How can one “set your mind on things that are above” while still living here below in creation?
Colossians 3:8-14 provides examples of behaviors to get rid of anew new ones to take on. What are some of the negative, old ways of living that you want to take off? What are some of the new ways of living you want to put on? (LSB, p. 1940)
Colossians 3:11 has often been read as a hopeful declaration of equality. Consider what about you or in your background you value for its diversity (ex. ethnic heritage, family legacy, occupation, etc.) – can you imagine a way in which this declaration and similar ones in Pauline literature might be read as hurtful? If so, how might we as Christ’s Church respond to these readings?
Consider Colossians 3:13-14 in light of our ongoing conversations about judgment. How are we to live together in relationship with one another? With other Christians? With non-Christians?
Colossians 3:16-17 could be the theme verse for Christian Education. What would change in your life if you took these words completely seriously?
In 3:18-4:1 Paul describes some guidelines for how people of a household should treat one another. How does faith in Christ affect your family relationships? Your other relationships? (LSB, p. 1940)
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
For Thursday (5/13): Colossians 1-2
Which came first: salvation or good works? In the Church this can often be a "chicken or the egg" kind of question. What does the author of Colossians say (cf.1:3-14)?
Colossians 1:21-23 expands upon this relationship. The provision mentioned in v. 23 is unique in Pauline literature. How does it help to interpret the relationship between salvation and good works? (see also 2:6-7)
What is meant by "the kingdom of [God's] beloved son" (1:13)? The verb used is in the past tense -- in what ways are we already there?
Refer back to the Nicene Creed (ELW, p. 104). What echoes of this Scripture (1:15-17) do you hear in this text? In recent ecumenical conversation the Nicene Creed has gained more attention because of the Third article and the relationship between the Son and the Spirit. Why is this important? What is the relationship between Scripture and Creeds to you? How can Scripture help guide these conversations?
Read again Paul's desire for all the churches in Colossae and Laodicea in 2:2. What might it mean for our [Christian] "hearts to be united in love." What might it mean for our church? Our world?
What "plausible arguments" (2:4, 8, 16-19) are in danger of deceiving / destroying the unity in Christ in our present church?
Colossians 1:21-23 expands upon this relationship. The provision mentioned in v. 23 is unique in Pauline literature. How does it help to interpret the relationship between salvation and good works? (see also 2:6-7)
What is meant by "the kingdom of [God's] beloved son" (1:13)? The verb used is in the past tense -- in what ways are we already there?
Refer back to the Nicene Creed (ELW, p. 104). What echoes of this Scripture (1:15-17) do you hear in this text? In recent ecumenical conversation the Nicene Creed has gained more attention because of the Third article and the relationship between the Son and the Spirit. Why is this important? What is the relationship between Scripture and Creeds to you? How can Scripture help guide these conversations?
Read again Paul's desire for all the churches in Colossae and Laodicea in 2:2. What might it mean for our [Christian] "hearts to be united in love." What might it mean for our church? Our world?
What "plausible arguments" (2:4, 8, 16-19) are in danger of deceiving / destroying the unity in Christ in our present church?
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Bible Study Canceled
Bible Study is canceled for Thursday, April 22 and Thursday, April 29. Please join us as we resume again on Thursday, May 6th with the conclusion to Ephesians.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
For 4/15 - Ephesians 2:1 - 3:21
Hear the words of absolution: “God, who is rich in mercy, loved us even when we were dead in sin, and made us alive together with Christ. By grace you have been saved. In the name of Jesus Christ, your sins are forgiven. Almighty God strengthen you with power through the Holy Spirit, that Christ may live in your hearts through faith. Amen.” (ELW, p. 96) Where do these words come from? Does discovering this connection enrich your understanding of the liturgy? Of Ephesians? Of forgiveness? If so, how? Are these appropriate words for absolution? If so, why?
Read the Luther Rose note on p. 1923 of your Study Bible. What does Luther’s addition of the word “alone” add or clarify to 2:8-10? What do these verses mean for our lives as Christians?
The “dividing wall” (2:14) was a literal wall past which Gentiles could not go in the Jerusalem temple. What “dividing walls” exist in our contemporary church? In our congregation?
Consider the proposition that Ephesians was written to a new generation of Christians. On what “foundation” and “cornerstone” do we build together new generations in our church (cf. 2:19-22; 3:16-17)? How might we better be about this work? What insights does Ephesians offer?
To whom has God revealed the “mystery” – his plan for salvation (cf. 3:4ff.)? What does this mean for those of us already entrusted with this mystery? For those who don’t yet know?
Did God create the devil? Sin? Pain? Death? How does God exist in relationship with these evils? (cf. 3:9) What difference does this make for you?
The author of Ephesians believes that believers are already “in Christ” / “with Christ” in the heavenly places. In light of this, what might be the intention of his prayer in 3:17? How might this prayer be applicable to us? How might it effect us? Change us?
Read the Luther Rose note on p. 1923 of your Study Bible. What does Luther’s addition of the word “alone” add or clarify to 2:8-10? What do these verses mean for our lives as Christians?
The “dividing wall” (2:14) was a literal wall past which Gentiles could not go in the Jerusalem temple. What “dividing walls” exist in our contemporary church? In our congregation?
Consider the proposition that Ephesians was written to a new generation of Christians. On what “foundation” and “cornerstone” do we build together new generations in our church (cf. 2:19-22; 3:16-17)? How might we better be about this work? What insights does Ephesians offer?
To whom has God revealed the “mystery” – his plan for salvation (cf. 3:4ff.)? What does this mean for those of us already entrusted with this mystery? For those who don’t yet know?
Did God create the devil? Sin? Pain? Death? How does God exist in relationship with these evils? (cf. 3:9) What difference does this make for you?
The author of Ephesians believes that believers are already “in Christ” / “with Christ” in the heavenly places. In light of this, what might be the intention of his prayer in 3:17? How might this prayer be applicable to us? How might it effect us? Change us?
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Ephesians 1:1-23 (for Thurs, April 8)
For Thurs. 4/8 – Ephesians 1:1-23
Read the Introductory Notes in your Lutheran Study Bible before reading the first chapter of the Letter to the Ephesians. While Ephesians is identified as a letter from Paul to the Church at Ephesus, most scholars now believe that it was probably written by one of Paul’s associates to the whole region around Ephesus. What do you think of this theory? Does it matter?
Compare the introductory structure of this letter to some of the other letters we’ve studied. Do you notice any differences or similarities?
Ephesians 1:3-14 is a description of what God has done and will do for the faithful in Christ Jesus. Sketch a timeline beginning with the foundation of the world and ending with the future redemption, highlighting the main points of God’s action for us according to these verses.
Ephesians 1:13 refers to “the seal of the promised Holy Spirit.” The Church imparts this seal liturgically at Baptism. What meaning, according to Ephesians, does this seal have? If we take this seriously, how does it change/affirm the way you think about Baptism and its meaning/purpose?
Read Ephesians 1:17-19. What things does the author pray for on account of the Ephesians? Presumably these are places that they can continue to grow and improve. Hearing these prayers in light of what God has already done for the Ephesians in 1:3-14, what word of hope do you hear for us? For you?
Compare Ephesians 1:22-23 with Psalm 8:6 (see also 1 Cor 15:28 and Heb 2:18). If you believe these words how do they change your perception of the world? Of the church?
Read the Introductory Notes in your Lutheran Study Bible before reading the first chapter of the Letter to the Ephesians. While Ephesians is identified as a letter from Paul to the Church at Ephesus, most scholars now believe that it was probably written by one of Paul’s associates to the whole region around Ephesus. What do you think of this theory? Does it matter?
Compare the introductory structure of this letter to some of the other letters we’ve studied. Do you notice any differences or similarities?
Ephesians 1:3-14 is a description of what God has done and will do for the faithful in Christ Jesus. Sketch a timeline beginning with the foundation of the world and ending with the future redemption, highlighting the main points of God’s action for us according to these verses.
Ephesians 1:13 refers to “the seal of the promised Holy Spirit.” The Church imparts this seal liturgically at Baptism. What meaning, according to Ephesians, does this seal have? If we take this seriously, how does it change/affirm the way you think about Baptism and its meaning/purpose?
Read Ephesians 1:17-19. What things does the author pray for on account of the Ephesians? Presumably these are places that they can continue to grow and improve. Hearing these prayers in light of what God has already done for the Ephesians in 1:3-14, what word of hope do you hear for us? For you?
Compare Ephesians 1:22-23 with Psalm 8:6 (see also 1 Cor 15:28 and Heb 2:18). If you believe these words how do they change your perception of the world? Of the church?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Holy Communion (for 3/25)
Read the various accounts of the institution of Holy Communion (1 Cor 11:23-25; Matt 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:15-20; John 6:48-58). What is different about each account? More importantly, what is the same?
Martin Luther talks about Holy Communion as a tangible sign of the promise that we have from God that He has given Himself for us. Think of a time that you were given or gave someone else a tangible sign of a promise? How did/does seeing or touching this sign help you to trust the promise?
What is the difference between believing that Jesus is the Son of God who rose from the dead and believing that Jesus is the Son of God who rose from the dead for you?
What is the difference between believing that God is present everywhere and that God is present for you in the bread and wine of Holy Communion? Does this distinction change how approach / perceive Holy Communion? (Consider Martin Luther’s explanation of Holy Communion in the Small Catechism, p. 17 in Communion Handbook)
What did Jesus’ friends “bring to the table” when they gathered with Jesus for the institution of the Communion meal? (See pp. 2-6 in Communion Handbook) What do we bring to the table when we come to receive Holy Communion?
What (if anything) does God ask/require of us to bring to the Communion table?
Martin Luther talks about Holy Communion as a tangible sign of the promise that we have from God that He has given Himself for us. Think of a time that you were given or gave someone else a tangible sign of a promise? How did/does seeing or touching this sign help you to trust the promise?
What is the difference between believing that Jesus is the Son of God who rose from the dead and believing that Jesus is the Son of God who rose from the dead for you?
What is the difference between believing that God is present everywhere and that God is present for you in the bread and wine of Holy Communion? Does this distinction change how approach / perceive Holy Communion? (Consider Martin Luther’s explanation of Holy Communion in the Small Catechism, p. 17 in Communion Handbook)
What did Jesus’ friends “bring to the table” when they gathered with Jesus for the institution of the Communion meal? (See pp. 2-6 in Communion Handbook) What do we bring to the table when we come to receive Holy Communion?
What (if anything) does God ask/require of us to bring to the Communion table?
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Romans 15:14-16:27 for 3/18
What have you learned about God from our study of Romans?
What have you learned about our relationship as the Body of Christ?
If you take Paul’s words in Romans seriously, what would change in your life? In your ministry? What is God calling you to do / say?
Read Paul’s final instructions in Romans 16:17-18. How might we hold these words in tension with the commandment to love our neighbor and not to judge? How do these words inform how we might live into these first two commandments in the “real world”?
Why do you think Paul mentions so many people in such rapid succession at the end of this letter? What might it have accomplished?
Notice the roles of women that Paul mentions in chapter 16. Compare this to 1 Cor 14:33-36 and 1 Timothy 2:11-12. What do you make of this?
What have you learned about Christian Ethics from Paul’s letter to the Romans? What does this mean for your own moral living? Your relationships with others?
What have you learned about our relationship as the Body of Christ?
If you take Paul’s words in Romans seriously, what would change in your life? In your ministry? What is God calling you to do / say?
Read Paul’s final instructions in Romans 16:17-18. How might we hold these words in tension with the commandment to love our neighbor and not to judge? How do these words inform how we might live into these first two commandments in the “real world”?
Why do you think Paul mentions so many people in such rapid succession at the end of this letter? What might it have accomplished?
Notice the roles of women that Paul mentions in chapter 16. Compare this to 1 Cor 14:33-36 and 1 Timothy 2:11-12. What do you make of this?
What have you learned about Christian Ethics from Paul’s letter to the Romans? What does this mean for your own moral living? Your relationships with others?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Romans 12:1-15:13 for March 11, 2010
This section of Romans might be described as Paul’s primer on Christian Ethics. Note that it comes only after Paul has described in depth God’s relationship with humanity. How does what God has done in Christ Jesus effect how we are to live as Christians?
If we took Romans 1-11 seriously, how would it change how we live? Our ethics and behavior?
The Greek verb “be transformed” in 12:2 indicates an ongoing behavior. In what ways have you already experienced the Spirit’s transformation (e.g. baptism)? In what ways is the Spirit’s work an ongoing action in your life?
Romans 12:9-13 is frequently used in marriage services. In what ways do your closest personal relationships reflect the way in which we are called to be in relationship with the whole body of Christ? Is it easier to “let love be genuine” in these more intimate relationships or in the broader sense to which Paul is speaking? How might your behavior change if you took Paul’s words seriously among both groups?
Romans 13:1-7 has often been used by those in power to maintain their position and by those under repressive regimes to maintain the status quo. Do you think this is an appropriate use? Why or why not? Why might Paul have written these words and how do you think he intended them? (Pay particular attention to the role of God and the use of the term “due”)
Read Paul’s words in Romans 14 again. Consider these questions from the Lutheran Study Bible notes: “How can Christians with differing views be a part of the same church? What can you do to build up the church?” Is “mutual upbuilding” always possible? In our current church situation, how might we pursue this goal?
In what ways does / has “the encouragement of the scriptures” given you hope? (Romans 15:4)
If we took Romans 1-11 seriously, how would it change how we live? Our ethics and behavior?
The Greek verb “be transformed” in 12:2 indicates an ongoing behavior. In what ways have you already experienced the Spirit’s transformation (e.g. baptism)? In what ways is the Spirit’s work an ongoing action in your life?
Romans 12:9-13 is frequently used in marriage services. In what ways do your closest personal relationships reflect the way in which we are called to be in relationship with the whole body of Christ? Is it easier to “let love be genuine” in these more intimate relationships or in the broader sense to which Paul is speaking? How might your behavior change if you took Paul’s words seriously among both groups?
Romans 13:1-7 has often been used by those in power to maintain their position and by those under repressive regimes to maintain the status quo. Do you think this is an appropriate use? Why or why not? Why might Paul have written these words and how do you think he intended them? (Pay particular attention to the role of God and the use of the term “due”)
Read Paul’s words in Romans 14 again. Consider these questions from the Lutheran Study Bible notes: “How can Christians with differing views be a part of the same church? What can you do to build up the church?” Is “mutual upbuilding” always possible? In our current church situation, how might we pursue this goal?
In what ways does / has “the encouragement of the scriptures” given you hope? (Romans 15:4)
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Romans 9:1-11:36 (For Thurs, Feb 25)
NOTE: There will be no Bible Study on Thursday, March 4. I apologize for any inconvenience.
Does/will God save the Jews who do not believe in Christ? (See Paul’s answer in 11:25-29)
Why does Paul believe that some Jews are “enemies” of the Gospel despite their divine election? (cf. 11:28) Why then should Gentiles continue to be faithful to the Gospel?
What does this mean for inter-religious dialogue and relationship between Jews and Christians? (See Paul’s discussion in 11:17-24)
Do you / have you ever known a faithful Jew? If so, what have you learned from him/her? What do you hope s/he has learned from you?
Why is it so important to Paul to emphasize God’s relationship with the Jews? What implications does he understand God’s relationships with the people of Israel to have for Christians?
Do you trust God? How is / would your life be different because of your trust in God?
What stumbling blocks do you encounter that make it difficult for you to trust God? How do Paul’s words in these chapters give strength and encouragement to you as you stumble?
What do you make of the “divine election” that Paul speaks of? To what has God elected us? How does/should this effect the way we live our lives? The way we relate to others?
Does/will God save the Jews who do not believe in Christ? (See Paul’s answer in 11:25-29)
Why does Paul believe that some Jews are “enemies” of the Gospel despite their divine election? (cf. 11:28) Why then should Gentiles continue to be faithful to the Gospel?
What does this mean for inter-religious dialogue and relationship between Jews and Christians? (See Paul’s discussion in 11:17-24)
Do you / have you ever known a faithful Jew? If so, what have you learned from him/her? What do you hope s/he has learned from you?
Why is it so important to Paul to emphasize God’s relationship with the Jews? What implications does he understand God’s relationships with the people of Israel to have for Christians?
Do you trust God? How is / would your life be different because of your trust in God?
What stumbling blocks do you encounter that make it difficult for you to trust God? How do Paul’s words in these chapters give strength and encouragement to you as you stumble?
What do you make of the “divine election” that Paul speaks of? To what has God elected us? How does/should this effect the way we live our lives? The way we relate to others?
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Romans 6:1-8:39 (for 2/11)
If we are saved by God’s grace anyway, why don’t we just continue to live in sin?
With the above question in mind, Theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer writes in his book The Cost of Discipleship, “Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ living and incarnate.” In contrast, he suggests, “Costly grace…is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ.” In what ways do you experience God’s grace as costly? In what ways do you experience God’s grace as cheap? Can (or should) it be both?
If you cannot achieve your own salvation by good works, what role do good works have in a Christian’s life? According to Paul? According to Bonhoeffer? For you?
Think of the baptisms you remember witnessing. Think about what you may have been told about your own baptism (or ask someone to tell you). Why do we baptize? According to Paul, what happens in baptism? What does this mean for us who are baptized? Read again 6:3-14.
What symbols do we use to represent baptism in the church? Which symbols holds the most meaning for you? Why?
Lutherans teach that the law functions as 1) a mirror (to reveal sin), 2) a measuring stick (to order society), and 3) a guide (to direct Christian living). Read again 7:7-13 – what function of the law does Paul describe? If we agree with what Paul says here, how might we live and act differently as Christians saved by God’s grace who have been gifted with God’s law?
In 8:15-17 Paul describes us as children of God. In what ways does/has your family reflected on you? Influenced you? In what ways does/can/should your membership in God’s family do the same?
With the above question in mind, Theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer writes in his book The Cost of Discipleship, “Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ living and incarnate.” In contrast, he suggests, “Costly grace…is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ.” In what ways do you experience God’s grace as costly? In what ways do you experience God’s grace as cheap? Can (or should) it be both?
If you cannot achieve your own salvation by good works, what role do good works have in a Christian’s life? According to Paul? According to Bonhoeffer? For you?
Think of the baptisms you remember witnessing. Think about what you may have been told about your own baptism (or ask someone to tell you). Why do we baptize? According to Paul, what happens in baptism? What does this mean for us who are baptized? Read again 6:3-14.
What symbols do we use to represent baptism in the church? Which symbols holds the most meaning for you? Why?
Lutherans teach that the law functions as 1) a mirror (to reveal sin), 2) a measuring stick (to order society), and 3) a guide (to direct Christian living). Read again 7:7-13 – what function of the law does Paul describe? If we agree with what Paul says here, how might we live and act differently as Christians saved by God’s grace who have been gifted with God’s law?
In 8:15-17 Paul describes us as children of God. In what ways does/has your family reflected on you? Influenced you? In what ways does/can/should your membership in God’s family do the same?
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Romans 5:1-21 (for Feb 4)
Recall your past (and present) sufferings. In what way(s) have these produced endurance, character, and hope? How is God at work in the midst of your suffering? How do you respond to Paul’s suggestion that we “boast in our sufferings”?
What meaning does Paul attribute to Christian suffering? What do you think he might have meant when he talked about suffering in this way?
Read again 5:6-10. What do we / have we done to earn God’s salvation? Contrast this to an understanding of “accepting Jesus” into one’s life?
What does the term “original sin” mean to you? Read Genesis 1-3. What does Paul mean when he says that sin came into the world through one man? How (if at all) are we inheritors of Adam’s sinfulness?
Read again 5:18. According to Paul, who is saved on account of Christ’s righteousness?
How does God show his great love for you? Take some time alone to contemplate God’s love for you and for all of humanity. If you take this love seriously, how might it change the way you live – change your life?
What meaning does Paul attribute to Christian suffering? What do you think he might have meant when he talked about suffering in this way?
Read again 5:6-10. What do we / have we done to earn God’s salvation? Contrast this to an understanding of “accepting Jesus” into one’s life?
What does the term “original sin” mean to you? Read Genesis 1-3. What does Paul mean when he says that sin came into the world through one man? How (if at all) are we inheritors of Adam’s sinfulness?
Read again 5:18. According to Paul, who is saved on account of Christ’s righteousness?
How does God show his great love for you? Take some time alone to contemplate God’s love for you and for all of humanity. If you take this love seriously, how might it change the way you live – change your life?
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Romans 1:18 - 4:25
In the first three chapters of his letter Paul drives home the point that we are all sinners. He highlights the sinfulness of Gentiles who do not have God’s law (1:18-32), the sinfulness of Jews who do have God’s law (2:1-3:7), and the sinfulness of all humanity (3:8-20). What in these passages or in your life is most effectively a reminder to you of your sinfulness?
Martin Luther says that we are all saints (“holy ones”) and sinners. What does it mean to you to be holy? Look this word up in a dictionary or theological dictionary. How does your definition compare? Do you want to be holy? Why or why not?
What does justification mean to you? Put this into your own words and try to express it to a family member, friend, or colleague. In what was is it God’s free gift? How (if at all) do good works fit in? If you can, cite Paul to support your position.
Read again Romans 3:21-31. This is a very dense paragraph, but speaks profoundly to Paul’s faith in the saving act of Christ. Read this paragraph in several different English translations. Ponder each phrase. Does anything stick out to you? Which phrase gives you the most comfort? Which phrase is the most difficult for you to hear? Which is the most confusing?
Read / skim again the stories of Abraham (Genesis 12-23) and David (1 & 2 Samuel). David is believed to be the author of Psalm 32:1-2, which Paul is quoting here. What is the significance of these two models cited as examples? Who else might we add as examples of those God has justified that would have meaning for us today?
Martin Luther says that we are all saints (“holy ones”) and sinners. What does it mean to you to be holy? Look this word up in a dictionary or theological dictionary. How does your definition compare? Do you want to be holy? Why or why not?
What does justification mean to you? Put this into your own words and try to express it to a family member, friend, or colleague. In what was is it God’s free gift? How (if at all) do good works fit in? If you can, cite Paul to support your position.
Read again Romans 3:21-31. This is a very dense paragraph, but speaks profoundly to Paul’s faith in the saving act of Christ. Read this paragraph in several different English translations. Ponder each phrase. Does anything stick out to you? Which phrase gives you the most comfort? Which phrase is the most difficult for you to hear? Which is the most confusing?
Read / skim again the stories of Abraham (Genesis 12-23) and David (1 & 2 Samuel). David is believed to be the author of Psalm 32:1-2, which Paul is quoting here. What is the significance of these two models cited as examples? Who else might we add as examples of those God has justified that would have meaning for us today?
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Happy New Year!
Welcome back to Bible Study in 2010! Is reading the Bible among your New Years resolutions? Join us this Thursday (January 7) at 7:00PM in the church rotunda. We are beginning our study of Paul's letter to the Romans.
What is different about this introduction compared to others that we’ve studied? What is different about Paul’s relationship with the church at Rome? How might these be connected?
The word gospel means “good news.” Read Proverbs 15:30 and Isaiah 40:9-11; 52:7; 61:1-3. What do these Old Testament passages reveal about the meaning of the term “good news”?
What is the “gospel” according to Paul? How does Paul describe God’s faithfulness?
Why do you suppose Paul felt it necessary to state that he’s not “ashamed” of the gospel (1:16)?
Have you ever been ashamed of the gospel? If so, describe the experience – how did you respond? If not, can you imagine a time when you might need to assert, like Paul, that you are not ashamed? Why might this be necessary at times today?
In v. 12 Paul desires “mutual encouragement.” What does this mean? How might this be lived out in our lives? In our churches?
If the faith of the church in Rome is already renowned, why does Paul still eagerly desire to “proclaim the gospel” to them? Do we still need to hear the gospel after we have come to faith? Why or why not?
What is different about this introduction compared to others that we’ve studied? What is different about Paul’s relationship with the church at Rome? How might these be connected?
The word gospel means “good news.” Read Proverbs 15:30 and Isaiah 40:9-11; 52:7; 61:1-3. What do these Old Testament passages reveal about the meaning of the term “good news”?
What is the “gospel” according to Paul? How does Paul describe God’s faithfulness?
Why do you suppose Paul felt it necessary to state that he’s not “ashamed” of the gospel (1:16)?
Have you ever been ashamed of the gospel? If so, describe the experience – how did you respond? If not, can you imagine a time when you might need to assert, like Paul, that you are not ashamed? Why might this be necessary at times today?
In v. 12 Paul desires “mutual encouragement.” What does this mean? How might this be lived out in our lives? In our churches?
If the faith of the church in Rome is already renowned, why does Paul still eagerly desire to “proclaim the gospel” to them? Do we still need to hear the gospel after we have come to faith? Why or why not?
Thursday, December 10, 2009
12/10 Rahab
Dear Bible Studiers,
Due to low attendance last week we decided to save the Rahab lesson for tonight. We will meet in the church rotunda at 7pm. Depending upon how many people have already prepared for Bathsheba, we will discuss at that time whether or not to combine Rahab and Bathsheba this evening, or postpone Mary and study Bathsheba next week.
Happy Advent!
Pastor Amy
Due to low attendance last week we decided to save the Rahab lesson for tonight. We will meet in the church rotunda at 7pm. Depending upon how many people have already prepared for Bathsheba, we will discuss at that time whether or not to combine Rahab and Bathsheba this evening, or postpone Mary and study Bathsheba next week.
Happy Advent!
Pastor Amy
Thursday, December 3, 2009
12/3 Rahab
What motivates Rahab to protect the spies? (Read Joshua 2:8-13)
Would you describe Rahab as “faithful”? To whom is she faithful? What does faithfulness mean in this context? What are the results?
Have you ever experienced a time when your political or even familial loyalties were at odds with faithfulness to the God you believe to be “God in heaven above and on earth below”? How did you respond?
The author of Hebrews includes Rahab among the faithful (Heb. 11:31). James says this Canaanite convert is “justified by works” when she welcomes the “messengers” of Joshua (James 2:25). How is faith joined with works in your life? Can/should these two concepts always be divided?
What is the “law”? What can we learn from this story about Christian living?
What is the “gospel”? What can we learn from this story about God’s faithfulness?
If you take seriously what God is telling you in this story, what would change in your life?
Would you describe Rahab as “faithful”? To whom is she faithful? What does faithfulness mean in this context? What are the results?
Have you ever experienced a time when your political or even familial loyalties were at odds with faithfulness to the God you believe to be “God in heaven above and on earth below”? How did you respond?
The author of Hebrews includes Rahab among the faithful (Heb. 11:31). James says this Canaanite convert is “justified by works” when she welcomes the “messengers” of Joshua (James 2:25). How is faith joined with works in your life? Can/should these two concepts always be divided?
What is the “law”? What can we learn from this story about Christian living?
What is the “gospel”? What can we learn from this story about God’s faithfulness?
If you take seriously what God is telling you in this story, what would change in your life?
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Philippians (for 10/22)
LITERARY READING
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.
I. Introduction (1:1-30)
a. Paul’s Prayer for the Philippians
b. Paul’s Personal Circumstances
II. Call for Christian Unity (2:1-18)
III. True and False Teachers (2:19-4:1)
IV. Conclusion
a. Closing Exhortations (4:2-9)
b. Acknowledgment of Philippians’ Support (4:10-20)
c. Farewell (4:21-23)
Or, choose a theme that seems common to Paul’s whole letter (joy, praise, love, thanksgiving) and see how many references you can find. What does this theme seem to mean for Paul?
HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities should we consider?
What can you learn about the relationships between the people in Philippi? About the relationship between Euodia and Synteche? How might these relationships have precipitated Paul’s letter?
What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Philippians?
DEVOTIONAL READING
The Lutheran Study Bible states, “This is Paul’s most joyful letter.” What images or passages best represent this joy? Recollect your most joyful experience of serving God. How does this inform the way you read Paul’s letter?
What does this letter have to say to our country? To our global community? Consider especially the social location of the Philippians in a prominent and well-off Roman city and our own social location in the United States of America. What would it mean for your public life if you took Philippians 3:20 seriously?
What similarities exist between the church at Philippi and our church today? What does is God saying to our church in this letter? What is God saying to you?
What does Paul most want for the Philippians (1:9-11)? How do Paul’s words compare with Jesus’ great commandment in Matthew 22:39 and similarly in John 15:12? What does it mean to love according to Scripture? (See also Philippians 2:4; 4:6-11, 17).
Read Philippians 2:3-5 and 3:2-11. What do these verses mean for you? What sort of living is Paul advocating? Why? What might it mean to “boast in Christ Jesus”?
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands or judgments are being made?
How does this text confront you with your own sins?
How does this text proclaim the gospel (God’s good news of forgiveness, grace, and promise)?
In what ways does this text point you or lead you to Christ?
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.
I. Introduction (1:1-30)
a. Paul’s Prayer for the Philippians
b. Paul’s Personal Circumstances
II. Call for Christian Unity (2:1-18)
III. True and False Teachers (2:19-4:1)
IV. Conclusion
a. Closing Exhortations (4:2-9)
b. Acknowledgment of Philippians’ Support (4:10-20)
c. Farewell (4:21-23)
Or, choose a theme that seems common to Paul’s whole letter (joy, praise, love, thanksgiving) and see how many references you can find. What does this theme seem to mean for Paul?
HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities should we consider?
What can you learn about the relationships between the people in Philippi? About the relationship between Euodia and Synteche? How might these relationships have precipitated Paul’s letter?
What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Philippians?
DEVOTIONAL READING
The Lutheran Study Bible states, “This is Paul’s most joyful letter.” What images or passages best represent this joy? Recollect your most joyful experience of serving God. How does this inform the way you read Paul’s letter?
What does this letter have to say to our country? To our global community? Consider especially the social location of the Philippians in a prominent and well-off Roman city and our own social location in the United States of America. What would it mean for your public life if you took Philippians 3:20 seriously?
What similarities exist between the church at Philippi and our church today? What does is God saying to our church in this letter? What is God saying to you?
What does Paul most want for the Philippians (1:9-11)? How do Paul’s words compare with Jesus’ great commandment in Matthew 22:39 and similarly in John 15:12? What does it mean to love according to Scripture? (See also Philippians 2:4; 4:6-11, 17).
Read Philippians 2:3-5 and 3:2-11. What do these verses mean for you? What sort of living is Paul advocating? Why? What might it mean to “boast in Christ Jesus”?
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands or judgments are being made?
How does this text confront you with your own sins?
How does this text proclaim the gospel (God’s good news of forgiveness, grace, and promise)?
In what ways does this text point you or lead you to Christ?
Galatians (Continued)
JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH
“We know that a person is justified not by the works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 2:16a, NRSV)
“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ.”
(Galatians 2:16, KJV)
eivdo,tej Îde.Ð o[ti ouv dikaiou/tai a;nqrwpoj evx e;rgwn no,mou eva.n mh. dia. pi,stewj VIhsou/ Cristou/(
As Lutherans, “Justification by faith” has become our motto – a short hand for understanding the rest of the Bible. Together with Paul’s letter to the Romans, we turn to Galatians time and again to hear the good news of our justification. The only trouble is, for many, it begs two important questions: What is justification? And what is faith?
JUSTIFICATION in first century Greco-Roman literature meant “to justify,” “show to be in the right,” or “pronounce righteous.” In connection with people, Paul generally uses it to mean, “be pronounced and treated as righteous, and thereby become [righteous],” meaning “upright,” “just,” not violating the sovereignty of God, and keeping his laws. This reflects Paul’s Jewish heritage, which understood justification to be a characteristic of living in covenant relationship with God.
Therefore, in v. 15 Paul prefaces his statement on justification by appealing to a common Jewish heritage, in which all “Jews knew that justification, the state of being in a proper covenant relationship with God and thereby being God’s people, was ultimately a result of God’s gracious initiative. Jews fulfilled these works of the law mentioned in 2:16 not in order to earn God’s favor but precisely as a sign that God’s favor had been graciously given in a covenant and that the Jews desired to stay in the covenant.” In his new Christian context, Paul then applies justification as a technical term representing God’s bringing about a new covenant relationship in which the baptized become a “new creation” on account of Christ Jesus (see also Gal. 6:15; 2 Cor. 5:17).
FAITH may at first seem to be an easier concept. It can be used to describe that which causes trust and faith – “faithfulness” or “reliability”; “solemn promise” or “oath”; “proof” or “pledge”; or “trust,” “confidence,” and “faith” in the active sense of believing (a verbal noun). This last sense is where things get more complicated. In the case of a verbal noun (faith as in X’s action of believing), Greek grammar can use a noun of possession (genitive) to describe the subject of the implied action, in the example above, X. Therefore, “In a given context, ‘love of God’ could mean ‘[my/your/their] love for God’ (objective) or ‘God’s love for [me/you/them].” This is the case in Galatians 2:16. Therefore, it can be translated as either “faith in Christ” or “the faith / faithfulness of Christ”.
• What significance does this decision in translation have on your reading of the passage? Which do you think Paul intends? Consider the similar situation in Romans 3:22.
IN BRIEF, Paul’s letter to the Galatians opposes the idea of justification through the law, insisting that justification -- our covenantal relationship with God -- is based on Jesus Christ (Gal. 3:13). Such justification does not come from our own actions (works/righteousness) or merely a sense of forgiveness won on the cross (medieval atonement theology), rather, it comes from the complete removal of the law, through the death and resurrection of Christ (Christ’s faithfulness). The law, as Paul explains to the Galatians, was given to humanity as a guardian until Christ came to fulfill the promise and through his resurrection to make complete God’s gift of grace/faithfulness. Therefore, baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ, we are already unconditionally accepted by God, and living in this new reality – justified – a “new creation”.
THOUGHTS AND QUESTIONS
• What does it mean to be “a new creation” in which the powers of sin, law, and death have been destroyed (see Romans 7:7-25)? How does this understanding negate the opponents’ objection that Christian freedom makes Christ “a servant of sin” (Gal. 2:17)? Compare this with the contemporary notion of “Cheap Grace.”
• Compared to his treatment of the law in Romans (3:31; 7:7-13), Paul prevents a very negative view of the law in Galatians 3:19-29. What contextual factors may have influenced this? What does this reveal to us about how interpret Paul’s letters?
• What difference do you see between doing good works to express your love and gratitude to God and doing good works to get into heaven?
• In Galatians 1:10-2:21 Paul describes his call to be an apostle. By virtue of our baptism, each one of us is called to proclaim Christ in word and deed. To whom are you being called to proclaim the good news of God in Christ Jesus?
“We know that a person is justified not by the works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 2:16a, NRSV)
“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ.”
(Galatians 2:16, KJV)
eivdo,tej Îde.Ð o[ti ouv dikaiou/tai a;nqrwpoj evx e;rgwn no,mou eva.n mh. dia. pi,stewj VIhsou/ Cristou/(
As Lutherans, “Justification by faith” has become our motto – a short hand for understanding the rest of the Bible. Together with Paul’s letter to the Romans, we turn to Galatians time and again to hear the good news of our justification. The only trouble is, for many, it begs two important questions: What is justification? And what is faith?
JUSTIFICATION in first century Greco-Roman literature meant “to justify,” “show to be in the right,” or “pronounce righteous.” In connection with people, Paul generally uses it to mean, “be pronounced and treated as righteous, and thereby become [righteous],” meaning “upright,” “just,” not violating the sovereignty of God, and keeping his laws. This reflects Paul’s Jewish heritage, which understood justification to be a characteristic of living in covenant relationship with God.
Therefore, in v. 15 Paul prefaces his statement on justification by appealing to a common Jewish heritage, in which all “Jews knew that justification, the state of being in a proper covenant relationship with God and thereby being God’s people, was ultimately a result of God’s gracious initiative. Jews fulfilled these works of the law mentioned in 2:16 not in order to earn God’s favor but precisely as a sign that God’s favor had been graciously given in a covenant and that the Jews desired to stay in the covenant.” In his new Christian context, Paul then applies justification as a technical term representing God’s bringing about a new covenant relationship in which the baptized become a “new creation” on account of Christ Jesus (see also Gal. 6:15; 2 Cor. 5:17).
FAITH may at first seem to be an easier concept. It can be used to describe that which causes trust and faith – “faithfulness” or “reliability”; “solemn promise” or “oath”; “proof” or “pledge”; or “trust,” “confidence,” and “faith” in the active sense of believing (a verbal noun). This last sense is where things get more complicated. In the case of a verbal noun (faith as in X’s action of believing), Greek grammar can use a noun of possession (genitive) to describe the subject of the implied action, in the example above, X. Therefore, “In a given context, ‘love of God’ could mean ‘[my/your/their] love for God’ (objective) or ‘God’s love for [me/you/them].” This is the case in Galatians 2:16. Therefore, it can be translated as either “faith in Christ” or “the faith / faithfulness of Christ”.
• What significance does this decision in translation have on your reading of the passage? Which do you think Paul intends? Consider the similar situation in Romans 3:22.
IN BRIEF, Paul’s letter to the Galatians opposes the idea of justification through the law, insisting that justification -- our covenantal relationship with God -- is based on Jesus Christ (Gal. 3:13). Such justification does not come from our own actions (works/righteousness) or merely a sense of forgiveness won on the cross (medieval atonement theology), rather, it comes from the complete removal of the law, through the death and resurrection of Christ (Christ’s faithfulness). The law, as Paul explains to the Galatians, was given to humanity as a guardian until Christ came to fulfill the promise and through his resurrection to make complete God’s gift of grace/faithfulness. Therefore, baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ, we are already unconditionally accepted by God, and living in this new reality – justified – a “new creation”.
THOUGHTS AND QUESTIONS
• What does it mean to be “a new creation” in which the powers of sin, law, and death have been destroyed (see Romans 7:7-25)? How does this understanding negate the opponents’ objection that Christian freedom makes Christ “a servant of sin” (Gal. 2:17)? Compare this with the contemporary notion of “Cheap Grace.”
• Compared to his treatment of the law in Romans (3:31; 7:7-13), Paul prevents a very negative view of the law in Galatians 3:19-29. What contextual factors may have influenced this? What does this reveal to us about how interpret Paul’s letters?
• What difference do you see between doing good works to express your love and gratitude to God and doing good works to get into heaven?
• In Galatians 1:10-2:21 Paul describes his call to be an apostle. By virtue of our baptism, each one of us is called to proclaim Christ in word and deed. To whom are you being called to proclaim the good news of God in Christ Jesus?
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Galatians (for 10/15)
LITERARY READING
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.
I. Introduction (1:1-10)
II. Paul’s Ministry as an Apostle (1:11-2:14)
III. Justification by Faith (2:15-2:21)
IV. Law and Faith (3:1-4:7)
V. Slavery and Freedom (4:8-5:12)
VI. The Fruit of the Spirit (5:13-5:26)
VII. Conclusion (6:1-18)
Or, using short concrete details from the text, attempt to recreate Paul’s “story” (from chapters 1-2) and the story of the Galatian church as it is revealed in this letter.
HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities should we consider?
What can you learn about the relationships between the people in Galatia?
What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Galatians?
DEVOTIONAL READING
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter?
What does this letter have to say to our country? To our global community? Consider especially how this letter has been and can be used in conversations about slavery.
What similarities exist between the church at Galatia and our church today? What does is God saying to our church in this letter? What is God saying to you?
In Galatians 1:7 Paul speaks of perversions of the Gospel. What interpretations of the Gospel have you experienced that might fall into this category? What is Paul’s standard for knowing the difference? How can this be applied in contemporary situations?
Read Galatians 3:10 and 5:16. What do these verses mean for you? What sort of living is Paul advocating? Why? What difference do you think motive (why we do good works) makes?
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands or judgments are being made?
How does this text confront you with your own sins? (see especially 5:6, 13-6:10)
How does this text proclaim the gospel (God’s good news of forgiveness, grace, and promise)? (see especially 2:15-21; 3:6-14, 23-4:7)
In what ways does this text point you or lead you to Christ?
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.
I. Introduction (1:1-10)
II. Paul’s Ministry as an Apostle (1:11-2:14)
III. Justification by Faith (2:15-2:21)
IV. Law and Faith (3:1-4:7)
V. Slavery and Freedom (4:8-5:12)
VI. The Fruit of the Spirit (5:13-5:26)
VII. Conclusion (6:1-18)
Or, using short concrete details from the text, attempt to recreate Paul’s “story” (from chapters 1-2) and the story of the Galatian church as it is revealed in this letter.
HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities should we consider?
What can you learn about the relationships between the people in Galatia?
What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Galatians?
DEVOTIONAL READING
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter?
What does this letter have to say to our country? To our global community? Consider especially how this letter has been and can be used in conversations about slavery.
What similarities exist between the church at Galatia and our church today? What does is God saying to our church in this letter? What is God saying to you?
In Galatians 1:7 Paul speaks of perversions of the Gospel. What interpretations of the Gospel have you experienced that might fall into this category? What is Paul’s standard for knowing the difference? How can this be applied in contemporary situations?
Read Galatians 3:10 and 5:16. What do these verses mean for you? What sort of living is Paul advocating? Why? What difference do you think motive (why we do good works) makes?
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands or judgments are being made?
How does this text confront you with your own sins? (see especially 5:6, 13-6:10)
How does this text proclaim the gospel (God’s good news of forgiveness, grace, and promise)? (see especially 2:15-21; 3:6-14, 23-4:7)
In what ways does this text point you or lead you to Christ?
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
2 Corinthians (for 10/8)
LITERARY READING
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.
I. Introduction (1:1-2:17)
II. The Ministry of the Apostle (3:1-4:6)
III. Hope and Suffering (4:7-5:11)
IV. Reconciliation (5:12-7:16)
V. The Collection for Jerusalem (8:1-9:15)
VI. Paul Defends His Ministry (10:1-12:13)
VII. Conclusion (12:14-13:13)
Or, using short concrete details from the text, attempt to recreate the Corinthian “story” as it is revealed in this letter (consider referring back to 1 Corinthians as well).
HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities should we consider?
What can you learn about the relationships between the church at Corinth from this letter?
What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Corinthians?
DEVOTIONAL READING
What does this letter have to say to the United States? To the global community?
What does this letter have to say to you? To your community or church?
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter?
Does anything remind you of past experiences or concerns of your own?
• What is the “thorn” in your life that continues to harass you (12:7)?
• What motives you most when you’re asked to make contributions for those in need (8-9)
• What worries you must when you think of death? What encourages you most? (5:1-10)
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands are being made on the Corinthians (and on us)? What judgments?
How does this text confront you with your own sins? (see 5:9-10; 6:14-7:1; 12:20-13:6)
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as gospel? (see 1:3-5; 2:5-11; 3:7-11, 17-18; 4:6-14; 5:14-6:2; 7:9-11; 10:17-18; 17:8-10)
How do you hear God’s good news of forgiveness of your sins, of grace, of promise to be with you, of the gift of Christ Jesus given for you?
In what ways does 2 Corinthians point you or lead you to Christ?
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.
I. Introduction (1:1-2:17)
II. The Ministry of the Apostle (3:1-4:6)
III. Hope and Suffering (4:7-5:11)
IV. Reconciliation (5:12-7:16)
V. The Collection for Jerusalem (8:1-9:15)
VI. Paul Defends His Ministry (10:1-12:13)
VII. Conclusion (12:14-13:13)
Or, using short concrete details from the text, attempt to recreate the Corinthian “story” as it is revealed in this letter (consider referring back to 1 Corinthians as well).
HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities should we consider?
What can you learn about the relationships between the church at Corinth from this letter?
What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Corinthians?
DEVOTIONAL READING
What does this letter have to say to the United States? To the global community?
What does this letter have to say to you? To your community or church?
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter?
Does anything remind you of past experiences or concerns of your own?
• What is the “thorn” in your life that continues to harass you (12:7)?
• What motives you most when you’re asked to make contributions for those in need (8-9)
• What worries you must when you think of death? What encourages you most? (5:1-10)
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands are being made on the Corinthians (and on us)? What judgments?
How does this text confront you with your own sins? (see 5:9-10; 6:14-7:1; 12:20-13:6)
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as gospel? (see 1:3-5; 2:5-11; 3:7-11, 17-18; 4:6-14; 5:14-6:2; 7:9-11; 10:17-18; 17:8-10)
How do you hear God’s good news of forgiveness of your sins, of grace, of promise to be with you, of the gift of Christ Jesus given for you?
In what ways does 2 Corinthians point you or lead you to Christ?
1 Corinthians
LITERARY READING
Paul writes his letters within a literary framework typical of letters in his day. Understanding this framework can help us identify the main points of each letter. The Lutheran Study Bible and Commentaries provide outlines of each letter for you; however, before you turn to these sources, attempt to identify each section (by chapter and verse) and key themes in each.
Introduction:
Body:
Closing:
HISTORICAL READING
With the exception of Romans, each of Paul’s letters are written to churches that he helped start. The intent of Paul’s letters is to provide pastoral advice to practical situations the communities are facing. In the process, however, each letter reveals some historical background as well. As you read, make note of what you learn about each character and their relationship together.
The Church at Corinth:
Paul:
Other Characters:
The relationship between Paul and the Church:
Consider the following questions as they relate to 1 Thessalonians.
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities can shed light on this text?
DEVOTIONAL READING
Understanding the form and context of a text is important, but it’s also important to hear these letters as Scriptures speaking individually to us and our community. 1 Corinthians is God’s Word through Paul to the Church at Corinth, but it is also God’s Word through Paul to us.
What does this letter have to say to your world or your nation?
What does this letter have to say to you or your community?
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter? Do Paul’s words or the Corinthians’ concerns remind you of any past experiences or concerns of your own?
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
As Lutherans, “we come to our study with certain convictions, insights, and expectations that rise particularly from our Lutheran heritage.” Specifically, Lutherans understand Scripture to speak a word of both law and gospel and to show forth Christ.
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands are being made on the Corinthians (and on us)? What judgments?
How does 1 Corinthians confront you with your own sins?
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as gospel?
How do you hear God’s good news of forgiveness of your sins, of grace, of promise to be with you, of the gift of Christ Jesus given for you?
In what ways does 1 Corinthians point you or lead you to Christ? How does this text prepare you for Christ?
Paul writes his letters within a literary framework typical of letters in his day. Understanding this framework can help us identify the main points of each letter. The Lutheran Study Bible and Commentaries provide outlines of each letter for you; however, before you turn to these sources, attempt to identify each section (by chapter and verse) and key themes in each.
Introduction:
Body:
Closing:
HISTORICAL READING
With the exception of Romans, each of Paul’s letters are written to churches that he helped start. The intent of Paul’s letters is to provide pastoral advice to practical situations the communities are facing. In the process, however, each letter reveals some historical background as well. As you read, make note of what you learn about each character and their relationship together.
The Church at Corinth:
Paul:
Other Characters:
The relationship between Paul and the Church:
Consider the following questions as they relate to 1 Thessalonians.
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?
What implied political or social realities can shed light on this text?
DEVOTIONAL READING
Understanding the form and context of a text is important, but it’s also important to hear these letters as Scriptures speaking individually to us and our community. 1 Corinthians is God’s Word through Paul to the Church at Corinth, but it is also God’s Word through Paul to us.
What does this letter have to say to your world or your nation?
What does this letter have to say to you or your community?
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter? Do Paul’s words or the Corinthians’ concerns remind you of any past experiences or concerns of your own?
What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
As Lutherans, “we come to our study with certain convictions, insights, and expectations that rise particularly from our Lutheran heritage.” Specifically, Lutherans understand Scripture to speak a word of both law and gospel and to show forth Christ.
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands are being made on the Corinthians (and on us)? What judgments?
How does 1 Corinthians confront you with your own sins?
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as gospel?
How do you hear God’s good news of forgiveness of your sins, of grace, of promise to be with you, of the gift of Christ Jesus given for you?
In what ways does 1 Corinthians point you or lead you to Christ? How does this text prepare you for Christ?
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