Barnabas Daily: Recent Episodes
Barney Skrentny
A daily encouragement podcast for busy people. Join me as together we draw inspiration, wisdom and strength from the pages of the Bible. Send your questions and comments to: questions@barnabas.today
21To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.
20Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
18I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.
17You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
16So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
15I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!
To the Church in Laodicea 14“To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation.
12The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name.
10Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep youfrom the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to testthe inhabitants of the earth.
9I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you.
8I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.
To the Church in Philadelphia
7“To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write:
These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.
5The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.
4Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy.
3Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief,and you will not know at what time I will come to you.
2Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God.
To the Church in Sardis
3“To the angel of the church in Sardis write:
These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits[b] of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.
28I will also give that one the morning star. 29Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
27that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’[b]—just as I have received authority from my Father.
26To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations—
24Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you, 25except to hold on to what you have until I come.’
23I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.
21I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. 22So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways.
20Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.
19I know your deeds,your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.
To the Church in Thyatira
18“To the angel of the church in Thyatira write:
These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze.
17Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.
16Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
14Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. 15Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans
13I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.
To the Church in Pergamum
12“To the angel of the church in Pergamum write:
These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword.
11Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.
10Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.
9I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
To the Church in Smyrna
8“To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:
These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again.
7Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
6But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
5Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
2I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false.
To the Church in Ephesus
2“To the angel[a] of the church in Ephesus write:
These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.
11On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
9After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was
8He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”
7Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.
Barnabas Daily Season 10 Trailer - No Compromise, reflections on revelation chapter 2 and 3.
6“‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’[b]”
4When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.
2and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.
The Magi Visit the Messiah
2After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] from the east came to Jerusalem
20The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels[e] of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.
18I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.
17When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.
16In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sunshining in all its brilliance.
15His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters.
14The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire.
13and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man,[d] dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest.
12I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands,
11which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna,Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.”
10On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet,
9I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdomand patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.
8“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
7“Look, he is coming with the clouds,”[b] and “every eye will see him,even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.”[c]So shall it be! Amen.
6and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.
5and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.
To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,
4John,
To the seven churches in the province of Asia:
Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits[a] before his throne,
3Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
2who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.
1The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,
19Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous, in burnt offerings offered whole; then bulls will be offered on your altar.
17My sacrifice, O God, is[b] a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
16You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
14Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
12Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
5Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.6Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.
4Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight;so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.
1Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love;according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.
11But the king will rejoice in God; all who swear by God will glory in him, while the mouths of liars will be silenced.
9Those who want to kill me will be destroyed; they will go down to the depths of the earth.
5I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
1You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you;I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you,in a dry and parched land where there is no water.
10For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
6Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place
4Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight;so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.
1Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love;according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.
19The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all;
17The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.
16but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth.
7 Arise, Lord!
Deliver me, my God!
Strike all my enemies on the jaw;
break the teeth of the wicked.
Psalm 3
A psalm of David. When he fled from his son Absalom.
1 Lord, how many are my foes!
How many rise up against me!
21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep,
18 Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.
17 Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.
14 For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.
12 And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.
11 The high priest carries the blood of animals into the Most Holy Place as a sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp.
10 We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right to eat.
9 Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by eating ceremonial foods, which is of no benefit to those who do so.
7 Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
6 So we say with confidence,
“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
What can mere mortals do to me?”
5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
“Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you.”
4Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.
3Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.
2Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.
28Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken,let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29for our “God is a consuming fire.”
27The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.
26At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.”
25See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven?
24to Jesus the mediatorof a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.
23to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all,to the spirits of the righteous made perfect,
22But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly,
20because they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.”[
19to a trumpet blastor to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them,
18You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm;
17Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.
16See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son.
15See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
14Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy;without holiness no one will see the Lord.
12Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13“Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
11No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
10They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.
9Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live!
8If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.
7Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
6because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
5And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
4In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.
3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
2fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame,and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
19A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas.
17When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus,they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor.
16Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding.
15One day the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?”
13Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, “In the name of the Jesus whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” 14Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this.
11God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them.
10This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asiaheard the word of the Lord.
9But some of thembecame obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus.
8Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God.
6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues[b] and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all.
4Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
2and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”
They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”
While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples
28For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.
27When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sistersencouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed.
26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
25He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John.
24Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures.
23After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.
22When he landed at Caesarea,he went up to Jerusalem and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch.
21But as he left, he promised, “I will come back if it is God’s will.” Then he set sail from Ephesus.
19They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.
18Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila.Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken.
7Then the crowd there turned on Sosthenes the synagogue leader and beat him in front of the proconsul; and Gallio showed no concern whatever.
15But since it involves questions about words and names and your own law—settle the matter yourselves. I will not be a judge of such things.” 16So he drove them off.
14Just as Paul was about to speak, Gallio said to them, “If you Jews were making a complaint about some misdemeanor or serious crime, it would be reasonable for me to listen to you.
13“This man,” they charged, “is persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law.”
12While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews of Corinth made a united attack on Paul and brought him to the place of judgment.
0For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.”
9One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.
8Crispus, the synagogue leader,and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized.
7Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God.
6But when they opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”
5When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah.
2There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them,
34Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
32When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.”33At that, Paul left the Council.
31For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
30In the past God overlooked such ignorance,but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.
29“Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill.
28‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’
27God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.
26From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.
25And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.
24“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands.
23For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown god. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
22Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious.
21(All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
20You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.”
19Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Areopagus, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting?
18A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection.
17So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.
16While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols.
15Those who escorted Paul brought him to Athens and then left with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible.
14The believers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy stayed at Berea.
13But when the Jews in Thessalonica learned that Paul was preaching the word of God at Berea, some of them went there too, agitating the crowds and stirring them up.
12As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
11Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scripturesevery day to see if what Paul said was true.
10As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea.On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue.
8When they heard this, the crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil. 9Then they made Jasonand the others post bond and let them go.
7and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.”
6But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here,
5But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason’s house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd.
4Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women.
3explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah,” he said.
2As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures,
When Paul and his companions had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue.
40After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, they went to Lydia’s house, where they met with the brothers and sisters and encouraged them. Then they left.
39They came to appease them and escorted them from the prison, requesting them to leave the city.
38The officers reported this to the magistrates, and when they heard that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens, they were alarmed.
37But Paul said to the officers: “They beat us publicly without a trial, even though we are Roman citizens, and threw us into prison. And now do they want to get rid of us quietly? No! Let them come themselves and escort us out.”
36The jailer told Paul, “The magistrates have ordered that you and Silas be released. Now you can leave. Go in peace.”
35When it was daylight, the magistrates sent their officers to the jailer with the order: “Release those men.”
34The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.
33At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized.
31They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.”
27The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped.
26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.
25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.
24When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.
23After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully.
22The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods.
20They brought them before the magistrates and said, “These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar
19When her owners realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities.
18She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became so annoyed that he turned around and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!” At that moment the spirit left her.
17She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.”
16Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling.
15When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.
14One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.
13On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there.
12From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.
11From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day we went on to Neapolis.
10After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
9During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”
7When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas.
6Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygiaand Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.
26But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
25The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
24“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
22Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?
21“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
17Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.
16By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
15“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves
14But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
13“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.
12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
9“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?
8For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
7“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
6“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.
5You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
4How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?
3“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
2For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
31So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?
28“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
25“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
24“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
23But if your eyes are unhealthy,[d] your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
22“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy,[c] your whole body will be full of light.
20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
19“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
18so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
16“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
14For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
7And when you pray, do not keep on babblinglike pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.
6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
5“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
4so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,
2“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
6 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
47And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
45that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
42Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
39But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.
37All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
34But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.
33“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’
32But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
31“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’
30And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
29If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.
28But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
25“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.
24leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
23“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,
22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
21“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’
20For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
19Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
18For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
17“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
16In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
13“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
11“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount 5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2and he began to teach them.
The Beatitudes He said:
38Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
34Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against,
12And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
20But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
42In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!
13But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.
6For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
17And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
23The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
21 Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. 22 All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
20To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
19And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
18I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
17Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
16for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
15Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only;
14Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
13I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
10I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
8Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
7And the peace of God,which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mindin the Lord
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
21who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
20But our citizenship is in heaven.And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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19Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame.Their mind is set on earthly things.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
18For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
17Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
16Only let us live up to what we have already attained.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
15All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
13Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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11and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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10I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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8What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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7But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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6as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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5circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee;
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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4b If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more:
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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4though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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3For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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2Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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3:1 Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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30because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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29So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
28Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
27Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
26For he longs for all of youand is distressed because you heard he was ill.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
25But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
24And I am confidentin the Lord that I myself will come soon.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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23I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
22But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
21For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
20I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
19I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
16as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
15so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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14Do everything without grumbling or arguing,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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13for it is God who works in youto will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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12Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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7rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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6Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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5In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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4not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
2Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit,if any tenderness and compassion
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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30since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
26so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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25Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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23I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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22If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
18b And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19for I know that through your prayersand God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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18aBut what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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16The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
14And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[c] and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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12Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,[b] that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
11filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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10so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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9And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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8God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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7It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
If you are interested to see the chiastic structure of the letter visually, we have produced a PDF which you can download here: https://bit.ly/2SBjFb8
6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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3I thank my God every time I remember you.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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2Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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1Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
Through the episodes, Barney talks about the chiastic nature of Philippians (that is, it follows the literary form known as a “chiasm”).
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Paul wraps up explaining why godly, self-sacrificing love is required to fully express spiritual gifts. He concludes by mentioning love again with two other virtues often listed with it: faith and hope. Faith is essential to Christianity. Only by faith in Christ is it possible to come into relationship with God, at all. Without faith and hope, Christianity does not make sense. They are built in. Still, Paul insists that love is greater even than these two bedrock virtues. It will abide, in a sense, even after our faith has become sight and our hope in eternity has been fully realised. Spiritual gifts are essential for the church to grow, but the Corinthians had put too much emphasis on them as evidence of personal glory or achievement. The gifts must be applied with love, or they become meaningless or even destructive.
Paul has been describing our knowledge of God and His ways as incomplete or partial. The use of spiritual gifts, specifically gifts such as tongues, prophecy, and knowledge, gives only a glimpse of what may be known of God. Paul now describes this partial knowledge of God as seeing a reflection in a dim mirror. Some scholars suggest that he had in mind Corinth's famous bronze mirrors, known for their imperfect reflections. But one day when the church is fully mature as Jesus is, however, we will see God face to face, knowing Him in person instead of through partial revelation.
One reason God gives spiritual gifts to believers now is for us to build each other up. Those abilities are meant to "grow up" the church. Paul put it this way in Ephesians 4:11–12: "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." That passage shows that, eventually, the church will mature to the point that we reach the "fullness of Christ." This will happen only after He arrives, but it is the course we are currently on. To illustrate this idea, Paul refers to himself as first a child, who lived in childish ways, and then as an adult who put away that childish understanding of the world when he became a man. The same will happen for believers when Christ returns. Our partial understanding about God will become full, mature "knowing.”
Paul begins a thought in verse 9 that he will conclude in verse 10. For now, "we know in part and we prophesy in part." He is referring to the spiritual gifts of knowledge and prophecy and showing that they are only partially effective. Any knowledge given to the church by God through someone with the gift of knowledge is just a tiny slice of all there is to know of God. For now, we know only "in part”. That will change one day. When the perfect comes, Paul writes, the partial will pass away. We will no longer need to work to understand and wonder over the bit of knowledge we have about God and His ways. The perfect, which is Jesus Christ, will bring about the day when all is revealed to God's children. When Christ returns, we will "know fully”
Paul ends his description of God's kind of love, using the Greek term agape. This is an unselfish, sacrificial, active love, different from romantic or brotherly love, which use the terms eros and phileo, respectively. Wrapping up this section, Paul introduces a statement that may make believers feel it is truly impossible to love as God does, after all: Love never fails. The other way in which love never fails is that love is eternal. Selfless love will continue in the Lord and in His people forever. It is absolutely the way we will live in relationship with each other in eternity. Examples of selfless love in the present are glimpses of the normal state of things in eternity. Love never fails.
Paul is coming to the end of his concise description of what true love looks like and as he piles on descriptors to show what Christian love does and does not do, it has become clear that love sets itself aside for the good of others. More precisely, those who love as Christ does set themselves aside to meet the needs of other Christians. It turns out, loving as Jesus loves is hard. Now Paul shows that God's love is, in a sense, inexhaustible. It places no limits on its commitment to others."It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Love does not rejoice in wrongdoing, or unrighteousness or injustice. In short, love does not delight in evil. Anytime we find ourselves tempted to root for or enjoy injustice or wrong choices, we can know we are not motivated by love for God or for each other. Love does rejoice with the truth, however. The truth, no matter how difficult it may be, is always the best path through any situation. It is the way of and to Christ, who is the Truth. "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” Wanting what is true to be understood and accepted by others is one way we express love
Paul responds to the Corinthians' over-emphasis on certain spiritual gifts by showing them that all gifts are worthless if not practiced through godly love. Paul provides descriptors of love, all action verbs, all choices made out of a commitment to set self aside and serve others. Choosing to love each other in this way would solve many of the problems Paul has confronted in this letter. The spiritual gifts provide a glimpse of what is knowable, but when the perfect comes, we will know all. Love is the greatest of all the virtues. "It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
The "love" Paul speaks of is from the Greek term agape. This is a selfless love. Godly love, from a godly perspective, is defined by what Christians do or do not do. It is not primarily about feelings; nor is it mostly the words which describe them. Love is action. It actively waits for others without resentment. This would include being patient in the face of being hurt or mistreated. The spiritual gifts provide a glimpse of what is knowable, but when the perfect comes, we will know all. Love is the greatest of all the virtues. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
Now Paul moves beyond spiritual gifts to the most profound acts of spiritual self-sacrifice a Christian may make. Jesus told a rich young ruler to sell all he had and give the money to the poor. Surely anyone who would actually do such a thing would have reached the height of Christian spirituality. And yet, Paul insists, to do so without love for others gains the giver nothing at all. Then he moves to the ultimate sacrifice. What if a person gives his own body to be burned to death for the Lord? Again, Paul describes this sacrifice as meaningless if made without love for others. Why would someone give away all their money or even their life if not out of love for Christ and others? Perhaps a person might do such a thing for pride or glory or in a foolish attempt to earn God's favor. Love, though, is the only motive that makes such sacrifices worthwhile.
Paul is demonstrating just how worthless the spiritual gifts are when attempted without love for others. The Corinthians valued these gifts highly, apparently elevating those among them with the gifts of tongues and prophecy as the most spiritual. Paul has declared that this is not true. All the gifts are needed in the church. Imagine a person, Paul writes, with the gift of prophecy and a full understanding of all the mysteries of God and an iron-clad faith that allowed him or her to move actual mountains. Jesus told his disciples they could move mountains with the amount of faith that would fit in a tiny mustard seed. Even this imaginary person Paul describes, without love, is nothing. All those gifts become worthless when exercised without concern, compassion, and empathy for others.
In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul emphasises that even if we received the greatest gifts in the world, it’s worth nothing if we don’t share them or use them for the sake of others. Or in other words, if we use them without love. True love is made up of decisions and actions, sacrificing from ourselves for the good of others, just like Jesus did. If we want to know what love is, and how to love, then we should carefully examine the life and character of Jesus.
Welcome to Barnabas Daily. Barnabas means "son of encouragement", and that is what I hope to be through this podcast stream.