If we learn to slow down in Scripture, we will see so much more. We need to move like a turtle through Scripture. We’ve looked at some ways to slow us down. Another is diagramming.
I loved it when our own Chris slowed down and, for the first time, saw that the Pharisees were actually plotting to kill Lazarus, and how that revealed their true hearts. This will also guard us from misinterpretations. This week, with the help of a short video from John Piper, in which he uses diagramming to help him slow down and see, we will learn that God actually brings suffering into our lives for a purpose. Even if our persecutors or Satan seem to be doing it, God is allowing it for a purpose. Some think the Bible says:
GOD WILL NOT GIVE YOU MORE THAN YOU CAN BEAR
But that is absolutely not true, as we will see, either in Scripture or in life. Think of the testimonies of Corrie ten Boom, Charles Spurgeon, or Paul himself. Think of David lamenting in the psalms. THEY ALL EXPERIENCED MORE THAN THEY COULD BEAR. Think of your own life! So why do people say that? They didn’t walk but ran through this Scripture, misinterpreting 1 Corinthians 10:13 as a promise that God won’t give you more suffering than you can bear when the promise is about temptation.
Sunday:
- How have you experienced the goodness of God this week?
Monday: Looking Closely at 1 Corin. 10:13
2. What is the main subject in the preceding context of this passage? Look at 1 Corin. 10:6-13a. (“a” means the first part of verse 13)
3. Now we are ready to examine the rest of verse 13 with the help of diagramming. Here is the verse:
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corin. 10:13)
In diagramming, you start by writing out the verse. Then look for the main subject and place it on the left; next, find phrases that support the main idea and indent them. Look for prepositions like but, so, therefore, if…) or clauses that support the main idea with reasons or contrasts. Here is how I would diagram 1 Corin 10:13, though it is not the only way.
(Main idea)
GOD IS FAITHFUL IN TEMPTATION
(Supporting phrases)
and will not let you be tempted beyond your ability
but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape
that you will be able to endure it.
4. Can you see how this verse is not about suffering? What is it about?
5. Do you see anything new through this method of slowing down? If so, what is helpful to you in regard to overcoming temptation? (I will share too, after you!)
Tuesday: More Thoughts on 1 Corin. 10:13
What I noticed that was new was that the verse doesn’t say “a way of escape” but “the way of escape.” I also noticed in the context that their main problem was idolatry, and perhaps assuming that even if they engaged in idolatry, God would deliver them, which is putting God to the test. It was such a lightbulb for me 15 years ago to see that idolatry was the sin beneath every sin and that “the way of escape” was not to trust in my idol but instead, to trust in God to deliver me. For example:
Instead of trying to control people my way with passive-aggressive comments,
I needed to trust God’s way by either speaking the truth in love or overlooking it in love — and then prayerfully surrender that person to God’s control.
Or:
Instead of trying to comfort myself my way by grazing on food
I needed to trust God to comfort me in His time, and walk away, enduring the pain for a time.
6. Now it is your turn. What is your temptation, and what is an idolatrous attempt to solve it, and what would be God’s way?
Wednesday: Looking Closely at 2 Corin. 1:8-9
6. What is the main idea in the context? (Look at 2 Corin 1:3-7)
7. How has God comforted you in your affliction that has helped you to comfort others? Give a specific example.
Now look carefully at our passage — normally I’d have you write it out, but I want us to work with the same translation — in this case, ESV.
For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers of the affliction we suffered in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death itself. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.
A simple way to diagram this is to find the main idea, the subject, first, and put it on the left. Then look for the prepositions or adverbs that support the main idea either in a negative way (what not to do) or in a positive way (what to do.) Try your hand at diagramming. I’ve given you help by making important words in bold. There is more than one way to diagram this – some of you will have just one indent after the subject, and some of you will have three.
8. Diagram it.
9. Did you see anything new?
Thursday: Piper’s Diagram
John Piper diagrams 2 Corinthians 1:8-9. Watch it and take notes on a separate paper.
10. What did you learn from Piper?
Friday: More Thoughts on 2 Corinthians 8-9.
11. Piper believed that their hope would be that even if they died, they would be raised from the dead. I wondered if, instead, it could mean we could trust God because He has shown us He is trustworthy by even raising the dead. What do you think?
12. Share a time of intense suffering that pressed you into God. What did you learn from it?
13. I’ve liked several of Lynn Austin’s historical fiction books. One phrase I remember from one is this prayer: “Lord, may our suffering make us compassionate, and may our sins make us forgiving.” Has that been true in your life?
Saturday: God Shot
14. What did you learn about God from this study?
70 comments
Sunday:
How have you experienced the goodness of God this week? In so many ways, God has been good to me. Spending time in His Word with this blog, He has met me and opened my heart to knowing Him more. I thank Him for the Bible, else how could I possibly know His heart and character. The peace the Lord has given me in the face of family tragedy and all the suffering/war in the world is beyond price. Being able to spend time with my sister this week, in Hanahan SC, is only through God’s pleasure and will, for who can say when we’ll meet again?
This is a travel week for us, so I don’t know when I’ll be able to post comments.
Cheryl, I echo your sentiments that God has been good to you in many ways. Thank God for the blessings of the Word and His work in your circumstances.
Sunday:
How have you experienced the goodness of God this week?
in preparation for a Zoom presentation on the 17th, I reached out to a friend who has the expertise I needed. I asked for input and was blessed that she did more than I expected and shared significant information that I wasn’t aware of. Only God can provide and very generously at that through my friend.
Today at church we were blessed with a short skit from the kids that we only have very minimal practice for. Our elementary school principal was our guest speaker for the pulpit today and got to see the kids who attend the school. The skit was heartwarming to both of us and to our congregation.
Whispers of God’s love and care for our church are very evident today through awareness of things coming together when we least expect them. Indeed, God continually opens my eyes to the works of His hands.
I’m so glad you are finding comfort, Cheryl. That can only be of God for something so terrible.
Cheryl, praying you have safe travels this week and continue to feel Gods presence and comfort.
Cheryl, Praying for you and your family, as you deal with this tragedy. God is so faithful, always. Praying for safe travels for you, and continued peace in your heart. Thank you for sharing this encouraging Praise.
I echo the thoughts and prayers of my sisters here, Lord. Protect Cheryl and her family. Help then feel your love, so they can move forward in the face of this awful situation.
1. How have you experienced the goodness of God this week?
Oh, how sweet it is! So many have sent texts praying for my husband’s surgery tomorrow. Thank You Lord for protecting George. Bless the surgeons and anesthesiologist, as well as the nurses. Lord, You are the ultimate healer. Thank You. Your will be done. Amen and amen!
Amen and Amen!
Praying for your husband dear Laura.
Prayers for George’s healing, Laura! Aren’t we thankful for health care professionals who do their job efficiently and serve us well? Praying for you as well.
Laura, praying all goes well for George and for God’s peace.
He made it through the surgery ok. He is resting now. Pretty uncomfortable. He may need 6 weeks of chemo. We don’t know yet. Pathology takes about a week. Thank you for prayers.
So thankful to hear this, Laura. Heavenly Father, As George begins recovery I pray it will go smoothly and be complete. Trusting in You as he faces possible chemo, and I ask for total peace for him and Laura whatever the outcome of the pathology tests. We praise and thank You for Your continued faithfullness, love, and care, May we reflect that in our daily lives. In the name of Jesus, and for His glory, amen.
Thank you Cheryl Ann.
So thankful that your husband is doing well. Praying for God’s hand on his complete recovery and peace of mind for both of you. Take care of yourself too. Thanking God for His faithfulness.
Sunday:
1. How have you experienced the goodness of God this week?
I missed being here last week. It was spring break and our grand boys kept us busy…an enjoyable busy.
God has been good in so many ways …His faithfulness, provision, protection and salvation. We serve an awesome God!
Sunday:How have you experienced the goodness of God this week?I posted this comment in addition to my reply to Cheryl yesterday. Oooppps!
In preparation for a Zoom presentation on the 17th, I reached out to a friend who has the expertise I needed. I asked for input and was blessed that she did more than I expected and shared significant information that I wasn’t aware of. Only God can provide, and very generously at that, through my friend.
Today at church, we were blessed with a short skit from the kids that we had only very minimal practice for. Our elementary school principal was our guest speaker for the pulpit today, and he got to see the kids perform the skit, which was heartwarming to both of us and to our congregation.
Whispers of God’s love and care for our church are very evident today through awareness of things coming together when we least expect them. Indeed, God continually opens my eyes to the works of His hands.
Skits for kids are so good. Child evangelism says:
Children forget what they heart, remember what they see, and understand what they act out.
Thank you, Dee, for your encouragement about skits. I love what you said about child evangelism. “Children forget what they hear, remember what they see, and understand (!) what they act out.” I will share this with our church and our children’s ministry team. We are looking into more skits for the kids. I believe your word of affirmation here is from the Lord. For me to hear, not for human approval, but godly input to serve His Kingdom.
This is so true Dee. When Jim and I taught SS we would have the kids act out the story after we read it from the Bible together. Then we’d review it by asking questions through games.
I learned this from my Mom❤️
I might have learned it from your mother-in-law!
2. What is the main subject in the preceding context of this passage? Look at 1 Corin. 10:6-13a. (“a” means the first part of verse 13)
It’s all about being faithful Christians with respect to our behaviors.
3. Now we are ready to examine the rest of verse 13 with the help of diagramming. Here is the verse:
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corin. 10:13)
4. Can you see how this verse is not about suffering? What is it about?
Yes. It’s about our behaviors. When we are tempted we need to realize others have also been tempted in the past. We can behave in a manner that is reflective of Christ. We have to be alert and looking for the way out. He provides.
5. Do you see anything new through this method of slowing down? If so, what is helpful to you in regard to overcoming temptation? (I will share too, after you!)
I do, but I don’t know if I would catch the correct translation if not prompted by someone like you.
I think the idea that God is providing a way out is hopeful. It seems fun to try to figure out that way is. It’s like a puzzle.
Laura — may I ask you — a way out of What? I might not be making sense — but see if you can answer.
If a temptation arises that I don’t know how to handle, I give it to God and wait to see how He wants me to move. Often times it is not clear to me what to do but if I pay close attention there is a way out of the temptation.
Monday: Looking Closely at 1 Corin. 10:13
1. What is the main subject in the preceding context of this passage? Look at 1 Corin. 10:6-13a. (“a” means the first part of verse 13)
Idolatry of our ancestors in the wilderness?
3. Now we are ready to examine the rest of verse 13 with the help of diagramming. Here is the verse:
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corin. 10:13)
In diagramming, you start by writing out the verse. Then look for the main subject and place it on the left; next, find phrases that support the main idea and indent them. Look for prepositions like but, so, therefore, if…) or clauses that support the main idea with reasons or contrasts. Here is how I would diagram 1 Corin 10:13, though it is not the only way.
(Main idea)
GOD IS FAITHFUL IN TEMPTATION
(Supporting phrases)
and will not let you be tempted beyond your ability
but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape
that you will be able to endure it.
4. Can you see how this verse is not about suffering? What is it about?
It is about temptation.
5. Do you see anything new through this method of slowing down? If so, what is helpful to you in regard to overcoming temptation? (I will share too, after you!)
There is always the way of escape to every temptation that is common to man. I do not have to succumb to it.
Tuesday: More Thoughts on 1 Corin. 10:13
What I noticed that was new was that the verse doesn’t say “a way of escape” but “the way of escape.” I also noticed in the context that their main problem was idolatry, and perhaps assuming that even if they engaged in idolatry, God would deliver them, which is putting God to the test. It was such a lightbulb for me 15 years ago to see that idolatry was the sin beneath every sin and that “the way of escape” was not to trust in my idol but instead, to trust in God to deliver me. For example:
Instead of trying to control people my way with passive-aggressive comments,
I needed to trust God’s way by either speaking the truth in love or overlooking it in love — and then prayerfully surrender that person to God’s control.
Or:
Instead of trying to comfort myself my way by grazing on food
I needed to trust God to comfort me in His time, and walk away, enduring the pain for a time.
6. Now it is your turn. What is your temptation, and what is an idolatrous attempt to solve it, and what would be God’s way?
Instead of seeing my worth only if I am loved and respected by certain people (approval),
I need to look to God only for His approval and my worth, and to remember who I am in Christ.
From Bing: I need to look to God only (alone) for His approval and my worth, and to remember who I am in Christ.
Amen to Dee, Bing !
Monday: Looking Closely at 1 Corin. 10:13
2. What is the main subject in the preceding context of this passage? Look at 1 Corin. 10:6-13a. (“a” means the first part of verse 13)
How examples of how Israel testing the Lord with their bad conduct such as idolatry, sexual immorality and complaining were a warning to us.
3. Now we are ready to examine the rest of verse 13 with the help of diagramming. Here is the verse:
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corin. 10:13)
In diagramming, you start by writing out the verse. Then look for the main subject and place it on the left; next, find phrases that support the main idea and indent them. Look for prepositions like but, so, therefore, if…) or clauses that support the main idea with reasons or contrasts. Here is how I would diagram 1 Corin 10:13, though it is not the only way.
(Main idea)
GOD IS FAITHFUL IN TEMPTATION
(Supporting phrases)
and will not let you be tempted beyond your ability
but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape
that you will be able to endure it.
4. Can you see how this verse is not about suffering?
Definitely
What is it about?
Temptation
5. Do you see anything new through this method of slowing down? If so, what is helpful to you in regard to overcoming temptation? (I will share too, after you!)
1. The temptations in my life are no different from what others experience.
2. God is faithful.
3. He won’t allow the temptation to be more than I can stand.
4. He will show me a way out when I’m tempted so that I can endure.
Excellent. Only thing I would change is that is it not a way out but the way out.
Thoughts?
Thanks Dee for pointing that out…it would be better to say, “He will show me that He is the way out…”
Love it.
Oh, light bulb moment for me as well. He is the way out and He will come equal to what I need. I can always count on Him!
Oh, I love this! He is the Way and He is The Way out! Thanks Dee and Sharon!
Okay, I read it many times but now I am getting it. He is the Way out. Thanks Dee.
Hi to the group. I feel the need to at least jump in and touch base. My husband and I were very sick the week before Easter (probably Covid) but we recouped enough to enjoy Easter Sunday at our church in Texas. Then last week we packed up and headed for Nebraska which being a 1,000 mile drive is a two day trek for us. We just wanted to get home. But it took its toll on us and we basically crashed for a couple of days. Then we had a family wedding for a nephew over the weekend and spent a couple of days involved with that. It was a 3 hour drive there. Also our son Tyce was filling the pulpit and preaching on Sunday in Lincoln so that was a blessing to be with him and his family. We experienced God’s goodness in both those things. God was very honored and present at the wedding. It blessed us to be back with our Nebraska families. Tyce preached from Romans and he is just a good teacher with a good heart. And I of course am a prejudiced mother.
I hope to jump back into study with you soon but honestly it has been a long haul getting my strength back and I still have experienced significant fatigue. My cough is finally diminished significantly. But I’m not even completely unpacked yet from Texas. I guess bouncing back is definitely a slower process at 77.
I do give my precious Lord credit for encouraging my heart and keeping me mindful of his love and presence in my life. Somedays in the past few weeks I have been discouraged and He knows and He understands. I am so thankful for Jesus. 💕
Bev, may the Lord bring full healing to your body!
Good to hear from you Bev and that you are doing well. I must say reading how busy you’ve been wore me out!!😜
Dear Bev, I am thankful that you are safely home and that you and Terry are recovering. 🙏❤️
Praying for full healing for you and Terry, Bev.
Bev, I am late to the party here, so I hope you see this. I totally understand the busyness of this life! It has been chaotic this week for me. I ended up sick, myself. I am glad you are feeling better. One step at a time. I do sense a bit of sadness (?) in your voice here. I will pray that the discouragement ceases. Back off devil! Thank You Jesus for always being with us.
2. What is the main subject in the preceding context of this passage? Look at 1 Corin. 10:6-13a. (“a” means the first part of verse 13)
God ‘s faithfulness to His people and yet, many acted in ways unpleasing to God.
3. Now we are ready to examine the rest of verse 13 with the help of diagramming. Here is the verse:
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corin. 10:13)
In diagramming, you start by writing out the verse. Then look for the main subject and place it on the left; next, find phrases that support the main idea and indent them. Look for prepositions like but, so, therefore, if…) or clauses that support the main idea with reasons or contrasts. Here is how I would diagram 1 Corin 10:13, though it is not the only way.
(Main idea)
GOD IS FAITHFUL IN TEMPTATION
(Supporting phrases)
and will not let you be tempted beyond your ability
but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape
that you will be able to endure it.
4. Can you see how this verse is not about suffering? What is it about?
This verse is about God allowing temptation, yet giving us an escape so that we will remain faithful to Him
5. Do you see anything new through this method of slowing down? If so, what is helpful to you in regard to overcoming temptation? (I will share too, after you!)
If we spend time digesting God’s Word, rereading and analyzing it, we will see how He is faithful. If we are focusing on what He has done for us, what He is doing and not what we think we are lacking and what we want Him to do, we are more likely to avoid the pitfalls of a sin.
Patti, your answer to 5 is good… put our focus on God, what He has done and is doing, rather than ourselves…” we are more likely to avoid the pitfalls of a sin.”
Amen to Sharon, Patti!
Tuesday: More Thoughts on 1 Corin. 10:13
What I noticed that was new was that the verse doesn’t say “a way of escape” but “the way of escape.” I also noticed in the context that their main problem was idolatry, and perhaps assuming that even if they engaged in idolatry, God would deliver them, which is putting God to the test. It was such a lightbulb for me 15 years ago to see that idolatry was the sin beneath every sin and that “the way of escape” was not to trust in my idol but instead, to trust in God to deliver me. For example:
Instead of trying to control people my way with passive-aggressive comments,
I needed to trust God’s way by either speaking the truth in love or overlooking it in love — and then prayerfully surrender that person to God’s control.
Or:
Instead of trying to comfort myself my way by grazing on food
I needed to trust God to comfort me in His time, and walk away, enduring the pain for a time.
6. Now it is your turn. What is your temptation, and what is an idolatrous attempt to solve it, and what would be God’s way?
I do too much grumbling and complaining when things don’t go exactly as I want them to. I do this because I don’t have control over the situation. Embarrassingly I can act like a child having a tantrum either outright or under my breath. Neither are good!
I need to replace my wanting control (grumbling) with giving the situation to God, realizing that He is in control and understanding that I can trust in Him to provide the grace I need to respond with a servants heart and His love.
Me too!
For me it is my thought life — this book I read that is fiction and fun is helping me: Theo of Golden
I’ll look into this book…sounds interesting 😊
Love your response, Sharon. Trusting God.
6. Now it is your turn. What is your temptation, and what is an idolatrous attempt to solve it, and what would be God’s way?
I would say food is a temptation for me. I have tried diets, not eating bread, fasting, exercising, etc. I think God’s way would be to focus on Him instead of the food. Or, realize He will always sustain me and I don’t need to worry about the food.
Love it. That is why Paul say the way of escape. There’s really just one lasting one.
Wednesday: Looking Closely at 2 Corin. 1:8-9
6. What is the main idea in the context? (Look at 2 Corin 1:3-7)
God of all comfort
7. How has God comforted you in your affliction that has helped you to comfort others? Give a specific example.
Last year was a year of loss of what I considered significant friendships. Affliction came in the form of sleepless nights, many tears, and conflicting emotions. Spiritual dark clouds hovered incessantly, affecting my interactions with my loved ones. God’s comfort came through His Word (Psalms especially), this blog (listening ears and prayers), Mark Vroegop’s book, “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy”, and Christian friends who give me their presence.
More and more, I am learning to listen more (rather than talk), to share the truth of God’s Word, and to be a presence to those who need comfort.
Now look carefully at our passage — normally I’d have you write it out, but I want us to work with the same translation — in this case, ESV.
For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers of the affliction we suffered in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death itself. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.
A simple way to diagram this is to find the main idea, the subject, first, and put it on the left. Then look for the prepositions or adverbs that support the main idea either in a negative way (what not to do) or in a positive way (what to do.) Try your hand at diagramming. I’ve given you help by making important words in bold. There is more than one way to diagram this – some of you will have just one indent after the subject, and some of you will have three.
8. Diagram it.
Suffering
Suffered in Asia
For we were utterly burdened beyond our strength
That we despaired of life
Indeed, we have received the sentence of death
Relying on God during suffering
But that was to make us rely not on ourselves
But on God who raises the dead.
9. Did you see anything new?
That I have not suffered as much as to despair of life like Paul and his companions had. My idea of real suffering is nil compared to the suffering mentioned by Paul.
That I can suffer with grace, knowing that God will always be there to comfort me.
There is a purpose/reason for every distress or suffering I encounter: to comfort others and to rely on God.
So good, Bing!
6. What is the main idea in the context? (Look at 2 Corin 1:3-7)
Don’t rely on self to solve big problems. Only rely on God.
7. How has God comforted you in your affliction that has helped you to comfort others? Give a specific example.
Well, after raising 4 kids and 2 grands, I have totally learned to not judge. It’s comforting knowing that others have lived similar lives to me and our children. This helps me to feel compassion when others’ kids do stupid things, as mine have done.
An example would be how the covid mess really hijacked many families, even to this day. Our oldest hasn’t spoken to us since then. He has two kids we have never met. A close friend of mine also has a kid who has reacted the same way. She and I have a sort of bond because of this issue. We can relate to each other and feel sad together.
For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers of the affliction we suffered in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death itself. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.
8. Diagram it.
We, is the subject (pronoun).
Do not want ignorance.
Do not want affliction.
Do not want sufferage.
Do not want burdens.
Do not want despairing of life.
Do want to rely only on God.
Do know that God raises the dead.
9. I’m not sure I see anything new. If you just read the bold words you get, “we suffered for that indeed, but, but.” The two buts at the end emphasize the turn of the lament. It’s the hope.
I just wanted to say I miss all of you and our study. I’m hoping to get on later this week yet and at least read all the comments. We have been sick and fatigued and feeling like it is too much to get one more thing done. So, I will be back when I can. We have a funeral today for a man from my husband’s work who died at 39, leaving behind a wife and 4 children. This has been wearing on us as well. Our hearts are heavy for this family. They are believers, but these losses are so tough to take. Praying you all are well.
Dear Chris, I will be praying for you all to recover from your bugs. Loss is hard for everyone. It is always life changing.Take care of yourself. You are missed.
Praying for comfort for your friends with this great loss, and at such a young age, Chris.
Going through it, Chris! Thanks for checking in. Praying for comfort for you and your friends.
Praying ❤
6. Now it is your turn. What is your temptation, and what is an idolatrous attempt to solve it, and what would be God’s way?
I so relate to Bing’s answer in this. I do not do well in situations where my grown children intimidate me into doing things that are not in my best interest, but for their benefit.
My way: Making an idol of someone, because they will be angry if I say “no” to a request. I often acquiesce to what others plan, even though I know it causes me stress and discomfort. Then, not enjoying what I am doing and worrying about the results of a bad choice.
God’s Way: Immediately go to God in prayer and wait on agreeing to things, until I work out the details and use good judgment, not being pressured into things that are foolish, at this time in my life. Trusting God and His way only is the wise way.
God is Lord. He is Master. He is King. All that happens in my life is to glorify and be pleasing to Him. We approach God because we know that His way is The Way that matters. We do not approach God wisely, if it is only on our own terms and time.
I so identify, Patti — not with my kids, but being in leadership with my church, I can identify with pastors who try to please people and cannot! I’m on the Steering Committee to choose sermons we listen to ahead of time. They were complaining too much Keller and Alistar Begg (they should be so happy) so we tried some of their suggestions for variety. One man really wanted us to do a Paul Washer sermon so we did. Fireworks — and not the good kind.
Oh, Dee! That has to be so hard! I am so sorry! I am not familiar with Paul Washer….will check him out…
Maybe you shouldn’t! His style is similar to Pipers though harsher, but only God knows his heart.
Thank you for your advice. I just listened to “Over, Through and In All” by Alistair Begg. He gently calls us to Jesus in the most beautiful way! 🙏I thank God for this man and for Tim Keller.
Wednesday: Looking Closely at 2 Corin. 1:8-9
6. What is the main idea in the context? (Look at 2 Corin 1:3-7)
God is our comfort during afflictions, so we can comfort others in their afflictions.
7. How has God comforted you in your affliction that has helped you to comfort others? Give a specific example.
God has been a great comfort in feeling helpless and hopeless because of my children living for themselves, rejecting God and justifying it. It has helped me in having compassion and extending comfort to those who are experiencing the same thing.
Now look carefully at our passage — normally I’d have you write it out, but I want us to work with the same translation — in this case, ESV.
For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers of the affliction (we suffered) in Asia. (For) we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength (that) we despaired of life itself. (Indeed), we felt we had received the sentence of death itself. (But) that was to make us rely not on ourselves (but) on God who raises the dead.
A simple way to diagram this is to find the main idea, the subject, first, and put it on the left. Then look for the prepositions or adverbs that support the main idea either in a negative way (what not to do) or in a positive way (what to do.) Try your hand at diagramming. I’ve given you help by making important words in bold (I put them in parentheses). There is more than one way to diagram this – some of you will have just one indent after the subject, and some of you will have three.
8. Diagram it.
Affliction in suffering
Don’t be ignorant/unaware
Burdened beyond our strength.
Despaired of life itself.
Felt like we received a death sentence.
Rely on
Not ourselves
God, Who raises the dead.
9. Did you see anything new?
The importance of not being ignorant/unaware of suffering in our own lives and the lives of others. It should bring awareness and assurance through these times that we can rely/trust in the mighty power of God, who raises the dead!
Thursday: Piper’s Diagram
10. What did you learn from Piper?
The text gives us the clearest picture of what God is doing in our lives through our suffering.
Not real sure what the affliction was. Could have been physical or opposition.
Paul thought it so severe that it was the end of his life.
We’re given this information so we won’t be perplexed when these things happen in our lives.
Negative purpose…not to rely on ourselves.
Positive purpose…to rely on God.
Paul’s hope wasn’t getting out of the affliction but rather resurrection…”rely on God who raises the dead.” This shows us just how bad the affliction was…Paul thought he was going to die!
Such a good job, Sharon. I think what we all want most is our children to be saved, so this is hard. I do so pray! My mother was saved at 93 when I had all but given up hope!
Thank you for your prayers…so appreciated!
How wonderful about your mother…I didn’t know that, so encouraging!
11. Piper believed that their hope would be that even if they died, they would be raised from the dead. I wondered if, instead, it could mean we could trust God because He has shown us He is trustworthy by even raising the dead. What do you think?
I guess both could be true 🤷🏻♀️. I didn’t get the feeling it was just about death, but rather suffering itself.
12. Share a time of intense suffering that pressed you into God. What did you learn from it?
I learned that I am not in control of everything. There are some things that are out of my hands. Those are the times when I need to give it to God. He is ultimately in control. I also learned He takes care of things.
13. I’ve liked several of Lynn Austin’s historical fiction books. One phrase I remember from one is this prayer: “Lord, may our suffering make us compassionate, and may our sins make us forgiving.” Has that been true in your life?
oh yes…I totally get this. Every person has their “stuff.” We all need forgiveness because we all are sinners.
Friday: More Thoughts on 2 Corinthians 8-9.
11. Piper believed that their hope would be that even if they died, they would be raised from the dead. I wondered if, instead, it could mean we could trust God because He has shown us He is trustworthy by even raising the dead. What do you think?
I think both are true.
It would be comforting to know we’ll be resurrected if our affliction seems like death will be the outcome. But if not, it’s also comforting to know we can trust in Him because He has shown Himself to be trustworthy.
12. Share a time of intense suffering that pressed you into God. What did you learn from it?
I know I’ve shared this before but when we lost our son.
I learned that God is truly faithful and in remembering that it has carried me through other times of suffering that I’ve gone through since then.
13. I’ve liked several of Lynn Austin’s historical fiction books. One phrase I remember from one is this prayer: “Lord, may our suffering make us compassionate, and may our sins make us forgiving.” Has that been true in your life?
I’d love to say, oh yes! But God continually works in my heart.
Yes, true, Sharon. Not until we see Him face to face will we be delivered from the presence of sin!
Friday: More Thoughts on 2 Corinthians 8-9.
11. Piper believed that their hope would be that even if they died, they would be raised from the dead. I wondered if, instead, it could mean we could trust God because He has shown us He is trustworthy by even raising the dead. What do you think?
Wow, you got me thinking here, Dee. I could see Paul believing what Piper said about Paul’s hope, perhaps because he has seen Jesus and has been delivered through many hardships. But I think the way you do.
12. Share a time of intense suffering that pressed you into God. What did you learn from it?
I have been through what I perceived as a betrayal by friends at a particular time in our 38 years of marriage. But I have learned that I cannot put my trust in human beings. Only God is fully trustworthy. And I have learned to forgive, to acknowledge my part, and as much as I could, to make peace as much as it depended on me, and to leave the rest to God. And He has been faithful. Looking at the cross always brings me to humility.
13. I’ve liked several of Lynn Austin’s historical fiction books. One phrase I remember from one is this prayer: “Lord, may our suffering make us compassionate, and may our sins make us forgiving.” Has that been true in your life?
I have been growing in both areas of compassion and forgiveness. This week, we grappled with the news that the father of one of our friends took his life. We were not close to this man, but were shocked to hear about it, especially as we learned that he was struggling mentally. Who would have thought? To some degree, this incident has increased my commitment to see beyond what my physical eyes can see. To be compassionate to those who I may feel slighted by, not knowing what they are going through. A greater awareness of my sins and the price that Jesus had to pay has made me slower to judge and quicker to forgive. As Keller once said, do not wait till you feel forgiving, but take the first step to forgive in your heart in obedience to God’s commands, something like that.
Saturday: God Shot
14. What did you learn about God from this study?
God is faithful in times of temptation and suffering. He is ever-present with us.