July 28
Old Testament I
Ruth 3, 4
Ruth 3 and 4 continue the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman who chose to follow her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, after her husband's death.
In Ruth 3, Naomi instructs Ruth to go to Boaz, a wealthy relative who had shown kindness to Ruth, and present herself to him at the threshing floor where he was working. Ruth does as she is told, and Boaz agrees to redeem Ruth and marry her, but he tells her that there is another relative who has a closer claim to do so. Boaz promises to resolve the matter the next day.
In Ruth 4, Boaz meets with the other relative and offers him the opportunity to redeem Ruth, along with Naomi's land and inheritance, which he had the legal right to do. The relative initially agrees, but when he learns that he would have to marry Ruth and take on the responsibility of caring for her and her mother-in-law, he declines. Boaz then redeems Ruth and marries her, and they have a son named Obed.
The story of Ruth is often seen as an example of loyalty, faithfulness, and kindness, as Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her willingness to work hard to support them both leads her to find happiness and security in her new life with Boaz. It is also seen as a story of God's providence and care for his people, as Boaz and Ruth's marriage becomes part of the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.
Old Testament II
Isaiah 44:6 - 23
Isaiah 44:6-23 is a passage in which God speaks through the prophet Isaiah to declare his sovereignty over all things, including the false gods of the nations. He reminds Israel that he is their Redeemer and Creator and that they need not fear the idols of their enemies.
Verse 6 begins with God proclaiming, "I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god." He then challenges the false gods of the nations to prove their worth and power, asking, "Who is like me? Let him proclaim it."
God then turns his attention to Israel, reminding them that they are his chosen people and that he has formed them from the womb. He promises to pour out his Spirit on them and bless them with prosperity and righteousness.
In verses 9-20, God mocks the foolishness of idol worship, describing how a craftsman can take a piece of wood and make an idol out of it, then worship it as a god. He contrasts this with his own power and majesty, saying that he has formed the earth and the heavens with his own hands.
The passage concludes with a call to worship and trust in God alone, as he is the true Redeemer and Savior of his people. He promises to pour out his blessings on those who trust in him and turn away from idolatry.
New Testament
2 Corinthians 3:1 - 4:6
2 Corinthians 3:1-4:6 is a section of Paul's second letter to the Corinthians that deals with the contrast between the old covenant, which was written on stone, and the new covenant, which is written on the heart.
In the first part of this section, Paul defends his ministry and emphasizes that his authority comes from God, not from any external source. He also contrasts the old covenant, which was based on external rules and regulations, with the new covenant, which is based on the internal work of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of believers.
Paul then goes on to describe the glory of the new covenant, which far surpasses the glory of the old covenant. He compares the glory of the old covenant, which was fading and temporary, with the glory of the new covenant, which is permanent and eternal.
In the final part of this section, Paul emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel with clarity and sincerity. He warns against distorting or watering down the gospel message, and urges his readers to proclaim it boldly and with integrity.
Overall, this section of 2 Corinthians highlights the superiority of the new covenant over the old covenant, and emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel with clarity and sincerity.
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