January 6, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 11
1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
3 Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
5 In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;
6 By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;
9 As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
10 As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.
11 O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
12 Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.
13 Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.
14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
In 2 Corinthians chapter 11, Paul speaks with heartfelt words about his love for the church and his concern that it might be led astray by false apostles and their teachings. He illustrates how Satan’s deception, even as an “angel of light,” has led many astray. At the same time, Paul provides a glimpse into the countless sufferings and dangers he has endured in the service of Christ. This passage emphasizes the purity of the Gospel and encourages us to uphold the truth with zeal and humility.
Commentary
In this chapter, Paul employs a blend of sharp criticism, personal testimony, and rhetorical irony to convey his message. His concern is for the church, which is vulnerable to false teachings disguised as Christian doctrine. With the words, “For Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” (verse 14), Paul makes it clear that not everything that appears pious is truly from God. It is a call to vigilance against teachers who may appear convincing outwardly but preach a false gospel.
Paul also demonstrates his dedication by listing the many trials he has endured for the sake of Christ: imprisonments, beatings, shipwrecks, and his constant concern for the churches. This is not to glorify himself but to highlight his sincerity and commitment. At the same time, he emphasizes that true strength lies in weakness: “If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness” (verse 30).
Summary
2 Corinthians chapter 11 is a passionate appeal from Paul to preserve the purity of the Gospel and not to be deceived by false apostles. He warns against deceptions that originate from Satan himself and provides a powerful testimony of his ministry, marked by suffering and sacrifice. Paul calls on the church to distinguish between truth and falsehood and to maintain humility and simplicity in Christ. At the same time, he reminds us that true strength is found in reliance on God and enduring weakness.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 85—By the Sea Once More
This chapter is based on John 21:1-22.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 85, based on John 21, describes the renewed encounter of Jesus with His disciples after His resurrection at the Sea of Galilee. In a time of uncertainty and inner struggles, Jesus strengthens the disciples, reminds them of their calling, and reinstates Peter in his ministry. This meeting is marked by forgiveness, love, and the renewal of the divine mission. It is a message of hope and an invitation to align oneself with Christ in trust and obedience.
Commentary
The Miracle of the Catch – Renewal of the Calling:
The fruitless night on the sea symbolizes the limits of human effort without divine guidance. Only through Jesus’ instruction do the disciples’ nets become full. This miracle recalls the first catch at their calling and confirms that Jesus, despite His death and resurrection, continues to care for their needs. It serves as a picture of how God’s work succeeds through faith and collaboration with Him.
The Restoration of Peter:
Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” reflecting Peter’s threefold denial. This examination publicly rehabilitates Peter and renews his apostolic ministry. The repeated command to “Feed my lambs” and “Feed my sheep” highlights Peter’s responsibility as a spiritual shepherd. His repentance and humility prepare him to care for both young believers and the broader congregation.
Following and Trust:
Jesus commands Peter to follow Him, regardless of what happens to others. This teaching emphasizes the personal responsibility of each disciple to serve Christ without being distracted by the tasks of others. Jesus makes it clear that everyone has their own path of discipleship rooted in His divine plan.
Summary
Chapter 85 illustrates Jesus’ faithfulness to His disciples and His willingness to forgive and renew them despite their failures. The miracle of the catch reminds the disciples of their calling, while Peter’s threefold reaffirmation of his devotion reinstates him as a shepherd of the church. The call to “Follow me!” is a universal appeal to all Christians to align themselves with Christ in trust and obedience without comparing themselves to others.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 86—Go Teach All Nations
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:16-20.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 86, based on Jesus’ final instructions, focuses on the Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This is not only a command to the disciples of that time but also an enduring mission for all Christians. It describes the equipping of the disciples with divine authority, the universal reach of the Gospel message, and the responsibility of every believer to proclaim the Good News. This message calls for dedication, collaboration, and faith in God’s work.
Commentary
The Great Commission – Divine Authority and Universal Mission
Jesus began His words with the assurance: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). This assurance demonstrates that the proclamation of the Gospel does not rely on human strength but on His authority. The command “Go into all the world” emphasizes the universal nature of the message: all nations, peoples, and cultures are to hear the Gospel. This global perspective highlights God’s boundless love and desire for salvation.
The Responsibility of Believers
The commission is not only directed at the apostles but also at all believers. The church is called to actively participate in the salvation of souls. This service can take the form of preaching, personal testimony, or practical help. Such work requires dedication, trust in God, and a willingness to serve with humility and love.
Promises and Challenges
Jesus promised to support His followers: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). This assurance gives believers courage, even in the face of persecution and challenges. The promise of the Holy Spirit as a source of supernatural strength was essential for the disciples and remains a central support for ministry today. However, the Great Commission is also a test of faith, dedication, and trust.
Summary
Chapter 86 demonstrates that Jesus’ Great Commission is the foundation of the Christian church. This mission is comprehensive, requiring faith, dedication, and the active involvement of every believer. The promise of divine support provides strength and courage, while the universal scope of the message reveals God’s all-encompassing love. The success of the mission depends on how deeply believers trust in and collaborate with Jesus in their dedication.
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