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GOD WILL DESTROY HIM / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:17

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) 1 Corinthians 3:17

If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

Guarding the Temple: The Weight of Spiritual Leadership

Spiritual leadership carries immense eternal privilege and heavy structural responsibility. In 1 Corinthians 3:17, the Apostle Paul delivers one of the most sobering warnings in the New Testament. He states clearly that if anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy them. This warning targets anyone building, teaching, or leading within Christ’s church.

The church is not a social club or a human corporation. It is the living temple of the Almighty God, bought with the blood of Christ. When leaders compromise the integrity of the local congregation, they are not just mismanaging an organization. They are actively defiling holy ground.

Five Ways Leaders Corrupt the Church

Negligent or deceptive servants bring ruin to the church, and judgment upon themselves, through specific destructive patterns:

  • Immoral Lifestyles: Living in open, unrepentant sin destroys the public witness and internal purity of the congregation.
  • Selfish Ambition: Promoting personal agendas, lies, and factions fractures the unity that Christ demanded.
  • False Teaching: Rejecting original biblical revelation exchanges the truth of God’s Word for cultural trends or human philosophies.
  • Tolerating Worldliness: Allowing unaddressed sin to thrive within the body corrupts the community from the inside out.
  • Worldly Wisdom: Attempting to build the church using secular business models, entertainment tactics, or altered gospels rather than the raw power of the cross.

To build on any foundation other than Jesus Christ is to build a structure destined for regular collapse and ultimate judgment. Leaders must check their motives, their doctrine, and their methods daily against the standard of Scripture.

Closing Prayer

Holy and Righteous God,

We come before You with fear and trembling, recognizing the holiness of Your Church. Forgive us for the times we have treated Your temple with carelessness, worldly wisdom, or selfish ambition.

We pray specifically today for our pastors, teachers, and ministry leaders. Grant them deep spiritual discernment, unyielding integrity, and a passion for Your pure truth. Protect Your flock from false doctrines and compromised lifestyles. Let Your Word remain our sole foundation.

Keep us pure, keep us faithful, and let everything we build bring ultimate glory to the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. YOU YOURSELVES ARE GOD’S TEMPLE / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:16
  2. HE WILL SUFFER LOSS – BUT ONLY AS ONE ESCAPING THROUGH THE FLAMES / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:15
  3. ONE PURPOSE / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:8
  4. YOU ARE STILL WORLDLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3
  5. NOT ADDRESS YOU AS SPIRITUAL / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1
  6. WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16
  7. WORDS TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:13
  8. THAT WE MAY UNDERSTAND / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:12
  9. I FOLLOW PAUL … APOLLOS … CEPHAS … I FOLLOW CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:12
  10. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT’S POWER / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4
  11. I DID NOT COME WITH … WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1
  12. CHRIST JESUS HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30
  13. NULLIFY THE THINGS THAT ARE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:28-29
  14. GOD CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:27
  15. THE FOOLISHNESS OF WHAT WAS PREACHED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:21
  16. THE WISDOM OF THE WORLD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20
  17. CHRIST DID NOT SEND ME TO BAPTIZE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17
  18. GOD … IS FAITHFUL / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:9
  19. IT IS THE POWER OF GOD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:8
  20. YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT – WAIT FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO BE REVEALED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7
  21. CALLED TO BE HOLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-2
  22. PRAY WITH MY SPIRIT – PRAY WITH MY MIND / 1 CORINTHIANS 14:14-15
  23. THIS CUP / 1 CORINTHIANS 11:25
  24. THE GREATEST … IS LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13
  25. TONGUES, THEY WILL BE STILLED / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8
  26. LOVE IS PATIENT / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7
  27. I AM NOTHING / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2
  28. BUT HAVE NOT LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1
  29. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
Posted on

YOU YOURSELVES ARE GOD’S TEMPLE / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:16

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) 1 Corinthians 3:16

 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

You Are God’s Temple: Built for Holiness Together

Look around your local church or small group. What do you see? You might see a collection of ordinary people with different backgrounds, struggles, and personalities. It is easy to view the church as just a weekly gathering or a building with a cross on top.

The Apostle Paul gives us a much bigger reality in 1 Corinthians 3:16: “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?”

When Paul wrote these words, he used the plural form of “you.” He was not just talking about individual private faith. He was looking at the entire community of believers and declaring, “Together, you are the dwelling place of the Living God.”

The Power of the Collective Temple

While Scripture certainly teaches that our individual bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), 1 Corinthians 3 focuses on our collective identity. The local church community is the modern-day Holy of Holies.

In the ancient world, a temple was where heaven and earth met. It was the place where God’s tangible presence rested. Today, God does not live in buildings made by human hands. He lives within the beautifully complex, unified body of His people.

Standing Out in a Corrupt Culture

The Christians in Corinth lived in a society famous for its rampant immorality, division, and idols. The temptation to blend in was intense. Paul reminded them of their temple identity to deliver a wake-up call: God’s temple must be holy.

To be holy means to be:

  • Morally pure in our choices.
  • Spiritually whole in our devotion.
  • Separated from evil cultural practices.
  • Dedicated completely to God’s purposes.

We face the exact same pressure today. Our culture pushes us to compromise, to embrace division, and to tolerate ungodly behaviors. But as the collective temple of God, we are called to be a counter-cultural beacon of light. We cannot participate in the darkness while claiming to house the divine presence.

Protecting the Foundation

Because the local church is God’s sacred dwelling, how we treat one another matters deeply. We must reject gossip, division, and pride, which tear down the building blocks of God’s house. Instead, we must actively build each other up in love, guarding the holiness and unity of our community.

When the world looks at our churches, they shouldn’t just see a club. They should encounter the actual presence of the Holy Spirit through our love, purity, and devotion.

A Closing Prayer for the Body of Christ

Heavenly Father,

*Thank You for the staggering privilege of dwelling among us. Forgive us for the times we have treated Your church lightly or allowed the division and compromise of the world to slip into Your sacred space. *

Holy Spirit, we invite You to saturate our local church communities. Knit our hearts together in perfect unity. Purify our desires, our conversations, and our habits so that we may reflect Your holiness to a watching world. Help us to stand firm against ungodly practices and to live lives that are completely set apart for Your glory.

*Build us up together into a beautiful, holy temple where Your presence loves to rest. *

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. HE WILL SUFFER LOSS – BUT ONLY AS ONE ESCAPING THROUGH THE FLAMES / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:15
  2. ONE PURPOSE / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:8
  3. YOU ARE STILL WORLDLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3
  4. NOT ADDRESS YOU AS SPIRITUAL / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1
  5. WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16
  6. WORDS TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:13
  7. THAT WE MAY UNDERSTAND / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:12
  8. I FOLLOW PAUL … APOLLOS … CEPHAS … I FOLLOW CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:12
  9. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT’S POWER / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4
  10. I DID NOT COME WITH … WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1
  11. CHRIST JESUS HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30
  12. NULLIFY THE THINGS THAT ARE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:28-29
  13. GOD CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:27
  14. THE FOOLISHNESS OF WHAT WAS PREACHED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:21
  15. THE WISDOM OF THE WORLD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20
  16. CHRIST DID NOT SEND ME TO BAPTIZE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17
  17. GOD … IS FAITHFUL / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:9
  18. IT IS THE POWER OF GOD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:8
  19. YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT – WAIT FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO BE REVEALED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7
  20. CALLED TO BE HOLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-2
  21. PRAY WITH MY SPIRIT – PRAY WITH MY MIND / 1 CORINTHIANS 14:14-15
  22. THIS CUP / 1 CORINTHIANS 11:25
  23. THE GREATEST … IS LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13
  24. TONGUES, THEY WILL BE STILLED / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8
  25. LOVE IS PATIENT / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7
  26. I AM NOTHING / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2
  27. BUT HAVE NOT LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1
  28. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
Posted on

HE WILL SUFFER LOSS – BUT ONLY AS ONE ESCAPING THROUGH THE FLAMES / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:15

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) 1 Corinthians 3:15

If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Building a Legacy That Lasts: Understanding 1 Corinthians 3:15

Have you ever spent hours working on something, only to watch it fall apart or fail to meet expectations? It is a discouraging feeling. In his first letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul uses a powerful architectural metaphor to describe a reality that every believer will face: the testing of our life’s work.

In 1 Corinthians 3:15, Paul writes about a believer whose work is burned up: “If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.”

This passage offers both profound comfort regarding our ultimate security in Christ and a sobering wake-up call about how we choose to live our lives today.

The Foundation is Secure, But What Are We Building?

Paul makes it clear that for the believer, the foundation has already been laid, and that foundation is Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11). If you have accepted God’s forgiveness and have a personal relationship with Jesus, your salvation is secure. The Bible explicitly assures us that we are entirely free from God’s condemning judgment, eternal punishment, and separation from Him (John 5:24; Romans 8:1; Hebrews 10:14-17).

However, Paul shifts the focus from the foundation to the superstructure. We are the builders, and we have a choice in the materials we use. We can build with lasting materials—gold, silver, and costly stones—or with perishable ones—wood, hay, and straw.

One day, a future judgment of stewardship will take place (2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 John 4:17). This is not a judgment to determine our salvation, but rather an evaluation of our faithfulness, our motives, and the quality of our service with the opportunities God gave us on earth.

The Reality of Suffering Loss

The Greek word Paul uses for “suffer loss” is zemioo, which means to experience damage, forfeit, or suffer loss. It is a sobering reality that a careless Christian, though spiritually saved, can still experience great loss at the judgment seat of Christ.

Scripture warns that careless building can result in:

Escaping Through the Flames

When Paul speaks of being saved “only as one escaping through the flames,” he is using an expression that means a narrow escape or being “barely saved.” Picture someone running out of a burning house—they escape with their life, but everything they owned and built inside is reduced to ashes.

It is important to note what this passage is not teaching. This is not a description of purgatory or a cleansing of personal sins to merit heaven. Christ paid for our sins fully on the cross. Instead, this is strictly a judgment of our kingdom works, service, teaching, and influence.

If our work is motivated by selfish ambition, pride, or carelessness, it will be exposed as unworthy. We will enter heaven, but we will enter empty-handed.

A Call to Complete Dedication

This passage should not cause us to live in fear of losing our salvation, but it should inspire an urgent, holy reverence for how we live. It calls us to absolute dedication and self-sacrificing service (Romans 12:1-2; Philippians 2:12).

Every day, we are handling God’s Word and representing His kingdom. Let us build intentionally. Let us serve with pure motives, love, and excellence, so that when our work is tried by fire, it comes forth as pure gold.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Almighty God, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the unshakeable foundation we have in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You that our salvation is secure in Him and that we are free from the fear of eternal condemnation.

Lord, we ask that You search our hearts today. Forgive us for the times we have been careless, distracted, or driven by selfish motives in our service to You. Give us the wisdom and discernment to build our lives with materials that matter—with love, truth, faithfulness, and dedication to Your Word. Help us to live with eternity in view, honoring the unique opportunities and gifts You have entrusted to us.

May our lives bring You glory, both now and on the day we stand before You. We pray that our labor for Your kingdom will stand the test of time and fire. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. ONE PURPOSE / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:8
  2. YOU ARE STILL WORLDLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3
  3. NOT ADDRESS YOU AS SPIRITUAL / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1
  4. WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16
  5. WORDS TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:13
  6. THAT WE MAY UNDERSTAND / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:12
  7. I FOLLOW PAUL … APOLLOS … CEPHAS … I FOLLOW CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:12
  8. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT’S POWER / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4
  9. I DID NOT COME WITH … WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1
  10. CHRIST JESUS HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30
  11. NULLIFY THE THINGS THAT ARE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:28-29
  12. GOD CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:27
  13. THE FOOLISHNESS OF WHAT WAS PREACHED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:21
  14. THE WISDOM OF THE WORLD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20
  15. CHRIST DID NOT SEND ME TO BAPTIZE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17
  16. GOD … IS FAITHFUL / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:9
  17. IT IS THE POWER OF GOD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:8
  18. YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT – WAIT FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO BE REVEALED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7
  19. CALLED TO BE HOLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-2
  20. PRAY WITH MY SPIRIT – PRAY WITH MY MIND / 1 CORINTHIANS 14:14-15
  21. THIS CUP / 1 CORINTHIANS 11:25
  22. THE GREATEST … IS LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13
  23. TONGUES, THEY WILL BE STILLED / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8
  24. LOVE IS PATIENT / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7
  25. I AM NOTHING / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2
  26. BUT HAVE NOT LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1
  27. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
Posted on

ONE PURPOSE / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:8

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) 1 Corinthians 3:8

The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.

One Purpose: Finding Freedom in Your Unique Role in God’s Kingdom

Have you ever felt like your contribution to God’s kingdom didn’t quite measure up? Maybe you look at dynamic preachers, famous worship leaders, or missionaries traveling across the globe and think, “I’m just a regular person. Does my quiet life really make an impact?”

It is easy to fall into the comparison trap. We live in a world that obsessed with measurable metrics, immediate results, and individual platforms. But the Apostle Paul offers us a completely different perspective in his first letter to the Corinthians. He reminds us that the Kingdom of God operates under a unified design: One Purpose.

“The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.” — 1 Corinthians 3:8

Different Roles, Same Team

In 1 Corinthians 3, the early church was fractured by division. Believers were breaking off into factions, arguing over whether they followed Paul or Apollos. To correct this, Paul uses a simple agricultural word picture: the church is God’s farm, and believers are His workers.

Each of God’s people fills a different role that is equally valid and significant in His overall purpose.

  • The Planter: One Christian may be the first to deliver God’s message to a certain individual, planting the first seed of truth.
  • The Waterer: Another believer may come along much later, offering words of encouragement or a life example that coaxes that seed to grow in a relationship with Christ.
  • The Intercessor: In some cases, faithful believers may pray for decades for family members who do not know Christ.
  • The Reaper: Years later, an entirely different Christian might have the ultimate privilege of sitting down and praying with that family member to receive Christ.

Who gets the credit for that salvation? Not the planter, not the waterer, and not the reaper. All of these individual efforts are aimed at the exact same purpose, but it is God alone who finally brings people into a relationship with Himself and develops them.

Freedom From the Pressure of Results

This truth brings immense comfort to anyone serving Christ. It means you are not responsible for causing the spiritual results in people’s lives. You cannot force a seed to sprout, nor can you force a heart to change.

According to scriptures like 1 Corinthians 4:2 and Matthew 25:21, God does not judge our success by external metrics. He judges it by our obedience. We are expected simply to be faithful to the specific tasks and opportunities He has placed right in front of us. Whether you see the visible effects of your service immediately or wait years to see them, your labor is valid.

At the same time, this realization keeps our egos in check. Those who serve Christ must never become puffed up with pride over the results or success of their ministry—all of it is a credit to God alone. We are simply fellow workers laboring together in God’s building.

Embracing Your Current Season

Look at the spaces you inhabit this week. Are you parenting young children? Are you sitting at a corporate desk? Are you praying silently for a neighbor?

You are an indispensable part of God’s workforce. Trust that the piece of the field you are watering matters deeply to the Master of the Harvest.

A Closing Prayer for Faithful Service

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful design of Your Kingdom. Thank You that You do not call me to do everything, but simply to be faithful to the role You have given me today. Forgive me for the times I have compared my assignment to someone else’s, or let pride take over when I witnessed spiritual success.

I ask for the grace to plant and water faithfully wherever You place me. Free me from the heavy burden of trying to manufacture results, and help me rest in the knowledge that You alone bring the growth. Keep my heart humble, focused on Your unified purpose, and content to be a simple laborer in Your field. May all the glory and credit go to You alone.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. YOU ARE STILL WORLDLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3
  2. NOT ADDRESS YOU AS SPIRITUAL / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1
  3. WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16
  4. WORDS TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:13
  5. THAT WE MAY UNDERSTAND / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:12
  6. I FOLLOW PAUL … APOLLOS … CEPHAS … I FOLLOW CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:12
  7. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT’S POWER / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4
  8. I DID NOT COME WITH … WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1
  9. CHRIST JESUS HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30
  10. NULLIFY THE THINGS THAT ARE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:28-29
  11. GOD CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:27
  12. THE FOOLISHNESS OF WHAT WAS PREACHED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:21
  13. THE WISDOM OF THE WORLD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20
  14. CHRIST DID NOT SEND ME TO BAPTIZE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17
  15. GOD … IS FAITHFUL / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:9
  16. IT IS THE POWER OF GOD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:8
  17. YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT – WAIT FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO BE REVEALED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7
  18. CALLED TO BE HOLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-2
  19. PRAY WITH MY SPIRIT – PRAY WITH MY MIND / 1 CORINTHIANS 14:14-15
  20. THIS CUP / 1 CORINTHIANS 11:25
  21. THE GREATEST … IS LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13
  22. TONGUES, THEY WILL BE STILLED / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8
  23. LOVE IS PATIENT / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7
  24. I AM NOTHING / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2
  25. BUT HAVE NOT LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1
  26. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
Posted on

YOU ARE STILL WORLDLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) 1 Corinthians 3:3

You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?

Overcoming the Trap of Spiritual Worldliness

Spiritual maturity is not measured by how long you sit in a pew. It is measured by how you treat the people sitting next to you. In 1 Corinthians 3:3, the Apostle Paul delivers a sharp, loving wake-up call to a highly gifted but deeply fractured church:

“For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not worldly and walking like mere men?”

Paul exposes a painful truth. It is entirely possible to be saved, yet still live, think, and act exactly like the unsaved world around you.

The Evidence of a Worldly Heart

We often categorize “worldliness” as indulging in gross, obvious sins. However, Paul points to internal attitudes that tear communities apart. The greatest evidence of spiritual immaturity and worldliness among believers is disunity.

When we allow jealousy, bickering, and factionalism to thrive in our hearts, we operate out of our flesh rather than the Holy Spirit. We reduce the supernatural body of Christ to a mere social club driven by human competition.

The Danger of Idolizing Personalities

The Corinthian believers were dividing themselves based on their favorite teachers, crying out, “I follow Paul!” or “I follow Apollos!”

We do the exact same thing today. We are quick to idolize and follow human personalities—whether they are mega-church pastors, podcast hosts, political figures, or social media influencers—rather than Christ.

When we elevate human leaders to a pedestal, we set ourselves up for division. Humans will always fail, compromise, or change. Christ alone is the unshakeable foundation of our faith. Following human personalities creates fans; following Jesus creates disciples.

Walking by the Spirit

To mature, we must shift our gaze away from human vessels and fix our eyes entirely on the Source.

  • Repent of Rivalry: Let go of the need to be right, to be noticed, or to see others fail.
  • Stop the Comparison: Celebrate how God uses different people without choosing sides.
  • Exalt Christ Alone: Evaluate your loyalty. Are you defending a human brand, or are you proclaiming the Gospel?

Let us stop walking like “mere men” and start living as citizens of the Kingdom of God, marked by humility, love, and true unity.

A Closing Prayer for Unity

Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have allowed worldliness to creep into our hearts. Cleanse us from the sins of jealousy, strife, and division. We confess that we have too often idolized human voices and personalities instead of listening to Yours. Fix our eyes upon Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. Holy Spirit, build true humility within us so that we may guard the unity of the believers. May our love for one another prove to the world that we belong to You. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. NOT ADDRESS YOU AS SPIRITUAL / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1
  2. WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16
  3. WORDS TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:13
  4. THAT WE MAY UNDERSTAND / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:12
  5. I FOLLOW PAUL … APOLLOS … CEPHAS … I FOLLOW CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:12
  6. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT’S POWER / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4
  7. I DID NOT COME WITH … WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1
  8. CHRIST JESUS HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30
  9. NULLIFY THE THINGS THAT ARE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:28-29
  10. GOD CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:27
  11. THE FOOLISHNESS OF WHAT WAS PREACHED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:21
  12. THE WISDOM OF THE WORLD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20
  13. CHRIST DID NOT SEND ME TO BAPTIZE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17
  14. GOD … IS FAITHFUL / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:9
  15. IT IS THE POWER OF GOD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:8
  16. YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT – WAIT FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO BE REVEALED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7
  17. CALLED TO BE HOLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-2
  18. PRAY WITH MY SPIRIT – PRAY WITH MY MIND / 1 CORINTHIANS 14:14-15
  19. THIS CUP / 1 CORINTHIANS 11:25
  20. THE GREATEST … IS LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13
  21. TONGUES, THEY WILL BE STILLED / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8
  22. LOVE IS PATIENT / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7
  23. I AM NOTHING / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2
  24. BUT HAVE NOT LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1
  25. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
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HOW TO BEGIN READING THE BIBLE USING THE S.O.A.P. BIBLE STUDY METHOD

Have you tried MANY different methods of Bible study over the years only to find they didn’t work well for you? There seems to be one for every level of experience, and that is always a great thing! But the SOAP Bible Study Method is one of my favorites because of its simplicity while, at the same time, allowing one to take Bible study as far as they want to go with it.

It allows you to draw from scripture what the Lord wants to show you personally, and not just what someone else experienced. You are not limited in this method and can continue to use it as you grow in your walk and in as you grow in your study of the Word.

So why the SOAP Bible Study Method? What is it exactly?

The SOAP Bible Study stands for:

S – Scripture

O- Observation

A- Application

P- Prayer

For individuals seeking an effective approach to Bible study, the S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method provides a systematic framework for engaging with scripture.

Many readers can find the prospect of studying the Bible daunting due to its complexity and depth. It is common to lose motivation or become overwhelmed when attempting to read the Bible from start to finish. However, it is important to recognize that the Bible is not a single book, but rather a collection of works—books, songs, and poetry—all inspired to communicate enduring messages of love and faith. As such, it is most productively studied in manageable sections.

What is the S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method?

The S.O.A.P. method stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. This approach can be integrated into any existing study plan, and encourages reflective journaling based on verses that resonate personally.

Below is an overview of each step in the S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method:

Scripture

Begin by reading the selected passage, either aloud or using a different translation for enhanced understanding. Clarify its origin: Is the text from the Old or New Testament, and what genre does it represent (historical, narrative, prophetic, poetry, letter)? Identify the author and audience, as well as the time period in which it was written—introductory sections in many Bibles or reputable online resources may assist. Writing out the passage helps facilitate detailed attention to its content and meaning.

Observation

This step requires careful analysis of the passage—highlight key words, note instructions or themes, and answer questions like: Who is speaking? What is the context? How was it understood then? What attributes of God are shown? Are there examples or warnings for today? Identify promises or praiseworthy elements.

Application

Apply the insights gained to your current circumstances. Reflect on how the passage is relevant to your life, whether through encouragement, instruction, command, or prompting positive change. Remain attentive to guidance on areas for personal growth and ways to benefit others by emulating faithful individuals described in scripture. Consistent engagement with this step facilitates ongoing transformation and alignment with spiritual principles.

Prayer

Conclude by praying for support in implementing changes prompted by the scripture. Seek strength for personal growth and transformation, offer praise for God’s character and actions, and confess any unaddressed shortcomings. Request assistance for challenges in your life, pray for the needs of others—including friends, family, and leaders—and ask for guidance in consistently applying biblical teachings.

The S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method offers a practical, organized pathway for developing a deeper understanding of scripture and integrating its lessons into daily life.

****

Tips when using the Bible Study

In the SOAP Bible study method, prayer is how you close your time with God. However, I want to encourage you to open with prayer, as well. Whenever I open the Word of God, I pray that His Holy Spirit will illuminate and guide my time in Bible Study. Pray for wisdom – He promises to give wisdom abundantly when we as (James 1:5).

Choose to move through a specific book of the Bible with this soap bible study method, rather than skipping around. The Bible already breaks up chapters into sections/paragraphs. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Follow the natural breaks in each chapter.

The more consistently you practice this, the more natural it becomes to recognize the ways God desires you to grow and change.

Prayer

  • Ask God to help you put into action the changes He is prompting in your daily life. Pray for the strength and power to follow through, and that He would use the scripture to transform you to be more like Jesus.
  • Praise God for His character and all He has done—acknowledge Him as King, Lord, loving, gracious, and express your gratitude.
  • Confess any sin that remains unaddressed in your life. Repent by choosing to turn away from sin and move toward God.
  • Bring to God any area where you need His guidance or support.
  • Remember to pray for your friends, family, leaders, and all those you care about—they need prayer too.
  • Ask God to show you how to live out His Word, referencing James 1:22, and become a doer, not just a hearer.

If you would like a free S.O.A.P. Bible Study Template click on S.O.A.P. Bible Study

As you integrate the SOAP Bible study method into your routine, remember that true transformation comes through both reflection and action. Consistency in approaching God’s Word with an open heart and a prayerful spirit will deepen your relationship with Him. Let each study session be an opportunity not only to learn, but also to grow in faith and put His teachings into practice in your everyday life.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. WORD OF THE YEAR INSTEAD OF A RESOLUTION
  2. GOD IS SO GOOD – ALL THE TIME!
  3. Guided By Grace About
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NOT ADDRESS YOU AS SPIRITUAL / 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) 1 Corinthians 3:1

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.

The Danger of Compromise: When the Church Looks Like the World

The Apostle Paul did not mince words when writing to the believers in Corinth. In 1 Corinthians 3:1, he delivered a stinging rebuke: “Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ.”

This wasn’t a critique of their potential, but a diagnosis of their reality. The Corinthian church was filled with spiritual gifts, yet they were spiritually starving because they refused to separate themselves from the corrupt culture around them.

The High Cost of Tolerating Sin

The major crisis in Corinth wasn’t a lack of church growth; it was a lack of holiness. Church leaders allowed people to step into ministry without abandoning their ungodly practices. They tried to experience God’s blessings while holding hands with the world’s philosophies.

By looking at Paul’s letter, we see a heartbreaking list of what they tolerated within the church:

  • Selfish Divisions: Fracturing the body of Christ into competing cliques.
  • Worldly Philosophy: Exalting human wisdom above the wisdom of the cross.
  • Jealousy and Quarreling: Allowing petty rivalries to destroy Christian unity.
  • Immoral Behavior: Tolerating blatant sexual sin that even pagans condemned.
  • Trivial Lawsuits: Dragging fellow believers before ungodly courts.
  • Compromised Worship: Attending festivals that honored false gods and abusing the Lord’s Supper.

Because they failed to remain loyal to truth, love, and godly standards, their spiritual gifts became tools for pride rather than edification. They felt entitled to change the message of Christ to fit their lifestyle, rather than changing their lifestyle to fit Christ.

A Warning to the Modern Church

This is not just ancient history. The same temptation faces the church today. When we value tolerance over truth and comfort over conviction, we repeat the Corinthian mistake.

Jesus gives a fierce warning to churches that tolerate ungodly practices or twist Biblical truth. In the Book of Revelation, He warns that He will reject compromising churches and remove their lampstands from His kingdom. God does not grading on a curve when it comes to holiness.

The Holy Spirit is calling us to true repentance. This means admitting and turning away from our God-defying ways. It demands a clean break from the ungodly systems of this world. True faith requires us to perfect holiness out of reverence for God. We cannot mix the holy with the profane and expect the presence of God to rest upon us. Let us grow up into spiritual maturity, leaving infancy behind, and walk boldly in the truth.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have allowed the mold of this world to shape our hearts and our churches. Forgive us for tolerating compromise, harboring pride, and diluting Your truth for the sake of cultural acceptance. Holy Spirit, search us and expose any worldly way within us. Grant us the courage to repent truly and to separate ourselves from everything that dishonors Your name. We desire to be mature believers, led by Your Spirit and fully committed to Your holiness. Build Your truth into our foundations, and let our lives reflect Your pure love and righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. NULLIFY THE THINGS THAT ARE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:28-29
  2. WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16
  3. WORDS TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:13
  4. THAT WE MAY UNDERSTAND / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:12
  5. I FOLLOW PAUL … APOLLOS … CEPHAS … I FOLLOW CHRIST / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:12
  6. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE SPIRIT’S POWER / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4
  7. I DID NOT COME WITH … WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1
  8. CHRIST JESUS HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:30
  9. GOD CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:27
  10. THE FOOLISHNESS OF WHAT WAS PREACHED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:21
  11. THE WISDOM OF THE WORLD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20
  12. CHRIST DID NOT SEND ME TO BAPTIZE / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17
  13. GOD … IS FAITHFUL / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:9
  14. IT IS THE POWER OF GOD / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:8
  15. YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT – WAIT FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO BE REVEALED / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:7
  16. CALLED TO BE HOLY / 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-2
  17. PRAY WITH MY SPIRIT – PRAY WITH MY MIND / 1 CORINTHIANS 14:14-15
  18. THIS CUP / 1 CORINTHIANS 11:25
  19. THE GREATEST … IS LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13
  20. TONGUES, THEY WILL BE STILLED / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8
  21. LOVE IS PATIENT / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7
  22. I AM NOTHING / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2
  23. BUT HAVE NOT LOVE / 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1
  24. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
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LOVED PRAISE FROM MEN / JOHN 12:42-43

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 12:42-43

Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: 43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

LOVED PRAISE FROM MEN / JOHN 12:42-43

Because they love the honor and approval of their fellow human beings, many people sacrifice their beliefs and convictions and do not follow their God-fearing conscience. They choose to accept the majority opinion and follow the crowd rather than accept the truth and follow Christ. The secret of gaining victory over the fear of others and the desire for their approval is faith in Christ (1 John 5:4) – a faith that recognizes that no one will ever care or sacrifice for us like Christ. It is a faith that sees God, Christ, heaven, hell, the judgement and eternity as realities (Romans 1:20; Ephesians 3:16-19; Hebrews 11). Claiming to follow Christ while seeking human approval above God’s approval is a sign of a spiritual hypocrisy.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. KNOW THAT YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES / JOHN 13:35
  2. LOVE ONE ANOTHER / JOHN 13:34
  3. AT A LOSS TO KNOW WHICH OF THEM HE MEANT / JOHN 13:22
  4. WASH ONE ANOTHER’S FEET / JOHN 13:14
  5. UNLESS I WASH YOU / JOHN 13:8
  6. WASH HIS DISCIPLES FEET /JOHN 13:5
  7. LOVED PRAISE FROM MEN / JOHN 12:42-43
  8. THEY COULD NOT BELIEVE / JOHN 12:39-40
  9. DRAW ALL MEN TO MYSELF / JOHN 12:32
  10. PRINCE OF THIS WORLD WILL BE DRIVEN OUT / JOHN 12:31
  11. WHOEVER SERVES ME / JOHN 12:26
  12. HATES HIS LIFE IN THIS WORLD / JOHN 12:25
  13. SON OF MAN … GLORIFIED / JOHN 12:23-24
  14. MARY … POURED IT ON JESUS’ FEET / JOHN 12:3
  15. FOR THE SCATTERED CHILDREN OF GOD / JOHN 11:52
  16. THE DEAD MAN CAME OUT / JOHN 11:44
  17. JESUS WEPT / JOHN 11:35
  18. DEEPLY MOVED IN SPIRIT / JOHN 11:33
  19. I BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE THE CHRIST / JOHN 11:27
  20. I AM THE RESURRECTION / JOHN 11:25-26
  21. STAYED WHERE HE WAS TWO MORE DAYS / JOHN 11:6
  22. JESUS LOVED MARTHA AND HER SISTER AND LAZARUS / JOHN 11:5
  23. SICKNESS … FOR GOD’S GLORY / JOHN 11:4
  24. THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH / JOHN 10:28
  25. YOU ARE GODS? / JOHN 10:34
  26. THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH / JOHN 10:28
  27. MY SHEEP LISTEN TO MY VOICE / JOHN 10:27
  28. I KNOW MY SHEEP / JOHN 10:14-15
  29. I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD / JOHN 10:11
  30. THE THIEF COMES … I HAVE COME / JOHN 10:10
  31. I AM THE GATE / JOHN 10:9
  32. JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD / JOHN 10:1
  33. THOSE WHO SEE WILL BECOME BLIND / JOHN 9:39
  34. THEY THREW HIM OUT / JOHN 9:34
  35. WORK OF GOD MIGHT BE DISPLAYED / JOHN 9:3
  36. BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS BORN, I AM / JOHN 8:58
  37. HE IS A LIEAR AND THE FATHER OF LIES / JOHN 8:44
  38. IF GOD WERE YOUR FATHER / JOHN 8:42
  39. YOU WILL BE FREE INDEED / JOHN 8:36
  40. EVERYONE WHO SINS / JOHN 8:34
  41. THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE / JOHN 8:32
  42. IF YOU HOLD TO MY TEACHING / JOHN 8:31
  43. I PASS JUDGMENT ON NO ONE / JOHN 8:15
  44. I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD / JOHN 8:12
  45. NEITHER DO I CONDEMN YOU / JOHN 8:11
  46. IF ANY ONE OF YOU IS WITHOUT SIN / JOHN 8:7
  47. GAIN HONOR FOR HIMSELF / JOHN 7:18
  48. JESUS HAD NOT YET BEEN GLORIFIED / JOHN 7:39
  49. AS THE SCRIPTURE HAS SAID – STREAMS OF LIVING WATER / JOHN 7:38
  50. GAIN HONOR FOR HIMSELF / JOHN 7:18
  51. IF ANYONE CHOOSES TO DO GOD’S WILL / JOHN 7:17
  52. IT HATES ME / JOHN 7:6-7
  53. FEAST OF TABERNACLES / JOHN 7:2-3
  54. JESUS HAD KNOWN FROM THE BEGINNING / JOHN 6:64
  55. EATS MY FLESH AND DRINKS MY BLOOD / JOHN 6:54
  56. THE FATHER … DRAWS HIM / JOHN 6:44
  57. MY FATHER’S WILL / JOHN 6:40
  58. I WILL NEVER DRIVE AWAY / JOHN 6:37
  59. I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE / JOHN 6:35
  60. MIRACLES / JOHN 6:1-2
  61. DO NOT BELIEVE WHAT HE WROTE / JOHN 5:47
  62. ACCEPT PRAISE FROM ONE ANOTHER / JOHN 5:44
  63. YOU DILIGENTLY STUDY / JOHN 5:39-40
  64. THOSE WHO HAVE DONE GOOD – RISE TO LIVE – THOSE WHO HAVE DONE EVIL / JOHN 5:29
  65. HAS GRANTED THE SON TO HAVE LIFE IN HIMSELF / JOHN 5:26
  66. HEARS … BELIEVES – WILL NOT BE CONDEMNED / JOHN 5:24
  67. MAKING HIMSELF EQUAL WITH GOD / JOHN 5:18-24
  68. PERSECUTED HIM / JOHN 5:16
  69. STOP SINNING / JOHN 5:14
  70. THE MAN WAS CURED / JOHN 5:9
  71. THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS / JOHN 5:5
  72. SIGNS AND WONDERS / JOHN 4:48
  73. CROP FOR ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 4:36
  74. SURPRISED TO FIND HIM TALKING WITH A WOMAN / JOHN 4:27
  75. TRUTH / JOHN 4:24
  76. WORSHIP … IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH / JOHN 4:23-24
  77. SAMARITANS WORSHIP WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW / JOHN 4:22
  78. WATER … ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 4:14
  79. SAMARITAN WOMAN / JOHN 4:7
  80. WHOEVER REJECTS / JOHN 3:36
  81. LOVED DARKNESS INSTEAD OF LIGHT / JOHN 3:19
  82. GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD / JOHN 3:16
  83. JUST AS MOSES LIFTED UP THE SNAKE / JOHN 3:14-15
  84. THE WIND … THE SPIRIT / JOHN 3:8
  85. BORN OF WATER / JOHN 3:5
  86. DROVE ALL FROM THE TEMPLE AREA / JOHN 2:15
  87. SIGNS / JOHN 2:11
  88. CHOICE WINE – HAD TOO MUCH TO DRINK / JOHN 2:10
  89. WINE – THEY HAVE NOT MORE WINE / JOHN 2:3
  90. YOU SHALL SEE HEAVEN OPEN / JOHN 1:51
  91. CEPHAS … PETER / JOHN 1:42
  92. THE FIRST THING ANDREW DID / JOHN 1:41
  93. WILL BAPTIZE WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / JOHN 1:33
  94. LAMB OF GOD / JOHN 1:29
  95. GRACE AND TRUTH / JOHN 1:17
  96. THE WORD BECAME FLESH / JOHN 1:14
  97. BORN NOT OF … HUMAN DECISION / JOHN 1:13
  98. RECEIVED … BELIEVED / JOHN 1:12
  99. THE WORLD DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM / JOHN 1:10
  100. GIVES LIGHT TO EVERY MAN / JOHN 1:9
  101. LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS /JOHN 1:5
  102. LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4
  103. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  104. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  105. TAKING FROM WHAT IS MINE / JOHN 16:14
  106. HOLY SPIRIT / JOHN 14:26
  107. I WILL ASK THE FATHER – COUNSELOR / JOHN 14:16
  108. HE WHO DOES NOT LOVE ME / JOHN 14:24
  109. REMAIN IN MY LOVE / JOHN 15:9-10
  110. ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 17:3
  111. SANCTIFY THEM BY THE TRUTH / JOHN 17:17
  112. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
Posted on

THEY COULD NOT BELIEVE / JOHN 12:39-40

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 12:39-40

Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, 40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.

THEY COULD NOT BELIEVE / JOHN 12:39-40

The people could not believe it because their own views and decisions about Jesus closed their minds and hearts to His purposes. In other words, they chose not to see what God had revealed to them. As a result, their hearts became even harder and more resistant to God. The message of Christ demands a decision and will always bring change to those who hear it – even if they refuse to accept it. The message will soften the hearts of those who are receptive and harden the hearts of those who are resistant to God. The missionary Paul says that the people of Israel were cut off from their relationship with God because of their unbelief (Romans 11:20; Psalms 95:8; Hebrews 3:8). Yet the spiritual hardening was not permanent for every individual in that nation. Anyone who accepted Christ and followed Him would receive eternal life (John 12:44-50). In fact, many in Israel did believe after the events involving God’s Spirit and the bold preaching of God’s Word on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:41).

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. DRAW ALL MEN TO MYSELF / JOHN 12:32
  2. PRINCE OF THIS WORLD WILL BE DRIVEN OUT / JOHN 12:31
  3. WHOEVER SERVES ME / JOHN 12:26
  4. HATES HIS LIFE IN THIS WORLD / JOHN 12:25
  5. SON OF MAN … GLORIFIED / JOHN 12:23-24
  6. MARY … POURED IT ON JESUS’ FEET / JOHN 12:3
  7. FOR THE SCATTERED CHILDREN OF GOD / JOHN 11:52
  8. THE DEAD MAN CAME OUT / JOHN 11:44
  9. JESUS WEPT / JOHN 11:35
  10. DEEPLY MOVED IN SPIRIT / JOHN 11:33
  11. I BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE THE CHRIST / JOHN 11:27
  12. I AM THE RESURRECTION / JOHN 11:25-26
  13. STAYED WHERE HE WAS TWO MORE DAYS / JOHN 11:6
  14. JESUS LOVED MARTHA AND HER SISTER AND LAZARUS / JOHN 11:5
  15. SICKNESS … FOR GOD’S GLORY / JOHN 11:4
  16. THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH / JOHN 10:28
  17. YOU ARE GODS? / JOHN 10:34
  18. THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH / JOHN 10:28
  19. MY SHEEP LISTEN TO MY VOICE / JOHN 10:27
  20. I KNOW MY SHEEP / JOHN 10:14-15
  21. I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD / JOHN 10:11
  22. THE THIEF COMES … I HAVE COME / JOHN 10:10
  23. I AM THE GATE / JOHN 10:9
  24. JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD / JOHN 10:1
  25. THOSE WHO SEE WILL BECOME BLIND / JOHN 9:39
  26. THEY THREW HIM OUT / JOHN 9:34
  27. WORK OF GOD MIGHT BE DISPLAYED / JOHN 9:3
  28. BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS BORN, I AM / JOHN 8:58
  29. HE IS A LIEAR AND THE FATHER OF LIES / JOHN 8:44
  30. IF GOD WERE YOUR FATHER / JOHN 8:42
  31. YOU WILL BE FREE INDEED / JOHN 8:36
  32. EVERYONE WHO SINS / JOHN 8:34
  33. THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE / JOHN 8:32
  34. IF YOU HOLD TO MY TEACHING / JOHN 8:31
  35. I PASS JUDGMENT ON NO ONE / JOHN 8:15
  36. I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD / JOHN 8:12
  37. NEITHER DO I CONDEMN YOU / JOHN 8:11
  38. IF ANY ONE OF YOU IS WITHOUT SIN / JOHN 8:7
  39. GAIN HONOR FOR HIMSELF / JOHN 7:18
  40. JESUS HAD NOT YET BEEN GLORIFIED / JOHN 7:39
  41. AS THE SCRIPTURE HAS SAID – STREAMS OF LIVING WATER / JOHN 7:38
  42. GAIN HONOR FOR HIMSELF / JOHN 7:18
  43. IF ANYONE CHOOSES TO DO GOD’S WILL / JOHN 7:17
  44. IT HATES ME / JOHN 7:6-7
  45. FEAST OF TABERNACLES / JOHN 7:2-3
  46. JESUS HAD KNOWN FROM THE BEGINNING / JOHN 6:64
  47. EATS MY FLESH AND DRINKS MY BLOOD / JOHN 6:54
  48. THE FATHER … DRAWS HIM / JOHN 6:44
  49. MY FATHER’S WILL / JOHN 6:40
  50. I WILL NEVER DRIVE AWAY / JOHN 6:37
  51. I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE / JOHN 6:35
  52. MIRACLES / JOHN 6:1-2
  53. DO NOT BELIEVE WHAT HE WROTE / JOHN 5:47
  54. ACCEPT PRAISE FROM ONE ANOTHER / JOHN 5:44
  55. YOU DILIGENTLY STUDY / JOHN 5:39-40
  56. THOSE WHO HAVE DONE GOOD – RISE TO LIVE – THOSE WHO HAVE DONE EVIL / JOHN 5:29
  57. HAS GRANTED THE SON TO HAVE LIFE IN HIMSELF / JOHN 5:26
  58. HEARS … BELIEVES – WILL NOT BE CONDEMNED / JOHN 5:24
  59. MAKING HIMSELF EQUAL WITH GOD / JOHN 5:18-24
  60. PERSECUTED HIM / JOHN 5:16
  61. STOP SINNING / JOHN 5:14
  62. THE MAN WAS CURED / JOHN 5:9
  63. THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS / JOHN 5:5
  64. SIGNS AND WONDERS / JOHN 4:48
  65. CROP FOR ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 4:36
  66. SURPRISED TO FIND HIM TALKING WITH A WOMAN / JOHN 4:27
  67. TRUTH / JOHN 4:24
  68. WORSHIP … IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH / JOHN 4:23-24
  69. SAMARITANS WORSHIP WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW / JOHN 4:22
  70. WATER … ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 4:14
  71. SAMARITAN WOMAN / JOHN 4:7
  72. WHOEVER REJECTS / JOHN 3:36
  73. LOVED DARKNESS INSTEAD OF LIGHT / JOHN 3:19
  74. GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD / JOHN 3:16
  75. JUST AS MOSES LIFTED UP THE SNAKE / JOHN 3:14-15
  76. THE WIND … THE SPIRIT / JOHN 3:8
  77. BORN OF WATER / JOHN 3:5
  78. DROVE ALL FROM THE TEMPLE AREA / JOHN 2:15
  79. SIGNS / JOHN 2:11
  80. CHOICE WINE – HAD TOO MUCH TO DRINK / JOHN 2:10
  81. WINE – THEY HAVE NOT MORE WINE / JOHN 2:3
  82. YOU SHALL SEE HEAVEN OPEN / JOHN 1:51
  83. CEPHAS … PETER / JOHN 1:42
  84. THE FIRST THING ANDREW DID / JOHN 1:41
  85. WILL BAPTIZE WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / JOHN 1:33
  86. LAMB OF GOD / JOHN 1:29
  87. GRACE AND TRUTH / JOHN 1:17
  88. THE WORD BECAME FLESH / JOHN 1:14
  89. BORN NOT OF … HUMAN DECISION / JOHN 1:13
  90. RECEIVED … BELIEVED / JOHN 1:12
  91. THE WORLD DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM / JOHN 1:10
  92. GIVES LIGHT TO EVERY MAN / JOHN 1:9
  93. LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS /JOHN 1:5
  94. LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4
  95. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  96. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  97. KNOW THAT YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES / JOHN 13:35
  98. LOVE ONE ANOTHER / JOHN 13:34
  99. AT A LOSS TO KNOW WHICH OF THEM HE MEANT / JOHN 13:22
  100. WASH ONE ANOTHER’S FEET / JOHN 13:14
  101. UNLESS I WASH YOU / JOHN 13:8
  102. WASH HIS DISCIPLES FEET /JOHN 13:5
  103. TAKING FROM WHAT IS MINE / JOHN 16:14
  104. HOLY SPIRIT / JOHN 14:26
  105. I WILL ASK THE FATHER – COUNSELOR / JOHN 14:16
  106. HE WHO DOES NOT LOVE ME / JOHN 14:24
  107. REMAIN IN MY LOVE / JOHN 15:9-10
  108. ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 17:3
  109. SANCTIFY THEM BY THE TRUTH / JOHN 17:17
  110. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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Posted on

DRAW ALL MEN TO MYSELF / JOHN 12:32

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 12:32

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

DRAW ALL MEN TO MYSELF / JOHN 12:32

Through His death on the cross, Christ would bring people of all nations, ethnic groups and backgrounds into a personal relationship with Himself by providing forgiveness of sins for all who willingly yield their lives to Him. God’s gracious gift of eternal life (John 3:16; John 17:3) is not exclusive; in other words, it is not just for some people, but not for others. All people have the opportunity to accept and follow Christ. However, most people choose to go their own way and reject God’s offer of forgiveness and His gift of eternal life (Matthew 23:37).

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Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. PRINCE OF THIS WORLD WILL BE DRIVEN OUT / JOHN 12:31
  2. WHOEVER SERVES ME / JOHN 12:26
  3. HATES HIS LIFE IN THIS WORLD / JOHN 12:25
  4. SON OF MAN … GLORIFIED / JOHN 12:23-24
  5. MARY … POURED IT ON JESUS’ FEET / JOHN 12:3
  6. FOR THE SCATTERED CHILDREN OF GOD / JOHN 11:52
  7. THE DEAD MAN CAME OUT / JOHN 11:44
  8. JESUS WEPT / JOHN 11:35
  9. DEEPLY MOVED IN SPIRIT / JOHN 11:33
  10. I BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE THE CHRIST / JOHN 11:27
  11. I AM THE RESURRECTION / JOHN 11:25-26
  12. STAYED WHERE HE WAS TWO MORE DAYS / JOHN 11:6
  13. JESUS LOVED MARTHA AND HER SISTER AND LAZARUS / JOHN 11:5
  14. SICKNESS … FOR GOD’S GLORY / JOHN 11:4
  15. THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH / JOHN 10:28
  16. YOU ARE GODS? / JOHN 10:34
  17. THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH / JOHN 10:28
  18. MY SHEEP LISTEN TO MY VOICE / JOHN 10:27
  19. I KNOW MY SHEEP / JOHN 10:14-15
  20. I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD / JOHN 10:11
  21. THE THIEF COMES … I HAVE COME / JOHN 10:10
  22. I AM THE GATE / JOHN 10:9
  23. JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD / JOHN 10:1
  24. THOSE WHO SEE WILL BECOME BLIND / JOHN 9:39
  25. THEY THREW HIM OUT / JOHN 9:34
  26. WORK OF GOD MIGHT BE DISPLAYED / JOHN 9:3
  27. BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS BORN, I AM / JOHN 8:58
  28. HE IS A LIEAR AND THE FATHER OF LIES / JOHN 8:44
  29. IF GOD WERE YOUR FATHER / JOHN 8:42
  30. YOU WILL BE FREE INDEED / JOHN 8:36
  31. EVERYONE WHO SINS / JOHN 8:34
  32. THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE / JOHN 8:32
  33. IF YOU HOLD TO MY TEACHING / JOHN 8:31
  34. I PASS JUDGMENT ON NO ONE / JOHN 8:15
  35. I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD / JOHN 8:12
  36. NEITHER DO I CONDEMN YOU / JOHN 8:11
  37. IF ANY ONE OF YOU IS WITHOUT SIN / JOHN 8:7
  38. GAIN HONOR FOR HIMSELF / JOHN 7:18
  39. JESUS HAD NOT YET BEEN GLORIFIED / JOHN 7:39
  40. AS THE SCRIPTURE HAS SAID – STREAMS OF LIVING WATER / JOHN 7:38
  41. GAIN HONOR FOR HIMSELF / JOHN 7:18
  42. IF ANYONE CHOOSES TO DO GOD’S WILL / JOHN 7:17
  43. IT HATES ME / JOHN 7:6-7
  44. FEAST OF TABERNACLES / JOHN 7:2-3
  45. JESUS HAD KNOWN FROM THE BEGINNING / JOHN 6:64
  46. EATS MY FLESH AND DRINKS MY BLOOD / JOHN 6:54
  47. THE FATHER … DRAWS HIM / JOHN 6:44
  48. MY FATHER’S WILL / JOHN 6:40
  49. I WILL NEVER DRIVE AWAY / JOHN 6:37
  50. I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE / JOHN 6:35
  51. MIRACLES / JOHN 6:1-2
  52. DO NOT BELIEVE WHAT HE WROTE / JOHN 5:47
  53. ACCEPT PRAISE FROM ONE ANOTHER / JOHN 5:44
  54. YOU DILIGENTLY STUDY / JOHN 5:39-40
  55. THOSE WHO HAVE DONE GOOD – RISE TO LIVE – THOSE WHO HAVE DONE EVIL / JOHN 5:29
  56. HAS GRANTED THE SON TO HAVE LIFE IN HIMSELF / JOHN 5:26
  57. HEARS … BELIEVES – WILL NOT BE CONDEMNED / JOHN 5:24
  58. MAKING HIMSELF EQUAL WITH GOD / JOHN 5:18-24
  59. PERSECUTED HIM / JOHN 5:16
  60. STOP SINNING / JOHN 5:14
  61. THE MAN WAS CURED / JOHN 5:9
  62. THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS / JOHN 5:5
  63. SIGNS AND WONDERS / JOHN 4:48
  64. CROP FOR ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 4:36
  65. SURPRISED TO FIND HIM TALKING WITH A WOMAN / JOHN 4:27
  66. TRUTH / JOHN 4:24
  67. WORSHIP … IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH / JOHN 4:23-24
  68. SAMARITANS WORSHIP WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW / JOHN 4:22
  69. WATER … ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 4:14
  70. SAMARITAN WOMAN / JOHN 4:7
  71. WHOEVER REJECTS / JOHN 3:36
  72. LOVED DARKNESS INSTEAD OF LIGHT / JOHN 3:19
  73. GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD / JOHN 3:16
  74. JUST AS MOSES LIFTED UP THE SNAKE / JOHN 3:14-15
  75. THE WIND … THE SPIRIT / JOHN 3:8
  76. BORN OF WATER / JOHN 3:5
  77. DROVE ALL FROM THE TEMPLE AREA / JOHN 2:15
  78. SIGNS / JOHN 2:11
  79. CHOICE WINE – HAD TOO MUCH TO DRINK / JOHN 2:10
  80. WINE – THEY HAVE NOT MORE WINE / JOHN 2:3
  81. YOU SHALL SEE HEAVEN OPEN / JOHN 1:51
  82. CEPHAS … PETER / JOHN 1:42
  83. THE FIRST THING ANDREW DID / JOHN 1:41
  84. WILL BAPTIZE WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / JOHN 1:33
  85. LAMB OF GOD / JOHN 1:29
  86. GRACE AND TRUTH / JOHN 1:17
  87. THE WORD BECAME FLESH / JOHN 1:14
  88. BORN NOT OF … HUMAN DECISION / JOHN 1:13
  89. RECEIVED … BELIEVED / JOHN 1:12
  90. THE WORLD DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM / JOHN 1:10
  91. GIVES LIGHT TO EVERY MAN / JOHN 1:9
  92. LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS /JOHN 1:5
  93. LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4
  94. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  95. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  96. KNOW THAT YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES / JOHN 13:35
  97. LOVE ONE ANOTHER / JOHN 13:34
  98. AT A LOSS TO KNOW WHICH OF THEM HE MEANT / JOHN 13:22
  99. WASH ONE ANOTHER’S FEET / JOHN 13:14
  100. UNLESS I WASH YOU / JOHN 13:8
  101. WASH HIS DISCIPLES FEET /JOHN 13:5
  102. TAKING FROM WHAT IS MINE / JOHN 16:14
  103. HOLY SPIRIT / JOHN 14:26
  104. I WILL ASK THE FATHER – COUNSELOR / JOHN 14:16
  105. HE WHO DOES NOT LOVE ME / JOHN 14:24
  106. REMAIN IN MY LOVE / JOHN 15:9-10
  107. ETERNAL LIFE / JOHN 17:3
  108. SANCTIFY THEM BY THE TRUTH / JOHN 17:17
  109. GUIDED BY GRACE ABOUT

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!” Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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