January 8, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 13
1 This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.
2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:
3 Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.
4 For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.
5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?
6 But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.
7 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.
8 For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.
9 For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.
10 Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.
11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.
12 Greet one another with an holy kiss.
13 All the saints salute you.
14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
The 13th chapter of the 2nd Letter to the Corinthians marks the conclusion of a moving epistle by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. It is characterized by a blend of warning, exhortation, and encouraging words. Paul prepares the church for his third visit and calls on them to examine themselves to ensure their faith is genuine. He emphasizes the authority given to him by Christ while highlighting that his aim is not to punish but to build up the church. He concludes by blessing the Corinthians with the well-known Trinitarian benediction, which underscores love, grace, and fellowship.
Commentary
This chapter highlights several central themes:
Self-Examination in Faith (Verses 5-6):
Paul urges believers to test themselves to see whether Jesus Christ truly lives within them. This is a powerful reminder that faith should not only be outwardly visible but also deeply rooted in the heart and reflected in actions. This call remains relevant today, inviting us to reflect on our own lives in the light of Christ.
Authority and Humility (Verses 2-4, 10):
Paul points to the apostolic authority he received from Christ. Yet, he shows that this power is meant not for destruction but for building up the church. This balance between authority and humility serves as a model for leaders in the faith.
Unity and Peace (Verses 11-12):
Paul calls the church to joy, comfort, unity, and peace. These qualities are essential for a healthy community rooted in God’s love.
The Trinitarian Blessing (Verse 13):
The conclusion with the Trinitarian benediction reminds us that the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit form the foundation of Christian life.
Summary
The 13th chapter of the 2nd Letter to the Corinthians is a compelling exhortation and a loving appeal, urging the Corinthians to self-examination and adherence to Christian values. Paul reminds believers of the power of God, revealed in weakness, and the need to live in truth and integrity. His words emphasize that Christian community should be built on unity, peace, and mutual comfort. The Trinitarian blessing at the end of the chapter calls us to live in the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit—a timeless invitation for every believer.
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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