Reading With the People of God #14 ProverbsSample

The Scales of Justice (Proverbs 28)

This Proverb has much to say about doing what is right and just. Being rich will become a curse if it is done by exploiting the poor. Just leaders see their position as a gift to benefit all. When leadership fails, the country falters and is run by many little rulers doing as they please. With the contrast of good versus evil, it is easy to want to make the right and obvious choice.

II Corinthians 11 (Perils of Paul)

Paul is battling for the hearts and minds of the Corinthians. False teachers have corrupted the truth of the gospel so that the people were confused, and some were led astray. Paul calls those who have adulterated the truth servants of the one masquerading as the angel of light. He is saying these supposed messengers of light are actually working for Satan, the prince of darkness.

To show what a true apostle is willing to endure to bring the good news to the world, Paul launches into a list of the Perils of Paul, the personal cost of his calling. He recounts the suffering and pain, the lack of personal comforts, the constant danger, and the ongoing care and concern for those brought to Christ. Paul wants them to know he is willing to endure these things for them and the furtherance of Christ’s ministry. He says he boasts in his weakness so that through him, God in Christ can be seen as strong.

*Primer contributed by Jinet Troost, Women's Bible Study Teacher at Cornerstone Community Church of Chowchilla.