“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21 “For to me” is similar to the common expression “As far as I’m concerned.” The phrase “to live is Christ and to die is gain” means Paul would experience gain in his own death because he would be with Christ. In…
“But, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” 2 Corinthians 10:17-118 Paul began this section by saying he was not going to place himself among the group that commended themselves. The reason he would…
“Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1 Based on the promises that God would receive them with favor (6:17) and provide for and protect them as a father does his children (6:18), Paul…
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” Romans 14:8 Paul here is addressing believers, not people in general. Believers belong to the Lord. They live and die in relation to Him. Therefore, Christians should…
“To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and…
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 We are all part of God’s handiwork in His creation. Our “good works” are not the cause of our salvation, but its result. Judaizers threatened most early Christian communities, teaching that…
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 In the Old Testament (OT) the temple was the congregation of believers….
“I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.” Psalm 119:14 “Rejoice in following Your statutes” is the Psalmist’s confession that he takes more delight in the doctrines of God’s Word than he does in riches of the world. That which we have laid up in our hearts and upon which we…
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 The phrase “refuge and strength” may be rephrased “our impenetrable defense.” The psalms regularly use imagery of a fortress to describe God. In the ancient Middle East, cities were built on heights with high walls for defense. Yet there was no city…
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6-7 “Sparrows sold for two pennies” is a reference of the very poor purchasing sparrows for food,…