[Practical Application Review – Week 32]
Greetings,
We continue our journey of exploring all 260 chapters of the New Testament, five (5) chapters each week. Let us continue in the book of 2 Corinthians.
Schedule – Week 32:
Please read and/or listen to 2 Corinthians 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Even though reading and listening to the Bible being read is valuable, our primary goal is learning to live the Bible (to the best of our ability).
Consider our Practical Application Review process…
For “every” chapter:
Step 1: Select a passage of interest
Step 2: Identify area of teaching
Step 3: Consider a practical application
Now let us explore an example (of our three-step process) for each of these five chapters…
Text #1: 2 Corinthians 7
Passage: (v. 1)
Teaching: Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. And let us serve in holiness and the reverence of God.
Application: This taking on holiness and reverence comes after our cleansing. I choose to proactively remove whatever God’s Spirit identifies as needing to go.
Text #2: 2 Corinthians 8
Passage: (vv. 8-14)
Teaching: Though Jesus was rich, He became poor, so that we could become rich. Now, let each of us give so that others in need may also benefit and for true equality.
Application: I am eternally grateful for the sacrificial gift of my Lord Jesus. As a way of saying thanks, I choose to give of my resources to help others who are without.
Text #3: 2 Corinthians 9
Passage: (vv. 6-7)
Teaching: Whether you sow sparingly or generously, you shall receive the same. Let everyone give as you have decided. Not grudgingly or of necessity, but cheerfully to God.
Application: I enjoy being able to set aside funds to help the work of the Lord, especially assisting with needs of God’s people around the world.
Text #4: 2 Corinthians 10
Passage: (vv. 15-18)
Teaching: We should not boast beyond the actual measure of our own labor. Remember, it is not the one with self-praise, but rather whom the Lord commends.
Application: Like others, I get excited to see positive results. And enjoy the fruit of my labor. Though it must all be for the glory of God.
Text #5: 2 Corinthians 11
Passage: (vv. 12-15)
Teaching: Be careful who you trust, as not everyone is genuine. Some are deceitful, posing as ministers of righteousness. Remember, even Satan disguises himself as the angel of light.
Application: I genuinely connect with most people and seem to make friends without much difficulty. Those closest to me, though, I have usually known for many years and developed sincere trust.
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo