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Commentary on "Power Struggle"

MARK MARTIN

 

Day 2: Sunday September 20, 2009

 

In 3 John 1-4 we learn that Gaius is loved by John and that John rejoices in the fact that Gaius knows and walks in the truth. How do we know for sure that we have the truth? Are we applying (walking) in the truth? How can we rightly walk in the truth if we do not accurately know the truth? These are very important questions that can only be answered through diligent study of God’s Word in its proper context. Look for context concerning the original language from renowned original language scholars that have taken part in cross-denominational Bible translations. Look for cultural context in commentaries by scholars such as William Barclay. When reading the Bible, ask who is speaking, what is their background, who are they speaking to, how do I understand this passage in the context of the entire Bible, how does this passage apply to the church and myself today? Be on guard for proof texting. Proof texting the Bible is when someone takes passages; usually out of their context to support the doctrine that they which to espouse. Those who proof text fail to heed the full council of God’s Word which would shatter their aberrant doctrines. When investigating a certain doctrine examine all the passages concerning it, in context; and look into original language word meanings.

To properly understand the love we are supposed to have for other Christians as expressed in 1 Corinthians we need to look to the original language. There are five different Koine Greek words translated as ‘love’ in English translations. The one used in I Corinthians 13 is transliterated agape. Agape is the most powerful of the five words for love. It is a supernatural love that originates with God Himself and is only possible in Spirit-indwelled believers in Christ. It is a selfless love that the world cannot understand. The world loves but not like this, Christians are capable of loving those they do not know, those who know Christ in another denomination, those that do not love back, and those who would call themselves enemies. Have you been able to love like this? Remember God the Father loved His enemies enough to send His Son to die as a propitiatory sacrifice for them.

 

Summary

  1. Do we really know the truth?
  2. Are we walking in that truth?
  3. Are we expressing the supernatural love that only comes through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit?

 

GO TO DAY 3

 

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The Sabbath School Bible Study Guide and the corresponding E.G. White Notes are published by Pacific Press Publishing Association, which is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist church. The current quarter's editions are pictured above.

 

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