Luke 4 - Day 132 - The New Testament in a Year

Luke 3. Day 130 - The New Testament in a Year

Luke 2. Day 129 - The New Testament in a Year

Episode Notes: 

Episode Highlights:

"The Fulfillment of Prophecy.  The Humility of Jesus' Birth.  Good News for All.

"Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors!" Luke 2:13-14

In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we explore the rich narratives and spiritual insights of Luke Chapter 2. We begin by setting the historical context and then delve into key aspects to look for, including the fulfillment of prophecy, the humility of Jesus' birth, and the universal message of the good news delivered to the shepherds. These elements help us appreciate how God's plan unfolds through prophecies and humble beginnings. Our takeaways encourage us to trust in God's perfect timing, find joy and peace in humility, and remember that the gospel is meant for everyone. By reflecting on these themes, we strengthen our walk with Christ and apply His teachings more deeply in our lives.

Luke 1. Day 128 - The New Testament in a Year

Episode Notes: 

Episode Highlights:

The Role of Angels. Prophecies and Promises. Responses to Divine News. 

26 In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged[c] to a man named Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.

In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we’re introduced to the miraculous circumstances surrounding the births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. As we explore, we focus on three key "look-fors": the role of angels in divine communication, the fulfillment of prophecies and promises, and the varied human responses to God's revelations. These segments help us understand the depth of God’s involvement and faithfulness in human history. Our takeaways encourage us to trust in God’s perfect timing, immerse ourselves in His Word, and respond to His workings with heartfelt praise. Through these reflections, we aim to deepen our faith and enhance our daily walk with Christ, applying the lessons of trust, scripture engagement, and gratitude in practical ways.

Philemon 1. Day 127 - The New Testament in a Year

Episode Notes: 

Episode Highlights:

Forgiveness.  Brotherhood.  Tactful Persuasion.

"For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord."  Philemon 1:15-16

In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we explore the unique personal letter of Philemon, focusing on themes of love, forgiveness, and Christian brotherhood. We discuss the subtleties of Paul's persuasive tactics, urging Philemon to welcome back his runaway slave, Onesimus, not just as a servant but as a beloved brother in Christ. Through our "look-fors," we uncover the deep layers of Christian ethics that advocate for transformative forgiveness and the breaking down of social barriers. Our devotion takeaways encourage us to apply these principles in our daily lives, fostering reconciliation, embracing unity within our Christian community, and approaching our faith discussions with tact and love. This study not only enriches our understanding of early Christian values but also provides practical ways to live out these teachings in our interactions today.

Colossians 4 - Day 126 - NeW Testament in a Year

Colossians 3. Day 125 - The New Testament in a Year

Episode Notes: 

Episode Highlights:

Set Your Mind on Things Above.  The New Self.  The Christian Household. 

"And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."  Colossians 3:17

In this episode, we explore Colossians Chapter 3, focusing on shifting our lives toward Christ-centered living. We start by setting our minds on things above, which reorients our priorities and actions toward heavenly values. As we explore the concept of the new self, we learn how to shed our old behaviors and renew ourselves in the image of our Creator, which transforms how we interact with the world and with each other. We also discuss practical steps for promoting peace and respect within our households, which mirrors the broader Christian call to live in harmony. Through these discussions, we gain insights on living as those raised with Christ, embracing continual renewal, and fostering relationships that reflect our renewed nature in every interaction.

Colossians 2. Day 124 - The New Testament in a Year

Episode Notes: 

Episode Highlights:

The Fullness of Life in Christ. Warnings Against Deceptive Philosophy. Freedom from Legalistic Rules. 

In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we jump into Colossians Chapter 2, focusing on the richness of life in Christ, the dangers of deceptive philosophy, and the freedom from legalistic rules. We explore how the Apostle Paul emphasizes our completeness in Christ, contrasting it with human traditions and philosophies that can lead us astray. Our takeaways challenge us to embrace this spiritual fullness, guard against deceptive teachings, and celebrate our freedom from outdated rituals. Through these reflections, we are encouraged to deepen our relationship with Christ and apply these truths to enhance our daily walk with Him.

Colossians 1. Day 123 - The New Testament in a Year

Episode Notes: 

Episode Highlights:

The Supremacy of Christ.  The Gospel’s Power.  Paul’s Role and Suffering.  

"For everything was created by him, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities— all things have been created through him and for him."  Colossians 1:16

In this episode, we get to read Colossians Chapter 1, where we are exploring the profound themes of Christ's supremacy, the transformative power of the Gospel, and Paul's personal sacrifices for the church. As we navigate through the text, we focus on identifying key aspects such as Christ's role as the sovereign creator and head of the church, the global impact of the Gospel, and the significance of Paul's sufferings. These "look-fors" help us appreciate the depth and breadth of Paul's message, revealing the multiple layers of theological insight and the practical implications for believers.

Drawing from our exploration, we reflect on three poignant devotion takeaways that encourage a deeper personal faith and active participation in the Christian community. We are reminded of the importance of submitting to Christ's authority, engaging in the spread of the Gospel, and embracing the call to suffer for the sake of others. These insights not only deepen our understanding but also challenge us to apply these truths in practical ways, such as participating in mission efforts and community services, thereby embodying the love and sacrifice that Paul exemplified. Through these discussions, we find both encouragement and actionable steps to enhance our walk with Christ.

Day 122 - Philippians 4 - The New Testament in a Year