Day 327 of My 5th Bible Study Journey - 23 November 2025 reflections
Day 327, 23 November 2025
1) Today at Calvary Community Church
, Pastor NAthan Zeiber spoke on God's Blueprint for Parenting - Loved into
Maturity
Hebrews 12:5-7
5 (Pr 3:11-12) And you have forgotten the exhortation addressed
to you as sons:
"My son, do not despise the discipline from the Lord,
nor grow weary when you are rebuked by Him;
6 (Rev 3:19; Ps 119:75; Pr 3:12) for whom the Lord loves He disciplines,
and scourges every son whom He receives."
7 (Pr 13:24; 19:18) Endure discipline; God is dealing with you as with sons.
For what son is there whom a father does not discipline?
[5] And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto
children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint
when thou art rebuked of him:
[6] For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he
receiveth.
[7] If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son
is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8
8 If you are without discipline, of which everyone has partaken,
then you are illegitimate children and not sons.
[8] But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are
ye bastards, and not sons.
Proverbs 13:24
24 (Pr 19:18; 22:15; 29:15) He who spares his rod hates his son,
but he who loves him disciplines him early.
24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son:
But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Psalms 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
[1] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
[2] He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the
still waters.
[3] He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for
his name's sake.
[4] Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will
fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
[5] Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou
anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
[6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I
will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Hebrews 12:9-13
9 (Nu 16:22; 27:16) Furthermore, we have had human fathers,
and they corrected us, and we gave them reverence.
Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live?
10 (2Pe 1:4) For they indeed disciplined us for a short time according
to their own judgment, but He does so for our profit, that we may partake
of His holiness.
11 (Isa 32:17; Jas 3:17-18) Now no discipline seems to be joyful at the time,
but grievous. Yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness
in those who have been trained by it.
12 (Isa 35:3; Job 4:3-4) Therefore lift up your tired hands,
and strengthen your weak knees.
13 (Gal 6:1; Pr 4:26-27) Make straight paths for your feet,
lest that which is lame go out of joint, but rather be healed.
[9] Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we
gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the
Father of spirits, and live?
[10] For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure;
but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
[11] Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous:
nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto
them which are exercised thereby.
[12] Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;
[13] And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be
turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.
1) 1 Corinthians 9 , 1 Corinthians 10 , 1 Corinthians 11
1 Corinthians 9
The Rights of an Apostle
1 (1Co 3:6; Ac 9:3) Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen
Jesus Christ our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord?
2 If I am not an apostle to others, yet indeed I am to you.
For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
3 This is my answer to those who examine me.
4 (1Th 2:6; 2Th 3:8-9) Do we have no right to eat and to drink?
5 (Mt 8:14; Jn 1:42) Do we not have the right to take along a believing
wife as do other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
6 (Ac 4:36) Or is it only Barnabas
and I who have no right to refrain from working?
7 (Dt 20:6; Pr 27:18) Who goes to war at any time at his own expense?
Who plants a vineyard, but does not eat of its fruit? Or who feeds a flock,
but does not drink of the flock's milk?
8 Do I say these things as a man? Or does the law not say the same thing also?
9 (Dt 25:4; 1Ti 5:18) For it is written in the Law of Moses,
"You shall not muzzle the mouth of the ox
while it treads out the grain." (Dt 25:4.) Is God concerned about oxen?
10 (2Ti 2:6) Or does He say it completely for our sake? For our sake,
no doubt, this is written so that he who plows should plow in hope,
and that he who threshes in hope should partake of his hope.
11 (Ro 15:27; Gal 6:6) If we have sown for you spiritual things, is it
a great thing if we shall reap your material things?
12 (1Co 9:18; 2Co 11:12) If others partake of this right over you,
should not we instead?
Nevertheless, we have not used this right, but suffer all things,
lest we might hinder the gospel of Christ.
13 (Lev 6:26; Nu 18:8-20) Do you not know that those who minister
unto holy things live from the things of the temple?
And do you not know that those who wait at the altar partake of the altar?
14 (Mt 10:10; 1Co 9:4) In the same way, the Lord has ordained that those
who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.
15 (Ac 18:3; 1Co 9:12) But I have used none of these rights,
nor have I written these things that it should be so done to me.
For it would be better for me to die than allow anyone
to make my boasting void.
16 (Ro 1:14; Ac 9:15) Though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of,
for the requirement is laid upon me. Yes, woe unto me
if I do not preach the gospel!
17 (Gal 2:7; 1Co 3:8) So if I do this willingly, I have a reward,
but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a commission.
18 (1Co 7:31) What is my reward then? Truly that when I preach the gospel,
I may present the gospel of Christ without charge,
so that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel.
19 (Mt 18:15; 1Co 9:1) For though I am free from all men, I have made myself
servant to all, that I might win even more.
20 (Ac 16:3; 21:20-26) To the Jews, I became as a Jew, that I might win
the Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might
win those who are under the law;
21 (Ro 2:12; 2:14) to those who are outside the law, as outside the law
(being not without God's law, but under Christ's law) that I might win
those who are outside the law.
22 (Ro 11:14; 1Co 10:33) To the weak, I became as weak, that I might win
the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means
save some.
23 (This I do for the gospel's sake, that I might partake of it with you.
24 (Gal 2:2; Heb 12:1) Do you not know that all those who run in a race run,
but one receives the prize? So run, that you may obtain it.
25 (Jas 1:12; Rev 2:10; 1Ti 6:12) Everyone who strives for the prize
exercises self-control in all things. Now they do it to obtain
a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible one.
26 So, therefore, I run, not with uncertainty. So I fight, not as one who
beats the air.
27 (Ro 8:13; Jer 6:30) But I bring and keep my body under subjection,
lest when preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
[1] Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our
Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?
[2] If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the
seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
[3] Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
[4] Have we not power to eat and to drink?
[5] Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other
apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
[6] Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?
[7] Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a
vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and
eateth not of the milk of the flock?
[8] Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also?
[9] For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth
of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
[10] Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this
is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that
thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
[11] If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we
shall reap your carnal things?
[12] If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather?
Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we
should hinder the gospel of Christ.
[13] Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the
things of the temple? and they which wait at the alter are partakers with
the alter?
[14] Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should
live of the gospel.
[15] But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these
things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die,
than that any man should make my glorying void.
[16] For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for
necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
[17] For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my
will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.
[18] What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may
make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the
gospel.
[19] For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto
all, that I might gain the more.
[20] And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to
them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that
are under the law;
[21] To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to
God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without
law.
[22] To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all
things to all men, that I might by all means save some.
[23] And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof
with you.
[24] Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth
the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
[25] And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.
Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
[26] I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that
beateth the air:
[27] But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by
any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
1 Corinthians 10
Warning Against Idolatry
1 (Ex 14:29; Ps 66:6) I would not want you to be unaware that all our fathers
were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea,
2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 (Ex 16:35; Dt 8:3) all ate the same spiritual food;
4 (Ex 17:6; Nu 20:11) and all drank the same spiritual drink,
for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them,
and that Rock was Christ.
5 (Heb 3:17; Jude 1:5) But with many of them God was not well pleased,
and they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 (Nu 11:4; 1Co 10:11) Now these things were our examples to the intent
that we should not lust after evil things as they lusted.
7 (Ex 32:19; 32:4) Neither be idolaters as were some of them.
As it is written, "The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to revel."
(Ex 32:6.)
8 (Nu 25:1-9; 1Co 6:18) Neither let us commit sexual immorality
as some of them committed, when twenty-three thousand fell in one day.
9 (Nu 21:5-6; Ex 17:2) Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also
tempted and were destroyed by serpents.
10 (Ex 12:23; Nu 16:41) Neither murmur, as some of them also murmured
and were destroyed by the destroyer.
11 (Ro 13:11) Now all these things happened to them for examples.
They are written as an admonition to us, upon whom the end of the ages
has come.
12 (Ro 11:20) Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed, lest he fall.
13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken you except what is common
to man. God is faithful, and He will not permit you to be tempted
above what you can endure, but will with the temptation
also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.
14 (1Co 10:7; 1Jn 5:21) So, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
15 (1Co 8:1; 1Th 5:21) I speak as to wise men.
Judge for yourselves what I say.
16 (Mt 26:26-28; Ac 2:42) The cup of blessing which we bless,
is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break,
is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
17 (Ro 12:5; 1Co 12:12) For we, being many, are one bread and one body,
for we are all partakers of that one bread.
18 (Ro 4:1) Consider Israel after the flesh: Are not those who eat
of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?
19 (1Co 8:4) What am I saying then, that the idol is anything
or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is anything?
20 (Rev 9:20) But I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice,
they sacrifice to demons, and not to God. I do not want you to have
fellowship with demons.
21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons.
You cannot be partakers of the Lord's table and of the table of demons.
22 (Dt 32:21; 32:16) Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy?
Are we stronger than He?
[1] Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all
our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
[2] And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
[3] And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
[4] And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that
spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
[5] But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown
in the wilderness.
[6] Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust
after evil things, as they also lusted.
[7] Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The
people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
[8] Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell
in one day three and twenty thousand.
[9] Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were
destroyed of serpents.
[10] Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of
the destroyer.
[11] Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are
written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
[12] Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
[13] There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but
God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are
able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be
able to bear it.
[14] Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
[15] I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
[16] The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the
blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the
body of Christ?
[17] For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers
of that one bread.
[18] Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices
partakers of the alter?
[19] What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered
in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
[20] But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice
to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship
with devils.
[21] Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot
be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.
[22] Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?
Do All to the Glory of God
23 (1Co 6:12; 8:9) "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are
helpful. "All things are lawful for me," but not all things edify.
24 (1Co 10:33; 13:5) Let no one seek his own, but each one the other's
well-being.
25 (1Co 8:7) Eat whatever is sold in the meat market,
asking no question for the sake of conscience,
26 (Ps 24:1; 50:12) for "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it."
(Ps 24:1.)
27 If any of those who do not believe invite you to a feast,
and you desire to go, eat whatever is set before you,
asking no question for the sake of conscience.
28 But if anyone says to you, "This was offered in sacrifice to idols,"
do not eat it for the sake of him that mentioned it and for the sake
of conscience, for "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it." (Ps 24:1.)
29 (1Co 9:19) Conscience, I say, not your own, but that of the other.
For why is my liberty judged by another man's conscience?
30 (Ro 14:6; 1Ti 4:3-4) If I partake with thankfulness,
why am I slandered concerning that for which I give thanks?
31 (Col 3:17; 1Pe 4:11) Therefore, whether you eat, or drink,
or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.
32 (Ac 20:28; 1Co 8:13; Ro 14:13) Give no offense, neither to the Jews,
nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God,
33 (1Co 10:24) just as I try to please all men in all things,
not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
[23] All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all
things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
[24] Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.
[25] Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for
conscience sake:
[26] For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.
[27] If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed
to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience
sake.
[28] But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols,
eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth
is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof:
[29] Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my
liberty judged of another man's conscience?
[30] For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for
which I give thanks?
[31] Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the
glory of God.
[32] Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the
church of God:
[33] Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit,
but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
1 Corinthians 11
1 (1Co 4:16; Php 3:17) Follow me as I follow Christ.
[1] Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Covering the Head in Worship
2 (2Th 2:15; 1Co 4:17; 11:17) I praise you, brothers, that you remember me
in all things and keep the traditions as I delivered them to you.
3 (Ge 3:16; 1Co 3:23; Eph 4:15) But I would have you know that the head
of the woman is the man, the head of every man is Christ,
and the head of Christ is God.
4 Every man praying or prophesying having
his head covered dishonors his head,
5 (Dt 21:12; Ac 21:9) but every woman who prays or prophesies with her head
uncovered dishonors her head, for that is the same as if she were shaved.
6 For if the woman is not covered, let her also cut off her hair.
But if it is a shame for a woman to have her hair cut off or shaved,
let her be covered.
7 (Jas 3:9; Ge 5:1) For a man indeed ought not to cover his head,
because he is the image and glory of God.
But the woman is the glory of the man.
8 (1Ti 2:13; Ge 2:21-23) The man is not from the woman,
but the woman from the man.
9 (Ge 2:18) The man was not created for the woman,
but the woman for the man.
10 For this reason the woman ought to have a veil of authority over her head,
because of the angels.
11 (Gal 3:28) Nevertheless, neither is the man without the woman,
nor the woman without the man in the Lord.
12 (Ro 11:36) For just as the woman came from the man,
so the man comes through the woman, but all things come from God.
13 (Lk 12:57) Judge for yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray
to God uncovered?
14 Does even nature itself not teach you that if a man has long hair it is
a shame to him?
15 But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her, for her hair is given
her for a covering.
16 (1Co 7:17; 1Th 2:14) But if anyone seems to be contentious,
we have no such custom, nor have the churches of God.
[2] Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep
the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.
[3] But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the
head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
[4] Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth
his head.
[5] But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered
dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.
[6] For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a
shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.
[7] For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the
image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.
[8] For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man.
[9] Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.
[10] For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the
angels.
[11] Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman
without the man, in the Lord.
[12] For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman;
but all things of god.
[13] Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?
[14] Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair,
it is a shame unto him?
[15] But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is
given her for a covering.
[16] But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither
the churches of God.
Abuses at the Lord's Supper
17 (1Co 11:2; 11:22) Now in what I have to say to you, I do not praise you.
You have come together not for the better, but for the worse.
18 (1Co 3:3; 1:10-12) First of all, when you come together as the church,
I hear that there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it.
19 (1Jn 2:19; Dt 13:3) For there must also be factions among you so that
those who are genuine may become evident among you.
20 Therefore when you come together into one place,
it is not to eat the Lord's Supper.
21 (Jude 1:12; 2Pe 2:13) For in eating, each one eats his own supper
ahead of others. One goes hungry, and another becomes drunk.
22 (1Co 10:32; Pr 17:5) What? Do you not have houses to eat and to drink in?
Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing?
What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you.
[17] Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come
together not for the better, but for the worse.
[18] For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that
there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.
[19] For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved
may be made manifest among you.
[20] When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the
Lord's supper.
[21] For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is
hungry, and another is drunken.
[22] What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the
church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall
I praise you in this? I praise you not.
The Lord's Supper
Mt 26:26-29; Mk 14:22-25; Lk 22:14-20
23 (1Co 15:3; Mt 26:26-28; Mk 14:22-24) I have received of the Lord that
which I delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus, on the night in which
He was betrayed, took bread.
24 When He had given thanks, He broke it and said, "Take and eat.
This is My body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of Me."
(Mt 26:26; Mk 14:22; Lk 22:19.)
25 (Lk 22:20; 2Co 3:6) In the same manner He took the cup after He had
supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood.
Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me."
(Mt 26:27-28; Mk 14:24; Lk 22:20.)
26 (Jn 21:22; 1Co 4:5) As often as you eat this bread and drink this cup,
you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes.
[23] For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you,
That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:
[24] And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is
my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
[25] After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying,
This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink
it, in remembrance of me.
[26] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the
Lord's death till he come.
Partaking of the Supper Unworthily
27 (Nu 9:10; 9:13) Therefore whoever eats this bread and drinks this cup
of the Lord unworthily will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
28 (2Co 13:5; Gal 6:4) Let a man examine himself,
and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
29 For he who eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation
to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.
30 For this reason many are weak and unhealthy among you, and many die.
31 (1Jn 1:9) If we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged.
32 But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord,
so that we would not be condemned with the world.
33 So, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.
34 (1Co 4:19; 11:21-22) If anyone hungers, let him eat at home,
so that you may not come together into condemnation.
I will set the rest in order when I come.
[27] Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the
Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
[28] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and
drink of that cup.
[29] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh
damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.
[30] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.
[31] For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
[32] But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should
not be condemned with the world.
[33] Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for
another.
[34] And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together
unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.
2) Our Daily Bread for 23 November 2025 titled
Our Worth in Christ
by Mike Wittmer
Mark 5:1-6, 12-13, 18-20
The Healing of the Gadarene Demoniac
Mt 8:28-34; Lk 8:26-39
1 (Mt 8:28-34; Lk 8:26-39) They went to the other side of the sea
to the region of the Gadarenes.
2 (Mk 1:23) When He had come out of the boat, immediately a man
with an unclean spirit came out of the tombs and met Him.
3 He lived among the tombs. And no one could constrain him,
not even with chains,
4 because he had often been bound with shackles and chains.
But he had pulled the chains apart and broken the shackles to pieces.
And no one could subdue him.
5 Always, night and day, he was in the mountains and in the tombs,
crying out and cutting himself with stones.
6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran up and kneeled before Him,
12 All the demons pleaded with Him, asking, "Send us to the swine,
so that we may enter them."
13 At once, Jesus gave them leave. Then the unclean spirits came out
and entered the swine. And the herd, numbering about two thousand,
ran wildly down a steep hill into the sea and were drowned in the sea.
18 (Lk 8:38-39) When He entered the boat, he who had been possessed
with the demons prayed Him that he might be with Him.
19 (Ps 66:16) Jesus did not let him, but said to him,
"Go home to your friends and tell them what great things the Lord
has done for you and how He has had compassion on you."
20 (Mt 4:25; Mk 7:31) So he departed and began to proclaim in the Decapolis
[The Ten Cities.] what great things Jesus had done for him.
And everyone was amazed.
[1] And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of
the Gadarenes.
[2] And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of
the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,
[3] Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not
with chains:
[4] Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the
chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces:
neither could any man tame him.
[5] And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs,
crying, and cutting himself with stones.
[6] But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,
[12] And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that
we may enter into them.
[13] And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out,
and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place
into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.
[18] And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with
the
devil prayed him that he might be with him.
[19] Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy
friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and
hath had compassion on thee.
[20] And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things
Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
Mario was a twenty-eight-year-old crack and alcohol addict who was imprisoned
for burglary. At his sentencing the judge said he was "a waste of a human
life." Mario sadly agreed. Midway through his jail time he saw an
advertisement for a journalism contest. It piqued Mario's interest, and he
enrolled in a nearby university. He was hooked. Mario loved working on news
stories, and after his release he finished his master's degree in journalism
and now writes for The New York Times. He's a waste no more!
The life of the demon-possessed man living in the tombs seemed a waste to
anyone who knew him. His neighbours bound him with chains for their protection
and his, but "he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet"
(Mark 5:4). He ran back to the tombs where "night and day . . . he would
cry out and cut himself with stones" (v. 5). Then he was changed forever.
Jesus cast out the man's demons and returned him to normal society. The town
was amazed to find him "sitting there, dressed and in his right mind" (v. 15).
The grateful man wanted to sail away with Christ, but He said no. "Go home
to your own people," said Jesus, "and tell them how much the Lord has done
for you, and how he has had mercy on you" (v. 19).
This man's mission is our mission. Let's tell others about Christ.
Because of Him, no one's life is a waste.
Reflect & Pray
What has Jesus saved you from? Where would you be without Him?
Dear Father, thank You for the immeasurable worth I have in You.
For further study, watch You're a Fixer Upper.
3) From The Billy Graham Evangelical Ministry Association
Words in Season - Scripture Memory Tools
Week 3 - Saved Now and Forever - Day 1 - Bought Back
Eph 1:7
7 (Ro 3:24; Ac 2:38; 20:28) In Him we have redemption through His blood
and the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace
[7] In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins,
according to the riches of his grace;
In the opening scenes of The Glenn Miller Story, Glenn Miller, then a
struggling musician trying to find an audience for his music, enters
a pawn shop. He has hocked his trombone for rent money, and has come
to redeem it. Paying the pawn broker the money, he buys back his own
instrument and leaves the shop, indicating that he will probably
be back again.
In Eph 1:7. Paul says that in Christ "we have redemption through
His blood and the forgiveness of sin according to the riches of His grace."
We belonged to God from the beginning; he made us and stamped
his image upon us. But through sin we were lost, pawned to the
world's system and the Enemy of our souls.
But God redeemed us; he "bought us back" with the most valuable
currency in the universe - the blood of his own Son, Jesus Christ.
He did not resent the bargain, or question whether we were worth
such a price. He freely gave Jesus in trade to ransom the souls
of the people he created and loved.
Sometimes in Christian circles we get so caught up in religious
jargon that we forget what redemption really means. Gog did not have
to "get us out of hock." He was not compelled to buy us back when we
had sold ourselves to sin. But because of his love, and with no
deserving on our part, he chose to pay an enormous price to set us free.
We are redeemed, bought back, by the One who owned us in the first place.
Application
a) In what ways have I been "in hock" to sin in my life?
b) What does it mean, in practical terms, that God "redeemed" me
from that sin?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Luke 16:10-12
10 (Mt 25:21; Lk 19:17) "He who is faithful in what is least is faithful
also in much. And he who is dishonest in the least is dishonest also
in much.
11 So if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth,
who will commit to your trust the true riches?
12 And if you have not been faithful in that which is another man's,
who will give you that which is your own?"
10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much:
and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon,
who will commit to your trust the true riches?
12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's,
who shall give you that which is your own?
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Reconciling Peace
Col 3:12-17
12 (Eph 4:2; Lk 1:78) So embrace, as the elect of God, holy and beloved,
a spirit of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, and longsuffering.
13 (Eph 4:32; Mk 11:25; Eph 4:2) Bear with one another
and forgive one another. If anyone has a quarrel against anyone,
even as Christ forgave you, so you must do.
14 (Eph 4:3; 1Co 13:1-13) And above all these things, embrace love,
which is the bond of perfection.
15 (Jn 14:27; Eph 5:20) Let the peace of God,
to which also you are called in one body,
rule in your hearts. And be thankful.
16 (Eph 5:19; Col 1:28; Ro 10:17 ) Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing
one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 (1Co 10:31; Eph 5:20 ) And whatever you do in word or deed,
do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies,
kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have
a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity,
which is the bond of perfectness.
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye
are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom;
teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
Newfoundland & Labrador
Total population 527000
Muslim population (est.) 2065
As of Autumn 2014, St. John's does not have a local CNMM network. Pray with us
for God's people to come together in prayer
and cooperative efforts to reach Muslims with the Good News.
St. John's has one mosque and 2 more musallas , or prayer locations, which
may grow into mosques of their own. The mosque is called Masjid an Noor,
The Mosque of the Light, and mosque historical documents record a trip in 1986
to Saudi Arabia to raise funds for the land purchase and construction costs.
A small number of Muslim families had come prior to 1964, but moved on to
other places after a short time. After this date, a small community began
to remain and grow , reaching about 25 families in the 1980s. A number
of international students also join the community annually
ranging from 25 to 60.
In 2014 the mosque website reports the community is made up of some 200
families and many university students attending Memorial University. A
small number of native Newfoundlanders have also converted to the Islamic
faith, one saying of this religion in Newfoundland, "Islam is a growing face".
With the growth of the community, the current challenge is lack of space
in the mosque, which they are now looking at expanding.
Pray for
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
Day 23 of the Month
a) Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those
who have committed crimes.
b) Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ
across Canada.
(
John 13:34-35
34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another,
even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples,
if you have love for one another."
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another;
as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,
if ye have love one to another.
Rom 12:10
10 Be devoted to one another with brotherly love; prefer one another in honour
10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love;
in honour preferring one another;
Heb 10:24
24 And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works.
24 and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
1 Peter 3:8
8 Finally, be all of one mind, be loving toward one another, be gracious,
and be kind.
8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another,
love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
1 John 3:23
23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name
of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as He commanded us.
23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name
of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
)
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Being Lovers of Christ
Luke 1:1-4
Advent has begun! We suddenly realize we are not ready for
Christmas, and we fret about decorations, cards, presents
or food. However, this year let's approach Christmas spiritually,
in order to prepare our hearts, minds and wills for the Christ
Child's coming.
A
In our lead text Luke declares that he has done all the research
and that he wants Theophilus to know the truth about all he
has learned concerning Jesus, so he has decided to write an
"orderly account. " We will meditate on this narrative during
Advent this year for one major purpose: that we might all
become more richly like Theophilus(Theophila) or "God
Lover".
Was Theophilus a real man, or did Luke use that name to
signify everyone reading his report? Unquestionably, the name
indicates our goal this Advent: That each of us might love God
more because of all he did for us in sending his Son, Jesus.
Prayer
God , help us to love you more abundantly this Advent. Amen.
Mark 13:35-37
35 (Mt 24:42) "Watch therefore-for you do not know when the master
of the house is coming, in the evening, or at midnight,
or at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning-
36 (Mk 14:40) lest he come suddenly and find you sleeping.
37 (Mk 13:35) What I say to you I say to all: Watch!"
The AH-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimler
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
AH-HA! Ambassadors pf Health, Hope and Anticipation
We begin another Advent season very appropriately-we me waiting,
waiting, waiting! We are waiting to see when gas prices will drop again
... waiting to see the economy turn around .. waiting to see what kind
of weather December will bring .. waiting to see who sends us the first
Christmas Card (already!?)... waiting ... waiting... waiting ...
Advent is about anticipation. It is like waiting for the ketchup to ooze out
of its bottle's long neck We wait ... and wait ... and wait.
And finally It comes.
The Gospel for this week reminds us that no one knows when the Lord
will return to earth And so we can anticipate his Second Coming with
great Joy, not fear because he has already prepared us for life as well as
for death. Isn't it ironic that as we anticipate-as we prepare for his coming
In Bethlehem during this season-the Lord has already prepared us for
his Second Coming through his own death and resurrection?
So. ready or not, here he comes! Anticipate a joy-filled Advent season,
as ambassadors of health. hope and anticipation! And anticipate the
Lord at work In you today!
Lord we are preparing for your coming at Christmas, Thank you
for preparing us for your return-both today and on the Last Day
We celebrate your presence with great anticipation
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Matthew 24:36-44.
The Unknown Day and Hour
Mk 13:32-37; Lk 17:26-30, 34-36
36 (Ac 1:7; Mt 25:13; Mk 13:32) "Concerning that day and hour no one knows,
not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.
37 (Lk 17:26-27) As were the days of Noah, so will be
the coming of the Son of Man.
38 (Mt 22:30) For as in the days before the flood, they were eating
and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah
entered the ark,
39 (Mt 24:37) and did not know until the flood came
and took them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.
40 Two will be in the field; one will be taken, and the other left.
41 (Ex 11:5; Isa 47:2) Two women will be grinding at the mill;
one will be taken, and the other left.
42 (Mt 25:13; 24:44) "Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour
your Lord will come.
43 (Lk 12:39) But know this, that if the owner of the house had known
what hour the thief would come, he would have watched
and not have let his house be broken into.
44 (Mt 25:10; 25:13) Therefore you also must be ready, for in an hour
when you least expect, the Son of Man is coming.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord to be discipled into maturity.
Pray to the Lord and pray to live honourably for the Lord.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear Father, thank You
for the immeasurable worth I have in You."
Pray to the Lord and pray to know we have redemption in Jesus Christ.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be faithful in all you do.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be helpful in Community.
Pray for in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those
who have committed crimes.
Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ
across Canada.
Pray Lord, give us a new appreciation of the Grand Miracle, your
coming to Earth, this Advent season. Amen.
Lord we are preparing for your coming at Christmas, Thank you
for preparing us for your return-both today and on the Last Day
We celebrate your presence with great anticipation
In Jesus' name.
God , help us to love you more abundantly this Advent. Amen.
Pray that digital access to God's Word will thrive
among Omanis, who are not allowed to purchase Bibles.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) Today at Calvary Community Church
, Pastor NAthan Zeiber spoke on God's Blueprint for Parenting - Loved into
Maturity
Hebrews 12:5-7
5 (Pr 3:11-12) And you have forgotten the exhortation addressed
to you as sons:
"My son, do not despise the discipline from the Lord,
nor grow weary when you are rebuked by Him;
6 (Rev 3:19; Ps 119:75; Pr 3:12) for whom the Lord loves He disciplines,
and scourges every son whom He receives."
7 (Pr 13:24; 19:18) Endure discipline; God is dealing with you as with sons.
For what son is there whom a father does not discipline?
[5] And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto
children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint
when thou art rebuked of him:
[6] For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he
receiveth.
[7] If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son
is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8
8 If you are without discipline, of which everyone has partaken,
then you are illegitimate children and not sons.
[8] But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are
ye bastards, and not sons.
Proverbs 13:24
24 (Pr 19:18; 22:15; 29:15) He who spares his rod hates his son,
but he who loves him disciplines him early.
24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son:
But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Psalms 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
[1] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
[2] He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the
still waters.
[3] He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for
his name's sake.
[4] Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will
fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
[5] Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou
anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
[6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I
will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Hebrews 12:9-13
9 (Nu 16:22; 27:16) Furthermore, we have had human fathers,
and they corrected us, and we gave them reverence.
Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live?
10 (2Pe 1:4) For they indeed disciplined us for a short time according
to their own judgment, but He does so for our profit, that we may partake
of His holiness.
11 (Isa 32:17; Jas 3:17-18) Now no discipline seems to be joyful at the time,
but grievous. Yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness
in those who have been trained by it.
12 (Isa 35:3; Job 4:3-4) Therefore lift up your tired hands,
and strengthen your weak knees.
13 (Gal 6:1; Pr 4:26-27) Make straight paths for your feet,
lest that which is lame go out of joint, but rather be healed.
[9] Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we
gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the
Father of spirits, and live?
[10] For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure;
but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
[11] Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous:
nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto
them which are exercised thereby.
[12] Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;
[13] And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be
turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.
1) 1 Corinthians 9 , 1 Corinthians 10 , 1 Corinthians 11
1 Corinthians 9
The Rights of an Apostle
1 (1Co 3:6; Ac 9:3) Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen
Jesus Christ our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord?
2 If I am not an apostle to others, yet indeed I am to you.
For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
3 This is my answer to those who examine me.
4 (1Th 2:6; 2Th 3:8-9) Do we have no right to eat and to drink?
5 (Mt 8:14; Jn 1:42) Do we not have the right to take along a believing
wife as do other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
6 (Ac 4:36) Or is it only Barnabas
and I who have no right to refrain from working?
7 (Dt 20:6; Pr 27:18) Who goes to war at any time at his own expense?
Who plants a vineyard, but does not eat of its fruit? Or who feeds a flock,
but does not drink of the flock's milk?
8 Do I say these things as a man? Or does the law not say the same thing also?
9 (Dt 25:4; 1Ti 5:18) For it is written in the Law of Moses,
"You shall not muzzle the mouth of the ox
while it treads out the grain." (Dt 25:4.) Is God concerned about oxen?
10 (2Ti 2:6) Or does He say it completely for our sake? For our sake,
no doubt, this is written so that he who plows should plow in hope,
and that he who threshes in hope should partake of his hope.
11 (Ro 15:27; Gal 6:6) If we have sown for you spiritual things, is it
a great thing if we shall reap your material things?
12 (1Co 9:18; 2Co 11:12) If others partake of this right over you,
should not we instead?
Nevertheless, we have not used this right, but suffer all things,
lest we might hinder the gospel of Christ.
13 (Lev 6:26; Nu 18:8-20) Do you not know that those who minister
unto holy things live from the things of the temple?
And do you not know that those who wait at the altar partake of the altar?
14 (Mt 10:10; 1Co 9:4) In the same way, the Lord has ordained that those
who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.
15 (Ac 18:3; 1Co 9:12) But I have used none of these rights,
nor have I written these things that it should be so done to me.
For it would be better for me to die than allow anyone
to make my boasting void.
16 (Ro 1:14; Ac 9:15) Though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of,
for the requirement is laid upon me. Yes, woe unto me
if I do not preach the gospel!
17 (Gal 2:7; 1Co 3:8) So if I do this willingly, I have a reward,
but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a commission.
18 (1Co 7:31) What is my reward then? Truly that when I preach the gospel,
I may present the gospel of Christ without charge,
so that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel.
19 (Mt 18:15; 1Co 9:1) For though I am free from all men, I have made myself
servant to all, that I might win even more.
20 (Ac 16:3; 21:20-26) To the Jews, I became as a Jew, that I might win
the Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might
win those who are under the law;
21 (Ro 2:12; 2:14) to those who are outside the law, as outside the law
(being not without God's law, but under Christ's law) that I might win
those who are outside the law.
22 (Ro 11:14; 1Co 10:33) To the weak, I became as weak, that I might win
the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means
save some.
23 (This I do for the gospel's sake, that I might partake of it with you.
24 (Gal 2:2; Heb 12:1) Do you not know that all those who run in a race run,
but one receives the prize? So run, that you may obtain it.
25 (Jas 1:12; Rev 2:10; 1Ti 6:12) Everyone who strives for the prize
exercises self-control in all things. Now they do it to obtain
a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible one.
26 So, therefore, I run, not with uncertainty. So I fight, not as one who
beats the air.
27 (Ro 8:13; Jer 6:30) But I bring and keep my body under subjection,
lest when preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
[1] Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our
Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?
[2] If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the
seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
[3] Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
[4] Have we not power to eat and to drink?
[5] Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other
apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
[6] Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?
[7] Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a
vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and
eateth not of the milk of the flock?
[8] Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also?
[9] For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth
of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
[10] Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this
is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that
thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
[11] If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we
shall reap your carnal things?
[12] If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather?
Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we
should hinder the gospel of Christ.
[13] Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the
things of the temple? and they which wait at the alter are partakers with
the alter?
[14] Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should
live of the gospel.
[15] But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these
things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die,
than that any man should make my glorying void.
[16] For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for
necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
[17] For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my
will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.
[18] What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may
make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the
gospel.
[19] For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto
all, that I might gain the more.
[20] And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to
them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that
are under the law;
[21] To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to
God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without
law.
[22] To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all
things to all men, that I might by all means save some.
[23] And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof
with you.
[24] Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth
the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
[25] And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.
Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
[26] I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that
beateth the air:
[27] But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by
any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
1 Corinthians 10
Warning Against Idolatry
1 (Ex 14:29; Ps 66:6) I would not want you to be unaware that all our fathers
were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea,
2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 (Ex 16:35; Dt 8:3) all ate the same spiritual food;
4 (Ex 17:6; Nu 20:11) and all drank the same spiritual drink,
for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them,
and that Rock was Christ.
5 (Heb 3:17; Jude 1:5) But with many of them God was not well pleased,
and they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 (Nu 11:4; 1Co 10:11) Now these things were our examples to the intent
that we should not lust after evil things as they lusted.
7 (Ex 32:19; 32:4) Neither be idolaters as were some of them.
As it is written, "The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to revel."
(Ex 32:6.)
8 (Nu 25:1-9; 1Co 6:18) Neither let us commit sexual immorality
as some of them committed, when twenty-three thousand fell in one day.
9 (Nu 21:5-6; Ex 17:2) Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also
tempted and were destroyed by serpents.
10 (Ex 12:23; Nu 16:41) Neither murmur, as some of them also murmured
and were destroyed by the destroyer.
11 (Ro 13:11) Now all these things happened to them for examples.
They are written as an admonition to us, upon whom the end of the ages
has come.
12 (Ro 11:20) Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed, lest he fall.
13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken you except what is common
to man. God is faithful, and He will not permit you to be tempted
above what you can endure, but will with the temptation
also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.
14 (1Co 10:7; 1Jn 5:21) So, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
15 (1Co 8:1; 1Th 5:21) I speak as to wise men.
Judge for yourselves what I say.
16 (Mt 26:26-28; Ac 2:42) The cup of blessing which we bless,
is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break,
is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
17 (Ro 12:5; 1Co 12:12) For we, being many, are one bread and one body,
for we are all partakers of that one bread.
18 (Ro 4:1) Consider Israel after the flesh: Are not those who eat
of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?
19 (1Co 8:4) What am I saying then, that the idol is anything
or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is anything?
20 (Rev 9:20) But I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice,
they sacrifice to demons, and not to God. I do not want you to have
fellowship with demons.
21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons.
You cannot be partakers of the Lord's table and of the table of demons.
22 (Dt 32:21; 32:16) Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy?
Are we stronger than He?
[1] Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all
our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
[2] And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
[3] And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
[4] And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that
spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
[5] But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown
in the wilderness.
[6] Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust
after evil things, as they also lusted.
[7] Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The
people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
[8] Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell
in one day three and twenty thousand.
[9] Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were
destroyed of serpents.
[10] Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of
the destroyer.
[11] Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are
written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
[12] Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
[13] There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but
God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are
able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be
able to bear it.
[14] Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
[15] I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
[16] The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the
blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the
body of Christ?
[17] For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers
of that one bread.
[18] Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices
partakers of the alter?
[19] What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered
in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
[20] But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice
to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship
with devils.
[21] Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot
be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.
[22] Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?
Do All to the Glory of God
23 (1Co 6:12; 8:9) "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are
helpful. "All things are lawful for me," but not all things edify.
24 (1Co 10:33; 13:5) Let no one seek his own, but each one the other's
well-being.
25 (1Co 8:7) Eat whatever is sold in the meat market,
asking no question for the sake of conscience,
26 (Ps 24:1; 50:12) for "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it."
(Ps 24:1.)
27 If any of those who do not believe invite you to a feast,
and you desire to go, eat whatever is set before you,
asking no question for the sake of conscience.
28 But if anyone says to you, "This was offered in sacrifice to idols,"
do not eat it for the sake of him that mentioned it and for the sake
of conscience, for "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it." (Ps 24:1.)
29 (1Co 9:19) Conscience, I say, not your own, but that of the other.
For why is my liberty judged by another man's conscience?
30 (Ro 14:6; 1Ti 4:3-4) If I partake with thankfulness,
why am I slandered concerning that for which I give thanks?
31 (Col 3:17; 1Pe 4:11) Therefore, whether you eat, or drink,
or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.
32 (Ac 20:28; 1Co 8:13; Ro 14:13) Give no offense, neither to the Jews,
nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God,
33 (1Co 10:24) just as I try to please all men in all things,
not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
[23] All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all
things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
[24] Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.
[25] Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for
conscience sake:
[26] For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.
[27] If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed
to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience
sake.
[28] But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols,
eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth
is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof:
[29] Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my
liberty judged of another man's conscience?
[30] For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for
which I give thanks?
[31] Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the
glory of God.
[32] Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the
church of God:
[33] Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit,
but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
1 Corinthians 11
1 (1Co 4:16; Php 3:17) Follow me as I follow Christ.
[1] Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Covering the Head in Worship
2 (2Th 2:15; 1Co 4:17; 11:17) I praise you, brothers, that you remember me
in all things and keep the traditions as I delivered them to you.
3 (Ge 3:16; 1Co 3:23; Eph 4:15) But I would have you know that the head
of the woman is the man, the head of every man is Christ,
and the head of Christ is God.
4 Every man praying or prophesying having
his head covered dishonors his head,
5 (Dt 21:12; Ac 21:9) but every woman who prays or prophesies with her head
uncovered dishonors her head, for that is the same as if she were shaved.
6 For if the woman is not covered, let her also cut off her hair.
But if it is a shame for a woman to have her hair cut off or shaved,
let her be covered.
7 (Jas 3:9; Ge 5:1) For a man indeed ought not to cover his head,
because he is the image and glory of God.
But the woman is the glory of the man.
8 (1Ti 2:13; Ge 2:21-23) The man is not from the woman,
but the woman from the man.
9 (Ge 2:18) The man was not created for the woman,
but the woman for the man.
10 For this reason the woman ought to have a veil of authority over her head,
because of the angels.
11 (Gal 3:28) Nevertheless, neither is the man without the woman,
nor the woman without the man in the Lord.
12 (Ro 11:36) For just as the woman came from the man,
so the man comes through the woman, but all things come from God.
13 (Lk 12:57) Judge for yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray
to God uncovered?
14 Does even nature itself not teach you that if a man has long hair it is
a shame to him?
15 But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her, for her hair is given
her for a covering.
16 (1Co 7:17; 1Th 2:14) But if anyone seems to be contentious,
we have no such custom, nor have the churches of God.
[2] Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep
the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.
[3] But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the
head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
[4] Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth
his head.
[5] But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered
dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.
[6] For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a
shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.
[7] For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the
image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.
[8] For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man.
[9] Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.
[10] For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the
angels.
[11] Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman
without the man, in the Lord.
[12] For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman;
but all things of god.
[13] Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?
[14] Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair,
it is a shame unto him?
[15] But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is
given her for a covering.
[16] But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither
the churches of God.
Abuses at the Lord's Supper
17 (1Co 11:2; 11:22) Now in what I have to say to you, I do not praise you.
You have come together not for the better, but for the worse.
18 (1Co 3:3; 1:10-12) First of all, when you come together as the church,
I hear that there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it.
19 (1Jn 2:19; Dt 13:3) For there must also be factions among you so that
those who are genuine may become evident among you.
20 Therefore when you come together into one place,
it is not to eat the Lord's Supper.
21 (Jude 1:12; 2Pe 2:13) For in eating, each one eats his own supper
ahead of others. One goes hungry, and another becomes drunk.
22 (1Co 10:32; Pr 17:5) What? Do you not have houses to eat and to drink in?
Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing?
What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you.
[17] Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come
together not for the better, but for the worse.
[18] For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that
there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.
[19] For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved
may be made manifest among you.
[20] When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the
Lord's supper.
[21] For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is
hungry, and another is drunken.
[22] What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the
church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall
I praise you in this? I praise you not.
The Lord's Supper
Mt 26:26-29; Mk 14:22-25; Lk 22:14-20
23 (1Co 15:3; Mt 26:26-28; Mk 14:22-24) I have received of the Lord that
which I delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus, on the night in which
He was betrayed, took bread.
24 When He had given thanks, He broke it and said, "Take and eat.
This is My body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of Me."
(Mt 26:26; Mk 14:22; Lk 22:19.)
25 (Lk 22:20; 2Co 3:6) In the same manner He took the cup after He had
supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood.
Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me."
(Mt 26:27-28; Mk 14:24; Lk 22:20.)
26 (Jn 21:22; 1Co 4:5) As often as you eat this bread and drink this cup,
you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes.
[23] For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you,
That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:
[24] And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is
my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
[25] After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying,
This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink
it, in remembrance of me.
[26] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the
Lord's death till he come.
Partaking of the Supper Unworthily
27 (Nu 9:10; 9:13) Therefore whoever eats this bread and drinks this cup
of the Lord unworthily will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
28 (2Co 13:5; Gal 6:4) Let a man examine himself,
and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
29 For he who eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation
to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.
30 For this reason many are weak and unhealthy among you, and many die.
31 (1Jn 1:9) If we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged.
32 But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord,
so that we would not be condemned with the world.
33 So, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.
34 (1Co 4:19; 11:21-22) If anyone hungers, let him eat at home,
so that you may not come together into condemnation.
I will set the rest in order when I come.
[27] Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the
Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
[28] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and
drink of that cup.
[29] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh
damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.
[30] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.
[31] For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
[32] But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should
not be condemned with the world.
[33] Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for
another.
[34] And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together
unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.
2) Our Daily Bread for 23 November 2025 titled
Our Worth in Christ
by Mike Wittmer
Mark 5:1-6, 12-13, 18-20
The Healing of the Gadarene Demoniac
Mt 8:28-34; Lk 8:26-39
1 (Mt 8:28-34; Lk 8:26-39) They went to the other side of the sea
to the region of the Gadarenes.
2 (Mk 1:23) When He had come out of the boat, immediately a man
with an unclean spirit came out of the tombs and met Him.
3 He lived among the tombs. And no one could constrain him,
not even with chains,
4 because he had often been bound with shackles and chains.
But he had pulled the chains apart and broken the shackles to pieces.
And no one could subdue him.
5 Always, night and day, he was in the mountains and in the tombs,
crying out and cutting himself with stones.
6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran up and kneeled before Him,
12 All the demons pleaded with Him, asking, "Send us to the swine,
so that we may enter them."
13 At once, Jesus gave them leave. Then the unclean spirits came out
and entered the swine. And the herd, numbering about two thousand,
ran wildly down a steep hill into the sea and were drowned in the sea.
18 (Lk 8:38-39) When He entered the boat, he who had been possessed
with the demons prayed Him that he might be with Him.
19 (Ps 66:16) Jesus did not let him, but said to him,
"Go home to your friends and tell them what great things the Lord
has done for you and how He has had compassion on you."
20 (Mt 4:25; Mk 7:31) So he departed and began to proclaim in the Decapolis
[The Ten Cities.] what great things Jesus had done for him.
And everyone was amazed.
[1] And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of
the Gadarenes.
[2] And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of
the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,
[3] Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not
with chains:
[4] Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the
chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces:
neither could any man tame him.
[5] And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs,
crying, and cutting himself with stones.
[6] But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,
[12] And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that
we may enter into them.
[13] And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out,
and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place
into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.
[18] And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with
the
devil prayed him that he might be with him.
[19] Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy
friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and
hath had compassion on thee.
[20] And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things
Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
Mario was a twenty-eight-year-old crack and alcohol addict who was imprisoned
for burglary. At his sentencing the judge said he was "a waste of a human
life." Mario sadly agreed. Midway through his jail time he saw an
advertisement for a journalism contest. It piqued Mario's interest, and he
enrolled in a nearby university. He was hooked. Mario loved working on news
stories, and after his release he finished his master's degree in journalism
and now writes for The New York Times. He's a waste no more!
The life of the demon-possessed man living in the tombs seemed a waste to
anyone who knew him. His neighbours bound him with chains for their protection
and his, but "he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet"
(Mark 5:4). He ran back to the tombs where "night and day . . . he would
cry out and cut himself with stones" (v. 5). Then he was changed forever.
Jesus cast out the man's demons and returned him to normal society. The town
was amazed to find him "sitting there, dressed and in his right mind" (v. 15).
The grateful man wanted to sail away with Christ, but He said no. "Go home
to your own people," said Jesus, "and tell them how much the Lord has done
for you, and how he has had mercy on you" (v. 19).
This man's mission is our mission. Let's tell others about Christ.
Because of Him, no one's life is a waste.
Reflect & Pray
What has Jesus saved you from? Where would you be without Him?
Dear Father, thank You for the immeasurable worth I have in You.
For further study, watch You're a Fixer Upper.
3) From The Billy Graham Evangelical Ministry Association
Words in Season - Scripture Memory Tools
Week 3 - Saved Now and Forever - Day 1 - Bought Back
Eph 1:7
7 (Ro 3:24; Ac 2:38; 20:28) In Him we have redemption through His blood
and the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace
[7] In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins,
according to the riches of his grace;
In the opening scenes of The Glenn Miller Story, Glenn Miller, then a
struggling musician trying to find an audience for his music, enters
a pawn shop. He has hocked his trombone for rent money, and has come
to redeem it. Paying the pawn broker the money, he buys back his own
instrument and leaves the shop, indicating that he will probably
be back again.
In Eph 1:7. Paul says that in Christ "we have redemption through
His blood and the forgiveness of sin according to the riches of His grace."
We belonged to God from the beginning; he made us and stamped
his image upon us. But through sin we were lost, pawned to the
world's system and the Enemy of our souls.
But God redeemed us; he "bought us back" with the most valuable
currency in the universe - the blood of his own Son, Jesus Christ.
He did not resent the bargain, or question whether we were worth
such a price. He freely gave Jesus in trade to ransom the souls
of the people he created and loved.
Sometimes in Christian circles we get so caught up in religious
jargon that we forget what redemption really means. Gog did not have
to "get us out of hock." He was not compelled to buy us back when we
had sold ourselves to sin. But because of his love, and with no
deserving on our part, he chose to pay an enormous price to set us free.
We are redeemed, bought back, by the One who owned us in the first place.
Application
a) In what ways have I been "in hock" to sin in my life?
b) What does it mean, in practical terms, that God "redeemed" me
from that sin?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Luke 16:10-12
10 (Mt 25:21; Lk 19:17) "He who is faithful in what is least is faithful
also in much. And he who is dishonest in the least is dishonest also
in much.
11 So if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth,
who will commit to your trust the true riches?
12 And if you have not been faithful in that which is another man's,
who will give you that which is your own?"
10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much:
and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon,
who will commit to your trust the true riches?
12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's,
who shall give you that which is your own?
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Reconciling Peace
Col 3:12-17
12 (Eph 4:2; Lk 1:78) So embrace, as the elect of God, holy and beloved,
a spirit of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, and longsuffering.
13 (Eph 4:32; Mk 11:25; Eph 4:2) Bear with one another
and forgive one another. If anyone has a quarrel against anyone,
even as Christ forgave you, so you must do.
14 (Eph 4:3; 1Co 13:1-13) And above all these things, embrace love,
which is the bond of perfection.
15 (Jn 14:27; Eph 5:20) Let the peace of God,
to which also you are called in one body,
rule in your hearts. And be thankful.
16 (Eph 5:19; Col 1:28; Ro 10:17 ) Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing
one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 (1Co 10:31; Eph 5:20 ) And whatever you do in word or deed,
do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies,
kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have
a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity,
which is the bond of perfectness.
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye
are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom;
teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
Newfoundland & Labrador
Total population 527000
Muslim population (est.) 2065
As of Autumn 2014, St. John's does not have a local CNMM network. Pray with us
for God's people to come together in prayer
and cooperative efforts to reach Muslims with the Good News.
St. John's has one mosque and 2 more musallas , or prayer locations, which
may grow into mosques of their own. The mosque is called Masjid an Noor,
The Mosque of the Light, and mosque historical documents record a trip in 1986
to Saudi Arabia to raise funds for the land purchase and construction costs.
A small number of Muslim families had come prior to 1964, but moved on to
other places after a short time. After this date, a small community began
to remain and grow , reaching about 25 families in the 1980s. A number
of international students also join the community annually
ranging from 25 to 60.
In 2014 the mosque website reports the community is made up of some 200
families and many university students attending Memorial University. A
small number of native Newfoundlanders have also converted to the Islamic
faith, one saying of this religion in Newfoundland, "Islam is a growing face".
With the growth of the community, the current challenge is lack of space
in the mosque, which they are now looking at expanding.
Pray for
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
Day 23 of the Month
a) Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those
who have committed crimes.
b) Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ
across Canada.
(
John 13:34-35
34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another,
even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples,
if you have love for one another."
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another;
as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,
if ye have love one to another.
Rom 12:10
10 Be devoted to one another with brotherly love; prefer one another in honour
10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love;
in honour preferring one another;
Heb 10:24
24 And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works.
24 and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
1 Peter 3:8
8 Finally, be all of one mind, be loving toward one another, be gracious,
and be kind.
8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another,
love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
1 John 3:23
23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name
of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as He commanded us.
23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name
of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
)
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Being Lovers of Christ
Luke 1:1-4
Advent has begun! We suddenly realize we are not ready for
Christmas, and we fret about decorations, cards, presents
or food. However, this year let's approach Christmas spiritually,
in order to prepare our hearts, minds and wills for the Christ
Child's coming.
A
In our lead text Luke declares that he has done all the research
and that he wants Theophilus to know the truth about all he
has learned concerning Jesus, so he has decided to write an
"orderly account. " We will meditate on this narrative during
Advent this year for one major purpose: that we might all
become more richly like Theophilus(Theophila) or "God
Lover".
Was Theophilus a real man, or did Luke use that name to
signify everyone reading his report? Unquestionably, the name
indicates our goal this Advent: That each of us might love God
more because of all he did for us in sending his Son, Jesus.
Prayer
God , help us to love you more abundantly this Advent. Amen.
Mark 13:35-37
35 (Mt 24:42) "Watch therefore-for you do not know when the master
of the house is coming, in the evening, or at midnight,
or at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning-
36 (Mk 14:40) lest he come suddenly and find you sleeping.
37 (Mk 13:35) What I say to you I say to all: Watch!"
The AH-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimler
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
AH-HA! Ambassadors pf Health, Hope and Anticipation
We begin another Advent season very appropriately-we me waiting,
waiting, waiting! We are waiting to see when gas prices will drop again
... waiting to see the economy turn around .. waiting to see what kind
of weather December will bring .. waiting to see who sends us the first
Christmas Card (already!?)... waiting ... waiting... waiting ...
Advent is about anticipation. It is like waiting for the ketchup to ooze out
of its bottle's long neck We wait ... and wait ... and wait.
And finally It comes.
The Gospel for this week reminds us that no one knows when the Lord
will return to earth And so we can anticipate his Second Coming with
great Joy, not fear because he has already prepared us for life as well as
for death. Isn't it ironic that as we anticipate-as we prepare for his coming
In Bethlehem during this season-the Lord has already prepared us for
his Second Coming through his own death and resurrection?
So. ready or not, here he comes! Anticipate a joy-filled Advent season,
as ambassadors of health. hope and anticipation! And anticipate the
Lord at work In you today!
Lord we are preparing for your coming at Christmas, Thank you
for preparing us for your return-both today and on the Last Day
We celebrate your presence with great anticipation
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Matthew 24:36-44.
The Unknown Day and Hour
Mk 13:32-37; Lk 17:26-30, 34-36
36 (Ac 1:7; Mt 25:13; Mk 13:32) "Concerning that day and hour no one knows,
not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.
37 (Lk 17:26-27) As were the days of Noah, so will be
the coming of the Son of Man.
38 (Mt 22:30) For as in the days before the flood, they were eating
and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah
entered the ark,
39 (Mt 24:37) and did not know until the flood came
and took them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.
40 Two will be in the field; one will be taken, and the other left.
41 (Ex 11:5; Isa 47:2) Two women will be grinding at the mill;
one will be taken, and the other left.
42 (Mt 25:13; 24:44) "Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour
your Lord will come.
43 (Lk 12:39) But know this, that if the owner of the house had known
what hour the thief would come, he would have watched
and not have let his house be broken into.
44 (Mt 25:10; 25:13) Therefore you also must be ready, for in an hour
when you least expect, the Son of Man is coming.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord to be discipled into maturity.
Pray to the Lord and pray to live honourably for the Lord.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear Father, thank You
for the immeasurable worth I have in You."
Pray to the Lord and pray to know we have redemption in Jesus Christ.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be faithful in all you do.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be helpful in Community.
Pray for in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those
who have committed crimes.
Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ
across Canada.
Pray Lord, give us a new appreciation of the Grand Miracle, your
coming to Earth, this Advent season. Amen.
Lord we are preparing for your coming at Christmas, Thank you
for preparing us for your return-both today and on the Last Day
We celebrate your presence with great anticipation
In Jesus' name.
God , help us to love you more abundantly this Advent. Amen.
Pray that digital access to God's Word will thrive
among Omanis, who are not allowed to purchase Bibles.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
.