit, and be constantly reminded of biblical truths in order to produce goodness, knowledge, and gentle admonishment of one another.
- Salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ and being sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
This letter from Peter encourages Christians living as foreigners in various regions to remain faithful to God. He reminds them that God chose them and through Christ they can have salvation and eternal life. Peter urges Christians to obey God, accept authorities, and live moral lives so as not to bring shame to God. He encourages slaves to obey masters respectfully and wives to accept husbands' authority. Overall, Peter exhorts Christians to endure suffering patiently, do good to others, and put their hope in God for salvation.
Hebrews 4:11-16. Let us: Use our gifts. Walk properly. Not judge one another. Pursue peace and edification. Not commit sexual immorality. Not tempt Christ. Take heed. cleanse ourselves. Walk in the Spirit. Not become conceited. Not grow weary. Do Good. Press toward the goal. Not sleep but watch and be sober. Not love in word or tongue but in deed and truth. Love one another. Be glad and rejoice and give him glory.
Paul writes this letter to Timothy to encourage and instruct him. He expresses his love for Timothy and recalls Timothy's faith that comes from his mother and grandmother. Paul urges Timothy to continue teaching the truth of the gospel and warns him about false teachers who will arise and deceive people. Paul also encourages Timothy to continue preaching the word of God despite suffering and to guard the truth that was entrusted to him.
This document discusses themes of knowing that God loves us, where we are going after death, and how to live as Christians. It provides biblical passages that discuss God's great love for humanity despite our sins, the hope we have in an eternal home in heaven with God, and how to live through reading scripture, prayer, and encouraging one another. The overall message is finding purpose, direction and strength through understanding God's love and promises in the Bible.
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians is an epistle attributed to Ignatius of Antioch, a second-century bishop of Antioch, and addressed to the church in Ephesus of Asia Minor. It was written during Ignatius' transport from Antioch to his execution in Rome.
People need to hear the essential elements of the Gospel in order to be saved. They will not be saved by hearing your testimony but by the truth of the Gospel. Declare the complete message of redemption for forgiveness and eternal life thru Jesus.
This document discusses the local church as a "greenhouse" for spiritual growth. It provides several Bible passages about unity within the church and esteeming others, as well as working together for mutual edification. The local church should focus on nurturing, discipling and developing people. Building the kingdom is about building people through having them in one's heart. The church should celebrate others' spiritual progress and equip believers to minister supernaturally through healings, deliverances and miracles as the greatest form of evangelism.
1) The document discusses Romans 8:1 and how there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
2) It provides context from the preceding chapters in Romans about mankind's sinfulness and God's wrath, before concluding that through faith in Jesus, believers are no longer under condemnation.
3) The passage emphasizes that for Christians, there is assurance now that they will not face future judgment, but rather are secure in their salvation through Christ.
1) The document discusses Romans 8:1 and how there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
2) It provides context from the preceding chapters in Romans about mankind's sinfulness and God's wrath, before concluding that through faith in Jesus, believers are no longer under condemnation.
3) The passage emphasizes that for those who are born again in Christ, there is assurance of no future judgment and that believers can experience this security in the present moment through redemption.
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Magnesians is an epistle attributed to Ignatius of Antioch, a second-century bishop of Antioch, and addressed to the church in Magnesia on the Maeander. It was written during Ignatius' transport from Antioch to his execution in Rome.
1) Paul writes this letter to address churches in Galatia that are deserting the gospel of Christ and turning to a different gospel. He is astonished by this and insists there is no other gospel.
2) Paul received the gospel directly by revelation from Jesus Christ, not from any other humans. He used to intensely persecute the early church but was called by God to preach to the Gentiles.
3) Paul traveled extensively to preach and establish churches. He met with leaders in Jerusalem to ensure he was preaching the correct gospel and that his mission to the Gentiles was approved.
This letter from Paul provides instructions to Timothy on matters of church leadership and conduct. Paul urges Timothy to remain in Ephesus and stop the spread of wrong teachings. He outlines expectations for church elders and deacons, including that they be faithful, respectable leaders. Paul also provides instructions on other matters like prayer, women's roles, and caring for widows. The letter encourages Timothy to devote himself to ministry, preach the true teachings, and guard against false doctrines.
When we appropriate all that Christ has done for us, we have a responsibility to Him, our fellow members of the body of Christ as well as ourselves. Keeping the faith is an ongoing process. Please listen to sermon at http://edthepastor.podbean.com/e/marching-orders-hebrews-10/?token=f82efb3751d55b968883246204a83ca4
The song describes a woman who is rushing to get ready for work on a Monday morning after having a dream about kissing Valentino by an Italian stream. She wishes it was Sunday instead so she wouldn't have to hurry to work. Even if she had an airplane, she still wouldn't make it to work on time. Her lover kept her up late the night before, making it even harder to get going in the morning. The song expresses how Mondays are always hectic as the work week starts again.
The book of Zephaniah contains prophecies of coming judgment and destruction from God against Judah, Jerusalem and surrounding nations due to their sin and idolatry. God will sweep away both people and animals, reducing the wicked to rubble. On the day of judgment God will punish leaders, priests and those following pagan customs. God will destroy Philistine cities and make the lands of Moab, Ammon and Assyria desolate. Jerusalem is especially rebellious and violent, refusing to listen to God. However, God will one day gather the survivors and restore Israel and Judah, living among them and removing all pride and fear.
This document provides an overview of key points from the book of Hebrews in the Bible. It discusses how God has now spoken through his Son, Jesus, who is greater than the angels and sat at God's right hand. Jesus came to help humanity and offer himself as a sacrifice to take away sins. He is described as a merciful and faithful high priest who can empathize with human suffering. The document emphasizes listening to Jesus and having faith like him, rather than hardening one's heart. It references God's promise of rest and discusses Jesus as a priest in the line of Melchizedek.
The document summarizes the book of Haggai from the Bible. It describes how the prophet Haggai delivered messages from God to Zerubbabel and Jeshua, leaders of Judah, telling them to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. God was displeased that the people were living in nice houses while the Temple lay in ruins. When the people obeyed and began rebuilding, God promised blessings and future glory for the Temple.
The prophet Habakkuk received a vision from God expressing frustration with the violence and injustice in Judah. God responds that he will use the brutal Babylonians to punish Judah for their sins, though Habakkuk questions how a righteous God could use a wicked nation. God assures Habakkuk that the Babylonians' success will be temporary and their downfall will come, while the righteous will survive through their faith. Habakkuk prays in response, praising God's power and assurance that he will deliver his people.
This document provides an excerpt from the Book of Exodus in the Bible. It describes how God appeared to Moses in a burning bush and commanded him to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Though hesitant at first, Moses agrees to confront Pharaoh and demand that he "let my people go." God promises Moses signs and plagues against Egypt to force Pharaoh's hand. The summary provides key context from the biblical story of the Exodus.
1. King Xerxes ruled over 127 provinces from India to Ethiopia and held lavish banquets for officials and servants.
2. At one banquet, the king demanded his wife Queen Vashti appear before his guests but she refused, angering the king. His advisers suggested permanently banishing Vashti and choosing a new queen.
3. The king agreed and had beautiful young women from across his empire brought to the palace harem to be considered for the new queen. One of these women was Esther, who was adopted by her cousin Mordecai.
This document provides context for the book of Deuteronomy. It describes how Moses delivered speeches to the Israelites recalling their journey after leaving Mount Sinai, including their rebellion against God which prevented them from entering the Promised Land for 40 years. Moses recounts how the Israelites sent spies into Canaan who brought back a discouraging report, causing the people to lose faith. God then punished that faithless generation by making them wander in the wilderness until they had all died off before their children could enter the land.
King Nebuchadnezzar has a dream that disturbs him greatly. He demands that his magicians and wise men tell him both the dream and its meaning, but they are unable to do so. Daniel is able to interpret the dream, in which Nebuchadnezzar sees a large statue made of different metals that is destroyed by a rock becoming a mountain. Daniel explains that the statue represents future kingdoms, and the rock is the eternal kingdom of God that will crush all earthly kingdoms and reign forever. Nebuchadnezzar is impressed and elevates Daniel to a high position.
This document summarizes the messages that Amos received from God concerning the sins of various nations and cities, including Israel and Judah. God tells Amos that he will punish these peoples for their sins such as oppression, violence, idolatry, and injustice. Specific judgments include fire, exile, destruction of fortresses and walls, and slaughter of people and leaders. God warns Israel and Judah that due to their continual sins and rejection of God's laws, they too will face his judgment and punishment.
The document summarizes chapters 1-4 of the book of Acts in the Bible. It describes Jesus' appearances after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. It then recounts the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Peter's speech to the crowd explaining what happened, and the conversion of about 3,000 people. It details the healing of a lame man at the Temple by Peter and John, their arrest by religious leaders for preaching about Jesus, and their bold response that they must obey God rather than men.
John wrote this letter to his dear friend Gaius to commend him for supporting traveling preachers and teachers, even though they were strangers, by providing them food and lodging as they spread the gospel message. John contrasts Gaius' hospitality with Diotrephes, who refuses to welcome traveling ministers and tells others not to support them either. John encourages Gaius to continue doing good works for God and not be influenced by Diotrephes' bad example. He hopes to visit Gaius soon to further discuss these matters in person.
This document summarizes events after the death of King Saul of Israel. It describes an Amalekite man telling David that he killed Saul at Saul's request after finding him wounded on the battlefield. David has the Amalekite executed for killing the Lord's anointed. David composes a song mourning Saul and Jonathan. Abner makes Ishbosheth king of Israel but later defects to David's side. In a battle between their armies, Abner kills Asahel but later makes peace with David.
The document is a letter from Simon Peter to Christians. Peter encourages Christians to grow in their faith and knowledge of God through Jesus Christ. He warns of false teachers who will try to lead people astray with destructive beliefs. Peter describes how God punishes the ungodly but rescues believers, and says Christians should live holy lives as they await Christ's promised return. They must not listen to scoffers who claim Christ has not returned as promised. Instead, Christians should continue to follow the teachings of prophets and apostles like Paul as they wait patiently for the new heavens and earth to come.
This passage describes events that occurred during the reigns of King Ahaziah and King Joram of Israel. When Ahaziah is injured, he seeks guidance from the pagan god Baal-zebub rather than God. The prophet Elijah condemns this action and Ahaziah dies as promised. Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. His successor Elisha performs miracles like dividing the Jordan River. King Joram faces rebellion from Moab but is told by Elisha that God will deliver water and victory over Moab for the allied armies of Israel, Judah, and Edom.
This letter is from John the Elder to a chosen lady and her children. John expresses his love for them and reminds them that God's truth lives within them. He urges them to love one another as God has commanded, not as a new commandment but one they have had from the beginning. John warns of deceivers who do not believe that Jesus came in the flesh and advises avoiding anyone who does not teach the truth about Christ. He hopes to visit them soon to complete their joy.
1) Solomon firmly established control over Israel after becoming king, with God's support and blessing. He called together Israel's leaders.
2) Solomon led the assembly to Gibeon, where the Tabernacle of God was located. He sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings there. That night, God promised Solomon wisdom if he asked.
3) Solomon wisely requested wisdom to rule God's people justly. God granted Solomon unprecedented wisdom and riches. Solomon then returned to Jerusalem and built up his military forces and wealth.
This document summarizes events surrounding the succession of King David in 1st Kings. David grows old and weak, and his son Adonijah declares himself king without David's consent. Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba convince David to instead name Solomon as his successor. Solomon is anointed king at Gihon Spring. Adonijah later requests to marry Abishag, one of David's servants, but Solomon sees this as a threat and has Adonijah executed. Solomon also has Joab executed for past crimes and exiles the priest Abiathar.
Tales of This and Another Life - Chapters.pdfMashaL38
This book is one of the best of the translated ones, for it has a warning character for all those who find themselves in the experience of material life. Irmão X provides a shrewd way of describing the subtleties and weaknesses that can jeopardize our intentions, making us more attentive and vigilant by providing us with his wise pages, reminding us between the lines of the Master's words: "Pray and watch."
God calls us to a journey of worshiping Him. In this journey you will encounter different obstacles and derailments that will want to sway you from worshiping God. You got to be intentional in breaking the barriers staged on your way of worship in order to offer God acceptable worship.
New York City love spells in Dallas, TX.spellshealer8
Get ex back TX (+256) 789- 682- 081 Love spells in Houston, TX Astrologer Psychic near me to remove negative energy. Protection spells by Spell Caster | Love Spells | Black Magic | the witchcraft. Black magic expert and voodoo love spells that work overnight to retrieve that love | Best Psychic in Houston with powerful voodoo to renew your relationship & make your relationship stronger. love spells to bring back the feelings of love for ex-lovers.
https://spellshealer8.wixsite.com/binding-powerful-los
Increase the intimacy, affection & love between you and your lover using voodoo relationship love spells in USA. money spells, easy love spells with just words, think of me spell, powerful love spell, spells of love, spells that work, love potion to attract a man, easy love spells with just words, pink candle prayer, white magic spells, call me spell, manifestation spell, gay love spells, Commitment spells, business spells and, how to bring back lost love in a relationship, Witchcraft love spells that work immediately to increase love & intimacy in your relationship. Attraction love spells to attract someone, stop a divorce, prevent a breakup & get your ex back.
REUNITE WITH AN EX LOVER IN 72 HOURS
If your lover is gone, don't be desperate anymore! You are a few clicks away from a prompt resolution of your problem: We will our spiritual powers to bring him/her back. This service has been the reason of so many happy endings that you should consider it as a serious solution. Let us show you our method with zero chances of rejection. Don't waste your precious time; get your lover back NOW!
MAKE HIM/HER LOVE ME
You love someone but this isn't mutual? Don't wait for the deluge and make him or her love you now. This service will create a great alchemy between this person and you. In just a few weeks, you can make the person you dream of falling in love with you. We recommend you to combine this service with a Marriage ritual if you want this person to commit you.
BREAK UP A RELATIONSHIP
The perfect service to break up a relationship you don't think legitimate. Your lover has gone with someone else? You love someone but this person is already involved in a relationship? Don't hesitate to break them up as this ritual and prayer is very powerful and will give very good results in a few weeks only.
STOP A DIVORCE NOW
Your husband or you wife is thinking about divorce but you don't want this to happen? Order this service now to reinforce the bonds of your relationship and save your marriage. This service will make him/her realize that a divorce would be a mistake and will strengthen love and passion. With permanent results, this service will guarantee a long lasting marriage and will make you happy.
FAITHFULNESS
Your partner cheats on you? This love ritual is definitely the one you need! Your lover will dream about you every night and will realize the pain you have been suffering since he/she
LOVE CHARMS
I DO ALL THE FOLLOWING SPELLS
*Binding Your
Introduction
Mantra Yoga is an exact science. "Mananat trayate iti mantrah- by the Manana (constant thinking or recollection) of which one is protected or is released from the round of births and deaths, is Mantra." That is called Mantra by the meditation (Manana) on which the Jiva or the individual soul attains freedom from sin, enjoyment in heaven and final liberation, and by the aid of which it attains in full the fourfold fruit (Chaturvarga), i.e., Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. A Mantra is so called because it is achieved by the mental process.
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian
SBS – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
Lucid Dreaming: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
The ability to control one's dreams or for the dreamer to be aware that he or she is dreaming. This process, called lucid dreaming, has some potential risks as well as many fascinating benefits. However, many people are hesitant to try it initially for fear of the potential dangers. This article aims to clarify these concerns by exploring both the risks and benefits of lucid dreaming.
The Benefits of Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming allows a person to take control of their dream world, helping them overcome their fears and eliminate nightmares. This technique is particularly useful for mental health. By taking control of their dreams, individuals can face challenging scenarios in a controlled environment, which can help reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence.
Addressing Common Concerns
Physical Harm in Dreams Lucid dreaming is fundamentally safe. In a lucid dream, everything is a creation of your mind. Therefore, nothing in the dream can physically harm you. Despite the vividness and realness of the dream experience, it remains entirely within your mental landscape, posing no physical danger.
Mental Health Risks Concerns about developing PTSD or other mental illnesses from lucid dreaming are unfounded. As soon as you wake up, it's clear that the events experienced in the dream were not real. On the contrary, lucid dreaming is often seen as a therapeutic tool for conditions like PTSD, as it allows individuals to reframe and manage their thoughts.
Potential Risks of Lucid Dreaming
While generally safe, lucid dreaming does come with a few risks as well:
Mixing Dream Memories with Reality Long-term lucid dreamers might occasionally confuse dream memories with real ones, creating false memories. This issue is rare and preventable by maintaining a dream journal and avoiding lucid dreaming about real-life people or places too frequently.
Escapism Using lucid dreaming to escape reality can be problematic if it interferes with your daily life. While it is sometimes beneficial to escape and relieve the stress of reality, relying on lucid dreaming for happiness can hinder personal growth and productivity.
Feeling Tired After Lucid Dreaming Some people report feeling tired after lucid dreaming. This tiredness is not due to the dreams themselves but often results from not getting enough sleep or using techniques that disrupt sleep patterns. Taking breaks and ensuring adequate sleep can prevent this.
Mental Exhaustion Lucid dreaming can be mentally taxing if practiced excessively without breaks. It’s important to balance lucid dreaming with regular sleep to avoid mental fatigue.
Lucid dreaming is safe and beneficial if done with caution. It has many benefits, such as overcoming fear and improving mental health, and minimal risks. There are many resources and tutorials available for those interested in trying it.
Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...Cometan
This lecture created by Brandon Taylorian (aka Cometan) specially for the CESNUR Conference held Bordeaux in June 2024 provides a brief introduction to the legacy of religious and philosophical thought that Astronism emerges from, namely the discourse on transcension started assuredly by the Cosmists in Russia in the mid-to-late nineteenth century and then carried on and developed by Mordecai Nessyahu in Cosmodeism in the twentieth century. Cometan also then provides some detail on his story in founding Astronism in the early twenty-first century from 2013 along with details on the central Astronist doctrine of transcension. Finally, the lecture concludes with some contributions made by space religions and space philosophy and their influences on various cultural facets in art, literature and film.
The Book of Revelation, filled with symbolic and apocalyptic imagery, presents one of its most striking visions in Revelation 9:3-12—the locust army. Understanding the significance of this locust army provides insight into the broader themes of divine judgment, protection, and the ultimate triumph of God’s will as depicted in Revelation.
2nd issue of Volume 15. A magazine in urdu language mainly based on spiritual treatment and learning. Many topics on ISLAM, SUFISM, SOCIAL PROBLEMS, SELF HELP, PSYCHOLOGY, HEALTH, SPIRITUAL TREATMENT, Ruqya etc.A very useful magazine for everyone.
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
"Lift off" by Pastor Mark Behr at North Athens Baptist ChurchJurgenFinch
23 June 2024
Morning Service at North Athens Baptist Church Athens, Michigan
“Lift Off” by Pastor Mark Behr
Scriptures: Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:6-11.
We are a small country Church in Athens Michigan who loves to reach out to others with the love of God. We worship an Awesome God who loves the whole world and wants everyone to see and understand what He has done for us. (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) We hope you are encouraging by our Sunday Morning sermon videos. If you are ever in the area, please feel free to attend our Sunday Morning Services at North Athens Baptist Church 2020 M Drive South, Athens, Michigan. If you have any question and would like to talk to Pastor Mark, or have prayer request please call the church at (269) 729-553
Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.
Morning Service: 10:45 a.m.
Full Morning Service on Facebook Live at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/nabc2020athensmichigan
Sermon Only Live on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@NABC2020AthensMI
Sermon Only Audio of Morning Sermon at: https://soundcloud.com/user-591083416
PHASE-IV
The very deep experience of silence helps to expand from the 3 - dimensional awareness of the body to all pervasive awareness. The bed of silence becomes deeper and more expansive - an ocean of silence with waves on it merge into complete silence called Ajapa state of the mind. This silence is the source of Creativity, Power, Knowledge and Bliss.
PHASE V
From this deep ocean of silence in the heart region, let one OM emerge as an audible sound which diffuses into the entire body and the space all around. Enjoy the beautiful vibrations.
Blink the eyes slowly, gently open the eyes and come out of meditation.
Powerful Magic Rings+27604255576 for Money Fame Job Promotions Gambling in So...MalikAliMohamad1
›:› Powerful Magic Rings+27604255576 for Money Fame Job Promotions Gambling in South Africa Botswana, Zimbabwe, Jordan,Kuwait,Turkey,Belgium,Saudi Arabia, Australia, Malaysia Limpopo polokwane nambia Johannesburg,Lebanon, zambia,USA,kenya,california, dallas, England,German,spain, Jamaica,St,Lucia, Brasil,Germany ,Austria, Vancouver, Denmark,Hongkong,China,,pretoria, Durban, Australia, Zimbabwe,Wales,France,Harare,Cairo, philippines,china, Norway,Sweden,Cameroon,Botswana ,Namibia, Tanzania,Northerncape,Newyork,limpopo,london, venezuela,Chile,Sweden, Kenya, Denmark, Rwanda, Oman, Qatar,Dubai,Poland,Lesotho,Canada, United Kingdom…
nambia Botswana
Powerful Magic Rings++27604255576 Money ~Fame~ Job Promotions~ Gambling in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Jordan,Kuwait,Turkey,Belgium,Saudi Arabia, Australia, Malaysia , Johannesburg,Lebanon, zambia,USA,kenya,california, dallas, England,German,spain, Jamaica,St,Lucia, Brasil,Germany ,Austria, Vancouver, Denmark,Hongkong,China,,pretoria, Durban, Australia,+27604255576 Zimbabwe,Wales,France,Harare,Cairo, philippines,china, Norway,Sweden,Cameroon,Botswana ,Namibia, Tanzania,Northerncape,Newyork,limpopo,london, venezuela,Chile,Sweden, Kenya, Denmark, Rwanda, Oman, Qatar,Dubai,Poland,Lesotho,Canada, United Kingdom…+27604255576
This Mystic Ring is very strong and powerful and can change the life of the wearer. This Ring is spiritually prepared and there are lots of rituals and ceremonies done on the ring and then it is prepared, Again this ring is very safe and will always give lots of success and happiness to the wearer. It has lots of positive energies in it so that it can destroy any type of Black Magic, Evil Eye, Negative Energy, Hex or Curse that is on you. If can destroy all your enemies and also punish them. Also on wearing the ring it will make your subconscious mind power very strong and powerful so that you will also have financial gains, your money problems will be over and also you will be successful in the fields of Lottery and Gambling. It will protect you from any type of unknown accidents and evil. Also this ring will make your love stars very strong and powerful so that you will attract opposite sex, and also will get any person you desire.
+27604255576
+27604255576 This powerful ring will warn you in your dreams if any thing good or bad is going to happen so that you will always be safe and protected from unknown dangers coming to you. So in all you will have money, fame, love and every thing that you may desire. Again it is difficult to explain the wonders of this ring unless you will try your self.
+27604255576
Call/whatsapp: +27604255576
Unleash your spiritual growth journey as a truth-seeker!
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
Tracking "The Blessing" - Christianity · Spiritual Growth · Success
Do you ever feel like your Bible highlighting isn't quite enough to ignite lasting spiritual growth? Have you struggled to retain key takeaways from your Bible study sessions?
Discover how living in 4D can transform your highlighting into a strategic tool for spiritual development.
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
In this video, you'll gain insights on:
How highlighting key verses and themes can enhance memory and retention of Scripture (we see a few key ones, here!)
Studies have shown that highlighting can significantly improve information recall. Highlighting key points visually reinforces them in your mind, leading to better long-term memory.
How to personalize your Bible study through strategic highlighting. Don't just highlight everything!
This video will teach you how to strategically highlight based on what resonates with you, focusing on central themes, recurring ideas, or connections between different passages.
Watch More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
How connecting highlighted passages can reveal deeper biblical truths. By highlighting these connections, you can see the bigger picture and uncover the underlying messages within Scripture.
By the end of this video, you'll be equipped to unlock the hidden potential within your highlighted Bible and embark on a transformative spiritual growth journey! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more inspiring content on deepening your faith.
Note: For Christians seeking to enrich their Bible study and deepen their faith, as well as any other spiritual seeker of truth and growth.
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
Tracking "The Blessing" - Christianity · Spiritual Growth · Success
2nd corinthians
1. SECOND CORINTHIANS
2nd Corinthians
1This letter is from Paul, appointed by
God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus,
and from our dear brother Timothy. We
are writing to God's church in Corinth
and to all the Christians throughout
Greece.
2May God our Father and the Lord
Jesus Christ give you his grace and
peace.
3All praise to the God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source of
every mercy and the God who comforts
us.
4He comforts us in all our troubles so
that we can comfort others. When
others are troubled, we will be able to
give them the same comfort God has
given us.
5You can be sure that the more we
suffer for Christ, the more God will
shower us with his comfort through
Christ.
6So when we are weighed down with
troubles, it is for your benefit and
salvation! For when God comforts us, it
is so that we, in turn, can be an
encouragement to you. Then you can
patiently endure the same things we
suffer.
7We are confident that as you share in
suffering, you will also share God's
comfort.
8I think you ought to know, dear brothers
and sisters, about the trouble we went
through in the province of Asia. We
were crushed and completely
overwhelmed, and we thought we would
never live through it.
9In fact, we expected to die. But as a
result, we learned not to rely on
ourselves, but on God who can raise the
dead.
10And he did deliver us from mortal
danger. And we are confident that he
will continue to deliver us.
11He will rescue us because you are
helping by praying for us. As a result,
many will give thanks to God because
so many people's prayers for our safety
have been answered.
12We can say with confidence and a
clear conscience that we have been
honest and sincere in all our dealings.
We have depended on God's grace, not
on our own earthly wisdom. That is how
we have acted toward everyone, and
especially toward you.
13My letters have been straightforward,
and there is nothing written between the
lines and nothing you can't understand. I
hope someday you will fully understand
us,
14even if you don't fully understand us
now. Then on the day when our Lord
Jesus comes back again, you will be
proud of us in the same way we are
proud of you.
15Since I was so sure of your
understanding and trust, I wanted to
give you a double blessing.
16I wanted to stop and see you on my
way to Macedonia and again on my
return trip. Then you could send me on
my way to Judea.
17You may be asking why I changed my
plan. Hadn't I made up my mind yet? Or
am I like people of the world who say
yes when they really mean no?
18As surely as God is true, I am not that
sort of person. My yes means yes
19because Jesus Christ, the Son of God,
never wavers between yes and no. He
is the one whom Timothy, Silas, and I
preached to you, and he is the divine
Yes--God's affirmation.
20For all of God's promises have been
fulfilled in him. That is why we say
"Amen" when we give glory to God
through Christ.
21It is God who gives us, along with you,
the ability to stand firm for Christ. He
has commissioned us,
22and he has identified us as his own by
placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as
the first installment of everything he will
give us.
23Now I call upon God as my witness
that I am telling the truth. The reason I
didn't return to Corinth was to spare you
from a severe rebuke.
24But that does not mean we want to tell
you exactly how to put your faith into
practice. We want to work together with
you so you will be full of joy as you
stand firm in your faith.
2So I said to myself, "No, I won't do it.
I won't make them unhappy with another
painful visit."
2For if I cause you pain and make you
sad, who is going to make me glad?
3That is why I wrote as I did in my last
letter, so that when I do come, I will not
be made sad by the very ones who
2. SECOND CORINTHIANS
ought to give me the greatest joy. Surely
you know that my happiness depends
on your happiness.
4How painful it was to write that letter!
Heartbroken, I cried over it. I didn't want
to hurt you, but I wanted you to know
how very much I love you.
5I am not overstating it when I say that
the man who caused all the trouble hurt
your entire church more than he hurt me.
6He was punished enough when most of
you were united in your judgment
against him.
7Now it is time to forgive him and
comfort him. Otherwise he may become
so discouraged that he won't be able to
recover.
8Now show him that you still love him.
9I wrote to you as I did to find out how
far you would go in obeying me.
10When you forgive this man, I forgive
him, too. And when I forgive him (for
whatever is to be forgiven), I do so with
Christ's authority for your benefit,
11so that Satan will not outsmart us. For
we are very familiar with his evil
schemes.
12Well, when I came to the city of Troas
to preach the Good News of Christ, the
Lord gave me tremendous opportunities.
13But I couldn't rest because my dear
brother Titus hadn't yet arrived with a
report from you. So I said good-bye and
went on to Macedonia to find him.
14But thanks be to God, who made us
his captives and leads us along in
Christ's triumphal procession. Now
wherever we go he uses us to tell others
about the Lord and to spread the Good
News like a sweet perfume.
15Our lives are a fragrance presented by
Christ to God. But this fragrance is
perceived differently by those being
saved and by those perishing.
16To those who are perishing we are a
fearful smell of death and doom. But to
those who are being saved we are a lifegiving
perfume. And who is adequate for
such a task as this?
17You see, we are not like those
hucksters--and there are many of them--
who preach just to make money. We
preach God's message with sincerity
and with Christ's authority. And we know
that the God who sent us is watching us.
3Are we beginning again to tell you
how good we are? Some people need to
bring letters of recommendation with
them or ask you to write letters of
recommendation for them.
2But the only letter of recommendation
we need is you yourselves! Your lives
are a letter written in our hearts, and
everyone can read it and recognize our
good work among you.
3Clearly, you are a letter from Christ
prepared by us. It is written not with pen
and ink, but with the Spirit of the living
God. It is carved not on stone, but on
human hearts.
4We are confident of all this because of
our great trust in God through Christ.
5It is not that we think we can do
anything of lasting value by ourselves.
Our only power and success come from
God.
6He is the one who has enabled us to
represent his new covenant. This is a
covenant, not of written laws, but of the
Spirit. The old way ends in death; in the
new way, the Holy Spirit gives life.
7That old system of law etched in stone
led to death, yet it began with such glory
that the people of Israel could not bear
to look at Moses' face. For his face
shone with the glory of God, even
though the brightness was already
fading away.
8Shouldn't we expect far greater glory
when the Holy Spirit is giving life?
9If the old covenant, which brings
condemnation, was glorious, how much
more glorious is the new covenant,
which makes us right with God!
10In fact, that first glory was not glorious
at all compared with the overwhelming
glory of the new covenant.
11So if the old covenant, which has been
set aside, was full of glory, then the new
covenant, which remains forever, has
far greater glory.
12Since this new covenant gives us such
confidence, we can be very bold.
13We are not like Moses, who put a veil
over his face so the people of Israel
would not see the glory fading away.
14But the people's minds were hardened,
and even to this day whenever the old
covenant is being read, a veil covers
their minds so they cannot understand
the truth. And this veil can be removed
only by believing in Christ.
15Yes, even today when they read
Moses' writings, their hearts are covered
with that veil, and they do not
understand.
16But whenever anyone turns to the Lord,
3. SECOND CORINTHIANS
then the veil is taken away.
17Now, the Lord is the Spirit, and
wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, he
gives freedom.
18And all of us have had that veil
removed so that we can be mirrors that
brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And
as the Spirit of the Lord works within us,
we become more and more like him and
reflect his glory even more.
4And so, since God in his mercy has
given us this wonderful ministry, we
never give up.
2We reject all shameful and
underhanded methods. We do not try to
trick anyone, and we do not distort the
word of God. We tell the truth before
God, and all who are honest know that.
3If the Good News we preach is veiled
from anyone, it is a sign that they are
perishing.
4Satan, the god of this evil world, has
blinded the minds of those who don't
believe, so they are unable to see the
glorious light of the Good News that is
shining upon them. They don't
understand the message we preach
about the glory of Christ, who is the
exact likeness of God.
5We don't go around preaching about
ourselves; we preach Christ Jesus, the
Lord. All we say about ourselves is that
we are your servants because of what
Jesus has done for us.
6For God, who said, "Let there be light in
the darkness," has made us understand
that this light is the brightness of the
glory of God that is seen in the face of
Jesus Christ.
7But this precious treasure--this light and
power that now shine within us--is held
in perishable containers, that is, in our
weak bodies. So everyone can see that
our glorious power is from God and is
not our own.
8We are pressed on every side by
troubles, but we are not crushed and
broken. We are perplexed, but we don't
give up and quit.
9We are hunted down, but God never
abandons us. We get knocked down,
but we get up again and keep going.
10Through suffering, these bodies of
ours constantly share in the death of
Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also
be seen in our bodies.
11Yes, we live under constant danger of
death because we serve Jesus, so that
the life of Jesus will be obvious in our
dying bodies.
12So we live in the face of death, but it
has resulted in eternal life for you.
13But we continue to preach because we
have the same kind of faith the psalmist
had when he said, "I believed in God,
and so I speak."
14We know that the same God who
raised our Lord Jesus will also raise us
with Jesus and present us to himself
along with you.
15All of these things are for your benefit.
And as God's grace brings more and
more people to Christ, there will be
great thanksgiving, and God will receive
more and more glory.
16That is why we never give up. Though
our bodies are dying, our spirits are
being renewed every day.
17For our present troubles are quite
small and won't last very long. Yet they
produce for us an immeasurably great
glory that will last forever!
18So we don't look at the troubles we
can see right now; rather, we look
forward to what we have not yet seen.
For the troubles we see will soon be
over, but the joys to come will last
forever.
5For we know that when this earthly
tent we live in is taken down--when we
die and leave these bodies--we will have
a home in heaven, an eternal body
made for us by God himself and not by
human hands.
2We grow weary in our present bodies,
and we long for the day when we will put
on our heavenly bodies like new clothing.
3For we will not be spirits without bodies,
but we will put on new heavenly bodies.
4Our dying bodies make us groan and
sigh, but it's not that we want to die and
have no bodies at all. We want to slip
into our new bodies so that these dying
bodies will be swallowed up by
everlasting life.
5God himself has prepared us for this,
and as a guarantee he has given us his
Holy Spirit.
6So we are always confident, even
though we know that as long as we live
in these bodies we are not at home with
the Lord.
7That is why we live by believing and not
by seeing.
8Yes, we are fully confident, and we
would rather be away from these bodies,
4. SECOND CORINTHIANS
for then we will be at home with the Lord.
9So our aim is to please him always,
whether we are here in this body or
away from this body.
10For we must all stand before Christ to
be judged. We will each receive
whatever we deserve for the good or
evil we have done in our bodies.
11It is because we know this solemn fear
of the Lord that we work so hard to
persuade others. God knows we are
sincere, and I hope you know this, too.
12Are we trying to pat ourselves on the
back again? No, we are giving you a
reason to be proud of us, so you can
answer those who brag about having a
spectacular ministry rather than having
a sincere heart before God.
13If it seems that we are crazy, it is to
bring glory to God. And if we are in our
right minds, it is for your benefit.
14Whatever we do, it is because Christ's
love controls us. Since we believe that
Christ died for everyone, we also
believe that we have all died to the old
life we used to live.
15He died for everyone so that those
who receive his new life will no longer
live to please themselves. Instead, they
will live to please Christ, who died and
was raised for them.
16So we have stopped evaluating others
by what the world thinks about them.
Once I mistakenly thought of Christ that
way, as though he were merely a
human being. How differently I think
about him now!
17What this means is that those who
become Christians become new
persons. They are not the same
anymore, for the old life is gone. A new
life has begun!
18All this newness of life is from God,
who brought us back to himself through
what Christ did. And God has given us
the task of reconciling people to him.
19For God was in Christ, reconciling the
world to himself, no longer counting
people's sins against them. This is the
wonderful message he has given us to
tell others.
20We are Christ's ambassadors, and
God is using us to speak to you. We
urge you, as though Christ himself were
here pleading with you, "Be reconciled
to God!"
21For God made Christ, who never
sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so
that we could be made right with God
through Christ.
6As God's partners, we beg you not to
reject this marvelous message of God's
great kindness.
2For God says, "At just the right time, I
heard you. On the day of salvation, I
helped you." Indeed, God is ready to
help you right now. Today is the day of
salvation.
3We try to live in such a way that no one
will be hindered from finding the Lord by
the way we act, and so no one can find
fault with our ministry.
4In everything we do we try to show that
we are true ministers of God. We
patiently endure troubles and hardships
and calamities of every kind.
5We have been beaten, been put in jail,
faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion,
endured sleepless nights, and gone
without food.
6We have proved ourselves by our purity,
our understanding, our patience, our
kindness, our sincere love, and the
power of the Holy Spirit.
7We have faithfully preached the truth.
God's power has been working in us.
We have righteousness as our weapon,
both to attack and to defend ourselves.
8We serve God whether people honor
us or despise us, whether they slander
us or praise us. We are honest, but they
call us impostors.
9We are well known, but we are treated
as unknown. We live close to death, but
here we are, still alive. We have been
beaten within an inch of our lives.
10Our hearts ache, but we always have
joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual
riches to others. We own nothing, and
yet we have everything.
11Oh, dear Corinthian friends! We have
spoken honestly with you. Our hearts
are open to you.
12If there is a problem between us, it is
not because of a lack of love on our part,
but because you have withheld your
love from us.
13I am talking now as I would to my own
children. Open your hearts to us!
14Don't team up with those who are
unbelievers. How can goodness be a
partner with wickedness? How can light
live with darkness?
15What harmony can there be between
Christ and the Devil ? How can a
believer be a partner with an
unbeliever?
5. SECOND CORINTHIANS
16And what union can there be between
God's temple and idols? For we are the
temple of the living God. As God said: "I
will live in them and walk among them. I
will be their God, and they will be my
people.
17Therefore, come out from them and
separate yourselves from them, says
the Lord. Don't touch their filthy things,
and I will welcome you.
18And I will be your Father, and you will
be my sons and daughters, says the
Lord Almighty. "
7Because we have these promises,
dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves
from everything that can defile our body
or spirit. And let us work toward
complete purity because we fear God.
2Please open your hearts to us. We
have not done wrong to anyone. We
have not led anyone astray. We have
not taken advantage of anyone.
3I'm not saying this to condemn you, for
I said before that you are in our hearts
forever. We live or die together with you.
4I have the highest confidence in you,
and my pride in you is great. You have
greatly encouraged me; you have made
me happy despite all our troubles.
5When we arrived in Macedonia there
was no rest for us. Outside there was
conflict from every direction, and inside
there was fear.
6But God, who encourages those who
are discouraged, encouraged us by the
arrival of Titus.
7His presence was a joy, but so was the
news he brought of the encouragement
he received from you. When he told me
how much you were looking forward to
my visit, and how sorry you were about
what had happened, and how loyal your
love is for me, I was filled with joy!
8I am no longer sorry that I sent that
letter to you, though I was sorry for a
time, for I know that it was painful to you
for a little while.
9Now I am glad I sent it, not because it
hurt you, but because the pain caused
you to have remorse and change your
ways. It was the kind of sorrow God
wants his people to have, so you were
not harmed by us in any way.
10For God can use sorrow in our lives to
help us turn away from sin and seek
salvation. We will never regret that kind
of sorrow. But sorrow without
repentance is the kind that results in
death.
11Just see what this godly sorrow
produced in you! Such earnestness,
such concern to clear yourselves, such
indignation, such alarm, such longing to
see me, such zeal, and such a
readiness to punish the wrongdoer. You
showed that you have done everything
you could to make things right.
12My purpose was not to write about
who did the wrong or who was wronged.
I wrote to you so that in the sight of God
you could show how much you really do
care for us.
13We have been encouraged by this. In
addition to our own encouragement, we
were especially delighted to see how
happy Titus was at the way you
welcomed him and set his mind at ease.
14I had told him how proud I was of you--
and you didn't disappoint me. I have
always told you the truth, and now my
boasting to Titus has also proved true!
15Now he cares for you more than ever
when he remembers the way you
listened to him and welcomed him with
such respect and deep concern.
16I am very happy now because I have
complete confidence in you.
8Now I want to tell you, dear brothers
and sisters, what God in his kindness
has done for the churches in Macedonia.
2Though they have been going through
much trouble and hard times, their
wonderful joy and deep poverty have
overflowed in rich generosity.
3For I can testify that they gave not only
what they could afford but far more. And
they did it of their own free will.
4They begged us again and again for
the gracious privilege of sharing in the
gift for the Christians in Jerusalem.
5Best of all, they went beyond our
highest hopes, for their first action was
to dedicate themselves to the Lord and
to us for whatever directions God might
give them.
6So we have urged Titus, who
encouraged your giving in the first place,
to return to you and encourage you to
complete your share in this ministry of
giving.
7Since you excel in so many ways--you
have so much faith, such gifted
speakers, such knowledge, such
enthusiasm, and such love for us --now I
want you to excel also in this gracious
ministry of giving.
6. SECOND CORINTHIANS
8I am not saying you must do it, even
though the other churches are eager to
do it. This is one way to prove your love
is real.
9You know how full of love and kindness
our Lord Jesus Christ was. Though he
was very rich, yet for your sakes he
became poor, so that by his poverty he
could make you rich.
10I suggest that you finish what you
started a year ago, for you were the first
to propose this idea, and you were the
first to begin doing something about it.
11Now you should carry this project
through to completion just as
enthusiastically as you began it. Give
whatever you can according to what you
have.
12If you are really eager to give, it isn't
important how much you are able to
give. God wants you to give what you
have, not what you don't have.
13Of course, I don't mean you should
give so much that you suffer from
having too little. I only mean that there
should be some equality.
14Right now you have plenty and can
help them. Then at some other time they
can share with you when you need it. In
this way, everyone's needs will be met.
15Do you remember what the Scriptures
say about this? "Those who gathered a
lot had nothing left over, and those who
gathered only a little had enough."
16I am thankful to God that he has given
Titus the same enthusiasm for you that I
have.
17He welcomed our request that he visit
you again. In fact, he himself was eager
to go and see you.
18We are also sending another brother
with Titus. He is highly praised in all the
churches as a preacher of the Good
News.
19He was appointed by the churches to
accompany us as we take the offering to
Jerusalem --a service that glorifies the
Lord and shows our eagerness to help.
20By traveling together we will guard
against any suspicion, for we are
anxious that no one should find fault
with the way we are handling this
generous gift.
21We are careful to be honorable before
the Lord, but we also want everyone
else to know we are honorable.
22And we are also sending with them
another brother who has been
thoroughly tested and has shown how
earnest he is on many occasions. He is
now even more enthusiastic because of
his increased confidence in you.
23If anyone asks about Titus, say that he
is my partner who works with me to help
you. And these brothers are
representatives of the churches. They
are splendid examples of those who
bring glory to Christ.
24So show them your love, and prove to
all the churches that our boasting about
you is justified.
9I really don't need to write to you
about this gift for the Christians in
Jerusalem.
2For I know how eager you are to help,
and I have been boasting to our friends
in Macedonia that you Christians in
Greece were ready to send an offering a
year ago. In fact, it was your enthusiasm
that stirred up many of them to begin
helping.
3But I am sending these brothers just to
be sure that you really are ready, as I
told them you would be, with your
money all collected. I don't want it to
turn out that I was wrong in my boasting
about you.
4I would be humiliated--and so would
you--if some Macedonian Christians
came with me, only to find that you still
weren't ready after all I had told them!
5So I thought I should send these
brothers ahead of me to make sure the
gift you promised is ready. But I want it
to be a willing gift, not one given under
pressure.
6Remember this--a farmer who plants
only a few seeds will get a small crop.
But the one who plants generously will
get a generous crop.
7You must each make up your own mind
as to how much you should give. Don't
give reluctantly or in response to
pressure. For God loves the person who
gives cheerfully.
8And God will generously provide all you
need. Then you will always have
everything you need and plenty left over
to share with others.
9As the Scriptures say, "Godly people
give generously to the poor. Their good
deeds will never be forgotten."
10For God is the one who gives seed to
the farmer and then bread to eat. In the
same way, he will give you many
opportunities to do good, and he will
produce a great harvest of generosity in
7. SECOND CORINTHIANS
you.
11Yes, you will be enriched so that you
can give even more generously. And
when we take your gifts to those who
need them, they will break out in
thanksgiving to God.
12So two good things will happen--the
needs of the Christians in Jerusalem will
be met, and they will joyfully express
their thanksgiving to God.
13You will be glorifying God through your
generous gifts. For your generosity to
them will prove that you are obedient to
the Good News of Christ.
14And they will pray for you with deep
affection because of the wonderful
grace of God shown through you.
15Thank God for his Son--a gift too
wonderful for words!
10Now I, Paul, plead with you. I
plead with the gentleness and kindness
that Christ himself would use, even
though some of you say I am bold in my
letters but timid in person.
2I hope it won't be necessary, but when I
come I may have to be very bold with
those who think we act from purely
human motives.
3We are human, but we don't wage war
with human plans and methods.
4We use God's mighty weapons, not
mere worldly weapons, to knock down
the Devil's strongholds.
5With these weapons we break down
every proud argument that keeps people
from knowing God. With these weapons
we conquer their rebellious ideas, and
we teach them to obey Christ.
6And we will punish those who remained
disobedient after the rest of you became
loyal and obedient.
7The trouble with you is that you make
your decisions on the basis of
appearance. You must recognize that
we belong to Christ just as much as
those who proudly declare that they
belong to Christ.
8I may seem to be boasting too much
about the authority given to us by the
Lord. But this authority is to build you up,
not to tear you down. And I will not be
put to shame by having my work among
you destroyed.
9Now this is not just an attempt to
frighten you by my letters.
10For some say, "Don't worry about Paul.
His letters are demanding and forceful,
but in person he is weak, and his
speeches are really bad!"
11The ones who say this must realize
that we will be just as demanding and
forceful in person as we are in our
letters.
12Oh, don't worry; I wouldn't dare say
that I am as wonderful as these other
men who tell you how important they
are! But they are only comparing
themselves with each other, and
measuring themselves by themselves.
What foolishness!
13But we will not boast of authority we
do not have. Our goal is to stay within
the boundaries of God's plan for us, and
this plan includes our working there with
you.
14We are not going too far when we
claim authority over you, for we were the
first to travel all the way to you with the
Good News of Christ.
15Nor do we claim credit for the work
someone else has done. Instead, we
hope that your faith will grow and that
our work among you will be greatly
enlarged.
16Then we will be able to go and preach
the Good News in other places that are
far beyond you, where no one else is
working. Then there will be no question
about being in someone else's territory.
17As the Scriptures say, "The person
who wishes to boast should boast only
of what the Lord has done."
18When people boast about themselves,
it doesn't count for much. But when the
Lord commends someone, that's
different!
11I hope you will be patient with me
as I keep on talking like a fool. Please
bear with me.
2I am jealous for you with the jealousy of
God himself. For I promised you as a
pure bride to one husband, Christ.
3But I fear that somehow you will be led
away from your pure and simple
devotion to Christ, just as Eve was
deceived by the serpent.
4You seem to believe whatever anyone
tells you, even if they preach about a
different Jesus than the one we preach,
or a different Spirit than the one you
received, or a different kind of gospel
than the one you believed.
5But I don't think I am inferior to these
"super apostles."
6I may not be a trained speaker, but I
know what I am talking about. I think
8. SECOND CORINTHIANS
you realize this by now, for we have
proved it again and again.
7Did I do wrong when I humbled myself
and honored you by preaching God's
Good News to you without expecting
anything in return?
8I "robbed" other churches by accepting
their contributions so I could serve you
at no cost.
9And when I was with you and didn't
have enough to live on, I did not ask you
to help me. For the brothers who came
from Macedonia brought me another gift.
I have never yet asked you for any
support, and I never will.
10As surely as the truth of Christ is in me,
I will never stop boasting about this all
over Greece.
11Why? Because I don't love you? God
knows I do.
12But I will continue doing this to cut the
ground out from under the feet of those
who boast that their work is just like ours.
13These people are false apostles. They
have fooled you by disguising
themselves as apostles of Christ.
14But I am not surprised! Even Satan
can disguise himself as an angel of light.
15So it is no wonder his servants can
also do it by pretending to be godly
ministers. In the end they will get every
bit of punishment their wicked deeds
deserve.
16Once again, don't think that I have lost
my wits to talk like this. But even if you
do, listen to me, as you would to a
foolish person, while I also boast a little.
17Such bragging is not something the
Lord wants, but I am acting like a fool.
18And since others boast about their
human achievements, I will, too.
19After all, you, who think you are so
wise, enjoy listening to fools!
20You put up with it when they make you
their slaves, take everything you have,
take advantage of you, put on airs, and
slap you in the face.
21I'm ashamed to say that we were not
strong enough to do that! But whatever
they dare to boast about--I'm talking like
a fool again--I can boast about it, too.
22They say they are Hebrews, do they?
So am I. And they say they are
Israelites? So am I. And they are
descendants of Abraham? So am I.
23They say they serve Christ? I know I
sound like a madman, but I have served
him far more! I have worked harder,
been put in jail more often, been
whipped times without number, and
faced death again and again.
24Five different times the Jews gave me
thirty-nine lashes.
25Three times I was beaten with rods.
Once I was stoned. Three times I was
shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night
and a day adrift at sea.
26I have traveled many weary miles. I
have faced danger from flooded rivers
and from robbers. I have faced danger
from my own people, the Jews, as well
as from the Gentiles. I have faced
danger in the cities, in the deserts, and
on the stormy seas. And I have faced
danger from men who claim to be
Christians but are not.
27I have lived with weariness and pain
and sleepless nights. Often I have been
hungry and thirsty and have gone
without food. Often I have shivered with
cold, without enough clothing to keep
me warm.
28Then, besides all this, I have the daily
burden of how the churches are getting
along.
29Who is weak without my feeling that
weakness? Who is led astray, and I do
not burn with anger?
30If I must boast, I would rather boast
about the things that show how weak I
am.
31God, the Father of our Lord Jesus,
who is to be praised forever, knows I tell
the truth.
32When I was in Damascus, the
governor under King Aretas kept guards
at the city gates to catch me.
33But I was lowered in a basket through
a window in the city wall, and that's how
I got away!
12This boasting is all so foolish, but
let me go on. Let me tell about the
visions and revelations I received from
the Lord.
2I was caught up into the third heaven
fourteen years ago.
3Whether my body was there or just my
spirit, I don't know; only God knows.
4But I do know that I was caught up into
paradise and heard things so
astounding that they cannot be told.
5That experience is something worth
boasting about, but I am not going to do
it. I am going to boast only about my
weaknesses.
6I have plenty to boast about and would
be no fool in doing it, because I would
9. SECOND CORINTHIANS
be telling the truth. But I won't do it. I
don't want anyone to think more highly
of me than what they can actually see in
my life and my message,
7even though I have received wonderful
revelations from God. But to keep me
from getting puffed up, I was given a
thorn in my flesh, a messenger from
Satan to torment me and keep me from
getting proud.
8Three different times I begged the Lord
to take it away.
9Each time he said, "My gracious favor
is all you need. My power works best in
your weakness." So now I am glad to
boast about my weaknesses, so that the
power of Christ may work through me.
10Since I know it is all for Christ's good, I
am quite content with my weaknesses
and with insults, hardships, persecutions,
and calamities. For when I am weak,
then I am strong.
11You have made me act like a fool--
boasting like this. You ought to be
writing commendations for me, for I am
not at all inferior to these "super
apostles," even though I am nothing at
all.
12When I was with you, I certainly gave
you every proof that I am truly an
apostle, sent to you by God himself. For
I patiently did many signs and wonders
and miracles among you.
13The only thing I didn't do, which I do in
the other churches, was to become a
burden to you. Please forgive me for this
wrong!
14Now I am coming to you for the third
time, and I will not be a burden to you. I
don't want what you have; I want you.
And anyway, little children don't pay for
their parents' food. It's the other way
around; parents supply food for their
children.
15I will gladly spend myself and all I have
for your spiritual good, even though it
seems that the more I love you, the less
you love me.
16Some of you admit I was not a burden
to you. But they still think I was sneaky
and took advantage of you by trickery.
17But how? Did any of the men I sent to
you take advantage of you?
18When I urged Titus to visit you and
sent our other brother with him, did Titus
take advantage of you? No, of course
not! For we both have the same Spirit
and walk in each other's steps, doing
things the same way.
19Perhaps you think we are saying all
this just to defend ourselves. That isn't it
at all. We tell you this as Christ's
servants, and we know that God is
listening. Everything we do, dear friends,
is for your benefit.
20For I am afraid that when I come to
visit you I won't like what I find, and then
you won't like my response. I am afraid
that I will find quarreling, jealousy,
outbursts of anger, selfishness,
backstabbing, gossip, conceit, and
disorderly behavior.
21Yes, I am afraid that when I come,
God will humble me again because of
you. And I will have to grieve because
many of you who sinned earlier have not
repented of your impurity, sexual
immorality, and eagerness for lustful
pleasure.
13This is the third time I am coming
to visit you. As the Scriptures say, "The
facts of every case must be established
by the testimony of two or three
witnesses."
2I have already warned those who had
been sinning when I was there on my
second visit. Now I again warn them and
all others, just as I did before, that this
next time I will not spare them.
3I will give you all the proof you want
that Christ speaks through me. Christ is
not weak in his dealings with you; he is
a mighty power among you.
4Although he died on the cross in
weakness, he now lives by the mighty
power of God. We, too, are weak, but
we live in him and have God's power--
the power we use in dealing with you.
5Examine yourselves to see if your faith
is really genuine. Test yourselves. If you
cannot tell that Jesus Christ is among
you, it means you have failed the test.
6I hope you recognize that we have
passed the test and are approved by
God.
7We pray to God that you will not do
anything wrong. We pray this, not to
show that our ministry to you has been
successful, but because we want you to
do right even if we ourselves seem to
have failed.
8Our responsibility is never to oppose
the truth, but to stand for the truth at all
times.
9We are glad to be weak, if you are
really strong. What we pray for is your
restoration to maturity.
10. SECOND CORINTHIANS
10I am writing this to you before I come,
hoping that I won't need to deal harshly
with you when I do come. For I want to
use the authority the Lord has given me
to build you up, not to tear you down.
11Dear brothers and sisters, I close my
letter with these last words: Rejoice.
Change your ways. Encourage each
other. Live in harmony and peace. Then
the God of love and peace will be with
you.
12Greet each other in Christian love. All
the Christians here send you their
greetings.
13May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God, and the fellowship of
the Holy Spirit be with you all.