Devotionals for April 3, 2023
Join us for Easter at TNLC this weekend! Good Friday service at 7:00pm then three Easter services on Sunday at 8:30, 10:00, and 11:30am.
READ
1 CORINTHIANS 15:3–8
For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
REFLECT
Paul recognizes his humble origin story here. His faith in Jesus had a supernatural start when Christ appeared to Paul as he was en route to persecute Christians. The grace and mercy of God interrupted Paul’s plans supernaturally. Then, his ministry became strategic: God revealed a need, God sent Paul to preach the Gospel, and Paul obeyed. Paul’s humble origin as a persecutor chosen by the risen King compelled him to live a supernatural ***and*** strategic life trusting in the strength of Christ.
APPLY
Q: Why does Paul describe himself as “one untimely born”? How does this affect his ministry?
Q: Reflect on your origin story in Christ. How can the love and mercy of Jesus compel you into a mission like Paul?
Q: How should your humble origins in Jesus shape the way you minister and care for others?
SING
“You Hold it All Together,” by Maverick City Music
PRAY
"Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy."
Lord, thank you for your salvation in your Son! You are holy, mighty, and good. I praise your name, God! Amen.
READ
1 CORINTHIANS 15:3–8
For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
REFLECT
Paul recognizes his humble origin story here. His faith in Jesus had a supernatural start when Christ appeared to Paul as he was en route to persecute Christians. The grace and mercy of God interrupted Paul’s plans supernaturally. Then, his ministry became strategic: God revealed a need, God sent Paul to preach the Gospel, and Paul obeyed. Paul’s humble origin as a persecutor chosen by the risen King compelled him to live a supernatural ***and*** strategic life trusting in the strength of Christ.
APPLY
Q: Why does Paul describe himself as “one untimely born”? How does this affect his ministry?
Q: Reflect on your origin story in Christ. How can the love and mercy of Jesus compel you into a mission like Paul?
Q: How should your humble origins in Jesus shape the way you minister and care for others?
SING
“You Hold it All Together,” by Maverick City Music
PRAY
"Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy."
Lord, thank you for your salvation in your Son! You are holy, mighty, and good. I praise your name, God! Amen.