Q2 — Israel's History | Mark & Early Letters
2 Thess. 1-3, 1 Cor. 1-2; 1 Kings 14-22, 2 Kings 1-6; Psalm 61-63
2 Thess. 1-3, 1 Cor. 1-2
FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT
Stop the Spread of Church Problems
Chances are, you've heard the phrase "flattening the curve." For months we've taken preventative measures to avoid winding up in the hospital. But when you DO get sick, you need treatment fast! And when our local churches encounter problems, we need to deal with those issues quickly too. This week's readings diagnose five spiritual ailments and prescribe an effective treatment plan for each.
Persecution
On Monday (2 Thess. 1), we'll encounter the problem of persecution. While this church faced a constant barrage of affliction, Paul encourages them to treat it with perseverance (2 Thess. 1:4) and confidence (2 Thess. 1:5-12).
The persecution should give them even more confidence — it's "evidence" of God's coming judgment (2 Thess. 1:5), which will turn the tables on their wicked tormentors (2 Thess. 1:6) and bring relief to the afflicted believers (2 Thess. 1:7).
- What do you learn about the Lord's coming in this chapter (2 Thess. 1:7-10)?
- What encouragement do you find from Paul's closing prayer (2 Thess. 1:11-12)?
Deception
On Tuesday (2 Thess. 2), we find that someone has lied to the believers, teaching that the Lord has already come, even claiming that Paul said so (2 Thess. 2:1-3)!
Paul addresses their lies by reminding them of some coming events he already told them about (2 Thess. 2:5). Before the end comes, a man will sit in God's temple and exalt himself (2 Thess. 2:3-4).
- What can we do to inoculate ourselves against deception (2 Thess. 2:10-12)?
- What does Paul ask for in this chapter's closing prayer (2 Thess. 2:16-17)?
Idleness
On Wednesday (2 Thess. 3), we discover that some in the church aren't willing to work, rather spending all their time in other people's business (2 Thess. 3:11)!
Paul warns that if they don't want to work, they shouldn't get to eat (2 Thess. 3:10). And he holds up his example of hard work and sacrificial service for them to imitate (2 Thess. 3:7-8).
- What do you learn in this chapter about how the church disciplines members who refuse to repent (2 Thess. 3:6-12)?
- Where does true peace come from in his closing request for them (2 Thess. 3:16)?
Division
On Thursday, we'll start reading First Corinthians, where Paul addresses ailments of an immature church, like immorality and pride. The first six chapters address problems he's heard from reports about them (1 Cor. 1:11; 5:1). The rest of the book (1 Cor. 7-16), Paul answers the questions they had asked him (1 Cor. 7:1; 7:25; 8:1; 12:1; 16:1). He wastes no time before diagnosing problem number 1: divisions in the church (1 Cor. 1:10-17)! Rather than following their favorite preachers, they need to follow the crucified Lord and stop thinking like the world!
- What was Paul's mission from Jesus (1 Cor. 1:17)?
- What are we permitted to boast about (1 Cor. 1:31)?
Earthly Wisdom
On Friday (1 Cor. 2), we'll continue with a problem introduced in 1 Cor. 1:18 — the wisdom of the world. Unlike the smooth-talking, pompous philosophers the Corinthians were familiar with, Paul came with simple speech, a humble appearance, and astounding acts of power (1 Cor. 2:3-4).
- How does Paul describe the wisdom of God, and who was unable to hear it (1 Cor. 2:7-8)?
- How can you know if you are a "spiritual" person or a "natural" person (1 Cor. 2:12-16)?
1 Kings 14-22, 2 Kings 1-6
FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT
In 1 Kings 14-22 and 2 Kings 1-6, the focus shifts to the divided kingdom of Israel and the contrasting reigns of various kings. Following Solomon's death, the kingdom splits, leading to a succession of rulers characterized by idolatry and disobedience to God. Through the prophetic voices of figures like Elijah and Elisha, divine intervention is evident as they confront kings and plead for national repentance. Their dramatic encounters highlight God's authority and mercy, as well as the challenges of leadership amidst declining faithfulness. The ministry of Elijah, marked by miraculous events, emphasizes God’s power over false prophets and foreign idols. In contrast, Elisha continues this mission, performing miracles that affirm God's sustaining presence. These chapters illustrate the tension between divine judgment and grace, culminating in a profound exploration of faithfulness within a kingdom increasingly at odds with its covenant relationship with God.
REFLECTING ON THE PSALMS
Psalm 61 expresses a yearning for divine shelter and guidance, with the psalmist seeking refuge in God's strong tower during times of distress. The emphasis lies on God's faithfulness and the desire for longevity in His presence. In Psalm 62, the psalmist finds security in God alone, affirming trust in His unwavering strength and salvation amid adversities. It highlights the futility of human reliance on wealth and power, urging the faithful to place their hope solely in God. Psalm 63 conveys a deep longing for communion with God, describing an intense desire for His presence that surpasses physical sustenance. It reflects a soul thirsting for spiritual nourishment and a heart overwhelmed by God's steadfast love. Together, these psalms illustrate a profound dependence on God's protection, emphasizing worship as a response to His unchanging faithfulness and the intimate relationship between the believer and the Divine.