October 17 Psalm 119:49-56 1 Timothy 2 Jeremiah 35; 36; 37
Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.
Reading the Bible is helpful in taking next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.
- What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
- Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
- What should you do about that truth?
October 17 Psalm 119:49-56 1 Timothy 2 Jeremiah 35; 36; 37
Psalm 119:49-56
In the Scripture, we find promises made by our God. When we search out those promises, they bring us comfort. Reflecting on who we have found God to be will change our lives for the better. We should be talking about this with each other. That is a lesson we should learn from this Psalm.
1 Timothy 2
Paul gives us relevant guidance for anyone who would serve people, anyone who would lead people. We should pray for people (in intercession and with gratitude). We should pray for civil leaders. We must keep in mind that our God “wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth” that Jesus is the one Mediator. Jesus Christ is the One who reconciles God with humanity. This is our most important message.
2:8-15 includes Paul’s instructions that no group of people has dominance over another. There’s more to be said here than we have time for. There’s much about culture and history that is essential for context. Let’s start with the simple truth. Just as we see in Ephesians 5:21, “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This revolutionary idea of mutual submission looks like this, “Thinking about Jesus Christ every day, remember His loving example of grace and humility. Remember His instruction to love God with the best of your energy and love others in the same way you take care of yourself.” – Matthew 22:37-39
2:14 Paul’s point includes the truth that both Adam and Eve stood equally guilty of their sin, before God.
2:15 some scholars believe could read, “saved by the birth of the Child” (referring to faith in Jesus Christ). Additionally, the text implies mothers leading younger people to faith in Jesus Christ. These beliefs would be true to many of the churches of the first century.
Jeremiah 35; 36; 37
God refers to the way that the Recabites remained faithful to the guidance of their ancestors. This was in contrast to the disobedience of His own people to His own words. God held out hope that the people would repent. Their king twice burned the Word of God written down for their benefit. The leaders of Jerusalem had Jeremiah beaten and thrown in prison. People who want to live in sin don’t want to hear God’s Word. If only they knew about the faithful love of God!