撒母耳记上[第2章] Book of 1st Samuel 2



W3.CSS

撒母耳记上[第2章]
Book of 1 Samuel 2

文章下载 | Article Download

撒母耳记上[第2章]|Book of 1 Samuel 2

【爱的教育:以神为乐】

主讲:郑伟健同工

05/07/2023

引言:育儿宝典

在现今的社会有许多的新手爸妈在孩子出生以前,就会开始积极的翻阅许多“育儿宝典”,其实就是盼望孩子能健康快乐的长大,身心灵都能发展得很成熟。

其实圣经里面也充满了许多教育孩子的智慧,今天我们就要从大祭司以利那两个“熊孩子”的荒唐故事中,学习什么是爱的教育。

一、父母要以全然献上为乐 (V1-10)

当哈拿以神的心为心,心思从自己的需要转移到神的心意。当神心欢喜的时候,她的心就因耶和华快乐;她的孩子能成为合神使用的器皿,成了她最大的喜乐。

哈拿把最心爱的孩子献上终身归与耶和华,不但没有因为长久没儿女而不舍得放手,反而因耶和华的救恩欢欣。

哈拿的祷告都是以神的属性为乐
1. 神是荣耀 V1
2. 神是至圣 V2
3. 神是智慧 V3
4. 神是权柄 V4
5. 神是供应 V5-8
6. 神是信实 V9-10

二、在溺爱中的孩子 (V12-17)

以利的孩子是大祭司的孩子,也是当时候的祭司。可是他们的行为都是如不认识神的恶人。他们违背神的律法、藐视对神的献祭,甚至与在会幕门前伺候的夫人苟合。

以利长久以来都放任不管这两个儿子,导致他们最后根本不把神放在心上,甚至利用祭司的职权私吞百姓奉献给神的供物。或许以利觉得那是对儿子们的“尊重”,所以不闻不问,但那其实已经让孩子的地位高过于神的真理了。

三、为神摆上的孩子 (V18-21,26)

撒母耳即是被母亲为神摆上的儿子也是为神摆上的孩子。虽然年纪幼小,但是他是一位为神摆上,与父亲一起服事神的祭司小助理,蒙神眷顾,在神的面前渐渐长大。

在孩子的成大的道路上,神在里面的带领,比外面的环境更加重要;帮助孩子建立与神亲密的关系,让孩子在耶和华面前渐渐长大,比一味灌输知识更加重要。

四、养不教,父之过 (V22-25,26-34)

1. 放纵孩子的以利 (V22-25)

当以利年甚老迈的时候,才听见他两个儿子待以色列众人的事情,可见他是一位缺席的父亲,从来没有主动和孩子交流过。当他发现的时候,已经为时已晚,因为孩子悖逆的心已经没办法回转。

2. 放任不管的结局 (V26-34)

以利虽然知道了孩子们的错,但是除了以言语劝说,就没有其他的严厉管教了。他不但是为人的父亲,更是大祭司,竟然视而不见,继续溺爱儿子,放任他们。

他明知道错了,仍然任凭事情继续下去,这样就是与犯错的人一同犯罪。最后神审判的不是他的儿子而已,而是临到整个家族。

总结:神喜悦忠心照祂旨意而行的人。

父母要以身作则,以神为乐。要教导孩子爱神,让神的话语来带领养育我们的孩子。相信祂的真理会带来丰盛的祝褔,充满我们的家!

1 Samuel 2: Education in Love: Delighting in God
GK611 Morning Devotion
5/7/2023
The Morning Devotion Speakers: Co- worker Asher Chang

Introduction: Parenting treasures

In today’s society, many new parents begin to actively read many “parenting treasures” before their children are born, in the hope that their children will grow up healthy and happy, and that they will develop physically and spiritually.

In fact, the Bible is full of wisdom for raising children. Today we will learn what it means to teach love from the ridiculous story of the two “little brats” of Eli the high priest.

1. Parents are to take pleasure in total devotion (v1-10)

When Hannah had God’s heart as her heart, her mind shifted from her own needs to God’s heart. When God’s heart rejoices, her heart is happy in the LORD; it becomes her greatest joy that her children can become vessels fit for God’s use.

Hannah gave her most beloved child to the Lord for life, not only she did not resist to let go because of having no child for a long period of time but she rejoiced in the salvation of the Lord.

Hannah’s prayers are all about taking pleasure in the attributes of God
1. God is glorious V1
2. God is the Most Holy V2
3. God is wisdom V3
4. God is authority V4
5. God is provision V5-8
6. God is faithful V9-10

2. The child in spoilage (V11-17)

Eli’s children were the children of the high priest and the priests of the day. But they all behaved as wicked men who did not know God. They disobeyed God’s law, despised the sacrifices to God, and even consorted with the lady who waited at the door of the tabernacle.

Eli let these two sons go unchecked for so long that they ended up not taking God into account at all, and even used their priestly position and authority to embezzle the people’s offerings to God. Perhaps Eli thought it was a sign of “respect” for his sons that he left them alone, but that actually made the children higher than the truth of God.

3. The child offered up for God (V18-21, 26)

Samuel was a son and a child set apart for God by his mother. Although young, he was a young priestly assistant who was set apart for God and served God with his father, and grew up in God’s favour.

In the way of a child’s growth, God’s leadership inside is more important than the outside environment; helping the child to build an intimate relationship with God and allowing the child to grow up in the presence of the Lord is more important than just instilling knowledge.

4. The fault of the father for not raising a child (V22-25, 27-34)

(1) Eli who indulged his children (V22-25)

It was only when Eli was very old that he heard about his two sons’ treatment of the people of Israel, showing that he was an absentee father who had never taken the initiative to communicate with his children. When he found out, it was too late, for the children’s rebellious hearts could not be turned back.

(2) The consequences of leaving them alone (V27-34)

Although Eli knew of his children’s faults, he had no other discipline than to persuade them with words. He was not only a father of men, but also a high priest, who turned a blind eye and continued to coddle his sons and leaving them alone.

He knew what was wrong and still let things go on, thus sinning with the wrongdoer. In the end God’s judgement was not just on his sons, but on the whole family.

Conclusion: God delights in those who faithfully do His will. (V35-36)

Parents are to lead by example and take pleasure in God. To teach our children to love God and to allow His Word to lead the way in raising our children. Trusting His truth will bring abundant blessings to fill our homes!




撒母耳记上[第1章] Book of 1st Samuel 1



W3.CSS

撒母耳记上[第1章]
Book of 1 Samuel 1

文章下载 | Article Download

撒母耳记上[第1章]|Book of 1 Samuel 1

【突破困境的生命】

主讲:丘均发传道

04/07/2023

引言:你会如何突破困境?

一、困境之中 坚持祷告(V1-10)

哈拿虽得丈夫的宠爱,但她很痛苦,因为她不能生育一再被另一个妻妾嘲笑激动。但是在困境中哭泣的哈拿坚持祷告(V10)!其实,哈拿是没有问题的,是耶和华不使她生育(V5)。毗尼拿与以利加拿只看到哈拿表面的处境,却不知神正在实行祂的计划!

我们要顾念那些在迫切祷告,但尚未蒙神应允的人。他们需要我们的爱心与帮助;并扶持在祷告上缺乏信心的人,帮助他们坚定信心,使他们确信:到了神所定的时间,神必成就自己的计划!

二、到神面前 倾心吐意 (V11-16)

哈拿知道她的出路就是向神祷告,所以她的不住地向神倾心吐意,毫无保留地倾诉。正因为这样,哈拿不再哭泣,明白自己是中计被激动发怒,并接纳自己的愁苦境况。

祷告改变了哈拿面对困境的态度,今天我们的祷告能否帮助我们面对处理自己的情绪、接纳自己的限制?唯有看清自己的问题所在,才能正面处理困境带来的危机!

三、平平安安 交托一切 (V17-20)

哈拿倾心吐意地在神面前祷告之后,领受了祭司以利的祝福,就平平安安地回去吃饭,面上再不带愁容了。当哈拿懂得平安地交托一切,就不再愁所没有,而珍惜所拥有的。并明白能够怀孕生子是她从神求来的!所以,哈拿为儿子取名字‘撒母耳’是‘神听见’的意思!

一个人能够因着神放开自己的执着,平安地交托一切,方能顺服神对自己生命的最好安排,带着喜乐盼望的心情面对眼前的困境。

四、蒙神应允 还愿于神(V21-28)

哈拿蒙神应允了所祈求的,使她生了个儿子。于是哈拿等儿子断了奶,就把孩子带上示罗,到耶和华的殿,使孩子终身归于神。

很多人得到了神的祝福就忘记了神。但哈拿是积极回应神,在神面前还了她所许的愿,将孩子献给神。

总结:

哈拿的经历重点不是她最后生了儿子,而是‘神听见’了!哈拿虽然敬畏神,但同样会遭遇人生困境,但是神不单听见了哈拿的祷告,更帮助她用正确的态度面对,使她能够活出突破困境的生命!

今天神同样听见了我们的祷告!要帮助我们活出突破困境的生命!

1 Samuel 1 Life that break throughs difficulties
GK611 Morning Devotion
04/07/2023
The Morning Devotion Speakers: Ps. Daniel

Introduction:How will you break through the difficulties?

1. Persevere in prayer in times of difficulty (V1-10)

Although Hannah was favoured by her husband, she was in great pain because she was repeatedly ridiculed by another concubine because of her infertility. But Hannah, weeping in distress, kept on praying (V10)! In fact, there was nothing wrong with Hannah, it was the Lord who had closed her womb (V5). Peninnah and Elkanah only saw Hannah’s superficial situation, but they didn’t know that God was carrying out His plan!

We need to think about those who are praying desperately, but God has not yet answered them. They need our love and help; and support those who lack confidence in prayer, help them strengthen their faith, and make them firmly believe that when the time set by God comes, God will fulfil His plan!

2. Pour out your heart before God (V11-16)

Hannah knew that her way out was to pray to God, so she kept pouring out her heart to God without reservation. Because of this, Hannah stopped crying, realised that she had been tricked into anger, and accepted her distressed situation.

Prayer changed Hannah’s attitude towards difficulties. Can our prayers today help us face our limitations in dealing with our emotions and accepting ourselves? Only when you see your own problems clearly, then you can deal with the crisis directly!

3. Entrusts Everything in Peace (V17-20)

After pouring out her heart and praying before God, Hannah received the blessing from the priest Eli, and went back to eat in peace, without any sorrow on her face. When Hannah knows how to entrust everything in peace, she no longer worries about what she doesn’t have, but cherishes what she has. And understand that being able to conceive and have children is what she asked from God! Therefore, Hannah named her son “Samuel” which means “God heard”!

Only when a person lets go of his stubbornness to God and entrusts everything in peace can he obey God’s best arrangement for his life and face the difficulties in front of him with joy and hope.

4. Obtaining God’s answer and fulfilling a vow to God (V21-28)

God granted what Hannah had prayed for, and she bore a son. So, Hannah waited for her son to be weaned, and then took the child to Shiloh to the house of the LORD, so that the child would belong to God for the rest of his life.

Many people forget about God after receiving God’s blessing. But Hannah responded positively to God, fulfilled her vow before God, and dedicated her child to God.
Conclusion:

The point of Hannah’s experience was not that she finally gave birth to a son, but that “God heard”! Although Hannah feared God, she also encountered difficulties in life, God not only heard Hannah’s prayer, but also helped her face it with a correct attitude, enabling her to live a life that broke through the difficulties!

Today God also heard our prayers! Help us to live a life that breaks through difficulties!




箴言[第17篇] Book of Proverbs 17



W3.CSS

箴言[第17篇]
Book of Proverb 17

文章下载 | Article Download

箴言 第17篇 |Proverb 17

03/07/2023

箴言17
1 设筵满屋,大家相争,不如有块干饼,大家相安。

2 仆人办事聪明,必管辖贻羞之子,又在众子中,同分产业。

3 鼎为炼银,炉为炼金。惟有耶和华熬炼人心。

4 行恶的留心听奸诈之言。说谎的侧耳听邪恶之语。

5 戏笑穷人的,是辱没造他的主。幸灾乐祸的,必不免受罚。

6 子孙为老人的冠冕。父亲是儿女的荣耀。

7 愚顽人说美言本不相宜,何况君王说谎话呢?

8 贿赂在馈送的人眼中,看为宝玉。随处运动,都得顺利。

9 遮掩人过的,寻求人爱。屡次挑错的,离间密友。

10 一句责备话,深入聪明人的心,强如责打愚昧人一百下。

11 恶人只寻背叛,所以必有严厉的使者,奉差攻击他。

12 宁可遇见丢崽子的母熊,不可遇见正行愚妄的愚昧人。

13 以恶报善的,祸患必不离他的家。

14 分争的起头,如水放开。所以在争闹之先,必当止息争竞。

15 定恶人为义的,定义人为恶的,这都为耶和华所憎恶。

16 愚昧人既无聪明,为何手拿价银买智慧呢?

17 朋友乃时常亲爱。弟兄为患难而生。

18 在邻舍面前击掌作保,乃是无知的人。

19 喜爱争竞的,是喜爱过犯。高立家门的,乃自取败坏。

20 心存邪僻的,寻不着好处。舌弄是非的,陷在祸患中。

21 生愚昧子的,必自愁苦。愚顽人的父,毫无喜乐。

22 喜乐的心,乃是良药。忧伤的灵,使骨枯干。

23 恶人暗中受贿赂,为要颠倒判断。

24 明哲人眼前有智慧。愚昧人眼望地极。

25 愚昧子使父亲愁烦,使母亲忧苦。

26 刑罚义人为不善。责打君子为不义。

27 寡少言语的有知识。性情温良的有聪明。

28 愚昧人若静默不言,也可算为智慧。闭口不说,也可算为聪明

Proverbs 17

1 Better is a dry morsel with quietness, Than a house full of feasting with strife.

2 A wise servant will rule over a son who causes shame, And will share an inheritance among the brothers.

3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the Lord tests the hearts.

4 An evildoer gives heed to false lips; A liar listens eagerly to a spiteful tongue.

5 He who mocks the poor reproaches his Maker; He who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished.

6 Children’s children are the crown of old men, And the glory of children is their father.

7 Excellent speech is not becoming to a fool, Much less lying lips to a prince.

8 A present is a precious stone in the eyes of its possessor; Wherever he turns, he prospers.

9 He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends.

10 Rebuke is more effective for a wise man Than a hundred blows on a fool.

11 An evil man seeks only rebellion; Therefore a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

12 Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs, Rather than a fool in his folly.

13 Whoever rewards evil for good, Evil will not depart from his house.

14 The beginning of strife is like releasing water; Therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts.

15 He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord.

16 Why is there in the hand of a fool the purchase price of wisdom, Since he has no heart for it?

17 A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.

18 A man devoid of understanding shakes hands in a pledge, And becomes surety for his friend.

19 He who loves transgression loves strife, And he who exalts his gate seeks destruction.

20 He who has a deceitful heart finds no good, And he who has a perverse tongue falls into evil.

21 He who begets a scoffer does so to his sorrow, And the father of a fool has no joy.

22 A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.

23 A wicked man accepts a bribe behind the back To pervert the ways of justice.

24 Wisdom is in the sight of him who has understanding, But the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth.

25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, And bitterness to her who bore him.

26 Also, to punish the righteous is not good, Nor to strike princes for their uprightness.

27 He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.

28 Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.

录音在线播放 | Online audio player





箴言[第16篇] Book of Proverbs 16



W3.CSS

箴言[第16篇]
Book of Proverb 16

文章下载 | Article Download

箴言 第16篇 |Proverb 16

02/07/2023

箴言16
1 心中的谋算在乎人。舌头的应对,由于耶和华。

2 人一切所行的,在自己眼中看为清洁。惟有耶和华衡量人心。

3 你所作的,要交托耶和华,你所谋的,就必成立。

4 耶和华所造的,各适其用。就是恶人,也为祸患的日子所造。

5 凡心里骄傲的,为耶和华所憎恶。虽然连手,他必不免受罚。

6 因怜悯诚实,罪孽得赎。敬畏耶和华的,远离恶事。

7 人所行的若蒙耶和华喜悦,耶和华也使他的仇敌与他和好。

8 多有财利,行事不义,不如少有财利,行事公义。

9 人心筹算自己的道路。惟耶和华指引他的脚步。

10 王的嘴中有神语。审判之时,他的口,必不差错。

11 公道的天平和秤,都属耶和华。囊中一切法码,都为他所定。

12 作恶为王所憎恶。因国位是靠公义坚立。

13 公义的嘴,为王所喜悦。说正直话的,为王所喜爱。

14 王的震怒,如杀人的使者。但智慧人能止息王怒。

15 王的脸光,使人有生命。王的恩典,好像春云时雨。

16 得智慧胜似得金子。选聪明强如选银子。

17 正直人的道,是远离恶事。谨守己路的,是保全性命。

18 骄傲在败坏以先,狂心在跌倒之前。

19 心里谦卑与穷乏人来往,强如将掳物与骄傲人同分。

20 谨守训言的,必得好处。倚靠耶和华的,便为有福。

21 心中有智慧,必称为通达人。嘴中的甜言,加增人的学问。

22 人有智慧就有生命的泉源。愚昧人必被愚昧惩治。

23 智慧人的心,教训他的口,又使他的嘴,增长学问。

24 良言如同蜂房,使心觉甘甜,使骨得医治。

25 有一条路,人以为正,至终成为死亡之路。

26 劳力人的胃口,使他劳力,因为他的口腹催逼他。

27 匪徒图谋奸恶,嘴上仿佛有烧焦的火。

28 乖僻人播散分争。传舌的离间密友。

29 强暴人诱惑邻舍,领他走不善之道。

30 眼目紧合的,图谋乖僻,嘴唇紧闭的,成就邪恶。

31 白发是荣耀的冠冕。在公义的道上,必能得着。

32 不轻易发怒的,胜过勇士。治服己心的,强如取城。

33 签放在怀里。定事由耶和华2

Proverbs 16

1 The preparations of the heart belong to man, But the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.

2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the spirits.

3 Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.

4 The Lord has made all for Himself, Yes, even the wicked for the day of doom.

5 Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Though they join forces, none will go unpunished.

6 In mercy and truth Atonement is provided for iniquity; And by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil.

7 When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better is a little with righteousness, Than vast revenues without justice.

9 A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.

10 Divination is on the lips of the king; His mouth must not transgress in judgment.

11 Honest weights and scales are the Lord’s; All the weights in the bag are His work.

12 It is an abomination for kings to commit wickedness, For a throne is established by righteousness.

13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings, And they love him who speaks what is right.

14 As messengers of death is the king’s wrath, But a wise man will appease it.

15 In the light of the king’s face is life, And his favor is like a cloud of the latter rain.

16 How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.

17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who keeps his way preserves his soul.

18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.

20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he.

21 The wise in heart will be called prudent, And sweetness of the lips increases learning.

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it. But the correction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, And adds learning to his lips.

24 Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.

25 There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

26 The person who labors, labors for himself, For his hungry mouth drives him on.

27 An ungodly man digs up evil, And it is on his lips like a burning fire.

28 A perverse man sows strife, And a whisperer separates the best of friends.

29 A violent man entices his neighbor, And leads him in a way that is not good.

30 He winks his eye to devise perverse things; He purses his lips and brings about evil.

31 The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, If it is found in the way of righteousness.

32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.

33 The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the Lord.

录音在线播放 | Online audio player





箴言[第15篇] Book of Proverbs 15



W3.CSS

箴言[第15篇]
Book of Proverb 15

文章下载 | Article Download

箴言 第15篇 |Proverb 15

01/07/2023

箴言15
1 回答柔和,使怒消退。言语暴戾,触动怒气。

2 智慧人的舌,善发知识。愚昧人的口,吐出愚昧。

3 耶和华的眼目,无处不在。恶人善人,他都鉴察。

4 温良的舌,是生命树。乖谬的嘴,使人心碎。

5 愚妄人藐视父亲的管教。领受责备的,得着见识。

6 义人家中,多有财宝。恶人得利,反受扰害。

7 智慧人的嘴,播扬知识。愚昧人的心,并不如此。

8 恶人献祭,为耶和华所憎恶。正直人祈祷,为他所喜悦。

9 恶人的道路,为耶和华所憎恶。追求公义的,为他所喜爱。

10 舍弃正路的,必受严刑。恨恶责备的,必致死亡。

11 阴间和灭亡,尚在耶和华眼前,何况世人的心呢?

12 亵慢人不爱受责备。他也不就近智慧人。

13 心中喜乐,面带笑容。心里忧愁,灵被损伤。

14 聪明人心求知识。愚昧人口吃愚昧。

15 困苦人的日子,都是愁苦。心中欢畅的,常享丰筵。

16 少有财宝,敬畏耶和华,强如多有财宝,烦乱不安。

17 吃素菜,彼此相爱,强如吃肥牛,彼此相恨。

18 暴怒的人,挑启争端。忍怒的人,止息分争。

19 懒惰人的道,像荆棘的篱笆。正直人的路,是平坦的大道。

20 智慧子使父亲喜乐。愚昧人藐视母亲。

21 无知的人,以愚妄为乐。聪明的人,按正直而行。

22 不先商议,所谋无效。谋士众多,所谋乃成。

23 口善应对,自觉喜乐。话合其时,何等美好。

24 智慧人从生命的道上升,使他远离在下的阴间。

25 耶和华必拆毁骄傲人的家。却要立定寡妇的地界。

26 恶谋为耶和华所憎恶。良言乃为纯净。

27 贪恋财利的,扰害己家。恨恶贿赂的,必得存活。

28 义人的心,思量如何回答。恶人的口,吐出恶言。

29 耶和华远离恶人。却听义人的祷告。

30 眼有光使心喜乐。好信息使骨滋润。

31 听从生命责备的,必常在智慧人中。

32 弃绝管教的,轻看自己的生命。听从责备的,却得智慧。

33 敬畏耶和华,是智慧的训诲。尊荣以前,必有谦卑。

Proverbs 15

1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises his father’s instruction, But he who receives correction is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous there is much treasure, But in the revenue of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge, But the heart of the fool does not do so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But the prayer of the upright is His delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But He loves him who follows righteousness.

10 Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way, And he who hates correction will die.

11 Hell and Destruction are before the Lord; So how much more the hearts of the sons of men.

12 A scoffer does not love one who corrects him, Nor will he go to the wise.

13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil, But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, Than great treasure with trouble.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, Than a fatted calf with hatred.

18 A wrathful man stirs up strife, But he who is slow to anger allays contention.

19 The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns, But the way of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son makes a father glad, But a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him who is destitute of discernment, But a man of understanding walks uprightly.

22 Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.

23 A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, And a word spoken in due season, how good it is!

24 The way of life winds upward for the wise, That he may turn away from hell below.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud, But He will establish the boundary of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, But the words of the pure are pleasant.

27 He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, But he who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, But the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, And a good report makes the bones healthy.

31 The ear that hears the rebukes of life Will abide among the wise.

32 He who disdains instruction despises his own soul, But he who heeds rebuke gets understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, And before honor is humility.

录音在线播放 | Online audio player





诗篇[第13篇] Book of Psalm 13



W3.CSS

诗篇[第13篇]
Book of Psalm 13

文章下载 | Article Download

诗篇第13篇|Book of Psalm 13

【得胜的必经之路】

主讲:陈炎明牧师

30/06/2023

引言:

成功的方程式离不开以下三部曲:受苦、呼求、拯救!

一、苦日子还要多久?(13:1-2)

13:1 耶和华啊,你忘记我要到几时呢?要到永远吗?你掩面不顾我要到几时呢?
13:2 我心里筹算,终日愁苦,要到几时呢?我的仇敌升高压制我,要到几时呢?

1.神忘记我了吗?

以赛亚书 49:14 锡安说:“耶和华离弃了我,主忘记了我。”15 妇人焉能忘记她吃奶的婴孩,不怜恤她所生的儿子?即或有忘记的,我却不忘记你。16 看哪,我将你铭刻在我掌上,你的墙垣常在我眼前。

原来神总不会忘记你,正如母亲不会忘记喝奶的婴孩!

2.神不顾我了吗?

马太福音 6:26 你们看那天上的飞鸟,也不种,也不收,也不积蓄在仓里,你们的天父尚且养活它。你们不比飞鸟贵重得多吗?

主耶稣提供了一个最窝心的应许:‘天父必看顾你!’

3.愁苦永不止息?

启示录 21:3 我听见有大声音从宝座出来说:“看哪,神的帐幕在人间。他要与人同住,他们要作他的子民; 神要亲自与他们同在,作他们的神。4 神要擦去他们一切的眼泪,不再有死亡,也不再有悲哀、哭号、疼痛,因为以前的事都过去了。”

时间是不断前进的,再大的困难都会随着时间的流失而过去的,并且主应许有一天将不再有眼泪!

4.仇敌不断压制?

以赛亚书 61:1 主耶和华的灵在我身上,因为耶和华用膏膏我,叫我传好信息给谦卑的人(或作“传福音给贫穷的人”),差遣我医好伤心的人,报告被掳的得释放,被囚的出监牢;2 报告耶和华的恩年,和我们 神报仇的日子,安慰一切悲哀的人;

神是要人得释放,我们奉差遣不正是要叫人得释放吗!

二、苦中不住求告神!(13:3-4)

13:3 耶和华我的神啊,求你看顾我,应允我,使我眼目光明,免得我沉睡至死;
13:4 免得我的仇敌说:“我胜了他”;免得我的敌人在我摇动的时候喜乐。

苦难是生命更坚强的养分,敌人是祷告更迫切的激素;因为日子艰难所以不能不倚靠神。

越是四面楚歌,越是提升全方位祷告:求看顾、求应允、开我眼、免于死、免战败、免遭讽。

从大自然的现象就明白考验存在的意义,正如野狼是非洲大草原之羚羊的天敌,正因如此羚羊的寿命与繁殖力更强···。

三、信心宣告已得胜(13:5-6)

13:5 但我倚靠你的慈爱,我的心因你的救恩快乐。
13:6 我要向耶和华歌唱,因他用厚恩待我。

1.信靠神的【慈爱】(Hesed)

神的慈爱永不落空;因为这是一种永不改变的爱。

2.捉住神的【救恩】(Yesh-oo-aw)

神的救恩叫我们脱离死亡得永生,对我们而言,这是主已经成就的事,我们就是要领取。

3.信心向神【歌颂】

歌颂赞美是得胜的号角声,向神歌唱就是对准神的回应,这是得胜的方向与行动。

4.宣告神赐【厚恩】

宣告以先正显明自己已经首先蒙了厚恩。这是表明已经发生和经历的事实,也是将要到来的应许之支取。

总结:人生就是要不断经历神

神是真的,我们要用生活的每一个过程去体验和经历祂!

Psalm 13 The Way to Victory
GK611 Morning Devotion
30/6/2023
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Rev. David Tan

Introduction:

The formula for success is inseparable from the following trilogy: Suffer, Cry, Deliver!

1. How Long will the Suffering Last? (13:1-2)

13:1 How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?
13:2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul, Having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?

(1) Has God forgotten me?

Isaiah 49:14 Zion says, “The Lord has forsaken me, And my Lord has forgotten me.” 15 “Can a woman forget her nursing child, And not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, Yet I will not forget you. 16 See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.

It turns out that God will never forget you, just like a mother never forgets her baby!

(2) Has God forsaken me?

Matthew 6:26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
The Lord Jesus offered one of the most heartwarming promises: ‘Heavenly Father shall take care of you! ‘

(3) Never ending sorrow?

Revelation 21:3 I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. 4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Time is moving forward, no matter how difficult it is, it will pass with the passage of time, and the Lord promises that one day there will be no more tears!

(4) The enemy keeps oppressing?

Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn;

God wants people to be set free, isn’t it that we are sent to set people free!

2. Cry to God in Suffering! (13:3-4)

13:3 Consider and hear me, O Lord my God; Enlighten my eyes, Lest I sleep the sleep of death;
13:4 Lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed against him”; Lest those who trouble me rejoice when I am moved.

Suffering is the nutrient of stronger life, and the enemy is the endocrine of prayer; because the days are difficult, we cannot don’t rely on God.

The more besieged you are, the more you need the all-round prayer: plea for protection, plea for answers, open my eyes, be free from death, be free from defeat, and be free from ridicule.

From the phenomenon of nature, we can understand the significance of the existence of the test, just as the wild wolf is the natural enemy of the antelope in the African savannah, because of this, the lifespan and reproductive capacity of the antelope are stronger.

3. Declare in Faith Deliver Victory (13:5-6)

13:5 But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.
13: 6 I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.

(1) Trust in God [Love] (Hesed)

God’s love never fails; for it is a love that never changes.

(2) Grab God’s [Salvation] (Yesh-oo-aw)

God’s salvation saves us from death and obtains eternal life. For us, this is something the Lord has accomplished, and we just want to receive it.

(3) Faith to God [sing praises]

Singing praises is the trumpet of victory, and singing to God is a response to God, which is the direction and action of victory.

(4) Declare a gift from God [kindness]

、Declare beforehand, it is showing that oneself has been favoured first. It is a fact that shows what has happened and experienced, and it is also the belief of the promise to come.

Conclusion: Life is to experience God constantly

God is real, we have to use every process of life to experience Him.




箴言[第14篇] Book of Proverbs 14



W3.CSS

箴言[第14篇]
Book of Proverb 14

文章下载 | Article Download

箴言 第14篇 |Proverb 14

29/06/2023

箴言14
1 智慧妇人,建立家室。愚妄妇人,亲手拆毁。

2 行动正直的,敬畏耶和华。行事乖僻的,却藐视他。

3 愚妄人口中骄傲,如杖责打己身。智慧人的嘴,必保守自己。

4 家里无牛,槽头干净。土产加多,乃凭牛力。

5 诚实见证人,不说谎话。假见证人,吐出谎言。

6 亵慢人寻智慧,却寻不着。聪明人易得知识。

7 到愚昧人面前,不见他嘴中有知识。

8 通达人的智慧,在乎明白己道。愚昧人的愚妄,乃是诡诈。(或作自欺)

9 愚妄人犯罪,以为戏耍。(或作赎愆祭愚弄愚妄人)正直人互相喜悦。

10 心中的苦楚,自己知道。心里的喜乐,外人无干。

11 奸恶人的房屋必倾倒。正直人的帐棚必兴盛。

12 有一条路人以为正。至终成为死亡之路。

13 人在喜笑中,心也忧愁。快乐至极,就生愁苦。

14 心中背道的,必满得自己的结果。善人必从自己的行为,得以知足。

15 愚蒙人是话都信。通达人步步谨慎。

16 智慧人惧怕,就远离恶事。愚妄人却狂傲自恃。

17 轻易发怒的,行事愚妄。设立诡计的,被人恨恶。

18 愚蒙人得愚昧为产业。通达人得知识为冠冕。

19 坏人俯伏在善人面前。恶人俯伏在义人门口。

20 贫穷人连邻舍也恨他。富足人朋友最多。

21 藐视邻舍的,这人有罪。怜悯贫穷的,这人有福。

22 谋恶的岂非走入迷途吗?谋善的必得慈爱和诚实。

23 诸般勤劳,都有益处。嘴上多言,乃致穷乏。

24 智慧人的财,为自己的冠冕。愚妄人的愚昧,终是愚昧。

25 作真见证的,救人性命。吐出谎言的,施行诡诈。

26 敬畏耶和华的,大有倚靠。他的儿女,也有避难所。

27 敬畏耶和华,就是生命的泉源,可以使人离开死亡的网罗。

28 帝王荣耀在乎民多。君王衰败在乎民少。

29 不轻易发怒的,大有聪明。性情暴躁的,大显愚妄。

30 心中安静,是肉体的生命。嫉妒是骨中的朽烂。

31 欺压贫寒的,是辱没造他的主。怜悯穷乏的,乃是尊敬主

32 恶人在所行的恶上,必被推倒。义人临死,有所投靠。

33 智慧存在聪明人心中。愚昧人心里所存的,显而易见。

34 公义使邦国高举。罪恶是人民的羞辱。

35 智慧的臣子,蒙王恩惠。贻羞的仆人,遭其震怒。

Proverbs 14

1 The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish pulls it down with her hands.

2 He who walks in his uprightness fears the Lord, But he who is perverse in his ways despises Him.

3 In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them.

4 Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.

5 A faithful witness does not lie, But a false witness will utter lies.

6 A scoffer seeks wisdom and does not find it, But knowledge is easy to him who understands.

7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, When you do not perceive in him the lips of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way, But the folly of fools is deceit.

9 Fools mock at sin, But among the upright there is favor.

10 The heart knows its own bitterness, And a stranger does not share its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be overthrown, But the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart may sorrow, And the end of mirth may be grief.

14 The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from above.

15 The simple believes every word, But the prudent considers well his steps.

16 A wise man fears and departs from evil, But a fool rages and is self-confident.

17 A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, And a man of wicked intentions is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly, But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil will bow before the good, And the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor man is hated even by his own neighbor, But the rich has many friends.

21 He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22 Do they not go astray who devise evil? But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good.

23 In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches, But the foolishness of fools is folly.

25 A true witness delivers souls, But a deceitful witness speaks lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence, And His children will have a place of refuge.

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death.

28 In a multitude of people is a king’s honor, But in the lack of people is the downfall of a prince.

29 He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly.

30 A sound heart is life to the body, But envy is rottenness to the bones.

31 He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.

32 The wicked is banished in his wickedness, But the righteous has a refuge in his death.

33 Wisdom rests in the heart of him who has understanding, But what is in the heart of fools is made known.

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people.

35 The king’s favor is toward a wise servant, But his wrath is against him who causes shame.

录音在线播放 | Online audio player





诗篇[第12篇] Book of Psalm 12



W3.CSS

诗篇[第12篇]
Book of Psalm 12

文章下载 | Article Download

诗篇第12篇|Book of Psalm 12

【近神者得救、近恶者灭亡】

主讲:郑伟健弟兄

28/06/2023

引言:用心听,用口求

一、求告神的帮助

1. 世界充满谎言 (V1-3)

世人的言语的特点就是充满说谎、心口不一、油滑、夸大。世人因为向神失去了虔诚,所以对人就没有了忠信。每一个人都是注重自己的利益,在这样的环境中,更是需要求告神的帮助。

2. 除去骄傲的口 (V4)

骄傲的人喜欢说什么就说什么,并且认为自己是得胜的。每个人都不说真理、不再可靠、不再以神为主的时候,神必会剪除。让我们的口是求告神的,而不是夸耀自己的能力。自己所说的每一句话负责,因为我们所说的闲话,当审判的时候,每一句都会供出来。

二、坚定信靠于神

1. 神必起来 (V5)

人以为神不在,就可以乱乱夸耀自己,乱说话。但是神的回应却是顾念人仰望神而发出的叹息和冤屈,而且油滑的嘴唇和夸大的舌头必被剪除。

2. 神是信实 (V6)

七代表完全。神允许祂的应许被所经历的困境炼过七次,让我们能不断经历神的信实,从而完全认识神应许的可靠,彻底弃绝谎言的渣滓。箴言12章19节也提到说,口吐真言,永远坚立;舌说谎话,只存片时。

3. 脱离世界 (V7)

我们活在这个世界难免会被其的价值观所污染,我们总是很难摆脱随从时代的风气。我们虽然靠着自己做不到,但是神定义会保佑我们永远脱离这世代的人。

4. 远离恶事 (V8)

下流人的原文是无价值的人。因为世界的价值观教导人若不靠着世界的潮流,就不得上升。在永恒里毫无价值的人、事、物,却被世人看重、高举,所以更多的恶人到处游行。

总结:

当我们抓住应许,抓住属神的,神必为我们成就。随着世界走的,说谎的,行恶的,必不长久存留。

Psalm 12: He who is closer to God will be saved, but he who is closer to evil will perish
GK611 Morning Devotion
28.06.2023
Speaker: Co-worker Asher Chang

Introduction: Listen with your heart and ask with your mouth

1. Asking for God’s help

(1) The world is full of lies (V1-3)

The specialty of the speech of the world is full of lying, inconsistency of heart, flattering, and exaggeration. Because the world has lost its reverence toward God, it has not been faithful to men. Every man is focused on his own interests, and in such an environment it is even more necessary to ask God for help.

(2) Removing the mouth of pride (V4)

The proud man likes to say whatever he wants and thinks he is victorious. God will cut off everyone who does not speak the truth, who is no longer reliable, and who no longer has God as their Lord. Let our mouth be a plea to God, and not a boast of our own power. Take responsibility for every word you speak, for every idle word we speak will be confessed when the judgment comes.

2. Firmly trust in God

(1) God will rise up (V5)

Man thinks that he can boast and speak indiscriminately in the absence of God. But God’s response is to consider the sighs and grievances of men who look to God, and the flattering lips and exaggerated tongues will be cut off.

(2) God is faithful (V6)

Seven represents perfection. God allows His promises to be refined seven times by the hardships we experience, so that we can continually experience God’s faithfulness and thus fully realise the reliability of His promises and completely reject the dross of lies. Proverbs 12:19 also mentions the truthful lip shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

(3) Get out of the world (V7)

We live in a world that is inevitably polluted by its values, and it is always difficult for us to get away from following the customs of the times. Although we cannot do it by ourselves, God will bless us to be free from this generation forever.

(4) Keep away from evil things (V8)

The original word for a lowly person is a worthless person. For the values of the world teach that no man shall rise unless he leans on the trends of the world. People, matters, and things that are worthless in eternity are valued and exalted by the world, so more wicked people travel around.

Conclusion:

When we lay hold of the promises, and take hold of what is of God, God will accomplish it for us. He who goes with the world, who lies, and who does evil, will not remain long.




罗马书[第16章] Book of Romans 16



W3.CSS

罗马书[第16章]
Book of Romans 16

文章下载 | Article Download

罗马书[第16章|Book of Romans 16

【神国家人 愿你平安】

主讲:丘均发传道

27/06/2023

引言:

保罗从没去过罗马。但从这章书信的问安感觉他是已去过罗马,然后写了这封家书回去问安,并祝愿家人平安。

一、记念家人提名问安(V1-16)

1. 推荐女执事非比(V1-2)

保罗书信一开始便举荐一位女执事非比。保罗赞赏她素来帮助很多人,也帮助他自己,让罗马教会看见非比的美善。接着要求罗马教会接待她,尽量帮助她。

家人必要记念彼此的需要,互相帮肋。今日我们有力量帮助人,明天我们可能软弱需要帮助。

2.一一提名地记念(V3-16)

接着,保罗对没有去过的罗马教会,向在基督里的肢体提名问安并记念。这些人中有男有女,有犹太人和外邦人,有富有的,有为奴的,也有为主一同坐监的。。。这些人的工作都受到表扬。我们不知道他们服事的具体内容,但他们都得到使徒保罗的记念和肯定!

在主里的服事无论大小,绝不徒然,不但人会记念,神更是记念!

小结:以圣洁问候彼此(V16)

这里特别强调的‘务要圣洁’表示必须真诚无伪。包括肢体之间的问安祝福,也要存真诚无伪之心。这样才能建立‘真关系’!

二、劝诫肢体避开异端(V17-20)

保罗在这里提到绝不能接纳在真理上出了问题的人。保罗甚至吩咐要避开这样的人。因为,这些异端往往外表热心待人,但背地里却是传播着错误的信息,搬弄是非,诱惑那些单纯人的心,目的是为要服事他们自己的肚腹。

所以保罗要信徒‘在善上聪明,在恶上愚拙’,要在纯正的福音上多学习。当一个人非常熟悉圣经,保证不会被异端邪说欺骗。

三、祝福合家被神坚固(V21-27)

保罗这封亲切的家书,最后一段内容是给罗马教会的祝福。这封信的总结和用意是要叫所有读信的家人都被坚固。叫大家都进入坚固不被摇动,以致不轻易失控,在任何境况都能‘平静安稳’!

神在保罗身上就成就了这样的工。保罗原是个聪明又满有野心的犹太青年。但是神破碎了他,改变他,让他经历许多他当时不明白的境遇。最后坚固了他,以致无论发生什么事,保罗都能保持坚定信靠神。那就是这封信所传达的伟大福音—惟有神能…坚固你们的心(V25)。

总结:

基督的福音不单成就了救恩,也要使相信福音的人被坚固得真平安,靠着福音的大能按真理来服事和生活,成为荣耀神的见证!




罗马书[第15章] Book of Romans 15



W3.CSS

罗马书[第15章]
Book of Romans 15

文章下载 | Article Download

罗马书[第15章|Book of Romans 15

【领受福音的人】

主讲:陈炎明牧师

23/06/2023

引言:什么样的人就有什么样的事!

一、作个坚固的人(15:1-5)

什么是【坚固】的人?希腊原文δυνατός(dunatos),这字和罗马书1:16所说的福音本是神的【大能】dunamis源自同一个字根。意思说已经接受福音的基督徒就是一个【坚固的人】!这字的意思是指‘拥有有特殊强大能力,足以胜任一切事情’。这必然是在真理中作个成熟且懂事的大人,能够在属灵上承托那些弱小的无能者。

作天第14章说到要接纳信心上软弱的人,今天更近一步的说要担代不坚固人的软弱。意思说在教会里有两种人,一是在信心和属灵上强壮的人,一是软弱无能胆怯无助的人。你是哪一种人呢?不是去帮助人就是接受帮助的,你愿意作哪一种人呢?

坚固的人以助人为乐,也叫人因为你的存在而感到快乐。正如基督怎么为人摆上和付出,我们也要如此效法耶稣基督。

二、作个荣神之人(15:6-12)

在这七节经文中有九次提到荣耀神、赞美歌颂神的动词;一个领受了福音的人就是属神的人,属神的人就要有属神的样式。一心一口荣耀神,既是说全心全人为了荣耀神而活。保罗对在罗马的弥赛亚信徒说:‘外邦人要要与主的百姓一起欢乐、敬拜、颂赞歌颂神。这事在教会历史中从有到无,在历史中消失近两千年,直到近期才重新看到这样的画面。原来在今年的住棚节,圣灵也许会带领我们体验这样的情景。有犹太人会在我们的敬拜中一同赞美神···。

每一次有人作见证的时候,都是在荣耀神,讲述神在你身上的作为。我们鼓励每一个人都起来录制生命见证,无论在人生的什么事件上经历【神是真的】,鼓励你把它录制下来。成为可传递的见证。

三、作福音的祭司(15:13-16)

我们是神福音的祭司!因为福音我们不但得了将来的永生盼望,就是如今我们也有在圣灵里的能力之应许。这能力是什么呢?既是良善、知识、有劝诫的能力。这世上充满败坏,因此需要更多有良善的基督徒,以便让社会更有平安的美善。此外还要有真理的知识,能够明白神的奥秘,所知道的各样知识是从圣灵而来的知识的言语、智慧的言语。再来就是能够彼此劝诫,劝诫这字的原文包含警告和指示,意思说我们要成为灯塔。这是福音给我们的盼望,也是我们继续长进和帮助人的方向。

福音祭司要靠着圣灵作服事:这是转化社会的使命。

四、作福音的使者(15:17-33)

1.靠圣灵大能服事(V17-19)

保罗说他在基督里有可夸的,保罗不是自夸,而是夸在基督如何倚靠圣灵的能力,行使各样的神迹奇事,最终叫人信靠福音,顺服基督。这是保罗的经历,不也是我们的信仰核心能力吗?福音的大能,本来就包含了在圣灵里的权能恩赐,与生命转化的能力。

2.开拓福音新天地(V19-21)

保罗当年的领受是要把福音传到外邦人当中,换言之就像使徒行传所说的【地级】。对当时而言,每到一处都是福音的新天地,因为当时福音还没去到其他地方。不像今日的福音几乎已经传遍各国,再加上网路媒介的普及,几乎可以说全世界都已经有机会听到福音。若要问问是否有人尚未听过福音呢?以个别人群来说,当然还是有很多很多。而且就算听过,只要尚未相信,仍然是我们要努力的‘福音新天地’!这是我们的使命。

3.坚固门徒的信心(V22-24)

传福音有拦阻是必然的事,保罗时代是这样,如今更是这样。保罗之所以写信给罗马教会的信徒,想去见见他们,无非是要坚固门徒的信心,加强教会的力量。正如我们今天也不断提供装备,坚固门徒的心不是吗?

4.帮补欠缺之圣徒(V25-29)

在基督的爱中有一种具体的行动,就是很实际的以金钱帮助圣徒中的穷人。当教会真的在金钱在以色列的肢体中做慈惠关怀的工作时,我们以为这是一件很荣耀,被受惠者所感激和称赞的事;岂不知这是我们‘还债’的一种表达。因为这福音本来是属于犹太人的,我们是无分的局外人。如今我们蒙了这恩典,因此供给他们养生之物也算是一种感恩的回礼。

总结:靠着圣灵活出爱(15:30-33)

我们所做的一切都是借着耶稣基督,而内里的力量却是因着从圣灵而来的爱。这爱成为我们行事为人的动力,并且得以和别处的门徒一同成就神的旨意。这是一种跨越个人主义的服事,是神所喜悦的国度事工。

Romans 15 He who receives the Gospel
GK611 Morning Devotion
23/6/2023
The Morning Devotion Speakers: Rev. David Tan

Introduction: What kind of person has what kind of things!

1. Be a strong person (15:1-5)

What is a [strong] person? The Greek original text δυνατός (dunatos), this word and Romans 1:16 said that the gospel is God’s “power” dunamis comes from the same root. It means that a Christian who has accepted the gospel is a [strong person]! The meaning of this word is ‘having a special and powerful ability, capable of doing everything’. This must be a mature and sensible adult in the truth, able to support those weak and incompetent spiritually.

Yesterday in Chapter 14 talks about accepting those who are weak in faith, and today it goes a step further and talks about bearing the weakness of those who are not strong. It means that there are two kinds of people in the church, one is those who are strong in faith and spirituality, and the other is those who are weak, incompetent, timid and helpless. What kind of person are you? Either to help others or to receive help, which kind of person would you like to be?

A strong person takes pleasure in helping others, and also makes others feel happy because of your existence. Just as how Christ gave and paid for others, we must also imitate Jesus Christ.

2. Be a man of God (15:6-12)

In these seven verses, the verbs of glorifying God and praising God are mentioned nine times; a person who has received the gospel is a person of God, and a person of God must have the likeness of God. To glorify God with one heart and one mouth means to live for the glory of God with all one’s heart and soul. Paul said to the Messianic believers in Rome: ‘Let the Gentiles rejoice, worship, and sing praises to God with the Lord’s people. This incident has changed from existence to non-existence in the history of the church. It has disappeared in history for nearly two thousand years, and it was not until recently that such a picture was seen again. It turns out that during this year’s Feast of Tabernacles, the Holy Spirit may lead us to experience such a scene. There are Jews who will praise God together in our worship….

Every time someone testifies, it’s glorifying God and telling what God has done for you. We encourage everyone to get up and record life testimonies, no matter what event in life you experience “God is true”, we encourage you to record it. Be a witness who can pass on the testimony.

3. Priests of the Gospel (15:13-16)

We are priests of the gospel of God! Because of the gospel, we not only have the hope of eternal life in the future, but now we also have the promise of power in the Holy Spirit. What is this power? Goodness, knowledge, and the power to exhort. The world is full of corruption, so more good Christians are needed to make the society more peaceful and good. In addition, there must be knowledge of the truth, the ability to understand the mysteries of God, and all knowledge is the words of knowledge and wisdom that come from the Holy Spirit. The second is to be able to admonish one another. The original word for admonition includes warning and instruction, which means that we are to be lighthouses. This is the hope that the gospel gives us, and it is also the direction for us to continue to grow and help others.

Priests of the gospel are to serve by the Holy Spirit: this is the mission to transform society.

4. Being a messenger of the gospel (15:17-33)

(1) Serve with the power of the Holy Spirit (V17-19)

Paul said that he had something to boast about in Christ. Paul was not self-boasting but was boasting about how Christ relied on the power of the Holy Spirit to perform all kinds of miracles, and finally made people believe in the gospel and obey Christ. This is Paul’s experience, isn’t it also the core power of our faith? The power of the gospel originally includes the gift of power in the Holy Spirit and the ability to transform life.

(2) Breaking new ground for the Gospel (V19-21)

Paul’s calling back then was to spread the gospel among the Gentiles, in other words, it was like the “to the end of the earth” mentioned in the book of Acts. At that time, every place was a new world for the gospel, because the gospel had not yet reached other places. Unlike today, the gospel has been spread to almost all countries, and with the popularity of Internet media, it can be said that almost the whole world has had the opportunity to hear the gospel. How about asking if there is anyone who has not heard the gospel? For individual groups of people, of course there are still many. And even if you’ve heard it, as long as you haven’t believed it, it’s still the ‘New World for the Gospel’ that we must strive for! This is our mission.

(3) Strengthen the faith of the disciples (V22-24)

It is inevitable that there will be obstacles to preaching the gospel. This was the case in Paul’s time, and it is even more so today. The reason why Paul wrote to the believers in the Roman Church, and wanted to meet them, was nothing more than to strengthen the faith of the disciples and strengthen the faith of the church. Just as we continue to provide equipment today, don’t we strengthen the hearts of disciples?

(4) To help the needy saints (V25-29)

There is a concrete action in the love of Christ, which is the practical use of money to help the poor among the saints. When the church really does the work of mercy and care among the members of Israel with money, we think it is a very honourable thing to be appreciated and praised by the beneficiaries; don’t you know that this is a kind of “debt repayment” for us? Because the gospel originally belonged to the Jews, we are outsiders without a share. Now that we have received this grace, it is a gift of gratitude to provide them with nourishment.

Conclusion: Live Out Love by the Holy Spirit (15:30-33)

Everything we do is through Jesus Christ, but the inner strength is the love that comes from the Holy Spirit. This love becomes the driving force for us to walk and behave, and we can accomplish God’s will together with the disciples elsewhere. This is a service that transcends individualism, and it is the kingdom ministry that God pleases.