Q2 — Israel's History | Mark & Early Letters
1 Cor. 8-12; 2 Kings 22-25, Isa. 1-11; Psalm 67-69
1 Cor. 8-12
FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT
Do All to God’s Glory
Few things are as funny as a good old fashioned pie to the face. And some Hollywood films have taken this classic gag to the extreme, like the 1965 slapstick comedy The Great Race. Marketed as "the greatest pie fight ever," we watch a bakery explode into all-out warfare, lobbing over 4,000 fruit-filled pies at each other.
While there’s nothing wrong with a good food fight, there's nothing funny about the battles we find the Corinthians fighting in this week's readings. And Paul is forced to address their most divisive issues before they wind up at war with each other.
Food Fights
On Monday (1 Cor. 8), we'll find them fighting about whether or not to eat foods sacrificed to idols. Paul encourages them to rethink their personal choices — including what they eat — and avoid anything which would cause a brother to stumble.
- What does "knowledge" do compared to love (1 Cor. 8:1-3)?
- What would you be willing to give up for your brother's soul (1 Cor. 8:13)?
On Tuesday (1 Cor. 9), Paul explains that just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should. And he reminds them that he could have asked them to support him financially, but didn't. He considered himself a servant to everyone, continually looking for the best way to approach each person.
- Why did Paul choose not to ask for financial support from them (1 Cor. 9:11-18)?
- What can you learn from Paul's diverse approach to teaching the gospel (1 Cor. 9:19-23)?
And in case you thought Paul was done with the topic of food and idols, on Wednesday (1 Cor. 10), we'll revisit the subject with a strong warning to stay pure from outside evil influences. As long as we're thankful for the food and it won't offend someone, Paul gives the all-clear to eat! But he also commands them not to have fellowship in an idol feast, comparing it to our communion in the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 10:14-17)!
- How does the example of the Israelites in the wilderness change the way you live (1 Cor. 10:6-12)?
- What should be our guiding principle in everything we do (1 Cor. 10:31-33)?
Family Feuds
On Thursday (1 Cor. 11), the topic changes to fights surrounding their fellowship. He deals with the roles of men and women in the assembly, and how to maintain holiness and proper order. Next, he charges them with misusing the Lord's Supper, since they were treating it as an everyday meal and not waiting for each other.
- What do we learn about authority from Paul's conversation about head coverings (1 Cor. 11:2-16)?
- How can division impact the way we worship together — especially in taking the Lord's Supper (1 Cor. 11:18-22)?
And addressing the various abilities they'd been given by the Holy Spirit, on Friday (1 Cor. 12), we'll see how even these God-given gifts were a source of division. Paul says that since we all have the same Spirit, we're all part of one body (1 Cor. 12:13) — and every body part is crucial. But as he lists the various roles in the church, he closes out the week with a cliffhanger: "But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way" (1 Cor. 12:31).
- What's the common thread in the diversity of all our gifts and abilities (1 Cor. 12:4-7)?
- How does Paul's comparison of the church to a human body teach us to work together (1 Cor. 12:14-26)?
2 Kings 22-25, Isa. 1-11
FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT
In 2 Kings 22-25 and Isaiah 1-11, the narratives portray the final days of Judah and the rise of prophetic voices calling for repentance. Josiah's discovery of the Book of the Law reignites spiritual reform, but ultimately, the persistent idolatry and disobedience lead to Jerusalem's downfall. The destruction wrought by Babylon symbolizes divine judgment, yet hope remains as prophecies hint at future restoration. Isaiah's oracles emphasize God's sovereignty and the consequences of turning away from Him, while also presenting a vision of a coming Messiah who will establish justice and peace. The juxtaposition of judgment and hope serves as a reminder of God’s unending mercy and the necessity of returning to Him, even amid chaos and despair. These chapters collectively highlight the devastating impact of unfaithfulness, but also the promise of redemption.
REFLECTING ON THE PSALMS
Psalms 67 to 69 continue the exploration of worship, divine intervention, and communal identity. Psalm 67 is a prayer for God's blessing upon Israel, emphasizing the universal call for all nations to receive His grace and recognize His sovereignty. The psalmist envisions a world united in praise, demonstrating how God’s favor leads to joy and the flourishing of humanity. In contrast, Psalm 68 portrays God as a mighty warrior who delivers His people from their enemies, celebrating His power and presence among them. It reflects on historical victories and God's commitment to those in need. Lastly, Psalm 69 is a poignant cry of distress, where the psalmist expresses deep anguish and seeks God’s salvation. This psalm encapsulates the themes of suffering, lament, and hope for divine aid. Together, these psalms reinforce the significance of acknowledging God’s rule, delivering power, and the hope found in unwavering faith.