“…you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God.” (1 Thessalonians 2:13b)
If God were to cry down from the heavens with lightning and the voice of thunder, I suspect most would listen and obey. We respond quickly to overt power and flaunting strength. Yet, the words of the Scripture are no less the words of God than ones spoken from a quaking mountaintop or boomed from the heavens.
To read the Bible is to hear the words of God spoken directly to you. These are not good words; they are ultimate words. The Bible is authority engraved in text. Listen accordingly.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:10-20
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision