James continues to teach us God’s ways. He emphasizes the difference between the world’s system and God’s system. The difference in loyalty, attitudes, lifestyle, rules, worldview, etc. He urges living according to the law of Christ (1 Corinthians 9:21, Galatians 6:2, James 1:25, and James 2:12). Even though the Psalmist refers to Mosaic Law…
James continues to instruct us on living the Christian life. He spends some time correcting deceptions about the Christian life. God gives gifts, so should we. James teaches us true gifts based on God’s examples. One of the best gifts He gives is self-control. We must listen carefully before speaking. What we say is…
James continues his letter on topics concerning the Christian lifestyle and principles of God’s kingdom. My translation and notes on James 1:9-15 Believers Should Be Content in Life’s Status 9 Let the brother of humble circumstances rejoice in that he is exalted, [The Greek word for ‘humble circumstances’ is (G5011) ταπεινός tapeinós, which means…
Jesus is the teacher of all teachers. The Beatitudes are the beginning of a teaching session where Jesus teaches the correct worldview and lifestyle of the Kingdom of God. I have written some simple notes to hopefully stimulate all to read and study these principles. Afterwards, all believers—especially—can apply and start living according to…
Paul continues his instructions to Timothy yet applicable to all church workers—especially pastors—and to all believers. We learn from these true-life examples what pleases our Lord Jesus, and what doesn’t. We learn to remain loyal to fellow believers. We learn to pray for those who desert us or remain loyal. Our friendships must be…
Timothy continues his education about God’s will for pastors dealing with interpersonal competence, widows, and subtopics for each. My translation and notes of 1 Timothy 5:1-16 1 Timothy Chapter 5 Respect the Brethren 1 Don’t scold an older man, instead appeal to him like a father, [and] the younger men like brothers, [Elders here…
Paul now instructs Timothy about the believers in the congregation. My notes and translation of 1 Timothy 2:8-15 Encourage Members 8 Therefore, I want men to pray wherever they are, lifting holy hands without anger and doubt. [The men of the church (believers) are being addressed. Starting in verse 9 the women are addressed.…
Guidance for church worship regarding prayer. Also addressed is Jesus is the perfect mediator, the only mediator between humans and God. 1 Timothy Chapter 2 Encourage prayer for Others 1 Therefore, first of all, I strongly urge that entreaties, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, [Paul lists four types of prayers.…
The Hebrews writer having reviewed the superiority of Jesus over everything gives a warning to those who refuse to believe. He gives some examples of those who refused God’s message. Jesus is greater than Moses, Aaron, angels, anything, or anyone (Hebrews 3:5-6). Judgment day is coming. We must remain steadfast in faith. My translation and notes…
More miscellaneous rules for Christians to live by. Rules regarding doing good, sharing, attitude towards Christian leadership, prayer, and the writer’s personal appeal for prayer. My translation and notes on Hebrews 13:16-19. 16 Do not forget to do good and share, because with such sacrifices God is well pleased. 17 Be persuadable by those…