The Pastor's Message
Brothers and sisters who have been believers for some time are familiar with the Great Commission that the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ gave before His ascension. The Lord Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. ” (Matthew 28:18b-20) The Lord Jesus intends to use every follower who imitates Him—that is, you and me to make disciples of all nations.
In the final four months of 2025, as we continue to grow in the Lord and live out His love, we will commit ourselves to becoming a church that fulfils the Lord’s mission. In September, we will have the Church School & Trinity Theological College Sunday and the church’s 128th anniversary celebration. The daily Bible reading and devotional passages will be taken from different books of the Bible. After that, we will study 2 Corinthians together.
2 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. It primarily addresses internal issues within the Corinthian Church and challenges to Paul’s apostolic authority, while also revealing the emotional ups and downs of Paul as a shepherd and his struggles and victories in his faith journey. 2 Corinthians is the most personally colored of Paul’s epistles, filled with his love, concern, admonition, and defence of the Corinthian Church. In this letter, Paul also expounds on the transcendence of the New Testament ministry, emphasizing service rooted in Christ, and refutes false teachers.
2 Corinthians also portrays Paul's hardships and struggles as a pastor, as well as his authentic experience of God's grace in the midst of suffering. Through metaphors such as the “vision of the third heaven” and the “thorn in the flesh,” it reveals the dialectical relationship between weakness in faith and divine grace, and how God's power is manifested in weakness. We should all anticipate God speaking to our hearts through 2 Corinthians.
Following this, we will enter Advent. Let us prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, while also being reminded to stay vigilant and await His second coming. This season is also a time for reflection and repentance; believers need to sincerely repent and grow in love so that they may better prepare for Christ's return.
May we all, before the end of 2025, grow deeper in our longing for the Lord during these four months, and as we watch and wait for Christ's return, faithfully fulfil His mission!
Introduction to the Book of 2 Corinthians
2 Corinthians was written when a rift developed between Paul and the church in Corinth.At that time, some members of the Corinthian Church were attacking Paul from all sides, but he continued to hope for reconciliation with them. Ultimately, he was able to reconcile with the Corinthian Church, and he expressed great relief at this outcome.
The entire letter is filled with intense emotion—sometimes love burns like a flame, sometimes sorrow weighs like a thousand-pound burden, and sometimes righteous indignation rages. Paul was a man of integrity, but the authenticity of his appointment as an apostle was questioned, which caused him great pain. However, he clearly understood that the attacks from his enemies were actually attacks on the gospel he preached (11:1-5) .Therefore, he did not hesitate to make a vigorous defence.
1. Date Written
Approximately A.D. 55-57
2. Place of Writing
Macedonia.The specific location may have been Philippi. Paul was in the midst of his third missionary journey at the time, and after leaving Ephesus, he went to Macedonia, where he wrote this letter.
3. Audience
The church in Corinth and the saints throughout Achaia.
4. Background
Paul had already written three letters to the Corinthian Church (two of which have been lost). In 1 Corinthians (the second of the three letters), Paul used strong language to correct and instruct.The church generally responded with the right attitude; however, some denied Paul's authority and questioned his motives.
5. Purpose of Writing
To address the situation in the Corinthian Church and resolve the issues. Paul expressed his concern and comfort for the Corinthian believers while also defending his apostolic authority and urging them to generously contribute to help the poor believers in Jerusalem.
6. Key Verse
“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us.We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God!” (5:20)
7. Brief Outline of 2 Corinthians
Chapters 1–7:The nature of Paul’s ministry as Christ’s servant
Chapters 8–9: Paul’s plans for the collection, highlighting the motives for Christian giving and the blessings received.
Chapters 10–13: Paul’s defence of his work. Paul’s boasting a foolish act done under pressure was intended to expose the false apostles.
How To Practice Daily Devotions
God is a personal Spirit, and “Heavenly Father” is more than just a title—it reflects the deep reality that He is our loving and caring Father. Through the spiritual discipline of daily devotions, we come to know, communicate, and walk closely with Him.
Daily devotions involve setting aside specific times to draw near to God, to know Him, and to align with His will. Through reading the Bible, we come to understand His intentions, and we can respond to God in prayer and reflection. By dedicating time each day to read the Bible, pray, and meditate on God’s word, we allow God’s presence into our lives to guide us. Jesus often withdrew from the crowd and His disciples to commune with the Father in solitude, gaining strength and direction to fulfil His mission.
1. The Purpose of Daily Devotions
a. To draw closer to God and communicate with Him. In these end times, God calls us to be awake and alert, using His Word to sustain us.“I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises.” (Psalm 119:147-148, NIV)
b. To receive guidance and light for our lives.“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105, NIV)
c. To renew our minds to live out our new life in Christ. By studying the scriptures, God’s servants are thoroughly equipped for every good work and taught to live righteously. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NIV)
2. Preparation for Daily Devotions
• Time: Select a time when you can be undisturbed and alone, whether in the morning or in the evening for reflection.
• Place: Find a quiet, distraction-free space where you can focus.
• Materials: Have your Bible, a notebook for recording reflections, and a pen ready.
• Mindset: Approach God with a calm and open heart, prepared to hear from Him and encounter Him.
3. Spiritual Discipline
Daily devotions as a spiritual discipline is not meant to be rigid or legalistic, just as our relationships with family members are not meant to feel burdensome. Time spent with our Heavenly Father should feel genuine and heartfelt. For those starting out, simple and practical methods can help cultivate meaningful spiritual habits and deepen our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Daily Scripture Readings
Date Verses
1/9 Luke 15:1–7 22/9 Gen 18:17–19
2/9 Matt 28:18–20 23/9 Deut 6:1–9
3/9 Rom 10:13–15 24/9 Ps 78:1–8
4/9 2 Peter 3:9 25/9 2 Tim 1:3–7
5/9 Isa 6:8 26/9 Luke 1:46–55
6/9 Weekly Reflection 27/9 Weekly Reflection
7/9 Sermon-Matt 18:12; John 10:16 28/9 Sermon-Ps 128
8/9 Pro 1:1–7 29/9 2 Cor 1:1-3
9/9 Deut 6:4–9 30/9 2 Cor 1:4-7
10/9 Pro 3:1–12 1/10 2 Cor 1:8-11
11/9 Pro 4:20–27 2/10 Ps 34
12/9 Deut 30:15–20 3/10 Isa 40:1-11
13/9 Weekly Reflection 4/10 Weekly Reflection 14/9 Sermon-Pro 9:1–18 5/10 Sermon-2 Cor 1:1-11
15/9 Mark 7:1-8 6/10 2 Cor 1:12-14 16/9 Mark 7:9-13 7/10 2 Cor 1:15-22
17/9 Mark 7:14-23 8/10 2 Cor 1:23-2:4
18/9 Mark 7:24-30 9/10 2 Cor 2:5-11
19/9 Mark 7:31-37 10/10 2 Cor 2:12-17
20/9 Weekly Reflection 11/10 Weekly Reflection
21/9 Sermon-Mark 7:1-8, 14-23 12/10 Sermon-2 Cor 1:12-2:17
Reflection
Application & Prayer Luke 15:1–7
Jesus told the parable of the lost sheep to reveal the heart of the Father. If a shepherd loses one sheep, he will leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness to search for the one that is lost until he finds it. This may seem unreasonable, yet it is a picture of God’s mercy and love. In God’s eyes, no one is insignificant, and no one has strayed so far that His love cannot reach and bring them back.
Jesus emphasized that when one sinner repents, there is greater rejoicing in heaven than over ninety-nine who think themselves righteous. This reminds us that the Father’s love is active, self-giving, and full of joy.
Reflection:
Are there people in my life whom I feel are “not worth” seeking out or caring for? Am I willing to be God’s vessel in seeking the lost? How can I show them God’s value and love for them?
Reflection
Matt 28:18–20
The risen Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission: He has been given all authority in heaven and on earth, and He sends them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all His commands. This is not a human mission, but one entrusted with divine authority. His authority and presence enable us to fulfill this calling. For every follower of Christ, sharing the gospel is not optional; it is God’s call upon our lives.
Even more precious is Jesus’ promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age. ” He does not merely send us out; He walks with us. Mission and discipleship are not for a select few, they are the life direction of every Christian.
Reflection: Have I neglected Jesus’ commission out of fear, comfort, or busyness? How can I live out the call to “go, baptize, and teach” in my family, workplace, and church?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Rom 10:13–15
Paul reminded believers: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Yet he also pointed out that one cannot believe without hearing, and one cannot hear without someone proclaiming. Therefore, the spread of the gospel requires those who are sent and those willing to go. Sharing the gospel is not only the task of a few preachers, but the privilege of all who have received grace.
Scripture says: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” This passage highlights both the urgency and the beauty of proclaiming the gospel. Its beauty lies in the hope of life it brings. Today, God still calls us to be His messengers of the gospel.
Reflection:
Do I see the need for the gospel among those around me? Am I willing to pay the cost to be a bearer of the Good News?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Peter 3:9
Some think that the Lord delays His return because He is unfaithful, but Peter tells us: the Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, but is patient with us, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. His “delay” is not weakness, but mercy. He gives the world time to turn back, and He calls His people to seize the opportunity to proclaim salvation.
If we focus only on the passing of time, we may become anxious. But if we understand the Lord’s heart, we can respond with patience and faith, working with Him to lead people to repentance.
Reflection:
Do I doubt God’s faithfulness when prayers or expectations are not yet fulfilled? Am I willing to wait patiently while actively participating in His plan to save the lost?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Isaiah 6:8
In a vision in the temple, the prophet Isaiah saw God’s holiness and glory. Overwhelmed by his sin, he trembled, but after receiving forgiveness, he heard God’s call: “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Isaiah responded, “Here am I. Send me!”
True mission does not arise from human passion, but from a grateful response to the experience of forgiveness. Those who are sent are first those who are cleansed and renewed by God. Willingness to be sent is an act of worship and surrender, trusting that God Himself will equip and send. Today, God continues to call His children to bear witness in their own contexts, becoming channels of His grace.
Reflection:
Am I willing to respond to His call out of gratitude for the forgiveness I have received? In my family, workplace, or church, how is God specifically calling me to be His messenger today?
Application & Prayer
Sat
Reflection
Application & Prayer
7/9
Sun
Notes
Sunday Service: Matt 18:12; John 10:16
Sermon Topic: It Only Takes a Spark “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Proverbs 1:1–7
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” Solomon reminds us that wisdom does not come from human cleverness, but begins with reverence for God. Without humility and submission, knowledge can turn into pride or self-centeredness. True wisdom enables us to discern right from wrong and to turn away from folly.
Today, we are surrounded by endless streams of information, but only the fear of the Lord enables us to stand firm in a complex world. This reverence shapes every decision we make, leading us to prioritize prayer, Scripture reading, and thanksgiving, showing that we rely on God as the true source of wisdom. Our homes can be a training ground for this holy posture.
Reflection:
Do my daily habits show that I regard God as the true source of wisdom?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Deuteronomy 6:4–9
Moses commanded Israel to love God wholeheartedly and to keep His words in their hearts. Faith is not only personal, but also a legacy to be passed on in the family. Whether at home, on the road, sitting down, or rising up, God’s Word should be talked about. It belongs not just in the synagogue, but in every part of life.
Today, parents and teachers are called not only to teach in church or Sunday school, but to transmit love for God with their lives, passing His truth to children in everyday rhythms. Discipleship happens not only in formal teaching, but also at the table, on the road, or before bedtime. The key is consistency.Truth must be both spoken and lived.
Reflection:
This week, what ordinary moments can I use intentionally to tell and live out God’s truth with my family?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Proverbs 3:1–12
Solomon exhorts his son not to forget God’s instruction, but to trust Him with all his heart, not leaning on his own understanding. Such trust brings peace, life, and true prosperity. When we surrender everything, even offering to God the produce of our labor, we acknowledge that everything belongs to Him. God’s discipline may be painful for a moment, but it reveals His love, like a father correcting the child he delights in.
Children often learn wisdom more by watching than by listening. Trust in God, kindness toward others, and integrity in choices speak louder than words. When our actions align with what we say, our example becomes a living testimony that shapes the next generation.
Reflection:
Am I willing to trust God’s guidance and discipline both in times of ease and hardship? In what ways do my words and actions fail to align? How can I begin to close that gap?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Proverbs 4:20–27
Solomon urges his son to guard his heart, for from it flows the wellspring of life. If the heart strays, God’s Word will be forgotten. The eyes must stay fixed on the right path, and the feet must turn away from evil. Faith is not merely about intellectual knowledge, but the unity of heart and action.
Every day we face countless temptations and distractions. Only by entrusting our hearts to God can we walk on the path of righteousness. This requires discernment, through filtering the influences that come through media, peers, and devices, and choosing what is true, noble, and good. Families grow stronger when they are intentional about shaping these daily inputs.
Reflection:
How do I guard my heart in daily life against the influences of the world? What influences in my life or family need to be replaced with ones that strengthen godly discernment?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Deuteronomy 30:15–20
Moses urged Israel to choose between life and death, blessing and curse. To choose life is to love the Lord, listen to Him, and hold fast to Him, and so receive life and blessing. God never forces anyone, but sets before us a clear choice. Choosing life is not a one-time decision, but a daily habit of trusting, obeying, and serving.
Today, we too face countless choices: to follow our desires or to submit to God’s will. True life is not measured by outward abundance, but by a covenant relationship with God. Will you choose life?
Reflection:
In my recent decisions, have I placed “loving God and obeying Him” first? This week, how will I take concrete steps to “choose life” by putting God’s Word into practice?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer
Sun）
Notes
Sunday Service: Pro 9:1–18
Sermon Topic: Raising Wise Children in a Foolish World “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Mark 7:1-8
Traditions with true historical basis were meant to honour God, and the Pharisees’ zeal in keeping these traditions was undeniable. So why did the Lord Jesus rebuke them so harshly? (v.6)
The reason is that the “washing of hands” the Pharisees emphasized was not for holiness, but to seek purity through external rituals (vv.7–8). Jesus warns us that outward washings and regulations can never cleanse the human heart.
Reflection:
Am I more concerned about how others see me as “spiritual,” rather than how God sees my heart? Do I take my participation in Sunday worship, offerings, or service as measures of my spirituality, while neglecting whether my heart is truly open before God?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Mark 7:9-13
“Honor your father and mother” (v.10) is the first commandment that shifts from our relationship with God to our relationship with people. Yet some used “giving to God” as an excuse to avoid their responsibilities to their parents. Jesus strongly pointed out that so-called “pious traditions” created by man often weaken the authority of God’s Word. People easily hold on to religious forms and cultural customs, but overlook the inner obedience God truly desires.
Reflection:
Do I use good works such as giving money or attending services to ease my guilt over sin, instead of true repentance? Do I deliberately maintain an outwardly “spiritual” appearance, while hiding my lack of love for certain people, my attachment to the world, and my distrust of God?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Mark 7:14-23
In this passage, Jesus clearly states that what defiles a person is not the food that enters the mouth, but the evil that comes out of the heart. Religious leaders clung to rules of cleanliness, believing that eating unclean food or touching unclean things would distance people from God. But Jesus taught that the source of defilement is not external, but from within. What truly separates a person from God is the corruption of the heart. (vv.21–23)
These words not only overturned the thinking of the Jews in that time, but also remind us today: Do I focus only on outward codes of conduct, or do I continually examine myself before God? In what ways do my actions reveal my sin, desires, and motives?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Mark 7:24-30
Right after Jesus taught about “clean” and “unclean” (vv.1–23), He went to Tyre and healed the daughter of a Gentile woman. By His actions, He not only removed the distinction between clean and unclean, but also the division between Jew and Gentile.
In the eyes of the Jews, this Syrophoenician woman was “unclean. ” She was unworthy to approach Jesus, let alone ask for grace. Yet she did not argue about her status. Instead, she humbly admitted she had no right, while still placing her full faith in the Lord’s mercy (v.28). Jesus responded to her faith and immediately healed her daughter.
Reflection:
In my life, are there “barriers” that make me feel unworthy to come before God? Am I willing, like this woman, to approach the Lord with humility and faith, to trust His mercy even when others see me as unqualified?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Mark 7:31-37
Jesus did not heal the deaf and mute man in the way people expected “by laying His hand on him” (v.32). He even “sighed” (v.34), perhaps because people still failed to understand His ways, trying to confine His work to their own methods.
The healing of Jesus was not just about restoring physical health. It revealed His authority to cleanse the heart and to restore broken lives.
Reflection:
Do I also hope that God would work according to my way and methods? Today, am I willing to let go, allowing Jesus to lead and to bring His healing power to free me from the bondage of sin and weakness, and giving me true freedom?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer
Sun
Notes
Sunday Service: Mark 7:1-8, 14-23
Sermon Topic: Outside in or Inside Out? “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Genesis 18:17–19
God’s original promise was that Abraham would “become a great nation and a blessing to all nations” (Gen. 12:2–3). Now it is emphasized even more: he will “surely become a great and mighty nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him” (18:18).
God’s covenant with His people is not limited to one generation. It is an eternal covenant that stretches across time and history. His blessing, His commands, and His grace extend to future generations. He calls us to take responsibility for the next generation, to pass down faith and hope so that His glory may be displayed from age to age.
Reflection:
Do my words and actions serve as an example of God’s blessing and faithfulness for the next generation? How can I, through my own life, become a channel of God’s promise to influence the generations to come?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Deuteronomy 6:1–9
The name “Yahweh” means: “God is the eternal, continuous, unchanging, and self-existent One, who depends on no other being to exist.”
In Scripture, God’s revealed name is not only a symbol of His identity, but also a promise to His people. His eternal name declares His unfailing faithfulness and abiding presence. This reminds us that no matter when or where we are, we can rely on His presence and grace. Passing on this promise to the next generation becomes the firm foundation of faith.
Application: As parents, leaders, or members of a community, in what ways can we demonstrate God’s faithfulness? How can we pass on God’s presence and blessing to those who come after us?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
This psalm recounts history, from Moses leading the people out of Egypt to David reigning in Zion. It reveals human nature as fickle and forgetful, as the people repeatedly fell into the same pattern of “forgetting the works of God” (v.7).
Our weaknesses today have already been repeated many times throughout history. But we can rest assured that our Good Shepherd never changes. Placing our hope in Jesus Christ is the most precious spiritual legacy we can leave to the next generation.
Reflection:
What biblical testimonies do you often use to remind yourself and others of God’s unchanging promises?
How can you, by telling of God’s faithfulness, help the next generation stand firm in life’s storms, becoming a blessing passed down through the ages?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2Timothy 1:3–7
The apostle Paul mentions the faith passed down to Timothy from his mother and grandmother. This shows the vital spiritual role a mother plays in the family. Her genuine faith not only shaped her own life but was deeply impressed on her child’s heart. Such a transmission of faith is a living testimony that is both taught in words and embodied in life. Through prayer, teaching, and example, a mother helps her children know God, experience His faithfulness and grace, and find a firm foundation for their lives.
Reflection:
Besides your own children, who are your spiritual sons and daughters?
Are you willing to encourage and support them? Are you willing to invest time and energy to help them grow in faith?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Luke 1:46–55
Mary’s song, often called the Magnificat, is a hymn of humility and gratitude. In verses 51–53, the original text uses six simple past tense verbs in a row, showing that Mary was recalling what God had already done in the past, while also trusting fully that He would continue to act in the future. God’s mercy and promises are not just for one generation, but stretch through the course of history, to thousands of generations.
Reflection:
Do you rejoice in God’s faithfulness as revealed through the ages, beyond your own personal experience? How can you pass on this cross-generational joy and confidence in God’s faithfulness to the next generation?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer
29/9
Sun）
Notes
Sunday Service: Psalm 128
Sermon Topic: Blessed to Be a Blessing “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 1:1-3
Some members of the Corinthian Church questioned Paul’s authority as an apostle. At the beginning of his letter, Paul states, “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God.” He reminds the Corinthians that he did not become an apostle by his own choice, but by the will of God.
After the customary greetings and introductions, Paul begins his letter with praise to God. He writes, “He is the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort.” Many people believe that if God comforts us, our difficulties will disappear. But such a mindset leads us to seek God only to avoid hardship. “Comfort” refers to receiving the strength, encouragement, and hope granted to us to cope with life’s hardships.
Reflection:
The more suffering God allows, the greater the comfort we receive. Do you agree? Have you had such an experience?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 1:4-7
Believers find comfort in God during times of suffering, giving us the strength to continue on our heavenly journey. Not only that, we are also able to comfort others with the comfort God has given us.
What kind of suffering did the Corinthians experience? Some suggest that their suffering stemmed from conflicts with family and friends. The Corinthians lived in a city filled with paganism and immorality; living out the gospel in daily life must have presented challenges and hardships. For this reason, Paul believed that in these trials, the Corinthians were suffering alongside Christ.
Reflection:
“Living out the gospel” means living a life that aligns with the truth of the gospel. The Corinthians suffered in their circumstances because they sought to live out the gospel. How does their testimony impact you?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 1:8-11
Paul said that during his missionary journeys, he had faced many difficulties, to the point where he had lost all hope of survival and could only rely solely on God.
Human weakness often leads us to rely on ourselves when times are smooth, setting God aside; only when difficulties arise do we turn to God in prayer. Such a relationship with God is both utilitarian and tragic.
Reflection:
When we are closely connected to God, we experience His help. With this attitude, we will not turn away from God when trials come; rather, trials will draw us closer to Him.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
David was a man who experienced God's work. Therefore, he made a heartfelt invitation: "Taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!" (v. 8) God has promised many blessings to His people, but people must be willing to taste them in order to know God's goodness.
Reflection:
You cannot share what you do not have. In the days since you believed in the Lord, has your spiritual life been vibrant, often experiencing the Lord’s grace, truly knowing that He is good? Turn your thoughts into prayer.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Isaiah 40:1-11
*Verses 3–5 are the first voice of comfort, declaring that God will enter the wilderness, lead the people out of spiritual desolation, and reveal His glory to the whole earth.
*Verses 6–8 are the second voice of comfort, declaring that God’s words are forever established and His promises will never fail.
*Verses 9–11 are the third comforting voice, bringing good news to Zion: the God who is to come (vv. 3–5) is not a harsh punisher but a gentle shepherd. Captivity is not the people’s final destiny; God will gather His flock and lead them home.
Reflection:
“Comfort” refers to receiving the strength, encouragement, and hope that God gives. Take some time to meditate on these three words of comfort from God. Reflect on your life; have you experienced God’s comfort? Is there something you want to give thanks to Him for?
Application & Prayer
Sat
Reflection
Application & Prayer
5/10
Sun）
Notes
Sunday Service: 2 Cor 1:1-11
Sermon Topic: Comforted to Comfort “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 1:12-14
Paul mentions the concept of “boasting” more than any other New Testament author. Essentially, this refers to “confidence. ” Paul's use of the term encompasses both negative and positive aspects. On the negative side, it refers to confidence based on one's own standards, which cannot guarantee accuracy; on the positive side, it refers to reasonable confidence based on what God has accomplished, enabling people to act.
For Paul, “conscience” is the function by which a person, according to their own highest standards, approves or disapproves of their own or others' actions. Conscience is not equivalent to God's voice or moral law. Since human nature has been corrupted by sin, conscience itself is also corrupted by sin.
Reflection:
Paul says that he lives in the world by the simplicity and sincerity given by God, not by human wisdom, but by God's grace. What does Paul's example remind us of?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 1:15-22
“As surely as God is faithful, our word to you has not been Yes and No.” (v.18): Paul often uses this expression in his letters to defend or emphasize the truth he believes in.
“All the promises of God find their Yes in him.” (v. 20): This refers to the promises in the Old Testament concerning the Messiah and the Messianic age, which will all be fulfilled in Christ. Because Paul changed his itinerary, it caused some misunderstanding among the Corinthian believers. Therefore, Paul explained the principles guiding his actions and the reasons for changing his itinerary (1:18–2:13). If the Corinthian believers questioned the reliability of Paul’s words due to changes in his itinerary, they would also question the reliability of the gospel he preached.
Reflection:
It is serious and regrettable when someone's credibility is questioned. Therefore, every believer should examine themselves to see if they are trustworthy before God and people.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 1:23-2:4
The Corinthian Church had experienced a scandal involving immorality (1 Corinthians 5:1), which Paul had severely rebuked in his letter. This was the reason for his change of plans.
“If I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained? ” (2:2) Here, Paul refers to his previous visit when he rebuked the Corinthian believers for their sins, causing the Corinthian Congregation to be sorrowful. However, only the repentance of a certain believer in need of repentance could bring joy to Paul.
Reflection:
Mutual love among God’s children does not mean turning a blind eye to wrongdoing, but rather confronting and resolving issues with love. When we love our brothers and sisters deeply, we are then qualified to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), building up and restoring our brothers and sisters.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 2:5-11
This passage highlights the unity of the Christian faith. Paul's words are not only directed at individuals, but also at the church.
Paul urges them to restore their relationship with the repentant offender. They are to “forgive and comfort him” (v. 7). Paul urges them,“Reaffirm your love for him” (v. 8).
Although Paul had been greatly hurt in the Lord, he chose to forgive (v. 10). In fact, forgiveness can only be achieved through a person’s relationship with Christ. The matter in the Corinthian Church was resolved, but restoring the relationship between this person and the rest of the congregation was important.
Reflection:
Satan, who is always ready to destroy the church, often takes advantage of believers’ lack of love and forgiveness to bring bitterness and division. God's children must remain vigilant at all times, lest they be used by Satan and bring dishonor to God's name.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
2 Cor 2:12-17
Paul followed the Lord’s path with great precision, always submitting to God’s authority, “triumphing in Christ” (v.14), and continually revealing Christ so that people might encounter Him. In Troas, he revealed Christ’s grace (v.12), and upon leaving Troas, he exalted Christ’s authority (v.13). What God desires are those who submit to His authority, not merely works. If one does not submit to God’s authority, even if they seem to be working diligently for the Lord, they cannot fulfil God’s will.
In the triumphal processions of ancient Rome, Roman priests would carry burning incense burners, swaying them as they walked, emitting a “fragrance” (v.14) that everyone present could smell. This “fragrance” represented the joy of victory for the victorious general, soldiers, and cheering crowds; but for the prisoners of war, it meant impending enslavement or execution. Paul sought to spread the fragrant aroma that comes from knowing God.
Reflection:
We must submit to God’s authority to ensure that our paths carry the “ aroma of Christ” (v.15). Whenever we indulge our own stubbornness or follow our own reasons, we lose the “fragrant aroma of Christ.”
Application & Prayer
Sat
Reflection
Application & Prayer
12/10
Sun
Reflection
Sunday Service: 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:17
Sermon Topic: Living and Leading with Integrity
“Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
