1 Samuel 14: 28-35…. this is a stop-start passage.

Then one of the people said, “Your father strictly charged the people with an oath, saying, ‘Cursed be the man who eats food this day.’” And the people were faint. Then Jonathan said, “My father has troubled the land. See how my eyes have become bright because I tasted a little of this honey. HowContinue reading “1 Samuel 14: 28-35…. this is a stop-start passage.”

1 Samuel 14 :21-27….Enlightened eyes.

Now the Hebrews who had been with the Philistines before that time and who had gone up with them into the camp, even they also turned to be with the Israelites who were with Saul and Jonathan. Likewise, when all the men of Israel who had hidden themselves in the hill country of Ephraim heardContinue reading “1 Samuel 14 :21-27….Enlightened eyes.”

1 Peter 5: 12-14….The letter’s closure.

By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. Greet one another with the kiss ofContinue reading “1 Peter 5: 12-14….The letter’s closure.”

1 Peter 5: 6-11….The devil at work.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowingContinue reading “1 Peter 5: 6-11….The devil at work.”

1 Peter 5: 1-5….To the leaders.

So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; notContinue reading “1 Peter 5: 1-5….To the leaders.”

1Peter 4: 12-19…Suffering as a Christian.

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ,Continue reading “1Peter 4: 12-19…Suffering as a Christian.”

1 Peter 4: 7-11….Looking to the future.

The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewardsContinue reading “1 Peter 4: 7-11….Looking to the future.”

1 Peter 4: 1-6….Choices to make.

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. For the time that isContinue reading “1 Peter 4: 1-6….Choices to make.”

1 Peter 3: 18-22… What does it mean?

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in theContinue reading “1 Peter 3: 18-22… What does it mean?”

1 Peter 3: 13-19a…Be ready.

Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defence to anyoneContinue reading “1 Peter 3: 13-19a…Be ready.”