Hebrews 4
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight.

Hebrews 3 is a warning to hold fast to our belief in Jesus. Paul says to "fix your thoughts on Jesus" and "hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast". During times of testing, "if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts", but hold firmly to your confidence in Him, so that you may "enter His rest".

In Hebrews 2, Paul teaches that the Word of salvation deserves our careful attention. This salvation first announced by the Lord was confirmed by those who heard Him and God also testified to it by signs, miracles, and distribution of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Next, Paul reminds us again of Jesus' role in God's plan for the salvation of His chosen saints. Jesus descended to a position even below the angels in order to glorify God and "make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering". Jesus shared in humanity "so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death--that is, the devil", "in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of His people". Paul says that Jesus is not ashamed now to call us His brethren, "I will declare Your name to My brothers", and in the congregation of brethren Jesus sang praises to the Father, "Here am I, and the children God has given me."

Hebrews 1 begins with an explanation of who Jesus is and His position over the angels. Paul teaches us that Jesus is the “exact representation” of God’s being, through whom the universe was created. God declares Jesus to be the heir of all things and is the radiance of all God’s glory, “sustaining all things by His powerful word”. Jesus is “much superior to the angels” and sits in power at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. Paul concludes Hebrews 1 with a quote from Psalm 102, reminding us that Jesus is unchanging and will reign for eternity.

The book of Philemon is a letter written by Paul in thanksgiving primarily to the man Philemon, but also to those in the church that meets in Philemon's home. Philemon's name means "affectionate" and Paul describes Philemon this way throughout the letter, referring repeatedly to Phlemon's love for Christ and the saints and the great joy and encouragement he provides in refreshing the hearts of the saints. Paul encourages Philemon also in offering thanks and prayer for his effectiveness in sharing his faith. Paul also tells Philemon that he also has received great joy and comfort in his imprisonment when hearing about his love and the way the saints have been refreshed by him. Paul urges Philemon to receive his "son", Omnesimus, who is a convert under Paul's teaching, and he affectionately refers to him as sending "my very heart" to serve as a useful partner in the gospel. Finally, he encourages Philemon by expressing his confidence in his obedience, "knowing that you will do even more than I ask".

Titus 3 is a call to do whatever is good. Paul says we must "be ready to do whatever is good" (v.1), those who have trusted in God must "be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good" (v.8), and our people must "learn to devote themselves to doing what is good"(v.14). Doing good is explained as being subject and obedient to authorities, not slandering anyone, being peaceable and considerate, and showing humility toward all men. Paul says that we used to be enslaved to foolishness, disobedience, malice, envy, and hate, but when the kindness and love of God saved us in His mercy, we were justified and now have the hope of eternal life through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

Titus 2 continues with various teachings to different people groups. Older men are to be taught to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, love and in endurance. Older women are to be taught to be reverent in their lifestyle, so they can model and train younger women to love , respect, and be in subjection to their husbands. They are also taught to love their children, be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, and to be kind, "so that nobody will malign the word of God". Young men should be taught to be self-controlled, to do only what is good, and to have integrity , sincerity and soundness in their speech. Paul reminds us that we should also teach to all people everywhere that it is the grace of God that teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives , and in doing this God "purifies to Himself a people what are His very own, eager to do what is good". Amen

In Titus 1, Paul reminds us (the elect) that our faith ( a gift of God's grace) and our knowledge of the truth ( illuminated from His Word by His Spirit) leads us into godliness and allows us to rest on the hope of eternal life, which God promised before the beginning of time. Next, Paul gives specific instructions and guidelines for Timothy to appoint men in each town to church leadership with the following rules and requirements: he must be blameless, the husband of one wife, a man whose children believe him and obey, not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain, must be hospitable, loves what is good, self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined, must hold firmly to sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

2 Timothy 4 Paul continues to urge the preaching of the Word and fully carrying out this ministry given by God. With a clear mind in every situation, Paul says to patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage people with the Word. Paul says there will be crowns for those who remain faithful and work at telling others the Good News, while eagerly awaiting His appearing. We can be encouraged by Paul's description of his delivery from evil attacks, even death, when the Lord stood with him and gave him strength so that he could continue to preach the Good News, knowing that God would soon bring him safely home into His heavenly Kingdom.

2 Timothy 3. Paul continues his warnings of the godlessness that will be seen in the last days (boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient, unholy, without self-control, lovers of Godless pleasure). He says that while evil men will go from bad to worse, we must continue confidently in the faith, learning from the holy scriptures, which is "God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness", and which equips us for every good work that God has called us to walk in.

2 Timothy 2 , Paul's instructs again to "endure hardship" as a soldier of Christ. Paul uses a few analogies, such as pleasing the "commanding officer" and "following the rules" will result in "crowns" , a "share of the crops", and obtaining "eternal glory".
Paul says that if we endure, we will receive these future rewards in a more glorious life (reign) with him forever. But, if we "disown Him", Christ will deny us these future rewards and the potential reign we would have otherwise enjoyed in eternal glory. Paul then warns against quarreling and "Godless chatter", but rather "present yourself to God as one approved", "who correctly handles the Word of truth", and "pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace". To be sure, though, "the Lord knows those who are His", and even "if we are faithless, He will remain faithful" .

In 2 Timothy 1, Paul provides encouragement to Timothy to remain faithful. Like Paul's encouraging words to Timothy, we should remind each other of "your sincere faith.. that now lives in you" and encourage each other to "fan into flames" our gifts from God that come from "a Spirit of power, love and self-discipline". Paul says not to be timid or ashamed to testify about God, who called us to Himself before the beginning of time to save us--"not because of anything we have done, but because of His own purpose and grace". We should share the confidence of Paul, who says "He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day". Paul says we must also keep the "pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ, .. with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us".

1 Tim 6 teaches how to live a Godly life. We are taught to lovingly encourage everyone to obey the teachings of Jesus, which promote a Godly life. Paul says that together with contentment, Godliness is itself great wealth, "but people who long to be rich... plunge themselves into ruin and destruction". Paul says to "run from all these evil things... pursue righteousness and a Godly life of faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness." He says the rich should not be proud, trusting in their money which is unreliable, but trust in the God who "richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment". Those who God has blessed with the riches of the world should be generous to those in need, always ready to share with others. Finally, Paul says to avoid Godless foolish discussions with those who oppose the gospel with their "so-called knowledge" and have wandered from the faith.

1 Timothy 5 teaches us about considering various members of the church as family. Older men and women should be treated respectfully, treating them as you would your father or mother. Widows should be taken care of, especially those who are truly alone. Paul says those who won't care for their relatives in their own household have denied the faith and are "worse than unbelievers". He next addresses elders and overseers, who work hard in preaching and/or teaching. Paul says leaders who do their work well should be respected and paid well. Any accusations against an elder should be confirmed by two or three witnesses before they are considered, but they should be reprimanded in front of the whole church if verified to be true. Finally, Paul warns to be careful to keep yourselves pure, not to share in the sins of others, and not to rush into appointing church leaders.

In 1 Timothy 4, Paul gives further instructions about the coming days when many will be deceived into abandoning the faith by "hypocritical liars". He says to have nothing to do with "godless myths and old wives' tales", but instead train yourselves to be godly. Paul says to be devoted to reading, teaching and preaching scripture, giving yourselves wholly to them, setting an example for other believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.

In 1 Timothy 3, Paul provides guidelines for "how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God", specifically qualifications for church leadership ( elders, deacons, overseers, etc.). He says leaders must be sincere, above reproach, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money, the husband of one wife, have a well-managed family with obedient and respectful children, must not be a recent convert, must have a good reputation with outsiders, worthy of respect, not indulging in much wine, not pursuing dishonest gain, must hold the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience, their wife also must be temperate,trustworthy and worthy of respect, and leaders must be tested beforehand in order to ensure there is nothing against them.

In 1 Timothy 2, Paul teaches about proper worship. He urges the brethren to pray for everyone, "that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness", since there is one mediator between God and all men--Christ Jesus. In addition to his warnings about false teachers, Paul here also warns that anyone without adequate knowledge or training should not be instructing others in discipleship or God's word.

1 Timothy 1 is written by Paul to his young protege minister, Timothy. He gives careful counsel and guidance, warning Timothy of false teachers and encouraging him to hold on to his faith in Christ. Timothy is instructed to lovingly command these false teachers to no longer distract from God's work with meaningless talk, myths, and endless genealogies, which promote controversies. Paul next reminds Timothy of the truth about Christ--- that He "came into the world to save sinners", so that His chosen "would believe on Him and receive eternal life". He encourages Timothy to continue to follow his instruction and "fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience". As Paul says, "now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever". Amen.

2 Thes 3 is an exhortation to the faithful brethren of Thessalonica. Paul says the Lord continues to direct their hearts in the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ. He directs them to "keep away from those who lead an unruly life " and not to associate with those who do not obey Paul's instruction. He exhorts such persons in the Lord Jesus and encourages the brethren to admonish them as brothers.

2 Thes 2 is about the coming of the Lord Jesus and how we will be gathered to Him. Paul warns of the preceding days of deception that will occur, when the "man of lawlessness" is revealed. This man will claim to be God and exalt himself and even sit in the temple of God. But the Lord Jesus will destroy him "by the splendor of His coming". All those who have refused to accept the gospel truth that would save them, will be greatly deceived into believing the lies of the "man of lawlessness". He will use every kind of evil deception to fool them and they will be condemned for enjoying evil, rather than believing the truth.
Paul , then gives thanks for the brethren chosen by God to experience salvation. He explains that they were called to salvation through the Spirit who makes them holy and through their belief in the truth, and by His grace they were given eternal comfort, a wonderful hope, and a future share in the glory of Jesus. What an encouragement that we, too, can share this same eternal comfort and hope in our future with Christ. Amen.

In 2 Thes 1, Paul gives us a picture of a praiseworthy church that continues to grow in faith and love. He says the brethren in this church of Thessalonica will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God. Those who oppose and trouble the brethren, will be punished, as those who do not know God and disobey the gospel. They will be shut out from the presence of the Lord. But He will be marveled at among those who have believed and God will be "glorified in His holy people". Paul concludes with his prayer for the brethren, "asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of His call. May He give you the power to accomplish all the g o o d things your faith prompts you to do. 12 Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the g r a c e of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ." Amen.

In 1 Thes 5, Paul gives some more guidance for Christian living. He says that since we know that the day of the Lord will come when nobody is expecting, we must be alert and self-controlled "putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet". We are advised to "warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone, be joyful always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances". Finally, Paul says not to put out the "Spirit's fire", test everything, hold on to the good, and avoid every kind of evil. He prays, "May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through", for "the One who calls you is faithful and He will do it".

In 1 Thes 4, Paul encourages the brethren to continue to live in a way that pleases God and urges them to do so even more, in order that they would be sanctified and live pure lives in accordance with their calling. Paul instructs them to lead a quiet life, working hard, so that through their daily lives they may win the respect of non-Christians. He concludes with some teaching about not grieving the deaths of believers, since "the dead in Christ will rise", and all Christians "will be caught up together with them in the clouds" to meet with the Lord upon His return. Then we will be together "with the Lord forever", and Paul instructs them to encourage each other with this thought.
Amen!

In 1 Thes 3, Paul talks about the update he receives from Timothy about the Thessalonians' progress in their faith. The report from Timothy encouraged Paul, bringing good news of their faith and love. Paul says he has great joy in God's presence because of them. He prays, "may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people (continue to) grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows. May He as a result, make your hearts strong, blameless, and holy as you stand before God our Father when our Lord Jesus comes again with all His holy people." I pray this same prayer for our body of Christ today, that we would overflow in God's love and would actively and persistently look for opportunities to express and share His love, that our lives would be pleasing to Him when He returns.

In 1 Thes 2 , Paul gives us many descriptive attributes of a godly ministry, using his experiences with the Thessalonians. Not being discouraged by insults or suffering, Paul continued in spite of strong opposition. He acknowledges the help of God as he dared to continue preaching the gospel. He says that his motives were pure, and he spoke with the approval of God, entrusted with the gospel message. Paul says he does not try to please men, but only God, since He alone tests the hearts of man. Not using flattery, or looking for the praise of men, Paul says he gently cared and shared the love of God. Paul says the Thessalonians , whom he had introduced to the gospel and cared for as a mother caring for her children, comforting , encouraging, and urging them in a lifestyle worthy of God --- they are his joy, hope, and crown in which he will one day glory in the presence of Jesus.
This is the ministry that we should all long for , to be used by God in such ways, to have the confidence, courage, and boldness in God's provision of grace, all through our weakness to fully demonstrate and exalt His power and glory. Amen!

In 1 Thes, Paul expresses thanksgiving for the faith of the Thessalonians. Our desire should be that we ourselves would be described in such a way, "your work produced by faith , your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ". Paul speaks of his confidence that God has chosen them because of the profound demonstration of the Spirit's power in them and their deep conviction after receiving the gospel message. They were "imitators of the Lord" as models to all believers, the Lord's message rang out from them, and their faith in God was well known. They had turned to God and served Him, awaiting the return of the Son who would provide their salvation rescue. Lord, help us to live in such a manner as Paul described the Thessalonians, to bring glory to Your name, and to witness Your grace to those who do not yet abide and trust in You. Amen.

In Colossians 4, Paul teaches that we should devote ourselves to prayer continually, being watchful in expectation of God's providence, and always giving thanks to Him for answered prayers. Paul then calls us to be wise in our actions when among unbelievers, so that we can make the best use of every opportunity to witness the gospel of Christ. We need to be sure our interactions and conversations with unbelievers are always full of grace ("seasoned with salt"), so that we may know how to respond with a fitting answer to everyone.

In Colossians 3, Paul provides a lot of guidance for Christian living. He says: set your sights on the realities of heaven, think about the things of heaven, put to death the sinful earthly things lurking within you, don't be greedy, don't lie to each other, put on your new nature, be renewed, clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, make allowance for each other's faults, forgive anyone who offends you, clothe yourselves with love, let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts, live in peace, always be thankful, let the message about Christ, in all it's richness, fill your lives, teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom He gives, sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts, whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord, giving thanks to Him, serve sincerely because of your reverent fear of the Lord, work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord, and remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward.
Lord, give us the strength and courage to do these things more consistently so that our lives might be pleasing to you. Amen.

From Colossians 2:

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.

Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.

Colossians 1 is about Christ's deity and headship over the church, which is His body. Paul describes Christ as the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, creator of all things, before all things, the one who holds all things together, the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, all fullness, the hope of glory, and the head over every power and authority. Paul's message in this chapter is that Christ is the Head of the universe and He is the source of our wisdom, life, and hope.

In Philipians 4 , Paul asks us to rejoice in the Lord always, "I will say it again , rejoice!". He explains that we need to understand a lesson that he learned, being content in any and every situation, whether living in plenty or in want. He says that we should be anxious for nothing, but through prayer God will provide peace and guard our hearts and minds. God wants us to dwell on righteous thoughts , whatever is noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, praiseworthy, "think on these things ". Then, God's peace will be with us and we will be content in every circumstance. Paul says that we will also be able to endure hardships and stand firm "through Him who gives me strength". Paul says, "my God will meet all your needs, according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus".