This is from my personal journal. Please use this only as a guide.
In this posting, I would like to explain a bit of what I learned in the introduction to each of the first four letters. I would also like to include a quotation that struck a chord with me. You may have further insight and/or meaningful information. Please be encouraged to share your comments! Remember to click on "0 comments," type your comments in the dialog box and add your name or initials, copy the word verification, choose your identity ("anonymous"), and click "Publish your comment."
Galations - Paul wrote to refute extremists who taught the Gentile Christians that they must submit to Jewish laws and traditions as well as believe in Christ. Paul wrote to return all believers to the pure gospel. The Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike: We are saved by faith.
Galations 6:10 - "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
Ephesians - Paul had visited and taught in the church of Ephasis several times (once for 3 years). This letter is one of encouragement that they continue their good work according to what they have learned. Ephesians 3:12 - "In him (Jesus Christ) and through faith in him, we approach God with freedom and confidence."
Philippians - This is called Paul's Joy Letter. In comparing joy to happiness, joy runs deeper and stronger. It is the quiet, confident assurance of God's love and work in our lifes. That He will be there, no matter what! Happiness depends upon external happenings; joy depends upon internal peace and in Christ's fulness. Philippians 2:10-11 - "I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until lnow, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ."
Colossians - Paul had never visited this church but wanted to confront false teachings and affirm the sufficiency of Christ. Paul teaches that Christ has paid for sin, has reconciled us to God, and gives us the pattern and power to grow spiritually. Portions of Colossians 3:12-17 - "Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive whatever grievances you might have with one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. ...and whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
More tomorrow. :-) kt
In this posting, I would like to explain a bit of what I learned in the introduction to each of the first four letters. I would also like to include a quotation that struck a chord with me. You may have further insight and/or meaningful information. Please be encouraged to share your comments! Remember to click on "0 comments," type your comments in the dialog box and add your name or initials, copy the word verification, choose your identity ("anonymous"), and click "Publish your comment."
Galations - Paul wrote to refute extremists who taught the Gentile Christians that they must submit to Jewish laws and traditions as well as believe in Christ. Paul wrote to return all believers to the pure gospel. The Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike: We are saved by faith.
Galations 6:10 - "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
Ephesians - Paul had visited and taught in the church of Ephasis several times (once for 3 years). This letter is one of encouragement that they continue their good work according to what they have learned. Ephesians 3:12 - "In him (Jesus Christ) and through faith in him, we approach God with freedom and confidence."
Philippians - This is called Paul's Joy Letter. In comparing joy to happiness, joy runs deeper and stronger. It is the quiet, confident assurance of God's love and work in our lifes. That He will be there, no matter what! Happiness depends upon external happenings; joy depends upon internal peace and in Christ's fulness. Philippians 2:10-11 - "I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until lnow, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ."
Colossians - Paul had never visited this church but wanted to confront false teachings and affirm the sufficiency of Christ. Paul teaches that Christ has paid for sin, has reconciled us to God, and gives us the pattern and power to grow spiritually. Portions of Colossians 3:12-17 - "Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive whatever grievances you might have with one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. ...and whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
More tomorrow. :-) kt
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