1 You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. 2 We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. 3 For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. 4 On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. 5 You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. 6 We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. 7 Instead, we were like young children[a] among you.
Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, 8 so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.
"The Spirit gives us gifts for the building up of the church and sends us into the world to participate in God's kingdom work, started with the ministry of Jesus Christ"
Quote from Jennie Barber's Statement of FaithFor consideration:
-In the 4th verse Paul explains what motivates them to share the Gospel. How does God test our hearts?
-How does this passage guide us when faced with evil & unjust suffering?
I just wanted to post a comment to let you know this is great!
ReplyDeleteGreat class. Nice to spend some time with Jennie and Drew. Thank you for the strong showing and generosity with the house gifts. Thank you Pam H. for your efforts coordinating this.
ReplyDeleteComment about scripture selection that hit close to home for me: "How not to act" in reference to sharing the good news.
Prayer Requests: Bill Batemen (Carrie's father in Middle East) and two of Greg H's co-workers with health concerns.