Letters by Paul
-
Ephesians 4.1–8 Grace Practice
When we hear that he has ‘apportioned’ it, it kind of removes the overwhelming emotion of gratitude and makes us suddenly go cold, saying, ‘I knew it’ in slight bitterness. But don’t worry. God’s grace is infinite; however you ‘apportion’ it, it remains infinite. Continue reading
-
Ephesians 3.1–13 My Suffering Your Glory
You can be many things, according to the various gifts God can give out, but if you find it in making others know who they really are, the heirs and children of God, that will be truly meaningful and in accordance with God’s intent. Continue reading
-
Ephesians 2.1–10 By Grace through Faith
God created me by grace through faith (v. 8). By grace in that God freely did it when he did not have to; through faith in that he made known the kind of grace through Christ that we may see its outworking. Continue reading
-
Ephesians 4.17–19 Let It Out
Why act as if you are filled with greed when you are filled with the Lord? If you say, ‘Because I’m not filled with the Lord’, then you are making a big mistake, deceived by the world’s scheme. Continue reading
-
Ephesians 2.11–22 Peace Man
When he has so saved us and created us anew, there is no stranger in him, but all are fellow citizens and members of the same household. So the state before and after is radically different—this was true even for those who thought they were ‘near’. Continue reading
-
1 Timothy 6.17–21 Guard the Truth behind Feeding the Hungry
Today’s reflection concludes 1 Timothy. As he rounds off the letter, Paul employs the use and meaning of money, both substantial and metaphorical, once again to teach the truth about God and his desire. 17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which Continue reading
-
1 Timothy 6.11–16 The Ultimate Confession
We confess that we are followers of Jesus. Then, no doubt, our confession should also follow that of Jesus, even if it pierces us. 11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. ‘All this’ refers to ‘unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that Continue reading
-
1 Timothy 6.7–10 Peculiar Contentment
What is our contentment as Christians? How does it differ from other religions or worldviews? I would like to invite you to define your own contentment. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. This verse echoes Job 1:21, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked Continue reading
-
1 Timothy 6.3–6 What Sort of Gain?
Paul, our strict and consistent teacher, begins to conclude his letter. What is the one thing you would like to gain from this letter? Let us also begin to summarise our thoughts. 2b These are the things you are to teach and insist on. Here begin the summary and conclusion of the letter. 3 If anyone Continue reading
-
1 Timothy 6.1–2 Godly Treatment
Today’s passage is the last part of strategy number three on how to reflect God’s desire for all people. 1All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered. In line with ‘the elders who direct the affairs Continue reading
Read with Ssam 