February 16, 2020

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for February 16th: Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Matthew 5:21-37; Theme: Planting the seeds of faith 1 Corinthians: Wisdom was an important topic for the Greeks. Paul uses that interest in wisdom to teach them about the gospel. But he always points out that there is a difference between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of man, as a matter of fact, they are exact opposites. Paul goes as far as to tell the Corinthians that what they consider to be wisdom is not really real. He tells them that he cannot help them to understand God, because they are limited in understanding the spiritual things. He goes on to point out that the petty divisions that they have are a sign of not understanding God’s wisdom. We are all united in Christ, and when we have the mind of Christ, we can overcome our differences. When we are united in Christ, then God can use our spirit to transform the world. Matthew: We have been taking our time to take an extended look at Matthew chapter 5. This is the third week on this chapter. This is a continuation on the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus tells us what it means to be a disciple of Christ and to have a better understanding of our purpose in life. He tells us to go farther than human understanding by saying “You have heard it said that…..But I say to you”. He is telling us to go farther than standard jewish teaching and to listen to him. He is reforming righteousness. Following God is more than just following a bunch of rules, it is dedicating our whole heart and soul to living God in all that we do, and think and feel. It is a life that not only demands more of us, but promises more also. Questions: What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge? What are the divisions that keep Christians separated today? Is it impossible to be a Christian today? What does it take to live a righteous life?