v. 1-2 - We are not to live just to please ourselves…but to help others.  Ask yourself: “How am I doing on that issue?  v. 4 – Patiently waiting for all that God has promised us.  Hard, huh?  v. 5 – Live in harmony with others.  All of us could use some help there!  v. 9f – Notice the emphasis: Gentiles share God’s blessings given to the Jews.  The ground around the foot of the Cross is level.  v. 13 – Hope in the Bible means: being certain of what is promised.  v. 14 – We are to know the Lord’s word; and also teach it.  Suppose that means ALL of us?  Or just the clergy?  v. 16 – Paul saw his role as a special messenger of God to the Gentiles.  v. 18 – What do you boast about in your life? (Is this question unfair?)  v. 19 – The importance of fully presenting the Good News.  v. 20 – Note: Paul’s desire to preach where folks have never heard the Good News of Jesus.  Do we have a heart for missions too?

 

Donald E. Pardun