Christian Tiews

Today we read 1 Corinthians 15, a most important chapter because of the more than 500 witnesses who saw our resurrected Lord! *** The justification Jesus provided is our only hope against sin, death, and the Law’s condemnation. Jesus delivers us from death’s jaws. He now equips us to serve in His Church and to live eternally in His kingdom. • Victorious Lord, Your nail-pierced hand drew me safely out of sin; Your pierced foot snapped shut the jaws of death. Teach me to stomp temptation. Swing wide heaven’s gates, that I may enter Your joy. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9972). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Corinthians 14. The “God of peace” (Romans 15:33) has established our salvation and life in the cross of His dear Son, our only Savior, who makes us one and strengthens us in the one true faith. • God of peace, tear down our elitist opinions and personal preferences. Build us up and nurture us through Your humble and patient Son, Jesus. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 9963-9964). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Corinthians 13. By so completely describing and advocating love’s divine qualities, Paul reveals the Corinthians’ immaturity. He sharply rebukes all noisy, clanging boasts of superiority. Yet, he alludes to the fact that the Father—who knows His children all too well—still loves them, reaches for them by His Word, and will embrace them eternally because of Christ, who delivered Himself up for us all. • O Father, all-knowing, when my brothers and sisters disappoint and annoy me, take my hands and stretch them wide to embrace them with Your all-embracing love; through Jesus, our mutual Savior. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 9955-9956). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Corinthians 12. Paul seeks to settle and unite the Corinthian congregation by emphasizing the order God established in creation and the priority of the Gospel. The sin of arrogance plaguing the Corinthians still disrupts congregations today when roles of service are not clearly defined or valued. Yet also today, Christ unites us in Baptism and makes us His very Body. Though wounded and afflicted, His Body can never be destroyed but carries out God’s loving purposes. • Grant me refuge, dear Jesus, in Your holy wounds, from which You poured life and blessing for me and for all. Because You value all Your people, teach me to love and serve them humbly according to my calling. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9953). (Function). Kindle Edition.