Passage
2 Corinthians 3:1-6 (ESV)
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:26-40
Key Verse: 8:35
Our Competence is from God
Date: Feb. 24, 2016
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 3:5
Frist, a letter of commendation from God (1-3). Some had criticized Paul's leadership and ministry. His words had been twisted to mean selfish boasting. Some asked Paul for recommendation letters in support of his ministry. However, Paul did not need letters written by people in defense of his work. The fruit of his gospel ministry was self-evident in the changed and sanctified lives of the Corinthian Christians. The Holy Spirit's work in them was the end result of Paul's ministry. We ought to ask God to write his word on our hearts as well as on the hearts of those to whom we minister.
Second, the Spirit gives life (4-6). Paul was confident about his ministry but it was not a confidence that came from himself. His competence as a minister of the new covenant came from God. The new covenant is based on Jesus' blood. It is God's promise to forgive sinners who repent and believe in Jesus. This is not something done by people. This is the work of the Holy Spirit who gives new life to sinners.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the work of your Spirit. We depend wholly on you as we minister to others.
One Word: Depend on God to do his work
