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Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper

March 28, 2023 by Debbie Collin Leave a Comment

Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper

Debbie Collin

March 28, 2023

Equipped,Gospel,Hope,Resurrection,Sacrifice

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Of Epic Importance"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

1 Corinthians 15:1-7

Now I want to make clear for you, brothers and sisters, the gospel I preached to you, which you received, on which you have taken your stand 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold to the message I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. 3 For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. 6 Then he appeared to over five hundred brothers and sisters at one time; most of them are still alive, but some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Why did Paul need to “make clear” about the gospel? (verse 1-2)

Paul had one passion in ministry, sharing the gospel, or the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. His desire is repeatedly evidenced in every letter he wrote that has been preserved in our Bibles.

“I am eager to preach the gospel to you… For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:14-16)

“Woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16)

“Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel… that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ…” (Philippians 1:12-13)

In this letter to the Corinthians, Paul is responding to questions the church in Corinth had asked of him. Presumably, based on Paul’s writing, there were questions about the resurrection of Jesus, and Paul saved this most important topic for the end of his letter.

He wanted to write a simple, straight-forward statement of faith that would summarize what he had already taught them. It is the most important thing he had taught them as every Christian teaching hung upon the resurrection of Christ. Paul wanted them to understand it with all clarity.

The Everyday Application

1) Why did Paul need to “make clear” about the gospel? (verse 1-2)

When cashiers or bank tellers are trained in detecting counterfeit bills, they are shown how to identify genuine ones. They are taught to notice the texture of the money, security features, and serial numbers of authentic bills. Not all counterfeits will be the same, but genuine currency will always be consistent.

We can say the same thing about counterfeit teachings about the gospel. There have always been false teachers who have tried to lead people astray. How can we know if someone is teaching the “real” gospel?

Paul makes it clear for us in this passage, so we can confidently identify the authentic gospel. Any “gospel” that doesn’t absolutely hinge on the death, burial, and resurrection of the fully God, fully human Jesus Christ is no gospel at all. Christ’s resurrection from the dead is the most important aspect of our faith.

The Original Intent

2) What is the significance of the words “according to the Scriptures”? (verse 3-4)

In these verses, Paul uses the phrase “according to the Scriptures” twice. A repeated phrase is often a signal to take a deeper look!

“Scriptures” comes from a Greek word, “graphé”, which means “writing”. In the New Testament, this word almost always refers to the Old Testament. (Note: English words like biography, autograph, bibliography come from this same Greek root word!)

The significance of the phrase “according to the Scriptures” to the church in Corinth would be that the events of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection were a perfect fulfillment according to the prophecies and promises found in the Old Testament. It’s an important part of Paul’s argument that Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection were not just things that happened by accident or by human design at the hand of angry Jewish leaders, the betrayal from Judas, or the Roman law.

Paul emphasizes that every aspect surrounding the events of Christi’s resurrection were part of God’s predetermined plan for salvation.

The Everyday Application

2) What is the significance of the words “according to the Scriptures”? (verse 3-4)

As we read these words today, we can hold the entirety of “the Scriptures” (Old Testament) in our hands. We can trace the thread of the revelation of God’s plan of salvation of humanity through Jesus Christ through each page starting in Genesis!

The words, “according to the Scriptures”, are an exclamation point in this passage reminding us that the events of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection were not unexpected. They were part of the plan. Let’s take a closer look through the lens of the Old Testament Scriptures. 

In Isaiah 53, there are references to a suffering servant who will be “pierced because of our rebellion” and “crushed because of our iniquities.” (Isaiah 53:5)

Other prophetic passages specific to the crucifixion and resurrection can be found in Psalm 22, Hosea 6:2, Psalm 16:10, and Job 19:25-27.

The Original Intent

3) What role do the witnesses of the resurrected Jesus have in this passage? (verse 5-7)
 
In Ancient Rome, there were usually two or more witnesses required to establish the truth of a testimony in court. In response to any doubts about the authenticity of the resurrection of Jesus, Paul provides more than five hundred eyewitnesses!

He also strengthens this piece of hard evidence by pointing out that most of them were still alive at the time of Paul’s writing. (verse 6) In a sense, Paul is saying, “Don’t believe me? Go and ask them!”

By mentioning these specific individuals and groups, Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection fulfilling many prophecies was not just a belief or a doctrine crafted by a group of people with a political agenda or personal motivation.

It was a real, life-changing event witnessed by a wide range of men and women. He wanted the Corinthian believers to also experience the life-changing reality of Christ’s resurrection for themselves by trusting the God who died and came back to life!

The Everyday Application

3) What role do the witnesses of the resurrected Jesus have in this passage? (verse 5-7)  

I love a good courtroom drama! Especially the climax moment during the trial when the attorney is making his closing statement and you know he has proven his case. It all comes down to the evidence and testimony of the witnesses.

Concerning Jesus’ resurrection, we have historical evidence and the testimony of eyewitnesses preserved for more than 2000 years! We can know the truth! Jesus knew there would be many more believers who would choose to trust Him long after the eyewitnesses had died. He said, “Because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” (John 20:29)

That group of people includes me! If you’ve trusted Jesus as your personal Savior, believing Him at His Word that He, fully God and fully human, lowered Himself by putting on flesh to die the death we deserve because we have sinned, and then was raised to life again that we too might have eternal life, then you’re in that group too!

If you’ve confessed your sins, turned from them, and surrendered to Jesus, you are included in those whom Jesus spoke of who believe even though they haven’t seen Him with physical eyes.

This blessing of belief is not just for the future in Heaven but is a gift now in the present tense for those who believe. “Because of His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3) The Living Hope of Jesus can heal our grief, our despair, our broken hearts, and our every longing.

For more discussion on the evidence and testimony about Jesus and the Christian faith, I invite you to read Evidence that Demands a Verdict by Josh McDowell or The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel.

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Christ,coming,Easter,hope,resurrection
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Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper
March 28, 2023
Steadfast Day 1 Of Epic Importance
March 27, 2023
The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023

Steadfast Day 1
Journey Study

Shortly after His ascension, just as Jesus had promised, He sent His Holy Spirit to dwell within His followers.

He is still here, filling and empowering each and every person who puts their faith in Jesus Christ.

Yet, thousands of years later, we are still waiting for Jesus to fulfill the promise of His final return.
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Posted in: Equipped, Gospel, Hope, Resurrection, Sacrifice Tagged: Christ, coming, Easter, hope, resurrection

Steadfast Day 1 Of Epic Importance

March 27, 2023 by Sarah Young Leave a Comment

Steadfast Day 1 Of Epic Importance

Sarah Young

March 27, 2023

Alive,Gospel,Resurrection,Righteousness,Sacrifice

Read His Words Before Ours!

1 Corinthians 15:1-7
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
Psalm 16:9-11
1 John 1:1-4
1 Peter 1:3-12

Although I’ve never been in a courtroom during a trial, I know that in the US, when a witness takes the stand, he or she promises to tell the truth, “the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” 

In 1 Corinthians 15:1-7, Paul begins as if he is taking the witness stand and declaring his testimony about the Gospel to be absolutely, positively, 100% true. 

The veracity of Paul’s words is of utmost importance because what he states constitutes the core of Christian faith. 

Sometimes Paul’s writings can be complicated, with winding sentences that seem to go on and on.  Here, however, he breaks down the message into a very simple, straightforward summary of the Gospel. I can feel the sense of urgency as he writes, outlining the Gospel with absolute clarity and longing for his brothers and sisters in faith to firmly hold on to these truths.

Not only does Paul want them to believe the Gospel message, but to live it out boldly, confidently, and consistently. He begins the chapter with the foundation of our faith and ends in verse 58, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord’s work, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

For us to live in such a radical way, we must be deeply committed to what we believe. We see this commitment in the lives of the disciples, the men and women who walked with Jesus during His ministry. Many of these first believers were also the first martyrs, dying for their faith in horrific ways, courageously choosing to endure pain and eventual death rather than recant. 

Before Peter was crucified, he wrote a letter to believers scattered as exiles because of severe persecution. (1 Peter 1:3-12) He first reminds them God has “given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3) With this in mind, Peter then urges them to hold onto their faith even as they “suffer grief in various trials.” (1 Peter 1:6)

Though they may not have seen Jesus personally, these believers could hold steadfastly to the reality of the Gospel and the certain hope of eternity with God. This hope changed their perspective as they waited in eager anticipation for the “revelation of Jesus Christ.”  (1 Peter 1:7)

Thousands of years later, the same is true for us.  
As believers, we too receive “an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading[.]” (1 Peter 1:4) For now, we “are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:5)

Paul further solidifies the truth of the Gospel by emphasizing that HUNDREDS of people saw Jesus following His resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:5) Gospel-writer Luke confirms this with an account of how the risen Jesus shared a meal with His disciples and invited them to touch His nail-scarred hands. (Luke 24:36-43) 

Luke goes on to share some of Jesus’ final words to His followers:
“‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you – that everything written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.’ Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.” (Luke 24:44-45)

Shortly after His ascension, just as Jesus had promised, He sent His Holy Spirit to dwell within His followers. (Acts 2:1-4)

He is still here, filling and empowering each and every person who puts their faith in Jesus Christ.

Yet, thousands of years later, we are still waiting for Jesus to fulfill the promise of His final return.  

The apostle John was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he diligently wrote letters to encourage fellow believers to stand firm in their faith. John also penned the book of Revelation, in which we are given the glorious promise of what is YET TO COME. John shares how one day God will make a new heaven and a new earth, restoring all that has been broken, making all things beautiful once more. (Revelation 21:1-5)

I don’t know about you, but I am eagerly waiting for that day when I can join the hymn of heaven as people from every tongue, tribe, and nation come together to praise God for all eternity. (Revelation 7:9-10)

Until then, in the midst of all the chaos and confusion of this world, may we hold firmly to the wondrous hope of our future. For Paul assures us, “the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, establish, strengthen, and support you, after you have suffered a little while.” (1 Peter 5:10)

With this in mind, may we, like those first disciples, boldly bear witness to all God has done in our lives and courageously share the good news of the Gospel. They have gone before us, and are now a “large cloud of witnesses surrounding us” (Hebrews 12: 1-2) and cheering us on as we keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, running the race He has set before us until He returns or takes us home.

Tags :
alive,Easter,faith,gospel,hope,resurrection
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Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper
March 28, 2023
Steadfast Day 1 Of Epic Importance
March 27, 2023
The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023

Steadfast Day 2
Digging Deeper

I love a good courtroom drama! Especially the climax moment during the trial when the attorney is making his closing statement and you know he has proven his case. It all comes down to the evidence and testimony of the witnesses.

Concerning Jesus’ resurrection, we have historical evidence and the testimony of eyewitnesses preserved for more than 2000 years!
Dig Deeper!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
March 27 - April 14, 2023 - Journey Theme #116

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

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Posted in: Alive, Gospel, Resurrection, Righteousness, Sacrifice Tagged: alive, Easter, faith, gospel, hope, resurrection

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3

March 25, 2023 by Katelyn Palmer Leave a Comment

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3

Katelyn Palmer

March 25, 2023

Christ,church,Clothed,Community,Faith,Family,Fellowship

Rest your soul through reflective journaling,
praying Scripture,
and worshiping the Creator who
longs for intimacy with each of us!

This Week's Journeys

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Friday's DD

Pray His Words Back To Him!

Matthew 5:14-16

You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Read More Of His Words

Prayer Journal Entry

Yahweh, this week of study together has been a wonderful reminder that You are love and You have made us from love. Our calling in this lifetime is to spread Your light to others in the face of a broken and hate-filled world. (Matthew 5:14-16) I cannot imagine a better way to spend my life.

Of course, it is easier said than done some days, so I ask that on those days, You put Your words on my tongue and fill me with Your strength. (1 Peter 4:11) When I feel consumed by the brokenness of this world, remind me what authentic love looks like (1 Corinthians 13) and the deadly consequence of sin You have already rescued me from (Deuteronomy 6:10-12).

I ask for a heart that seeks only to use my God-given gifts to glorify Your name, Lord, and reflect Your love onto others. (Romans 12:6-13, 1 Peter 4:10-11) In Your Son’s name, Jesus, I ask these things, Lord, Amen.

Worship Through Song

Journal Prompts

JOURNAL ONE

On Monday, Meribeth asked us many thought provoking questions about what it looks like to “lovingly devote our lives to worshiping Jesus and serving His people.” She reminded us that serving others can be as simple as offering our presence after a hard day of work or giving someone the space to gush about a topic they love. Ultimately, devoting ourselves to serving God’s people simply means showing up.

When we are present, we must remember to move forward with the same love Jesus illustrated, which means seeing others as God’s children, not the traitorous tax collector or the grumpy neighbor. (Luke 19:1-10)

His love prods us to be the first one to say hello, the first one to offer a helping hand, and the first one to seek reconciliation when conflict arises. Who can you show intentional devotion to this week? Stop now and ask the Lord!

We must also remember as we serve God’s people, to take time to authentically worship Him. There is nowhere He cannot go and nowhere He cannot hear us, so why not use that drive through rush hour traffic to praise the Lord for a paycheck or sing a hymn while we get ready in the morning. There is no wrong time to turn our faces upward and express our love and gratitude to our Father.

JOURNAL TWO

As broken people, we are inherently self-centered and severely limited in our perspective of the world around us, whereas God is omniscient. This means He knows the fight each of us walk through, which is why the Lord emphasizes to His people the important command to love everyone, especially those who hurt us.

When we love like Him, we show the world what His heart looks like! He calls us to stoop low and carry another’s burdens, that we might reflect His heart more clearly to those around us.

When I consider the powerful effect of kindness in my life, I am reminded of many instances where a person’s kind word freed me from a negative mindset or, in some cases, led to life-changing action.

Rebecca reminded us we cannot authentically love what we do not deeply know. As we seek to follow Christ, we must remember to first seek to deeply know Him that we might authentically love Him and His people.

Are you struggling to love someone? Seek the Lord and ask to know Him better so you can love more fully!

JOURNAL THREE

Have you ever looked at someone’s life and thought, “They’re such a good person!”. Have you ever considered whether their kindness was enough for God give them a check mark of approval, or perhaps it’s just been assumed that of course He would. Have you ever wondered if good works could balance out bad ones?

Marietta called out two realities from Scripture yesterday. One, all believers who claim to follow Jesus are not only compelled by Christ’s love to serve one another with gentle humility, but they’re also wondrously empowered to accomplish this. Believers sin when they choose not to serve others with love.

Two, we cannot masquerade ourselves into being God’s child when we haven’t been changed from the inside out by Christ. We can’t fool God by stacking up good deeds, and we can’t escape God’s call on our life to love like Jesus.

The secret? When we admit we can’t be good enough on our own and confess the ugliness of our sins, God forgives us and makes us His own. Then, He fill us with His Spirit to equip us for loving others by serving them.

Have you set aside the masquerade? Or are you already His, but tired of serving others because you’re doing it on your own strength? Whatever it is, give it up to the Lord Jesus and walk free to serve others with HIS power!
Tags :
family,Gentle,hope,kind,lowly,serve
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Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper
March 28, 2023
Steadfast Day 1 Of Epic Importance
March 27, 2023
The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023

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Posted in: Christ, church, Clothed, Community, Faith, Family, Fellowship Tagged: family, Gentle, hope, kind, lowly, serve

The GT Weekend! ~ Philemon Week 2

February 25, 2023 by Katelyn Palmer Leave a Comment

The GT Weekend! ~ Philemon Week 2

Katelyn Palmer

February 25, 2023

Community,Discipleship,Faith,Forgiven,Freedom

Rest your soul through reflective journaling,
praying Scripture,
and worshiping the Creator who
longs for intimacy with each of us!

This Week's Journeys

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Friday's DD

Pray His Words Back To Him!

1 John 3:16-18

“This is how we have come to know love: He laid down His life for us. We should also lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has this world’s goods and sees a fellow believer in need but withholds compassion from him – how does God’s love reside in him? Little children, let us not love in word or speech, but in action and in truth.”
Read More Of His Words

Prayer Journal Entry

Yahweh, Your teachings have richly encouraged me this week! I ask You to press them into my heart so I may continue to absorb them in the days to come. You have emphasized the importance of a life led in love and obedience to Your will. Help me love like You do, Lord. (1 John 4:9-12) Guide my steps and don’t let me stumble. (Proverbs 4:12)

I know Your will is saturated in compassion, mercy, and goodness. You are not selfish. You are the very embodiment of love, so I can act with confidence as I carry out Your commands to love others. Strengthen my resolve as I stand firm with my brothers and sisters against worldly wisdom. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14) Show me when my actions and my words don’t align with You, Lord.

I desire to bring You glory in the everyday patterns of my life. Let my path be straight so others can see an example of the transformative power of Your love in my brokenness. May You take all the glory so I can’t boast apart from You. (Ephesians 2:8)
In Your Son’s name I pray, Amen.

Worship Through Song

Journal Prompts

JOURNAL ONE

There is much to unpack this week! If you’ve missed any studies, catch up here! On Monday, Malinda taught that transformative faith is activated to greater degrees when we know Christ more deeply. Our reflection of Jesus’ love increases because we’ve come to know more of Jesus’ love.

From the beginning of our faith journey, God transformed our very identities as a result of faith. When we surrender ourselves to Him, and trust He died to save us and is exactly the God He claimed to be in Scripture, He makes us utterly new. As we walk in this faith and lean deeper into knowing Him through prayer and studying Scripture, His love transforms us and stirs others up to deeply know the God we’ve come to love. (Philemon 1:6)

Reflecting God’s glory requires action in allowing our love for Him to overflow as love toward others. Loving actions bring life to our words! (1 John 3:18) We’re also warned to consider those whose actions reveal deceitful tongues. (Romans 16:18; Titus 1:16) Lastly, our motivation is key! 1 John 4:7 reminds us to “love one another, because love is from God” and Paul teaches we have nothing without love. (1 Corinthians 13:3) When loving others inevitably becomes difficult, remind yourself, “we love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) 

JOURNAL TWO

Philemon is a short, but exceptionally rich book. In our everyday lives it may be hard to relate to Philemon’s struggle of forgiving a slave for some unspoken crime, but what about a friend who betrayed us, a partner who deceived us, or a boss who abused our work ethic?

Paul explains that salvation allows God to provide us with a new identity AND a new purpose, one where love, mercy, and compassion color our days. (Philemon 1:11) Through the gift of salvation, we are brought into Jesus’ beloved flock. Once, we may have wandered a barren hillside with overgrown coats, but now we have a home with the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) who uses our coats (faith and purpose) to keep others warm, feed the hungry with our milk, and encourages us to grow His flock. Like sheep, we are likely to be unaware of the ways God is using us, but we can rest assured of His love (Titus 2:14) and His good purposes for us (Ephesians 2:10).

As we obey Him and learn to love Him more, we bring glory to Him and shower loving, gracious compassion on our fellow brothers and sisters. (1 John 5:2-3)

JOURNAL THREE

Shame, regret, failure. We’ve all wrestled with these feelings in life. Regardless of its source, as it varies for each of us, the heavy weight of these chains has been felt by us all. Onesimus thought he would find the freedom he longed for by escaping captivity from physical slavery. Pastor Paul exemplified, while living under house arrest with his own physical limitations, true freedom isn’t found in your circumstance, but in Christ and His love.

Isn’t it much easier to think we can free ourselves from the pain we feel by manipulating our circumstance rather than surrendering ourselves to Christ and allowing Him to redefine our perspectives?

Pause to consider what set of current life circumstances would you readily trade so you could be free from painful feelings or hardship like Onesimus? In the middle of pain, it’s so hard to see anything good, but the Lord will faithfully use our difficult situations to remind us that He alone is the chain-breaker for our souls.

Even if our circumstances don’t change, we have access to true freedom in Christ because we can “roam the heart of God” as Rebecca wrote yesterday.
Tags :
compassion,family,forgiveness,freedom,hope
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Recent Journeys

Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper
March 28, 2023
Steadfast Day 1 Of Epic Importance
March 27, 2023
The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023

Join Us On The Journey!

Want encouragement
on the daily?
Registration gives you free, every day access to encouragement, weekly worship prompts, and daily Bible study that applies to real life.
Journey On!

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Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
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Feb 13 - Mar 3, 2023 - Journey Theme #114
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Posted in: Community, Discipleship, Faith, Forgiven, Freedom Tagged: compassion, family, forgiveness, freedom, hope

Philemon Day 10 Purposed Pain: Digging Deeper

February 24, 2023 by Carol Graft Leave a Comment

Philemon Day 10 Purposed Pain: Digging Deeper

Carol Graft

February 24, 2023

Broken,Emptiness,Forgiven,Freedom,Jesus

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Purposed Pain"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philemon 1:14-16

14 But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent, so that your good deed might not be out of obligation, but of your own free will. 15 For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) How were Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus connected? (verses 14-15)

This letter was more than likely written while Paul was imprisoned. Some sources say it was more likely house arrest than an actual prison cell, allowing Paul to have visitors more easily. It is believed Paul first met Philemon while preaching in Ephesus.

Philemon was a leader in Colossae and was converted to Christianity by Paul. Onesimus was Philemon’s slave who escaped and fled to Rome where he met Paul. (Enduring Word) Some sources cite he had also committed an act of theft.

We don’t know for certain if Onesimus already knew Paul or just encountered him in Rome, but we know he was converted by Paul. (Got Questions) Since Paul converted both men, he considered them both “brothers” and “sons” in Christ. Because he also considered Philemon his dear friend (verse 1), he didn’t want to make decisions about Onesimus without discussing it with his friend, which is the purpose of this letter.  

The Everyday Application

1) How were Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus connected? (verses 14-15)

Maybe you’ve never encountered a runaway while sitting under house arrest. Or perhaps the Lord hasn’t called you into a teaching ministry as He did with Paul. Regardless, God has you where you are for a distinct purpose.

You may think your role in His Kingdom is small, but it’s not dear sister. Paul encountered Philemon in a completely different territory than he lived. Philemon heard the Gospel and then believed in Christ. Your influence matters. Who you encounter day to day matters. Where you plant seeds for Christ matters. By holding steadfast in your personal walk with Jesus and how you carry yourself, yes even on bad days, you are noticed by your neighbors, co-workers, family, and your fellow church goers.

Your ripple effect really does have an impact. Even when the struggles of life weigh on you, be assured that your connections, conversations, and convictions plant seeds, just as Paul’s did for one runaway slave turned brother in Christ!

The Original Intent

2) Was Onesimus still a slave after conversion? (verses 15-16)

Becoming a Christ follower in the 1st century generally didn’t stop your earthly obligations.  We don’t really know for certain if Paul’s desire was for Onesimus to be manumitted (set free) by Philemon. Regardless, it was not in Paul’s authority to issue that edict.

What we do see is that Paul doesn’t excuse Onesimus’ behavior. Paul shows Philemon that perhaps there was a greater plan of Divine orchestration working behind the scenes for Onesimus, even as he chose to rebelliously run away. “For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time”. (verse 15)

Onesimus was still Philemon’s slave, but he was no longer a slave to sin. Christ had granted his soul freedom. According to Enduring Word, “Paul “re-introduced” Onesimus to Philemon; not as a slave, but as a brother. In this relationship as brothers and not slaves, Paul effectively abolished the sting of the “master-slave” relationship.”

Though by law Onesimus was still a slave, Paul no longer considered him as such and encouraged Philemon to also see him as a brother and not property. 

The Everyday Application

2) Was Onesimus still a slave after conversion? (verses 15-16)

Once we become a Christ follower it doesn’t diminish or remove our position in life, rather, now we have a fuller purpose to live within it! With new life in Christ, we absolutely must denounce and turn away from any sinful lifestyle we have lived and sinful activities we have participated in. If this includes our work, we must trust the Lord to provide work that honors Him.

But Christ’s transformation within does not release us from our secular, legitimate occupations and responsibilities without. We can’t simply walk out of a job we may dislike because we now trust and follow God. In fact, the Bible tells us, “Submit to every human authority because of the Lord.” (1 Peter 2:13) Our relationship with our employer may change as we understand their need for a Savior, just as we had. Christ may re-shape how we view our position at work through the lens of Christ.

We have more at stake to perform our job while fulfilling our role for the glory of Christ! (1 Timothy 6:2), (1 Corinthians 10:31)

The Original Intent

3) How would the first century have understood the phrase “more than a slave” given their cultural context? (verse 16)

Bondservants in the 1st century were indentured servants. They were not necessarily treated as chattel, like slavery in the United States or even the Israelites as slaves in Egypt. In Roman law, slavery was a permanent position of servanthood.

According to Biblicalcyclopedia, “…notwithstanding all the barbarous cruelties of Roman slavery, it had one decided advantage over that which was introduced in modern times into European colonies — both law and custom being decidedly favorable to the freedom of the slave.” So perhaps they would have been thinking about Onesimus being set free to be “more than a slave”.

Paul viewed his now-freed-from-sin-self as “all in” for the cause of Christ; a different kind of slavery altogether. (Galatians 1:10, 1 Corinthians 7:22) There were also people in the Old Testament who considered their lives enslaved to the Life of God. Joseph knew God and nothing would sway him from his trust in God’s faithfulness. Esther didn’t waiver though faced with her death and genocide of her people, but acted as the Lord’s slave, wholly devoted to Jehovah.

Paul’s cultural terminology advocated for this perspective: “Regardless of economic, social and cultural context – followers of Christ have the opportunity to share the love of God by their  changed lives – by faithful, submissive, humble obedience.” (Alliance Bible Fellowship) Choosing slavery to Christ and whole life surrender to His lordship is far more desirable than any other role available to humanity. 

The Everyday Application

3) How would the first century have understood the phrase “more than a slave” given their cultural context? (verse 16)

Becoming a slave, even a slave to Christ, doesn’t sound appealing to our modern, Western ears. We immediately associate slavery with negative connotations such as chattel slavery, or abuse of persons.

Indenturing yourself to someone historically meant serving them wholeheartedly, usually with the promise of freedom at some point as well as finances. (Alliance Bible Fellowship) Paul’s perspective on serving Christ as His slave was the most wonderful role to live out in life. Nothing would separate him from being so closely aligned with Christ and Kingdom work.

Would you say you share Paul’s sentiments? Are you “all in” for Christ’s Kingdom? I’d like to think I am. While we don’t know everyone’s story, those of us in the western hemisphere probably haven’t faced hardships to make us question how far “in” we truly are in surrendering to Jesus. But those hurts, slights, and moments of being asked to serve the Lord Jesus outside of our comfort zone can cause us to consider just how close we want to be to Jesus.

Let us determine to be like Paul, serving the Lord and interacting with others as brothers and sisters in Christ, freely submitting to Christ as His slave.

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Journey Study

It doesn’t take long before we begin putting ourselves in the place of the unjustly punished prisoner. Faces and circumstance sneak in as we recall being the receiver of un ”justice”.

Pain. Hurt. Anger. Bitterness. Hatred. Injustice. My child was supposed to live. My loved one wasn’t supposed to suffer. My spouse wasn’t supposed to cheat on me. What was mine was stolen away. I deserved better.
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Posted in: Broken, Emptiness, Forgiven, Freedom, Jesus Tagged: forgiveness, freedom, hope, pain, purpose, slave

Philemon Day 7 For The Love: Digging Deeper

February 21, 2023 by Dr. Leslie Umstattd Leave a Comment

Philemon Day 7 For The Love: Digging Deeper

Dr. Leslie Umstattd

February 21, 2023

Faith,Prayer,Relationship,Scripture

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
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This DD Connects With "For The Love"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philemon 1:8-10

8 For this reason, although I have great boldness in Christ to command you to do what is right, 9 I appeal to you, instead, on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an elderly man and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus, 10 appeal to you for my son, Onesimus. I became his father while I was in chains.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) To what “reason” is Paul referring in verse 8?

When we read, “For this reason”, it reads much like other flag words of Scripture like “therefore” or “because”, which signal every reader to pause and consider what has come before the flag word in order to properly understand the context.

Based on what Paul has said in previous verses, he is making a transition argument. Verses 4-7 describe Paul’s prayer for Philemon’s faith to become effective in its daily living out by recognizing the good work God had already been doing inside of Paul and Philemon as fellow redeemed believers in Jesus, which resulted in glory being given to Christ. (3 John 1:11, Philippians 1:6)

Philemon’s love for others was both well-known and actively refreshing the saints. (verses 4 and 7) Paul’s letter would soon challenge the depth of Philemon’s love in connection with his faith. Paul writes “for this reason” to Philemon, prodding him to consider his love for others and his growing faith as reasons to appeal to Philemon before setting the challenge before him.

The Everyday Application

1) To what “reason” is Paul referring in verse 8?

Paul knew Philemon’s character, as he was known for loving fellow brothers and sisters in Jesus. This encouraged Paul and gave him reason to believe he could ask Philemon to consider his faith and love in the matter of Onesimus, who was also a believer.

The Christian life is not simply about individuals living out their faith between themselves and God, it also encompasses living out faith in community, allowing one’s relationship with God to overflow and connect with others.

Our effective faith is put into action when we bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and when we love as Christ loved (1 John 4:17-21). As a fellow Christ-follower himself, Paul is calling on Philemon to act in faith and love his brother with practical actions. (James 1:22, 1 John 3:18)

The Original Intent

2) How does Paul motivate Philemon to do what is right? (verse 8)

When Paul writes of his great boldness to command Philemon to act and behave in a certain way that would align with Christ, Paul is reminding Philemon of his position within the church. In other letters, he reminds his audience of his authority as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, meaning He had personal, physical experience with Jesus and been called to do God’s mission of preaching the gospel. (1 Corinthians 15:7-8)

Given we already know there is a previous relationship between the two as signaled by the language of “dear friend” and “coworker” in verse 1, we understand Philemon has great respect for Paul along with sharing a deep friendship. Paul had earned the right to tell Philemon what to do and how to do it.

Additionally, Paul calls himself “an elderly man”. (verse 9) In the original Greek language and then-current culture, “elderly” signified “ambassador” or “older man”, or possibly an official of the church. (studylight.org) Paul had a clear line of position and authority over Philemon but as we read further, Paul chooses to appeal to something greater than his position.

The Everyday Application

2) How does Paul motivate Philemon to do what is right? (verse 8)

Paul had enough authority as an “elderly man” (ambassador) within the church to force Philemon’s hand in the situation with Onesimus. He was recognized as a widely respected leader of the New Testament church and in his position, despite the subject at hand, he could have commanded Philemon to do as he said.

However, Paul is setting up his letter to go in a different direction and wants Philemon to take note. Paul chooses not to command, but simply asks as a fellow family member in the faith to act in accordance with the gospel. Throughout Paul’s ministry there were several young men he discipled, mentored, and spiritually fathered calling them sons in the faith.

Paul called Timothy his “true son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2), and said of Titus, “my true son in our common faith”. (Titus 1:4) On the basis of “dear friend” and fellow “coworker” (verse 1), Paul calls Philemon to protect and love another “son in the faith”, Onesimus. (Philemon 1:10)

He could have commanded Philemon to act, but rather, Paul relied on the faith and love he knew Philemon possessed. If Paul, a revered authority within the early church, and perhaps even more so today, chose love before authority, how much more so should we?! Let’s choose the gentle, loving approach of inviting others to also choose love alongside us!

The Original Intent

3) To what does Paul appeal while pleading for Philemon to act? (verses 9-10)

Paul pivots from discussing his right to command gospel-oriented actions from Philemon in verse 8 to a much deeper source for his appeal. In verses 9-10, Paul petitions Philemon on the basis of love.

Paul points out that Onesimus, whom he is pleading for, has become like a son to him in the faith, and Philemon, based on his love and compassion for those in the Body of Christ should allow Onesimus to be free from his obligation as Philemon’s former slave and forgive him for wrong doing. Paul calls on Philemon to put his faith into action and love well on the basis of faith.

The Everyday Application

3) To what does Paul appeal while pleading for Philemon to act? (verses 9-10)

In these verses Paul appeals to Philemon’s love for fellow believers. Paul opens his letter with words of encouragement and affirmation regarding Philemon’s character and his actions towards the saints. Paul shares his joy in hearing how Philemon has refreshed the saints due to his effective faith towards them. (Philemon 1:4-7)

Paul uses these truths as a springboard to call on Philemon to show the same kind of love and effective faith towards the one who had betrayed him.

It is easy to love the lovely, but it is a great deal harder to love those who have unjustly hurt us. (Luke 6:32-36) In the body of Christ, there is no room for vengeance, spite, or hatred. (Romans 12:17-19) Just as Paul points Philemon to love well in an act of effective faith so also God desires us to act in faith and love others as He loved us, which always involved humility. (Philippians 2:5-12)

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Philemon’s richly authentic love was the very thing Paul hoped would move Philemon to hear his earnest request regarding Onesimus, Philemon’s former slave. Paul knew that the more Philemon leaned in to knowing Jesus and being anchored in Christ’s love, the more effective his faith would become. Authentic love that mirrors Christ’s results in a life of humble, gentle kindness, which is exactly what Paul knew Philemon would need in order to love, and forgive, Onesimus.
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Posted in: Faith, Prayer, Relationship, Scripture Tagged: family, hope, life, love

The GT Weekend! ~ Philemon Week 1

February 18, 2023 by Katelyn Palmer Leave a Comment

The GT Weekend! ~ Philemon Week 1

Katelyn Palmer

February 18, 2023

church,Faith,Family,Fellowship,Holy Spirit,Identity

Rest your soul through reflective journaling,
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Pray His Words Back To Him!

1 Thessalonians 5:14-21

And we exhort you, brothers and sisters; warn those who are idle, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See to it that no one repays evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all. Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything. (...) Don’t stifle the Spirit. Don’t despise prophecies but test all things. Hold on to what is good.
Read More Of His Words

Prayer Journal Entry

Yahweh, I come to you tonight broken and defeated, but with the words of Psalm 56:3 on my heart, “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” I am ashamed of how much I have pulled away from You, which only gives the enemy room to taunt me and make me believe I should pull away even more.

I’m so grateful to know I’m not strong enough to separate myself from You, Lord – nothing is – but sometimes the darkness of the world makes me forget truth. So many are struggling, including myself, and depression seems to cover society like a weighted blanket.

As I meditate on Your Word and Your character, Lord, I ask You to bring to mind verses of comfort for my soul and encouragement. I know that ultimately, I will triumph by Your hand (Psalm 92:4); I just need spiritual refreshment, as do my brothers and sisters.

As I await your whispers of comfort, I will do as You commanded in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 and rejoice in Your love, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in everything. Hear my prayer, oh Lord, and do not hide from my plea for help. (Psalm 55:1)
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Worship Through Song

Journal Prompts

JOURNAL ONE

Paul is particular with his letters when it comes to his greetings and closings. Like bookends, he illustrates unity in both. Philemon 1:1-4 is a great example of how Paul sees himself in relation to Christ, how he sees his intended audience as family in Christ, and how he remains in constant prayer for every brother and sister he encounters.

In just the opening sentences of his letter, Paul demonstrates the kind of attitude we are meant to have toward our believing brothers and sisters.
He closes his letters with the same grace and reverence toward each believer.

It’s important to remember that churches in Paul and Philemon’s day didn’t own properties or buildings in which to meet, they gathered in homes for worship, preaching, and shared fellowship. These churches were intimate, tight communities that depended on one another and supported each other in daily life.

With this understanding, when we consider Paul’s terminology of “fellow laborers,” “fellow prisoners,” “coworkers,” and “sister/brother”, we gain a deeper appreciation for what these terms truly meant in real life. These terms support the intimacy of a small home church and the true compassion Paul had for these believers.

Are we seeing others this way when we show up to our local churches on Sunday? Are we compassionately loving one another by first seeing them as beloved family members? This weekend, ask the Lord to prepare your heart to see your church family through new eyes!

JOURNAL TWO

The Bible was written by men inspired by the hand of God. God wastes nothing in our lives and certainly wastes no words in the Bible. In studying Paul’s letter to Philemon, Rebekah noted how Paul directed his audience’s attention to God’s call for unity between Jewish and Gentile communities through Christ simply by combining two common greetings from both peoples: “grace to you” (Jewish greeting) and “peace to you” (Gentile greeting).

With the simplicity of a greeting, God reminds us of the work Jesus finished with His death and resurrection as He, the God of Peace and Grace, reconciled sinful humanity back to Himself by paying our debt.

Because of His perfect redemptive work on our behalf to bring us peace, we are then empowered to spread His peace and grace to others, along with His love. (Ephesians 2:14)

As we share His love in our everyday lives, we carry out Jesus’ command to love others in the same way He has loved us with grace, peace, mercy, forgiveness, and compassion. (John 13:34-35)

In God’s hands everything is connected and purposeful, especially including our surrendered life to Him. If that isn’t something worth rejoicing over, then I don’t know what is!

JOURNAL THREE

The story of the widow who feeds Elijah and her family on God’s provision fascinates me! (1 Kings 17:8-16) The physical drought their land was experiencing is interesting to me as I consider the spiritual, emotional, and mental drought of our post-COVID world. The widow in this story was on her last bit of food and prepared to die with her son once it was gone.

Many today are feeling that same devastation following the COVID pandemic. Depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and other mental health concerns are at an all-time high. Just as Elijah served as a vessel to rescue this woman and her son from a seemingly hopeless end, we too must be the instruments of rescue for those around us as we carry around the hope of Christ.

We are the vessels, like Elijah and even like the jars that held the flour and oil, and the Holy Spirit is God’s provision inside us. Under Christ’s leadership and by His Spirit, we have the power to bring restoration from spiritual drought one soul at a time, but this requires surrendering ourselves to God’s ways.

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Posted in: church, Faith, Family, Fellowship, Holy Spirit, Identity Tagged: family, generosity, grace, hope, love, peace

Surrender Day 15 A New Life

February 10, 2023 by Mandy Farmer Leave a Comment

Surrender Day 15 A New Life

Mandy Farmer

February 10, 2023

Alive,Anchored,Hope,Longing,Pain

Read His Words Before Ours!

2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Mark 8:34-38
Philippians 3:7-11
Acts 20:22-24
Psalm 23

“I want my life back.”

Chronic pain steals your life. It takes your health, your daily life, your family time, your hobbies, your social life, your ministries. And sometimes it takes your job and even your home. Who could blame a person for saying she wants her life back?

Honestly, I felt I was right in the center of God’s will when my whole world stopped. I was nearly finished raising my family. Our youngest was 15. As a home-schooling mom, I had established a homeschool co-op that had grown from 3 to 50 families. I had 25 years of children’s ministry under my belt, and my husband was the senior pastor at our church. Though we found ourselves overly busy, too tired, and looking for a way to retire and slow down, we had “the life.”

As I write, I’m reminded of the parable in Luke 12 of the wealthy farmer who said, “I will build more barns. Then I will sit back and relax.” There are just too many “I will, I did” phrases in the above paragraph; it rubs my heart and soul the wrong way.

This sticks in me because, you see, my life is not my own.
It belongs to God to do with as He pleases.
I wonder now, how much was I really depending on God in those “good” times? After losing everything, we learned we hadn’t really been trusting God until we had nothing to lean on BUT HIM. 

The Apostle Paul knew how to trust God for everything, how to be content with much or little. (Philippians 4:11-12) He considered the things in this life as garbage, compared to knowing Christ. (Philippians 3:7-11) Garbage, really? 

In truth, he is so right. Anything we gain or lose in this world is temporary as Paul explains, “the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18) He was beaten and left for dead, thrown into prison, shipwrecked, stranded at sea, and more. (2 Corinthians 11:16-33) 

Through every trial, Paul’s life was surrendered to God. 
Through my own suffering, I am learning to surrender my life to God, too. 

Jesus said, “If anyone wants to follow after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of Me and the gospel will save it. For what does it benefit someone to gain the whole world and yet lose his life? What can anyone give in exchange for his life?” (Mark 8:34-37) 

As I learn to manage chronic pain, I have found living for Him is far better than anything I’ve ever had here on earth. 
I thank Him for 50 years of healthy life. 
Time to love and raise four beautiful children. 
Joy in ministry beyond what I had hoped. 

Even in my suffering, He has drawn me to Himself like never before. I “didn’t have time” to cling to Him before. But now… I have all the time in the world. I spend hours every day studying His Word and getting to know Him more. 

The perspective I’ve gained is unexplainable, but in return for the loss of my “good life,” He has given me a New Life. A life in which He and I walk hand-in-hand together. A life in which I am writing, blogging, and encouraging others. Honestly, I don’t want my old life back. 

My goal is to finish the race of following Jesus with my life very well; to hear those wonderful words at the finish line, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23) I know God is directing me to new things. He is in control. I am His. Just as Paul said in Acts 20:24, “I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.”

In the midst of his suffering, Paul displayed conviction of spirit 
courage of heart 
composure of mind 
and constancy of purpose.  

Pastor and ministry leader, James Ryle, encourages us with these words regarding Paul’s embrace of a surrendered life, “My friend, in what ways can you benefit by Paul’s example as you face your own challenges in today’s world? How might his words find a place in your life, and embolden you to rise in a new resolve of faithfulness — even if it’s against all odds?”
(The Four Marks of the Immovable Man, Rylisms Devotion)

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Digging Deeper

The 21st century is full of opportunities to prosper on our own merit. While we might earn wealth, higher social standing, or even good works for God's Kingdom, none of this will pay off the debt of sin we owe to a Holy God.

Christ, the Only One Worthy to pay the punishment for our sin, died to give us eternal life. In Him, we find access to rich communion with the God of the Universe!
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Posted in: Alive, Anchored, Hope, Longing, Pain Tagged: hope, pain, satisfied, surrender

Surrender Day 12 Our All For His Use: Digging Deeper

February 7, 2023 by Stacy Winkler 1 Comment

Surrender Day 12 Our All For His Use: Digging Deeper

Stacy Winkler

February 7, 2023

Courage,Digging Deeper,Faith,Freedom,Hope

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
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This DD Connects With "Our All For His Use"
Why Dig Deeper?

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1 Kings 17:8-24

8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Get up, go to Zarephath that belongs to Sidon and stay there. Look, I have commanded a woman who is a widow to provide for you there.” 10 So Elijah got up and went to Zarephath. When he arrived at the city gate, there was a widow gathering wood. Elijah called to her and said, “Please bring me a little water in a cup and let me drink.” 11 As she went to get it, he called to her and said, “Please bring me a piece of bread in your hand.”

12 But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I don’t have anything baked—only a handful of flour in the jar and a bit of oil in the jug. Just now, I am gathering a couple of sticks in order to go prepare it for myself and my son so we can eat it and die.”

13 Then Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid; go and do as you have said. But first make me a small loaf from it and bring it out to me. Afterward, you may make some for yourself and your son, 14 for this is what the Lord God of Israel says, ‘The flour jar will not become empty and the oil jug will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the surface of the land.’”

15 So she proceeded to do according to the word of Elijah. Then the woman, Elijah, and her household ate for many days. 16 The flour jar did not become empty, and the oil jug did not run dry, according to the word of the Lord he had spoken through Elijah.

17 After this, the son of the woman who owned the house became ill. His illness got worse until he stopped breathing. 18 She said to Elijah, “Man of God, what do you have against me? Have you come to call attention to my iniquity so that my son is put to death?”

19 But Elijah said to her, “Give me your son.” So he took him from her arms, brought him up to the upstairs room where he was staying, and laid him on his own bed. 20 Then he cried out to the Lord and said, “Lord my God, have you also brought tragedy on the widow I am staying with by killing her son?” 21 Then he stretched himself out over the boy three times. He cried out to the Lord and said, “Lord my God, please let this boy’s life come into him again!”

22 So the Lord listened to Elijah, and the boy’s life came into him again, and he lived. 23 Then Elijah took the boy, brought him down from the upstairs room into the house, and gave him to his mother. Elijah said, “Look, your son is alive.”

24 Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know you are a man of God and the Lord’s word from your mouth is true.”
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Who was Elijah and how did he end up in Zarephath asking a widow for the last of her food? (verses 8-11)

During this time, Israel was a divided kingdom between north (Israel) and south (Judah). The northern kingdom was ruled by the wicked, idol-worshipper, King Ahab, and his notoriously evil wife, Queen Jezebel. (1 Kings 16:29-33, 1 Kings 17:1) God sent the prophet Elijah to speak judgment over Israel in the form of a drought for her persistent rebellion against God as a people. They eagerly followed the vile example of idol worship set by Ahab and Jezebel.

After he prophesied the drought, Elijah traveled to Zarephath in obedience to God and in spite of the danger. Why was it dangerous? Zarephath was a town belonging to Sidon, Jezebel’s homeland where her father was king. (verses 8-10) In Zarephath he found a widow whom God had commanded to provide for him. ( verse 8) However, the drought Elijah had prophesied also affected Sidon. And, with drought, came famine.

Although the text clearly states in verse 9 that God had commanded the widow to provide for Elijah, when he asked for food, she hesitated. (verse 12) Give the last of her food to a foreign man rather than her only son? Elijah’s God had told her to provide, but could she really trust him? Why should she? Yet, she did the unimaginable; she agreed to trust the foreign prophet’s God, and made a small loaf of bread for him with all the food she had instead of feeding her son. (verse 15)

She surrendered what little she had in obedience to the God of Israel. With stunning amazement, we watch the Lord accept her surrender and replace her hopelessness with hope. The flour jar and the oil jug never ran empty during the famine. (verse 16) Elijah ate. Her son ate. She ate. And they lived.

The Everyday Application

1) Who was Elijah and how did he end up in Zarephath asking a widow for the last of her food? (verses 8-11)

We all long for hope. Even in the darkest of days, hope for a better future motivates us to continue. How much more so for the one who has trusted Christ with their soul! Our hope is not merely wishful thinking but absolutely certain as we look forward to the eternal perfect life with God!

What can we learn from this destitute, defeated widow whose future was hopeless? In spite of her efforts, she knew death was near for her and her son. Elijah’s response is comforting, “Don’t be afraid… for this is what the Lord God of Israel says, ‘The flour jar will not become empty and the oil jug will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the surface of the land.’” (verses 13-14)

Were these hollow words to her, or did they remind her of the command God had already given? In faith, she surrendered what little she had to Elijah’s God and God provided hope, not as part of some mystical deal, but as a deliberate act to display His providence.

God calls us to join the widow in surrendering our fear and what little we have so He can demonstrate His goodness and embrace us with Hope. We cannot conjure up Hope on our own. We cannot control Hope by pretending we control our situation.

The Author of Hope longs to fill us with joy and peace as we trust Him so we may overflow with hope for others to see. (Romans 15:13) We must surrender our control to the only One who truly has control, even in the darkest of times. He alone gives us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. (1 Peter 1:4) Who is our Living Hope? Jesus Himself.

The Original Intent

2) Why did God allow the widow’s son to die? (verses 17-24)

The Gentile widow recognized her sin before the Almighty God of Israel. She believed the payment for her sin was the life of her only son. (verses 17-18) Once again she was filled with hopelessness. How could God allow her son to live through the famine only to die because of her sin?

Not only was the grief overwhelming to her mama’s heart, but, as a Gentile widow, she had little hope of survival without a son to provide for her, leaving her with only a few undesirable options (like selling her body or becoming homeless). Elijah took the boy, prayed, stretched over him three times, and prayed again. “So the Lord listened to Elijah, and the boy’s life came into him again, and he lived.” (verses 19-22) He presented the son to his mother and she said to Elijah, “Now I know you are a man of God and the Lord’s word from your mouth is true.” (verses 23-24)

Through the death of her son, God called this Gentile woman to surrender herself as He revealed His sovereignty, love, and care for her. As God revealed Himself, she responded with surrendered belief in the God of Israel! God also desires to reveal His sovereignty, care, and love to us. (1 Timothy 1:17, Romans 11:33-36, John 3:16-17)

Where have you seen evidence of these around you? Have you believed Him at His Word that your sin payment was made at the cross of Jesus on your behalf? He has offered to cleanse us from our sins so we can stand before our glorious God with utmost hope and the fullness of life. (Ephesians 1:7-9) Whether it’s your soul, relationships, finances, or fears, the call is the same, surrender to Him and believe!

The Everyday Application

2) Why did God allow the widow’s son to die? (verses 17-24)

Honestly, while I can speculate why the Lord allowed her son to die, I don’t know. Perhaps we can glean some understanding from a story in the New Testament as Scripture itself helps us understand Scripture. Do you recall when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead? (John 11:1-45)

In her book, Jesus Through the Eyes of Women, Rebecca McLaughlin writes of this event. Lazarus was sick and his sisters, Mary and Martha, sent Jesus a message saying “Lord, the one you love is sick.” (John 11:3) Then John tells us, “Now Jesus loved Martha, her sister, and Lazarus. So when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was.” (John 11:5-7). Wait. What? Jesus loved them, Lazarus was seriously ill, and Jesus didn’t immediately pack His things and go to Bethany?

John reveals why Jesus waited. First, Lazarus’ death and ultimate resurrection would bring glory to God. (John 11:4) Second, Jesus waited so His disciples would believe. (John 11:15) Rebecca McLaughlin writes, “He (Jesus) stayed away because He did care.

The best thing he could give these siblings, whom he profoundly loved, was not immediate answer to their prayers, but revelation of Himself.” God wants to reveal His glory and power so we can confidently know the words from His mouth are true. (verse 24) This is why Paul wrote that he “consider(ed) everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:8) Reach out and “touch the hem of His robe” for ultimate healing and peace! (Luke 8:43-48)

He wants to reveal Himself to us through prayer and the study of His word. Surrendering our lives daily to God is not natural for us, but as we know Him more, we understand that surrender to the sovereign King is the only pathway to gaining our Living Hope. 

The Original Intent

3) What does this passage tell us about God? (verses 8-10, 15-16)

In this Old Testament narrative we watch God daily provide the widow with enough ingredients to bake bread for Elijah, her son, and herself, saving them all from starvation. (verses 15-16) When we look closely at the widow, understanding her background and culture, we see more clearly the God who loved her and us. She was an unbelieving Gentile woman, probably descended from the wicked line of Cain. (verses 8-10) She was just one widow among many in her village, yet God saw her and knew her when she didn’t know Him. God saw her hopelessness, and through His unending grace and sovereignty, He miraculously provided daily food for the length of the drought and famine.

Deeper still, through the resurrection of her dead son, this foreign widow came to believe through genuine faith in the God of Israel. (verses 22-24) God sees. God knows. God provides. God desires for you to know him more. As you grow in your knowledge of him and his truths, you will also grow in your desire to surrender yourself, believe in Him, and trust in Him.

The Everyday Application

3) What does this passage tell us about God? (verses 8-10, 15-16)

Both of these miracles point directly to Jesus. First, we see God’s provision in the bread. The widow baked bread so they could sustain their physical bodies. (verses 15-17) Jesus said that whoever would come to Him and believe in Him would never hunger or thirst again. (John 6:35)

Physically? No. However, when we receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are spiritually filled and satisfied through the Holy Spirit in a deeper way than food could ever fill us. (John 14:15-17) This does not guarantee an easy life, but the Holy Spirit within us brings us peace in the midst of suffering. (1 Peter 1:3-9, 1 Peter 4:12-14) Jesus is the better bread because He is the living bread who sustains us eternally.

The power God demonstrated through Jesus’ resurrection provides us with all we need for life and godliness. (2 Peter 1:3) Sit and eat. Meditate on who He is. Enjoy His fullness and provision. As for the second miracle, Elijah prayed, bowed over the son three times, and prayed again, bringing the son back to life with God’s power. (verses 20-22)

However, at Lazarus’ resurrection Jesus merely spoke and Lazarus was restored to life. (John 11:41-44) For Lazarus and the boy, their resurrections were temporary; they each experienced death as we all will. Only Jesus’ resurrection of His own dead body by the power of God is strong enough to offer eternal life to all who would receive Him as their personal resurrection and life. (John 1:12-13, John 11:25-26)

Jesus is the better Elijah. If you have received Jesus as your Lord and Savior then you, too, have been raised from your spiritual death into life. If not, surrender your heart and your life to Him. Allow him to raise your heart from the dead and fill you with Living Bread. Study His Word, pray, and you, too, will find hope in your surrendering.

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