Day 330

N. Book of Galatians (from Corinth)
1. Difference between law and grace
a. Paul's gospel from God - Galatians 1:1-24
b. Paul's relationship to others - Galatians 2:1-6
c. Justification by faith - Galatians 2:15-21
d. Bondage under the law - Galatians 3:1-29; 4:1-31
2. Application of grace, freedom in Christ - Galatians 5:1-26; 6:1-18


Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.  (Galatians 3:7-9)


Verse 8 caught my attention because of the foreseeing - but as I typed it out I was intrigued by the fact that the gospel was preached to Abraham.  Jesus preached the gospel.  I know I am re-covering ground, but I find this fascinating.  The gospel is not solely that Jesus came, died, was buried and rose again.

Isa 61:1  The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; 
Isa 61:2  To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 
Isa 61:3  To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified. 

I am going to have to continue to turn this over and meditate, read, study, research and pray.  The depth of what the word 'gospel' conveys is beyond a simplistic statement.  The wealth of what Jesus taught when HE came proclaiming the gospel, ahh, that our understanding would be fully enlightened.

Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.  (Galatians 4:10)

The commentaries seem to suggest that the Galatians may have been attempting to keep the Jewish Sabbaths, new moons, festivals.  I can see where it might have been difficult for them.  They have come out of paganism, with all of its rituals, rites and feast days.  It might have been easy to transfer that desire into something they considered holy.  Especially if there were those who thought or promoted that keeping the festivals was in integral part of being a Christian.

I am trying to balance that with Paul's continuing to observe the feasts.  The Word records it, what does that say to us?  I know all of the feasts were a foretelling of an accomplishment fulfilled by Christ (at least the Spring and Summer).  Was Paul keeping the feasts (not looking forward) but as a remembrance of what Christ's death had wrought?

Then there is the passage in Acts where only 4 requirements are placed upon the Gentile converts, yet specific attention is given to mention that they would continue to hear the law of Moses taught in the synagogues.  I have never participated in a Biblical Passover - as I sat and pondered these things, it made me wonder:  If a Jew, participated in a scripturally lined up Passover (or other fulfilled feast), rejoiced to see each portion fulfilled by Christ.

Act 15:21  For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day. 

I like Paul's comment - Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?  (Galatians 4:16)  When someone speaks, corrects and/or challenges us regarding something we are holding onto which may not be Biblical, do we bow up?  Get defensive?  Desire to search the scriptures to see if those things are so?  Take it to the altar and lay it down before Him?  Be willing to give 'it' up to Him?  Even take the time prayerfully ask Him?

A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.  (Galatians 5:9) - How much of the world, it's thoughts, attitudes, behaviors am I allowing to 'leaven' me?  How different do I really look?  Can anyone see a difference?  Not because I want to be lifted up or glorified, God forbid.  I tremble when I think of how sin saturated I am.  The closer I draw to Christ the more I see the ugliness of the sin which battles me daily.  Perhaps better stated, when someone looks at me, how much of Christ do they really see?

Works of the flesh:  Adultery ~ fornication (harlotry, incest) ~ uncleanness (impurity) ~ lasciviousness (licentiousness) ~ idolatry (image worship) ~ witchcraft (medication, magic) ~ hatred (hostility) ~ variance (quarrel, wrangling) ~ emulations (jealousy) ~ wrath (passion) ~ strife (intrigue, faction) ~ seditions (disunion, dissension) ~ heresies (choice, party, disunion) ~ envyings (ill will, jealousy) ~ murders ~ drunkenness (intoxicant) ~ revellings (carousal, let loose).

I will probably never be able to write or say the word intriguing without thinking about this passage and specifically the word strife.  I was just going to list the words, with no thought of placing the definition, until I came to the word variance.  Perplexity - then a decision to look up each word.   I ought not forget how vitally important it is to understand the words and their meanings.

Fruit of the Spirit:  love (affection or benevolence) ~ joy (cheerfulness, delight) ~ peace (prosperity) ~ longsuffering (forbearance, fortitude) ~ gentleness (usefulness, excellence) ~ goodness (virtue or beneficence) ~ faith (persuasion, credence, conviction) ~ meekness (gentleness, humility) ~ temperance (self control).

I like the comparison between work (toil) and fruit (plucked).  To my mind it invokes a picture of in progress (work) versus rest or completion (fruit).

As we therefore have opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.  (Galatians 6:10)

Lord, let us ever be ready to pour out our lives as a sacrificial offering unto You, to whom ever You call us to do so.

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.  (Galatians 6:14)

Father, help each of Your children to die daily to self, to die to the call and allure of the world, to desire with growing fervency to give a proper estimate of who You are in all that we say, do and think.  Help us Lord to love, serve and represent You with the totality of our beings.

Day 329

L. Book of 2 Corinthians (from Macedonia) ~ cont.

3. Paul defends his authority

a. Called of God - 2 Corinthians 10:1-18
b. Godly jealousy and humble boasting - 2 Corinthians 11:1-33; 12:1-10
c. Effective service - 2 Corinthians 12:11-18
d. Honesty in dealings - 2 Corinthians 12:19-21; 13:1-10
e. Conclusion - 2 Corinthians 13:11-14


M. Travels from Macedonia to Corinth - Acts 20:2-3


Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; and having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.  (2 Corinthians 10:5-6)


Casting down imaginations?  Every high thing?  Bring into captivity EVERY thought?  A readiness to revenge disobedience?


casting down - G2507 - From G2596 and G138 (including its alternate); to lower (or with violence) demolish (literally or figuratively).


imaginations - G3053 - From G3049; computation, that is, (figuratively) reasoning (conscience, conceit).


high thing - G5313 - From G5312; an elevated place or thing, that is, (abstractly) altitude, or (by implication) a barrier (figurative).


exalts itself - G1869 - From G1909 and G142; to raise up (literally or figuratively).


knowledge - G1108 - From G1097; knowing (the act), that is, (by implication) knowledge.


bringing into captivity - From G164; to make captive.


every - G3956 - Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.


thought - G3540 - From G3539; a perception, that is, purpose, or (by implication) the intellect, disposition, itself.


obedience - G5218 - From G5219; attentive hearkening, that is, (by implication) compliance or submission.


readiness - G2092 - heteos (fitness); adjusted, that is, ready.


revenge - G1556 - From G1558; to vindicate, retaliate, punish.


disobedience - G3876 - From G3878; inattention, that is, (by implication) disobedience.


obedience - G5218 - see above.


fulfilled - G4137 - From G4134; to make replete, that is, (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.


Heh, I remember when the realization of EVERY was brought to my attention.  I was in a study, we were using the resource, Be Ye Transformed, whose focus or emphasis was Romans 12:1-2.  The battleground is the mind.  I was 'sorting' thoughts to 'give' to the Lord.  Then, the realization came that I was supposed to give EVERY thought.  I wasn't supposed to 'critique' them prior, but every thought.  Complete submission of all my thoughts to HIM.  Think about that thought.  :-)  That is a major undertaking.  Am I 'filtering' all my thoughts through HIS grid?


Have you ever used the Philippians Philter?


Philippians 4:8  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.


For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves, among themselves, are not wise.  (2 Corinthians 10:12)


Easy to get on the haughty horse (or pharisee pony, if you prefer).  Been there done that.   Continue to wrestle (or wrassle) against a holier than thou attitude.  How easy it is to fall into thinking that we are okay by judging our behavior against others.  Lord help us to remember that we are only righteous because of the sinless sacrifice of the savior.


Paul's list of afflictions:  journeyings ~ perils of waters, robbers, own countrymen, heathen, in the city, in the wilderness, in the sea, among false brethren ~ weariness ~ painfulness ~ watchings ~ hunger and thirst ~ fastings ~ cold (brrr) ~ nakedness.


Despite all that, he ceased not to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, to prayerfully intercede for the churches, to pour out his life.  What a jolting realization.  How dedicated are we to give all for the sake of the call?

Day 328 - a bit more

Day 328 ~ A bit more...


g. Separation from the world expected - 2 Corinthians 6:11-17; 7:1

My heart is very troubled by the Bride of Christ's worldliness.  I know it has been an ongoing problem for each generation of believers.  There is probably scores of material available which would show how each generation has men and women crying out to the Bride to renounce her infatuation with the world and its temporal trinkets.  Each generation needs saints who will call the Bride back to the true lover of her soul.  Lord, raise up a multitude of godly men and women who will pray, intercede and confront the hypocrisy within, to lovingly confront and admonish, rebuke and refute errors.

Be ye not unequally yoke with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness and what communion hath light with darkness?

And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.


Father, cause the Bride to repent, to desire to be set apart and holy.

h. Paul's heart revealed - 2 Corinthians 7:2-16

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.  For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge!  In all thing ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.


1. sorrowed - G3076 - From G3077; to distress; reflexively or passively to be sad.  G3077 -sadness.


2. carefulness - G4710 - From G4692; “speed”, that is, (by implication) despatch, eagerness, earnestness.  G4692 - urge on, await eagerly.


3. clearing -G627 - From the same as G626; a plea (“apology”). G626 - give an account, exculpate.


4. indignation -G24 - From G23; indignation. G23 - grief, greatly afflicted, indignant.


5. fear - G5401 - From a primary φέβομαι phebomai (to be put in fear); alarm or fright.


6. vehement desire -G1972 - From G1971; a longing for.  G1971 - dote upon, intensely crave.


7. zeal - G2205 - From G2204; properly heat, that is, (figuratively) “zeal” (in a favorable sense, ardor; in an unfavorable one, jealousy, as of a husband [figuratively of God], or an enemy, malice).  G2204 - hot, boil, glow, fervid.


8. revenge - G1557 - From G1556; vindication, retribution.  G1556 - vindicate, retaliate.


I studied this list years ago, and enjoy reviewing it tremendously.  8 indicators of repentance.  8 = new beginnings.  I find that fascinating.  When one truly repents and turns, we get a new beginning.  :-)  Someone saying they are sorry, should have fruit which bears witness to a changed heart/mind.


Lord help the Bride to repent of her fellowship with the world, her idolatry, unrighteousness behavior and conduct, her infatuation with darkness and those who practice such.

Day 328

L. Book of 2 Corinthians (from Macedonia) ~ cont.

1. Motive for Paul's ministry ~ cont.

d. Suffering ministry endured - 2 Corinthians 4:1-18

e. Christian's attitude toward death - 2 Corinthians 5:1-21

f. Setbacks to be anticipated - 2 Corinthians 6:1-10

g. Separation from the world expected - 2 Corinthians 6:11-17; 7:1

h. Paul's heart revealed - 2 Corinthians 7:2-16

2. Example of giving - 2 Corinthians 8:1-24; 9:1-15

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  (2 Corinthians 4:6)


COMMANDED - just the word invokes the thought of power, ability, direction.  What saith Strong's?  G2306 - A primary verb (used only in the definite past tense, the others being borrowed from G2046, G4483 and G5346); to speak or say (by word or writing).


For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened; not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.  (2 Corinthians 5:4)


Swallowed up?  Like Jonah?  :-)  Life - true life - eternal life.  What a blessed hope and thought!


Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (for we walk by faith, not by sight: ) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8)


How earnestly do we desire that sweet union with our Lord and Savior?  Prayerfully seeking His return?  Crying out: Come Lord Jesus?


In 4 verses the word reconciled, reconciliation,  or reconciling is used 5x.  Intriguing.


And all things are of God, who hath reconciled (G2644) us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation (2643); To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling (2644) the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation (2643).  Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled (2644) to God.  (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)


reconciled - G2644 - From G2596 and G236; to change mutually, that is, (figuratively) to compound a difference.


reconciliation - G2643 - From G2644; exchange (figuratively adjustment), that is, restoration to (the divine) favor.


A ministry of reconciliation?  Ministry - G1248 - From G1249; attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the Christian teacher, or technically of the diaconate).


The word of reconciliation?  Word - G3056 - From G3004; something said (including the thought); by implication a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension a computation; specifically (with the article in John) the Divine Expression (that is, Christ).


Some of what Paul endured/encountered:
patience ~ afflictions ~ necessities ~ distresses ~ stripes ~ imprisonments ~ tumults ~ labours ~ watchings ~ fastings.


How? Pureness ~ knowledge ~ longsuffering ~ kindness ~ love ~ truth ~ power of God ~ armour of righteousness.


Contrasts:  Honor and dishonor ~ evil report and good report ~ deceivers yet true ~ unknown yet known ~ dying yet living ~ chastened yet not killed ~ sorrowful yet rejoicing ~ poor yet rich ~ possessing nothing yet possessing all things.

Day 327

J. Book of 1 Corinthians (from Ephesus) ~ cont.

2. Pattern for a prosperous church ~ cont.

l. Closing instructions and greetings - 1 Corinthians 16:1-24

K. Paul travels from Ephesus to Macedonia, leaves Timothy - 1 Timothy 1:3; Acts 20:1

L. Book of 2 Corinthians (from Macedonia)

1. Motive for Paul's ministry

a. Paul's comfort - 2 Corinthians 1:1-24

b. Discipline recommended - 2 Corinthians 2:1-13

c. Triumphant ministry declared - 2 Corinthians 2:14-17; 3:1-18

I have ALWAYS enjoyed this verse - I know, I know, I have so many, but this one, well, raising sons, I never raised them to be boys, but rather men.  This verse seemed to reflect what I was trying to instill in them.


Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.  (1 Corinthians 16:13)


Gill's commentary is VERY good - however, lengthy - great exhortation.  Really, worth the time and effort to read.


watch - G1127 - From G1453; to keep awake, that is, watch (literally or figuratively).


stand fast - G4739 - From the perfect tense of G2476; to be stationary, that is, (figuratively) to persevere.


faith - G4102 - From G3982; persuasion, that is, credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly constancy in such profession; by extension the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself.


quit you like men - G407 - Middle voice from G435; to act manly.


strong - G2901 - From G2900; to empower, that is, (passively) increase in vigor.


Poole's commentary - Watch ye: watching, in its usual acceptation signifieth a forbearing of sleep; and that in order to some end.  Sin is set out under the notion of sleep, Ephesians 5:14; so that spiritual watching signifies a diligent abstaining from sin, and from whatsoever may be to us a temptation to sin against God in order to the perfecting of holiness, and the obtaining of life and immortality.  Stand fast in the faith: be steady in the profession of the truth and holding close to the doctrine of faith.  Quit you like men, be strong: you are as soldiers fighting against the world, the flesh, and the devil; do not behave yourselves like children, whom the least opposition will terrify and throw down; but like men, with a spiritual courage and fortitude, becoming such who have so good a Captain, and so good a cause.


All of which made me think of this:  '...having done all to stand(2476), stand (2476) therefore...'  (Ephesians 6:13b, 14a)


And because we can all use the exhortation:



Ephesians 6:12-18  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Have you put your armor on today?  Are you prepared for the battle?  Are you giving any place to the enemy?

For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savor of death ; and to the other the savor of life unto life.  And who is sufficient for these things?  (2 Corinthians 2:15-16)

Poole's commentary (v16):  As sweet smells, which are to some pleasant and comfortable, are to others pernicious and deadly; so it is with the sweet savor of the gospel.  The report which we in all places make of Christ, to some, through their unbelief and hardness of heart, and fondness of their lusts, proveth but the savor of death unto death, hardening their hearts to their eternal ruin and destruction; but to such who, being ordained to eternal life, believe our reports, and embrace the gospel, and live up to the precepts and rule of it, our preaching proves a cause of spiritual and of eternal life, to which that leadeth. 

How do you smell Bride?  Is

 there any distinguishing scent?  Father when You dispatch Your son to claim His bride, what will He find?  O Father you state in Your word, that she is to be presented to Him having no spot or wrinkle, holy without blemish.  Lord, she is not ready, she is too conformed to this world.  Father Your word states that judgment must begin at Your house.  Father, as painful and heart rending as it may be, let the cleansing begin.

Day 326

J. Book of 1 Corinthians (from Ephesus) ~ cont.

2. Pattern for a prosperous church ~ cont.

h. Importance of love - 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

i. Tongues and prophesying - 1 Corinthians 14:1-40

j. The gospel declared - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4

k. The resurrection - 1 Corinthians 15:8-58


I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. (1 Corinthians 14:5)


prophesied/prophesieth - G4395 - From G4396; to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office.  G4396 - From a compound of G4253 and G5346; a foreteller (“prophet”); by analogy an inspired speaker; by extension a poet.


church - G1577 - From a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564; a calling out, that is, (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both).


Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that you are mad? But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: And thus are the secrets of his own heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. 
(1 Corinthians 14:22-25)


This passage seems contradictory to me - tongues are a sign for unbelievers (22) yet the next verse (23) seems to indicate that unbelievers would consider someone speaking in tongues as mad (G3105 - rave as a maniac).


Then verse 22 states prophesying is for them which believe, yet in verses 24 and 25 it appears that it is to convict the unbeliever.


Gill's commentary on the passage is well worth the time to read (too lengthy to quote) - the part I found most interesting was in reference to verse 25 - if I have internalized it properly - that when the Word is rightly divided someone sitting under the teaching can and will be convicted. The Word being taught, no knowledge by that person giving forth, the message is used by God to convict of sin and bring to repentance.


The passage is speaking about unbelievers, but also unlearned.


unbelievers - G571 - From G1 (as a negative particle) and G4103; (actively) disbelieving, that is, without Christian faith (specifically a heathen); (passively) untrustworthy (person), or incredible (thing).


unlearned - G2399 - From G2398; a private person, that is, (by implication) an ignoramus (compare “idiot”).


God's Word, rightly divided should be an edification for and to all.  Not only to those who are in need of HIS saving grace, but more importantly for the warriors who battle (or should) daily, contending for the faith.


How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you have a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation.  Let all things be done to edifying. (1 Corinthians 14:26)


Again Gill's commentary is an encouragement for those who are gifted in these areas to be used, not for vanities sake, but for the edification of the saints.


Wherefore brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.  (1 Corinthians 14:39)


covet? - G2206 - From G2205; to have warmth of feeling for or against. G2205 - From G2204; properly heat, that is, (figuratively) “zeal” (in a favorable sense, ardor; in an unfavorable one, jealousy, as of a husband [figuratively of God], or an enemy, malice). G2204 - A primary verb; to be hot (boil, of liquids; or glow, of solids), that is, (figuratively) be fervid (earnest).


There are 2 distinct camps regarding spiritual gifts one says they are for today, others that they have passed away with the 1st century church.  I realize there are some major abuses of the gifts. The name it, claim in crowd is one example of extreme abuse, done solely for the purpose of building up a person or ministry.


That said, I do not see how the church can deny that Paul was very specific about the need for fervency in the manifestation of these gifts.  If he admonishes us to covet them, how then can they have passed away?


Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.  (1 Corinthians 15:33)


deceived - G4105 - From G4106; to (properly cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue).


evil - G2556 - Apparently a primary word; worthless (intrinsically such; whereas G4190 properly refers to effects), that is, (subjectively) depraved, or (objectively) injurious.


communications - G3657 - From G3658; companionship (“homily”), that is, (by implication) intercourse.


corrupt - G5351 - Probably strengthened from φθίω phthiō (to pine or waste): properly to shrivel or wither, that is, to spoil (by any process) or (genitive) to ruin (especially figuratively by moral influences, to deprave).


good - G5543 - From G5530; employed, that is, (by implication) useful (in manner or morals).


manners - G2239 - A strengthened form of G1485; usage, that is, (plural) moral habits.


This is in reference to those who deny resurrection.  However, it would behoove the Bride to look at it in light of how much the world influences her.  We (whether we agree with or to it) are impacted by what we read, watch and participate.  We become desensitized to the evil promoted in the culture.  If Father admonishes us to be set apart and holy, how diligently are we to obey?

Day 325 - Further Thoughts

This has been an interesting year.  Father has allowed some situations and circumstances in my life which have challenged me, caused me to reevaluate, confronted me with issues and people in ways in which I had not previously been exposed.  I have learned over the years though, that HE never allows anything in our lives but that which will glorify Him and (ouch) remove dross from our lives.


My recent discovery about the star of David made me realize how easily things can creep in and be accepted as true, right or correct.  I am desirous of becoming more diligent and attentive in looking at everything, prayerfully discerning whether or not it is scripturally substantiated.


Continuing with the Lord's supper requirements - Chapter 11 of 1 Corinthians.  I was challenged on this topic a while back.  I've been reading, researching, asking questions, really, in an attempt to keep the status quo.  To defend what I believed to be the biblical position.  


I was encouraged to look at the verses using a method called Chiastic Structure, which I had not heard of and have no experience.  I looked at the information, but still do not grasp how to make it work.  I did look at the passage again - specifically 1 Corinthians 11:3-15.  I have looked at, and defended this portion of scripture as meaning that a woman's hair is her covering.  That nothing further is needed.  Solely from the English word usage.  For someone who enjoys looking up the words in their original language, I am slightly perplexed that I never did that with this passage.


For the sake of time and space, I am not going to type out the entire passage, but only hit the key words which seemed pertinent to me as I attempt to discover what Father is saying and/or instructing.


v4 - covered - G2596 - A primary particle; (preposition) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case [genitive, dative or accusative] with which it is joined).


v5 - uncovered - G177 - From G1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of a compound of G2596 and G2572; unveiled.


v6 - covered -G2619 - From G2596 and G2572; to cover wholly, that is, veil.


v7 - covered - G2619 - From G2596 and G2572; to cover wholly, that is, veil.  (Men ought not.)


v10 - power - G1849 - From G1832 (in the sense of ability); privilege, that is, (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence.


v13 - uncovered - G177 - From  G1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of a compound of G2596 and G2572; unveiled.


v15 - covering - G4018 - Neuter of a presumed derivative of G4016; something thrown around one, that is, a mantle, veil.


One of the questions put to me was:  Why would Paul use all those verses to state that a woman's hair was the covering?


I have studied, researched, googled, and commentaried this topic until, frankly, my head hurts.  As difficult as it is, I can come to no other conclusion, that in corporate worship, or called assemblies of saints, that a woman ought to have her head covered.  Actually applying this knowledge is probably the more difficult task.  In all honesty, I do not want to - mentally I do, but physically, I am not there yet.  It appears such a HUGE difference and change that I can not, at this particular moment, fathom.


After looking up the words in the Greek, a friend had suggested this article.  Pressing on in my search, I found this article.  The next one tries to 'tweak' the requirement.  I found this blog which I thought was interesting.  She was focused on long hair and a 4th way of 'covering' without covering.  :-D


If you would like more information on Chiastic try here or here.  All of the commentaries I consulted were in agreement, thought Poole's commentary was a bit ambiguous.  Some alternate commentaries, which I have yet to read, can be found here and here.


For the menfolk - if you are fully persuaded about the issue and have sisters in the Lord who are not - do not, I repeat, do not beat them over the head.  Note, sisters in the Lord, not pagans.


Women - if you are reading and researching this, pray, read, seek godly counsel.  This is NOT an issue that I have fully embraced and will be a process of forward, stop, forward, stop.  If you are already persuaded about this issue, be gentle in how you share.


The saint who gently admonished me did so in such a way as to totally disarm me - I had no recourse of bowing up or getting aggravated.  I was exhorted to research, study and come to my own conclusions.  I would prefer an easier assignment next time.  :-)


Lord, continue to work the dross of the world out of Your Bride.  Help us to NOT be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.

Day 325

J. Book of 1 Corinthians (from Ephesus) ~ cont.

2. Pattern for a prosperous church ~ cont.

d. Proper attitude toward money - 1 Corinthians 9:1-27
e. Jewish heritage reviewed - 1 Corinthians 10:1-15
f. Lord's supper requirements - 1 Corinthians 10:16-33; 11:1-34
g. Spiritual gifts - 1 Corinthians 12:1-31


"...and that Rock was Christ." (1 Corinthians 10:4) - Which put me in remembrance of the song On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand.  There is no other foundation, no other hope, nothing beyond Him.  For in Him we live and breath and have our being.
I am reminded of our brother Peter's confession when asked by our Lord, will you go away also?  "Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life."


The Israelites were an example for us, how well have we internalized the lessons?  Lusting after evil things; idolaters; fornication; tempt or tempted; murmuring?


lusting - G1938 - From G1937; a craver.  G1937 - From G1909 and G2372; to set the heart upon, that is, long for (rightfully or otherwise).


evil - G2556 - Apparently a primary word; worthless (intrinsically such; whereas G4190 properly refers to effects), that is, (subjectively) depraved, or (objectively) injurious.


idolaters - G1496 - From G1497 and the base of G3000; an image (servant or) worshipper (literally or figuratively).


fornicators - G4203 - From G4204; to act the harlot, that is, (literally) indulge unlawful lust (of either sex), or (figuratively) practise idolatry.


tempt - G1598 - From G1537 and G3985; to test thoroughly.


tempted - G3985 - From G3984; to test (objectively), that is, endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline.


murmuring - G1111 - Of uncertain derivation; to grumble.


Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. (1 Corinthians 10:12)  A very worthwhile admonition.  I can slip into being a Pharisee very easily - completely missing how oft I sin internally.  Lord, show us where we are missing the mark, sinning against You, whether external or internal.  Help us to fervently desire to please You.  Not just in the outward, but more importantly, inwardly.


There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also may a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.  (1 Corinthians 10:13)


Thank God!  :-)  There is much to tempt and test us, Lord, help us to seek to escape the temptations.  To be a presentable bride, wholly desirous of giving a proper estimate of You in all that we say do and think, in our presentation and representation of You.


But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table and of the table of devils.  (1 Corinthians 10:20-21)


I never paused to think about what this might mean in modern day language.  Abstractly I can imagine what it might have meant to the 1st century church.  They would have had actual 'sacrifices' going on.  The question in my mind is, what 'sacrifices' are going on today that we do see as such?  How immersed with the culture have we become that we do not even recognize that we are worshipping devils or giving some semblance of such?  How set apart and holy is the Bride?

Day 324

J. Book of 1 Corinthians (from Ephesus) ~ cont.

1. Paul's concern for the church in Corinth ~ cont.

e. The immoral believer rebuked - 1 Corinthians 5:1-13

f. Lawsuits rebuked - 1 Corinthians 6:1-8
2. Pattern for a prosperous church
a. The body is sacred, God's temple - 1 Corinthians 6:9-20
b. Marriage is from God - 1 Corinthians 7:1-40
c. Refuse meat offered to idols - 1 Corinthians 8:1-13


Judge not that ye be not judged - or some variation of this statement is made by those who question whether a Christian is allowed to have a standard.  Which in reality should be HIS standard, we're just holding the line.  :-)


Father is quite clear in His word:  For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. (1 Corinthians 5:12-13a)


The saints are to judge - but those within the body.  We can not, or should not expect those who are spiritually dead to have our standard or even understand why there is a standard.  They are unregenerate, lost, wandering in darkness.  However, we should not allow those types of comments to intimidate or sway us from what Father has called us to do.  Even if they come from those who call themselves 'Christians.'


Those who will NOT inherit the kingdom of God:
fornicators
idolaters
adulterers
effeminate
abusers
thieves
covetous
drunkards
revilers
extortioners


10 = law - I wonder how this list meshes with the 10 words?  :-O Another topic to research...later.


Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise let every woman have her own husband. (1 Corinthians 7:3)


benevolence - G2133 - From the same as G2132; kindness; euphemistically conjugal duty.  G2132 - From a compound of G2095 and G3563; to be well minded, that is, reconcile.


I thought it interesting that the husband is the first to initiate - setting the example - leading.


Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God (1 Corinthians 7:19)


Gill's commentary:  but the keeping of the commandments of God; that is something; not that the commands of God, and the observance of them, are of any avail to procure the pardon of sin, acceptance with God, justification in his sight, and eternal salvation; yet they are of moment, as they are the commands and ordinances of God; and ought to be kept in faith and fear, as they were delivered from a principle of love, and with a view to the glory of God; and though for keeping of them there is no reward of debt, yet in keeping of them there is a reward of grace; peace of mind is had, and the presence of God enjoyed; obedience to them, upon Gospel principles and motives, is a fruit of grace, an evidence of faith, and of the new creature; it is the ornament of a Christian profession, and is profitable to men.


keeping - G5084 - From G5083; a watching, that is, (figuratively) observance, or (concretely) a prison.  G5083 is lengthy, condensing: watch, guard, keep the eye upon, prevent escaping, implies a fortress, detain - worth the time to read.)


commandments - G1785 - From G1781; injunction, that is, an authoritative prescription.


I like that:  prescription - Pre = before, script = to write.  Written prior for our edification, education and exhortation.


Knowledge (1108) puffeth up (5448), but charity (26) edifieth (3618).  If any man think that he knoweth (1492) anything, he knoweth (1097) nothing (3762) yet as he ought to know. But if any man love (25) God, the same is known (1097) of him.  (1 Corinthians 8:1b-3)


knowledge - G1108 - From G1097; knowing (the act), that is, (by implication) knowledge.


puffeth up - G5448 - From G5449 in the primary sense of blowing; to inflate, that is, (figuratively) make proud (haughty).


charity - G26 - From G25; love, that is, affection or benevolence; specifically (plural) a love feast.


edifieth - G3618 - From the same as G3619; to be a house builder, that is, construct or (figuratively) confirm.


knoweth - G1492 - A primary verb; used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent, G3700 and G3708; properly to see (literally or figuratively); by implication (in the perfect only) to know.


ha - different word, translated the same, interesting...


knoweth - G1097 - A prolonged form of a primary verb; to “know” (absolutely), in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as shown at left, with others not thus clearly expressed).


nothing - G3762 - From G3761 and G1520; not even one (man, woman or thing), that is, none, nobody, nothing.


love - G25 - Perhaps from ἄγαν agan (much; or compare [H5689]); to love (in a social or moral sense).


Lord, help Your Bride not to be bloated intellectually, but lacking in love one for another.  Father, the return of Your son draws closer with the passing of each day, help us to be prepared, to be about Your work, to diligently pray, to be a light among those who are perishing.  Help us to be cleansed and prepared for the Master's return.