December 23, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 13
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
1 Corinthians Chapter 13, also known as the “Song of Love,” is one of the most well-known and moving passages in the Bible. The Apostle Paul describes the central role of love in the life of a Christian. He emphasizes that all spiritual gifts, impressive abilities, or heroic deeds are meaningless without love. This chapter serves as a lasting call to understand love not just as a feeling, but as an attitude and way of life that should shape all aspects of our faith.
Commentary
The Importance of Love (Verses 1–3):
Paul begins with a powerful message: even the most impressive spiritual gifts—such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, knowledge, or faith that can move mountains—are worthless without love. Even acts of sacrifice, if not motivated by love, have no genuine value. These statements highlight that love is the standard by which all actions are measured.
The Attributes of Love (Verses 4–7):
In these verses, Paul describes love in its practical application. Love is patient, kind, humble, and seeks the good of others. It is not governed by negative emotions such as envy, pride, or anger. Instead, it is characterized by joy in the truth, perseverance, trust, and hope. Paul paints a picture of love that is not merely a feeling but an active decision, even in difficult circumstances.
The Imperishability of Love (Verses 8–13):
Paul emphasizes that love is eternal, while all other spiritual gifts and abilities are temporary. Prophecy, speaking in tongues, and knowledge will cease because they are partial—temporary means to reveal God’s truth. But when the perfect comes, love remains, which never fails. In the end, Paul highlights that faith, hope, and love are enduring virtues, with love being the greatest of them all. It is the cornerstone of the Christian life.
Summary
1 Corinthians 13 demonstrates that love is not merely a virtue but the foundation of the Christian faith. Without love, even the most impressive deeds and gifts lose their value. Love is patient, selfless, and true; it is imperishable and will endure into eternity. This chapter urges us to be motivated by love in everything we do, as it is the greatest of all virtues. The message of the “Song of Love” serves as a timeless reminder that our lives are empty without love—and that true love comes from God Himself.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 81—“The Lord Is Risen”
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:2-4, 11-15.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 81 from the reflection “The Lord is Risen!” is a powerful depiction of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, based on Matthew 28:2-4 and 11-15. This chapter illuminates the triumphant moment when Christ overcame death and the cosmic implications of this event. It highlights the tension between the forces of darkness, who sought to seal the tomb, and the heavenly powers that called the Son of God to resurrection. The message of Jesus’ victory over death and the grave is a source of hope and promise for all believers.
Commentary
The Divine Power of the Resurrection:
The resurrection of Jesus is emphatically portrayed as a work of God. The angel of the Lord, whose appearance struck fear and terror into the Roman soldiers, moves the stone from the tomb and calls out the Son of God. This moment underscores the absolute supremacy of divine power over darkness, both physically and spiritually. The proclamation “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25) emphasizes Jesus’ divinity and His ability to give life.
The Reaction of the Guards and Priests:
The reactions of the Roman guards and Jewish priests demonstrate the magnitude of the resurrection. While the soldiers reverently acknowledge that it was the Son of God they had seen, the priests respond with fear and denial. They attempt to cover up the truth and spread lies about the resurrection. These contrasts illustrate how Christ’s triumph both strengthens believing hearts and shakes the unbelievers.
Significance for Believers:
The resurrection of Christ is not merely an event but a promise. It shows that Christ has power over death and the grave, granting believers immortality and eternal life. The resurrection of the saints who came out of the tombs with Christ is a foretaste of the final resurrection at His second coming. This serves as an encouragement for all who die in Christ, as death is but a sleep for them.
Summary
Chapter 81 is a sublime portrayal of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its significance. It highlights God’s power that called Christ out of the tomb, the distress of His enemies, and the joy of the believers. The resurrection is described as the central victory over death and darkness, forming the foundation for the hope of eternal life. This chapter reminds us that the resurrection of Jesus is not only a historical event but an ongoing triumph that shapes our future.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 82—“Why Weepest Thou?”
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:1, 5-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 82: “Why Are You Weeping?” describes the wonderful moment of Jesus’ resurrection and the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Lord. Based on the Gospels, it is shown how the sorrow and despair of the believers are transformed into joy and hope as they realize that Jesus is alive. This chapter emphasizes the central significance of the resurrection for the Christian faith and invites believers to embrace the hope of eternal life.
Commentary
The Women at the Empty Tomb:
The women who had accompanied Jesus up to His death came with spices to honor His body, unaware that the promise of His resurrection had already been fulfilled. Their deep sorrow was transformed into awe when they saw the angel who proclaimed the good news: “He is risen.” Their spices became unnecessary because the Savior was alive.
Mary Magdalene and Her Encounter with Jesus:
Mary Magdalene, whose grief was particularly great, experienced a personal encounter with the risen Jesus. Her inability to recognize Him immediately reflects the despair that kept her from the reality of His resurrection. However, Jesus’ loving “Mary” opened her eyes. This scene illustrates how Jesus reveals Himself uniquely to each individual.
The Disciples’ Doubts:
The disciples initially reacted with disbelief to the women’s message. Their doubts and fears prevented them from accepting the truth of the resurrection. Nevertheless, Jesus did not reject them but revealed Himself to strengthen their faith and restore their hope. Especially Peter received personal assurance of forgiveness through the mention of his name.
The Message of Hope:
Jesus’ words “Why are you weeping?” and the angels’ exhortation to spread the good news are still relevant today. The resurrection is the foundation of our hope and joy because it demonstrates that death has been overcome. The call to shift our focus from sorrow to the living Christ is an invitation to live in faith and hope.
Summary
Chapter 82 depicts the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Jesus and highlights the transformative power of the resurrection. It shows how sorrow, doubt, and despair can be transformed into joy, hope, and faith. The central message is clear: Jesus is alive, and through His resurrection, He grants all believers the hope of eternal life. This chapter calls believers to grow in faith and joyfully share the message of Jesus’ victory over death.
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