The connection between KNOWING God and giving cheerfully…

2 Corinthians 9:6-8   The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully [4] will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that … More The connection between KNOWING God and giving cheerfully…

Calling all clay pots

John Piper comments on 2 Corinthians 4: Too many people say, “I’m so ordinary, so average and undistinguished. I can’t do anything significant.” 2 Corinthians 4:7 shows that this argument is wrong and why. It says, “We have this treasure in earthen vessels (or clay pots!) to show us that the transcendent power belongs to God and not … More Calling all clay pots

You Become What You Behold

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord,  are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. —2 Corinthians 3:18 John Piper comments: The main point is that Christian believers are being transformed—progressively, degree by degree—into the … More You Become What You Behold

God’s Promises

So look for statements about God’s promises as we read these verses [2 Cor 1:17-22] Was I vacillating when I wanted to do this? Do I make my plans according to the flesh, ready to say “Yes, yes” and “No, no” at the same time?  As surely as God is faithful, our word to you has not been … More God’s Promises

God Opens Eyes and Ears

Isaiah 35: 5-6  Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped;  then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy. We are blind and deaf; our powers of perception are destroyed by sin. What a picture! All the great … More God Opens Eyes and Ears

True, Full Freedom

John Piper has an analogy that demonstrates what true, full freedom means: Full freedom is what you have when no lack of opportunity, no lack of ability, and no lack of desire prevents you from doing what will make you happiest in a thousand years. In order to be free in the fullest sense you … More True, Full Freedom