Handy Little Chart

 

Handy Little Chart

YOU SAY                                            GOD SAYS                                                    BIBLE VERSES

 

You say: “It’s impossible.”                        God says, all things are possible              Luke 18:27

You say, “I’m too tired.”                             God says, I will give you rest                  Matt. 11:28-30

You say, “Nobody really loves me.”           God says, I Love you                              John 3:16, John 3:34

You say, “I can’t go on.”              God says, My grace is sufficient              Corinthians12:9, Psalm 91:15

You say: “I can’t figure things out.”         God says, I will direct your steps              Proverbs 3:5-6

You say, “I can’t do it.”                               God says, you can do all things               Philippians 4:13

You say, "I'm not able.”                              God says, I am able                                  II Corinthians 9:8

You say, “It’s not worth it.                         God says, it will be worth it.                    Romans 8:28

You say, “I can’t forgive myself                God says, I forgive you                              I John1:9, Rom. 8:1

You say, “I can’t manage                           God says, I will supply all your needs       Philippians 4:19

You say, “I’m afraid                                  God says, I have not given you a spirit of fear. II Tim. 1:7

You say, “I’m always worried and frustrated.  God says, Cast all your cares on Me.  I Peter 5:7

You say, “I’m not smart enough.”            God says, I will give you wisdom             I Corinthians 1:30

You say, “I feel all alone.”                        God says, I will never leave you or forsake you. Hebrews 13:5

I encourage you to search the scriptures and see who God is and what He does for you.

For more blogs like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com

 

In the Old Testament, continued

 

In The Old Testament, continued

In Isaiah, He is the mighty counselor, the prince of peace, the everlasting Father, ad more. He’s everything you need.

In Jeremiah, He is your balm of Gilead, the soothing salve for your sin-sick soul.

In Lamentations, He is the ever faithful one upon whom you can depend.

In Ezekiel, He is your wheel in the middle of a wheel – the one who assures that dry, dead bones will come alive again.

In Daniel, He is the ancient of days, the ever-lasting God who never runs out of time.

In Hosea, He is your faithful lover, always beckoning you to come back, even wen you have abandoned Him.

In Joel, He is your refuge, keeping you safe in times of trouble.

In Amos, He is the husbandman, the one you can depend on to stay by your side.

In Obadiah, He is Lord of the Kingdom.

In Jonah, He is your salvation, bringing you back within His will.

In Micah, He is the judge of the nation.

In Nahum, He is the jealous God.

In Habakkuk, He is the Holy One.

In Zephaniah, He is the Witness.

In Haggai, He overthrows the enemies.

In Zachariah, He is the Lord of Hosts.

In Malachi, He is the messenger of the covenant.

 ….I encourage you to read the Word, your Bible. Seek the scriptures to see how they apply to your life. For more posts like this, please go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

    

 

 

In The Old Testament

 

                                                                            In the Old Testament

In Genesis, He is the Creator God.

In Exodus, He is the Redeemer.

In Leviticus, He is your sanctification.

In Numbers, He is your guide.

In Deuteronomy, He is your teacher.

In Joshua, He is the mighty conqueror.

In Judges, He gives victory over our enemies.

In Ruth, He is your kinsman, Lover and Redeemer.

In 1^st. Samuel, He is the root of Jesse.

In 2^nd. Samuel, He is the Son of David.

In 1^st and 2^nd Kings, He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

In 1^st and 2^nd. Chronicles, He is your intercessor and High Priest.

In Ezra, He is your temple, your house of worship.

In Nehemiah, He is your mighty wall, protecting you from your enemies.

In Job, He is the arbitrator who not only understands your struggles but has the power to do something about them.

In Psalms, He is your song, and reason to sing.

In Proverbs, He is your wisdom, helping you make sense of life and live it successfully.

In Ecclesiastes, He is your purpose, delivering you from vanity..

In the Song of Solomon, He is your lover Your Rose of Sharon.

To be continued….I encourage you to read the Word, your Bible. Seek the scriptures to see how they apply to your life. For more posts like this, please go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

The Revelation of Jesus Christ

The Revelation of Jesus Christ

John was a Roman prisoner on the Isle of Patmos when God gave him this Revelation. The book reveals Jesus the Priest-King, the judge of the churches, the Creator, the Redeemer, the Lord of history, the Conqueror and the Bridegroom. The key name for Christ is the lamb. John never lets us forget that Jesus died for the sins of the world.

John shows worship in heaven and warfare on earth. He wrote this book to encourage the believers who were going through persecution. The hope of the Lord’s return has kept the saints going when the going gets tough.

Certain events will trigger God’s last days, leading to the defeat of the current world system and the return of Jesus Christ to establish His kingdom on earth.

Revelation predicts the future, even as it gives hope for the present. It reveals eternal destiny of the human race, the new heaven and the new earth.

All that humanity has lost by sinful rebellion against God will be regained by the grace of God and the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ.

The promise is that anyone who reads this Revelation will receive a special blessing. They will see that God wins. Christ triumphs. Righteousness prevails. Satan loses. Sorrow, sickness and death disappear. God Himself wipes away the tears from every eye.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Jude

Jude was the half-brother of Jesus and brother to James. Neither of them came to a saving faith until after Jesus’ resurrection. Once Jude became a believer, he was committed and would rebuke anyone who maligned the faith. That’s what he did in this letter. It was an urgent letter commending Gods people to stay alert, to contend for the truth, to stay strong in the Lord, to protect the vulnerable, and to remain certain that God would judge false teachers.

False teaching does not always announce it’s presence. It often comes cleverly disguised, containing just enough truth to captivate the unwary Christian. Be on guard.

Stand firm, to resist whatever is not true. The only way to stand firm is through the power of God.

“We must not quarrel, but be gentle to all, able to teach, be patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition.”  2 Timothy 2:24,25.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Third John

 

Third John

John wrote this letter to his friend Gaius to encourage him in a difficult situation in his local church.

People could see the truth in Gaius because he loved it and walked in obedience to it.

When you assist and encourage God’s servants, you become a fellow worker with them in spreading the truth.

When we welcome God’s people, we welcome God’s truth. John warned Gaius about one of the church leaders, Diotrephes, who was a troublemaker, an arrogant, self-centered glory seeker, who apparently refused to host worthy missionaries. He was making it harder for those in fellowship to obey the truth.

From John, we learn that those who infiltrate the church with Satan’s agenda must be confronted.

Gaius is an example of “the good” that should be imitated, one who humbly serves God’s people in love and truth.

Hebrews 6:10 says, “God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name.” For every sacrificial act of ministry, God sees, God smiles, God remembers, and God rewards.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Second John

 

Second John

John wrote this letter to either an anonymous Christian woman whom invited others into her home to worship, or it is to a local church as “the elect lady” and her members as called her children. Whether John wrote this letter to an individual or a church, the message is the same.

John points out three dangers believers must avoid: 1. Knowing the truth but not practicing it. The Word of God is meant for doing and not just knowing. “If we say, but do not obey, we are hypocrites.”

2. Practicing truth but not defending it. It is easy to lose what you have gained by making friends with the wrong people.

3. Going beyond the truth. Beware of anybody who has added to your Bible. Not everyone who claims the name of Christ teaches the truth. Those who are in error about the person of Christ, does not know God.

In the time of John, there were traveling teachers who met in members homes and worshiped. Lydia hosted Paul and his coworkers in Philippi, Acts 16:15. There were also traveling false teachers who taught heresy that Christ did not come in the flesh. John tells the people to not allow these false teachers into their homes. If they do not carry the doctrine of Christ with them, they are to be avoided.

Every believer is responsible for lovingly guarding and carefully upholding God’s Word. His truth is that precious!

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

First John

 

First John

John was transformed by Christ into the “apostle of love”. He eventually became the elder statesman of the church.

John wrote this letter to help those who were unstable in the faith. His goal was to help young believers affirm their faith with certainty and assurance of their salvation.

When you are sure of your salvation, you can have fellowship with God and His people.

Both Peter and John were concerned about the purity of the doctrine in the church.

There are three marks of the true child of God. 1. Doing God’s will. 2. Loving the brethren. 3. Believing the truth.

“God is light” and His children should walk in the light.

“God is Love” and His children should walk in love.

“The Spirit is truth” and God’s children should believe and obey the truth.

 

John called on the believers of his day to return to a simple, intimate, day-by-day, moment-by-moment walk with Jesus.

Walk with Jesus, cling to your faith, stay in the light. When you sin, confess and move on. And show your love for Jesus by loving your brothers and sisters in His name.

 

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Second Peter

 

Second Peter

Peter knew that death was near, and the church was in danger when he wrote this letter. There were false teachers creeping in and he urged the believers to hold to God’s Word and grow spiritually and stay away from false teachers. He told them to keep the promise of Christ’s return uppermost in their hearts.

To avoid being led astray, we must commit our souls to God’s slow but sure maturing process. We must be students of God’s word, holy in our conduct, and assured of the Lord’s return. The result will be a life that will bring glory to God, both now and forever.

Tradition says that Peter spent his last years in a Roman prison, writing his final letter with his own cross looming in the future. Second Peter became his last letter.

Because Peter knew he was going to die, his letter takes on the traits of a last will and testament. He recognizes his mortality, he reviews his teachings, he exhorts the people to continue in what they have received; he reminds them that he personally witnessed the truth revealed in Christ. This was Peter’s second chance to strengthen and prepare his spiritual heirs before he left the world.

Whatever your situation, whatever your current pressures, anxieties or doubts, whatever any skeptic is telling you, take time to consider the promises of God. Ponder them, claim them, pray them back to the Lord. Remember what a wonderful God we serve. A new heaven and earth are just around the corner.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

First Peter

 

First Peter

Peter was the first apostle chosen to take the Gospel to the Gentiles, but his ministry was primarily to the Jews.

The theme of First Peter is the Grace of God, and Peter tells us how to live as aliens in a hostile world. He reminds his readers of what God’s grace helps them in saving them. God’s grace helps them in various relationships of life and in the coming time of persecution.

When Peter referred to himself as “a witness of sufferings of Christ” it was personal to him. Not only did he witness the anguish others inflicted on Jesus, Peter knew the suffering his own denials had caused his Savior and friend. He wrote, “be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary, the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

Only one who had fallen and been fully restored could write “God..gives grace to the humble.”

Peter was writing to men and women who were against challenges, heartaches, and peril. They needed to remember who they were, and where they were headed.

We too are “pilgrims” passing through a troublesome world to our true home in heaven. No matter what others think of us, we have been purchased by the blood of Jesus and given us a permanent inheritance that nothing in this world can shake.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

James

 

James

The man who wrote this letter was the half-brother of Jesus, and the leader of the church in Jerusalem. He wrote this letter to the twelve tribes of Israel who were believers scattered throughout the Roman world. They were troubled by testing's and trials, and James wrote this to help them mature in their faith.

This book discusses living the faith. If we truly practice our faith, it will be seen in how we face trials, in what we say, in the way we treat people, in how we deal with sin in our lives, and in our prayer life.

According to I Corinthians 5:7 James was one of the first people to whom Jesus appeared after his resurrection. In Galatians 29 Paul referred to James, Peter and John as “pillars” of the church.

It is likely James wrote this letter fifteen years after the ascension of Jesus. He calls on the twelve tribes to make good on their confession of faith. James doesn’t just recommend that we practice our faith, He says “You must do.”

James writes with a heart of a leader wanting those he cares for to demonstrate actions that will prove to themselves and to the world that their faith is genuine, especially in times of trials, troubles and temptation.

If our faith in Christ really means anything, we will stand out. People will notice a difference. On the other hand, those who show little concern for those who are in need, make no effort to control their tongue, and is overly preoccupied with getting ahead should check to see if their faith is real.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Hebrews

 

Hebrews

This letter was written to Jewish believers who were tempted to abandon the fullness of Christ and go back to a religious system soon to be destroyed.

Too many believers today, like Israel in the Old Testament are wandering in the wilderness of unbelief and yearning to go back to the old life.

Hebrews explains Habakkuk 2:4 “The just shall live by his faith.” God has spoken through His Son, and we must respond to that Word. Our response determines the kind of life we live and how much of our spiritual inheritance we claim. We are not only saved by faith, but we must also live by faith.

Hebrews let’s us know Jesus is Superior. He’s superior to the Old Testament prophets, to the angels, and Moses. Christ’s priesthood is superior to Aaron’s because He is a perfect High Priest.

Sometimes we are tempted to give up and are inclined to substitute other things, family rules, religious traditions, human wisdom, salvation by works for Christ’s once-for-all works.

Christ is not only the answer to every aspect of faith, but God’s final answer. The one and only plan for His children. Christians have no higher calling but to press on in the faith, no matter the cost, confident in Christ and anchored in His truth!

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Philemon

 

Philemon

While a prisoner in Rome, Paul met Onesimus, a runaway slave who belonged to Philemon, a friend Paul had led to Christ. Paul won Onesimus to Christ and sent him back to his master in Colosse.

Paul had a lot of good to say about Philemon. He was a beloved friend, a man of faith and love, a refreshing Christian, a praying man, a man who obeyed God’s will.

According to Roman law, Onesimus could have been executed for his crimes. But he had become a brother of Christ, and Philemon had to forgive him and take him back.

Forgiveness is the true test of the power of the gospel. It’s also the story behind the Apostle Paul’s letter to Philemon.

Paul depended on Philemon’s spiritual maturity to respond in forgiveness and acceptance. As God brings people to faith, it reminds us that the gospel is all about second chances. It fleshes out a vivid lesson in forgiving deep wrongs.

This book illustrates the truth that God will go to great lengths to set any captive free, especially in our slavery to sin. We are all running from God. We have a debt we cannot pay on our own, a debt to death, not to dollars. But God, in His infinite grace, sent His Son, Jesus to be our Savior, to pay all we owe, and to set us free. If God has forgiven you, shouldn’t you extend that same forgiveness to others?

We cannot claim to have experienced God’s love and forgiveness if we refuse to forgive others. Christian forgiveness knows no boundaries.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Titus

 

Titus

Titus was a Greek whom Paul won to Christ and enlisted in service. Titus was serving in Crete when this letter was written. Paul wrote it, probably from Corinth, after his release from prison.

This letter emphasized good works. We are not saved by good works, but good works are our evidence of salvation. The saints on Crete were better at professing the faith than practicing it. Paul’s statement was “know the truth and live it.”

Paul urged Titus to root himself and his congregation in the truth. They would represent God’s truth better if they modeled authentic, counter-cultural living.

Cynical unbelievers still need to see Christians living with integrity and authenticity before they can be convinced of the power of the gospel.

Titus shows how to make the gospel attractive in our own lives.

Being a young leader, he was plunged into a challenging ministry with sometimes, hardheaded, unruly believers. His patient, faithful work in both Corinth and Crete reminds us that God not only loves difficult people but also knows how to equip His shepherds to lead by example and make a difference wherever they go.

God’s goals for his shepherds is to take, “liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons” and guide them to good works as well as positive, truthful speech that will “adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.” If we walk where and how we should, others will take note and follow.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Second Timothy

Second Timothy

Paul’s freedom did not last long, he was arrested, taken to Rome for trial, and eventually executed.  He wrote this letter to his beloved son in the faith to encourage him to remain strong in the Lord, to explain the perilous times and to urge him to come to Rome as soon as possible. It was a difficult time for Paul, not only was he facing trial and almost certain death, but he was abandoned by the believers who should have stood with him.

Paul exhorted Timothy to handle the Word of God accurately and to proclaim it boldly. To drive home his message.

God has preserved this final bit of intimate correspondence for us. It reminds us that we must both understand and keep the faith. At the end of the road, we must be able to say, as Paul said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

When a dying man speaks of death, we do well to listen. Paul died as he lived; fully confident that the Lord would deliver him. To die with such great hope is to have lived with great faith.

Paul knew he was never going to get out of prison alive. Yet he knew that better days, wonderful, indescribable days, were right around the corner, in the presence of Jesus. It is the same for all who are in Christ. Nothing can really touch us or harm us. We are already citizens of heaven; everything has been prepared for our arrival. John 14:2,3.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

First Timothy

 

First Timothy      

Paul’s trial in Rome came out in his favor, and he was released.

Timothy was raised in a godly home and came to know Christ through Paul’s ministry. Paul made Timothy his special assistant at Lystra and eventually sent him to preach at the church in Ephesus.

First Timothy is a letter telling preachers how they should conduct themselves. Paul stresses that Timothy should preach the truth an appoint qualified leaders. His final instructions to Timothy was to find faithful men, learn how to confront false teachers, learn how to order the church’s worship, and learn how to select leaders, finally to conduct himself as a young leader in a difficult situation, and how to guard his own soul from errors all around him.

There are times when it is right to retreat and sit by the sidelines, and there are times when the Lord calls us to step forward and to take action. God mightily uses those who step forward in faith.

 

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Second Thessalonians

 

Second Thessalonians

This second letter was written a few months after the first to encourage the church to be steadfast in the midst of persecution.

Both letters emphasize the coming of Christ and the practical effect it should have on our lives.

There was an increase in persecution of believers. Paul wrote to provide comfort and clarity in a disturbing time. He urged them to avoid fanatical and anxious speculation about the events related to Christ’s return. For the unbeliever, the future holds terrible judgment. But Christians do not have to fear because God has all things under control.

The scriptures urge us to be about our Master’s business until He returns. The key to a successful Christian life and a healthy soul is to do what we have been called to do and leave our future in the hands of our Father in heaven.

It is important for Christians in any age to live with the bigger picture in mind; until the Lord comes, we are to live wisely, endure suffering, and wait with hope, since we know that one day God will come to straighten things out.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

First Thessalonians

 

First Thessalonians

Paul ministered in Thessalonica for probably a short month, but the Lord did a great work, and the witness of the church was known far and wide. Paul wrote this letter while he was in Corinth after sending Timothy back to them to see how they were doing.

Timothy reported that the young, recently converted church was faithfully living out the gospel! Paul penned his encouragement to them to continue to progress in the faith.

First Thessalonians provides detailed instruction about sexual purity and the return of the Lord. It is a reminder to grow on to maturity and help new believers in the all-important task of soul care.

Two things are guaranteed for us all: that difficulty will come in this life, and that Christ is coming back to gather His people to live with Him forever. We long for His appearing, watchfully waiting for it, and still seek to live carefully in the present. Our lives need to reflect that truth in the face of difficulty, death, and even our day-to-day duties until He comes.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Colossians

 

Colossians

Epaphros, one of Paul’s converts founded the church in Colosse. Paul was never there but he heard about false teachers infiltrating the church. He wrote this letter to warn the believers, and to establish them in the faith.

The false teachers mixed Christian truth with their doctrines of Jewish legalism and Oriental mysticism. The true gospel was being polluted with various worldly philosophy that compromised the integrity of the Christian message.

This letter was written the same time as Ephesians. Ephesians emphasized on the body (the church) while Colossians emphasized on the Head of the body (Jesus Christ). The letters compliment each other.

Paul’s short letter presents Jesus Christ as the Lord of the universe. He is preeminent in all things.

Today’s “what’s true for you may not be true for me.” Is a misnomer. Colossians reminds us that being a little “off” is a big deal!

The best way to discern between true and false is to study the original. There is only one original, that is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Make time to know who He is and to remember what He has done for you.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Philippians

 

Philippians

The Church at Philippi was a real source of joy to Paul. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, the Philippian believers sent a special love offering. Paul wrote this letter to express his thanks. He also wrote to explain why Epaphroditus, their messenger, was delayed and to encourage the believers to work together to bring unity to the church.

Joy survives our trials and is the perfect antidote to fear and anxiety. Paul’s secret may have been his discovery of the truth that Christ is the be-all and end-all of life. Or maybe it was a mindset of humility, a determination to serve no matter what, and a commitment to true unity among believers. Whatever the case, Paul was able to face (and have victory over) tough challenges because he was radically committed to a Christ-centered life.

We can lift the hearts of fellow believers who might be feeling discouraged and overwhelmed by praying detailed prayers for them and letting them know we are praying for them. Stay positive, confident, hopeful and encouraged in the Lord. Remind them that life is about today, not yesterday and to focus on Jesus Christ.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Ephesians

 

Ephesians

On Paul’s second missionary journey, he visited Ephesus and left Aquila and Priscilla there. He returned to Ephesus two years later and ministered for three years. Some years later, when Paul was in prison in Rome, he wrote this letter to the believers in Ephesus.

Ephesus was an important city and boasted of being custodian of the temple of Diana, one of the seven wonders of the world. The city was devoted to idolatry, which explains why Paul had so much to say about defeating the devil.

From the very first words, Paul details the spiritual blessings of every Christian. It records one blessing after another and the differences those blessings can make in our service, confidence, and fellowship with other believers.

God came after us and made us His own. Through Jesus, we have peace. Through Him we have everything we need to accomplish the work God has prepared for each of us and be secure in our standing with Him.

Those who study Ephesians and work to apply it to their lives will develop depth and stability in their souls. Maturity comes only by grace, so understanding that grace must become our lifelong passion.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

Galatians

 

Galatians

On Paul’s first missionary journey, the Galatians were deceived by false teachers who insisted on the necessity of following the law of Moses in order to be accepted by God. In the strongest possible terms, Paul renounces that message, proclaiming that salvation comes by faith alone in Christ alone. Faith leads to freedom and that produces life-giving spiritual fruit in our lives by which we can bless others.

Paul wrote this letter to magnify God’s grace in salvation and to explain the freedom of God’s people because of that grace. He explains how God delivered him from bondage through faith in Jesus Christ. He tells how to enjoy grace and freedom in your daily life.

Christian freedom is the liberty to become all that you can in Jesus Christ; it is not a license to do whatever you please. The worst bondage you can experience is living for yourself and yielding to the desires of the old nature. (Romans 6). We have freedom to do good or evil, yet to make the choice of evil, is not to use, but to abuse our freedom. Christ did not free us to be our own; He freed us to be His and His alone.

In Him alone, is our salvation, our righteousness, our joy, both now and in eternity.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Second Corinthians

 

Second Corinthians

The problems in the Corinthian church grew worse and Paul had to visit Corinth to confront the troublemakers.

Second Corinthians was written when the Apostle Paul learned that some fast talking false teachers had infiltrated the struggling church and had stirred the congregation against him. Titus was sent to dispute these allegations. Some changed their minds, others continued to challenge Paul’s authority, security and ministry. Paul’s next attempt was to counter the attacks of his critics through this letter.

This is a glimpse into the heart of a man who was fully devoted to serving God and others. His focus is on ministry, eternal rewards, reconciliation, holy living, true generosity, and perseverance.

Paul outlines the price he paid for service to Christ and the gospel. He reminded the Corinthians and us today that the physical body is only temporary. When we leave this body, we step into a wondrous permanent body, designed to last forever.

It is encouraging to remember that God’s people aim is to point fellow travelers to the Way and to be “well pleasing to Him.”

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

First Corinthians

 

First Corinthians

Paul founded the Corinthian Church during his second missionary journey.

Corinth was the capital of Achaia, and most likely the most important city of Greece. It was also the most corrupt city.

Paul had planted the church in the city, but the city got into the church causing many problems. This letter was a source of godly wisdom for saints who are called in live in a godless culture. Paul addresses matters such as Church unity, humility, modesty, church discipline, marriage, divorce, remarriage, singleness, temptation, love, spiritual gifts and worship.

Long-term faithfulness is what leads to fruitfulness.

Paul concentrated on Agape love (unconditional love). The place to start when we have relational problems is to first ask God to restore the selfless love that only God can give, maintain, and ultimately perfect.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Romans

 

Romans

Paul was on his third missionary journey when he wrote this letter to the Romans.

The theme of this letter is “what it means to be justified (declared righteous by God) and to live a righteous life.

Paul talks of God’s righteousness and salvation, God’s righteousness and Israel, and God’s righteousnes and practical Christian living.

Justification is God’s gracious act by which He declares a believing sinner righteous in Jesus Christ because of the work of Christ on the cross.

God has revealed His righteousness and that is why the Good News needs to be revealed.

Paul writes that the “abundance of grace” we have received, and receive everyday, along with the gift of righteousness enables us to “reign in life” through Jesus Christ.

Read Romans as though your life depended on it, because in a very real sense it does.

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Book of Acts

 

Book of Acts

The Book of Acts was written by Luke as a companion volume to his gospel, Luke, and it describes what Jesus continued to do and teach after He returned to heaven.

The first chapter outlines how the gospel went from Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria and then to the ends of the earth. It describes a transition from ministry to Jews to ministry to Gentiles and explains how the gospel got from Jerusalem to Rome.

Luke wrote Acts with Paul evangelizing Jewish leaders in his rented room in Rome while under house arrest.

Dr. Luke may have realized his Book of Acts would never be completed until the end of church age.  The Acts of the Holy Spirit working through His servants would continue, reaching and evangelizing each new generation until the Lord call His church to heaven.

The same Holy Spirit is present and available to God’s sons and daughters today. God offers His children the boldness and courage to walk without fear and to own the name of Jesus without hesitation or embarrassment. We can take note that “we have been with Jesus.”

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

John

 

John

John wrote this gospel to prove that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and to believe in Him and be saved. His evidence is the miracles that Jesus performed, the words He spoke and the testimony of the witnesses that knew Him.

Seven witnesses declare that Jesus is the Son of God: John the Baptist, Nathaniel, Peter, a man who had been blind, Martha, Thomas and the apostle John. Jesus also declared Himself Deity.

John not only wrote for the Jews, Greeks, and for the Romans but for the whole world. John’s invitation is “Come and hear, Come and see!” His words and His works prove that Jesus is indeed the Son of God. Throughout this book Jesus is seen as Savior and Lord.

John modestly spoke of himself as the “disciple whom Jesus loved.” He clarified who that was in John 21:24.

John wrote to encourage faith in the only Son of God that all who believe in Him might have everlasting life. His goal was to portray Christ as the divine Son of God, clothed in human flesh, having come to save all who believe in Him.

Most people thirst for something beyond themselves. We thirst for the relationship with our Creator that our first parents lost in Eden. We thirst for a deeper sense of meaning to our lives, even when we are as busy as we have ever been. There is life in Jesus name, eternal life that will sustain us forever and life for today that will refresh and renew us in the middle of our journey. Christ says, “Come and drink, Come and live.”

Please read the Book listed so that you can understand the word of God to its fullness. This study comes from The Jeremiah Study Bible, The Bible for Hope, The King James Bible and the Nelson’s Quick Reference Bible Commentary

For more posts like this, go to: https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.