Q2 — Israel's History | Mark & Early Letters
1 Cor. 3-7; 2 Kings 7-21; Psalm 64-66
1 Cor. 3-7
FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT
Be Holy
Years ago, as a teenager abroad in Germany, I lost my passport. For a day or so, I felt a little like a man without a country! I couldn't return home without a passport, but Germany couldn't issue one. So how do you step into a US government office while inside another country? Of course, I had to go to the US embassy!
Twice in this week's readings, Paul brings up the temple to convince the Corinthians they needed to think and act differently than everyone around them. The temple was like an embassy — a meeting place between two countries. Heaven and earth overlap in the temple. Stepping inside was like stepping into the residence of God on earth — his home-away-from-home (cf. Psalm 132:13). No building could contain him, yet his glory dwelt there (1 Kings 8:10-11, 27).
The Church is God's Temple
Last week we began reading about the divisions in the Corinthian church, as they organized around different teachers (1 Cor. 1:10-17). But as we'll read on Monday (1 Cor. 3), they didn't see that all of those teachers were just servants at work on God's building (1 Cor. 3:5, 9, 10). He tells them "you" (plural) "are God's temple" (singular), so they need to tend to the unity of God's house (1 Cor. 3:16, cf. 1 Peter 2:5). In other words, you're not just forming cliques and arguing with people. You're in danger of destroying God's temple, and if anyone does that, "God will destroy him" (1 Cor. 3:17)!
On Tuesday (1 Cor. 4), Paul continues putting himself and all the other apostles and teachers in their proper place. The church needed to learn "not to go beyond what is written" (1 Cor. 4:6), so that they wouldn't get puffed up. What do you learn from Paul's attitude about being judged (1 Cor. 4:1-6) and being humbled (1 Cor. 4:8-13)?
On Wednesday (1 Cor. 5), we learn of another report Paul heard, about sexual immorality in the church (1 Cor. 5:1). Since the church is God's holy temple, it must stay pure (1 Cor. 5:6-7,12-13). What do you learn about the purpose and process of church discipline from this chapter? What do you think it means to celebrate the Passover feast today (1 Cor. 5:6-8)?
Your Body is God's Temple
On Thursday (1 Cor. 6), after dealing with the problem of lawsuits within the church (1 Cor. 6:1-8), Paul returns to the issue of sexual immorality (1 Cor. 6:9-20). Maybe their freedom in Christ got to their heads, and they started saying things like "all things are lawful for me" (1 Cor. 6:12) and "food is meant for the stomach" (1 Cor. 6:13) to justify sexual sins. All of this brings Paul back to the temple … this can't happen in God's temple!
"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body" (1 Cor. 6:19–20).
On Friday (1 Cor. 7), Paul moves from the reports (1 Cor. 1:11, 5:1) to their questions (1 Cor. 7:1), beginning with questions about marriage. What fundamental principles guide Christian marriages? Why do you think he implies singleness is a "gift" (1 Cor. 7:7; cf. 7:32-35)?
2 Kings 7-21
FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT
In 2 Kings 7-21, the narrative continues to depict the struggles of the divided kingdom of Israel, emphasizing the consequences of idolatry and disobedience. As the story unfolds, we witness the impact of prophetic figures who call for repentance amidst escalating turmoil. The accounts of the siege of Samaria demonstrate God’s provision and deliverance, while the encounters with kings reflect the persistent conflict between divine will and human folly. Key events include the miraculous healing of Naaman and the faithful response of the young prophet, illustrating the ongoing theme of God’s mercy even amidst judgment. The moral decline of Israel’s leadership intensifies, showcasing the stark contrasts between the reigns of good and evil kings. Ultimately, these chapters underscore the critical need for faithfulness to God, amid a backdrop of societal decay and the challenge of maintaining covenantal loyalty.
REFLECTING ON THE PSALMS
Psalms 64 to 66 delve into themes of divine protection, thanksgiving, and communal worship. Psalm 64 presents a cry against conspirators who plot evil, emphasizing the faithful's reliance on God to safeguard them from hidden dangers and injustices. The psalmist asserts that God will ultimately expose the wicked, instilling confidence among the righteous. In Psalm 65, the focus shifts to gratitude, highlighting God’s providence in creation and the abundance of blessings bestowed upon His people. It celebrates the joy of answered prayers and the beauty of nature's flourishing, inviting all to recognize God’s hand in their lives. Finally, Psalm 66 offers a communal anthem of praise, recounting God’s mighty acts and deliverances. It invites all nations to worship and recognizes His faithful guidance through trials, culminating in a heartfelt testament to the power of God’s love and mercy. Collectively, these psalms encourage trust in God amidst life's challenges and inspire a spirit of thanksgiving and worship.