Your words were found and I ate them
Prayer request – Paul asks the believers to pray that God's message will spread quickly and that he and his team will be protected from wicked people.God's faithfulness – He reminds them that the Lord is faithful, will strengthen them, and guard them from the evil one.Warning against idleness – Paul commands the church to keep away from those who live in laziness and refuse to work, reminding them of his own example of hard work while among them.Work ethic – He stresses: “If anyone is not willing to work, neither should he eat.” Believers are urged to work quietly and earn their own living.Dealing with the disobedient – Anyone who ignores Paul's instructions should be warned, but not treated as an enemy—rather, as a brother who needs correction.Closing blessing – Paul ends with a prayer for peace, a personal note written in his own hand as a mark of authenticity, and a blessing of grace.Key Theme:Paul calls for prayer, warns against idleness, and urges believers to work diligently, live responsibly, and hold fast to God's peace and grace.
Prayer request – Paul asks the believers to pray that God's message will spread quickly and that he and his team will be protected from wicked people.God's faithfulness – He reminds them that the Lord is faithful, will strengthen them, and guard them from the evil one.Warning against idleness – Paul commands the church to keep away from those who live in laziness and refuse to work, reminding them of his own example of hard work while among them.Work ethic – He stresses: “If anyone is not willing to work, neither should he eat.” Believers are urged to work quietly and earn their own living.Dealing with the disobedient – Anyone who ignores Paul's instructions should be warned, but not treated as an enemy—rather, as a brother who needs correction.Closing blessing – Paul ends with a prayer for peace, a personal note written in his own hand as a mark of authenticity, and a blessing of grace.Key Theme:Paul calls for prayer, warns against idleness, and urges believers to work diligently, live responsibly, and hold fast to God's peace and grace.
The Day of the Lord – Paul warns believers not to be deceived by false teachings or claims that the Day of the Lord has already come.The rebellion and the man of lawlessness – Before Christ's return, there will be a great rebellion, and the “man of lawlessness” (the Antichrist figure) will rise, exalting himself above God and setting himself up in God's temple.God's restraint – This lawless one is being held back for now until the appointed time, but when revealed, Jesus will overthrow him with His word and power.Deception and judgment – Those who reject truth will be deceived by lies and face condemnation.Encouragement and prayer – Paul reassures the believers that they are chosen for salvation through the Spirit and belief in the truth. He urges them to stand firm and hold to the teachings they received and prays for God's comfort and strength for them.Key Theme:Paul teaches that Christ's return has not yet happened, warns about the coming deception and the “man of lawlessness,” but encourages believers to remain steadfast in the truth and rely on God's strength.
The Day of the Lord – Paul warns believers not to be deceived by false teachings or claims that the Day of the Lord has already come.The rebellion and the man of lawlessness – Before Christ's return, there will be a great rebellion, and the “man of lawlessness” (the Antichrist figure) will rise, exalting himself above God and setting himself up in God's temple.God's restraint – This lawless one is being held back for now until the appointed time, but when revealed, Jesus will overthrow him with His word and power.Deception and judgment – Those who reject truth will be deceived by lies and face condemnation.Encouragement and prayer – Paul reassures the believers that they are chosen for salvation through the Spirit and belief in the truth. He urges them to stand firm and hold to the teachings they received and prays for God's comfort and strength for them.Key Theme:Paul teaches that Christ's return has not yet happened, warns about the coming deception and the “man of lawlessness,” but encourages believers to remain steadfast in the truth and rely on God's strength.
The Day of the Lord – Paul warns believers not to be deceived by false teachings or claims that the Day of the Lord has already come.The rebellion and the man of lawlessness – Before Christ's return, there will be a great rebellion, and the “man of lawlessness” (the Antichrist figure) will rise, exalting himself above God and setting himself up in God's temple.God's restraint – This lawless one is being held back for now until the appointed time, but when revealed, Jesus will overthrow him with His word and power.Deception and judgment – Those who reject truth will be deceived by lies and face condemnation.Encouragement and prayer – Paul reassures the believers that they are chosen for salvation through the Spirit and belief in the truth. He urges them to stand firm and hold to the teachings they received and prays for God's comfort and strength for them.Key Theme:Paul teaches that Christ's return has not yet happened, warns about the coming deception and the “man of lawlessness,” but encourages believers to remain steadfast in the truth and rely on God's strength.
Hoshea, last king of Israel – Hoshea became king over Israel and did evil in God's sight, though not as much as earlier kings. He became a vassal to the king of Assyria but later conspired with Egypt, which led to Assyria imprisoning him.Fall of Samaria – After a three-year siege, the Assyrians captured Samaria and carried the people of Israel into exile in Assyria. This marked the end of the northern kingdom of Israel.Reasons for exile – The chapter explains that Israel's fall was due to persistent sin: worshiping other gods, building high places, following pagan practices, rejecting God's covenant, and ignoring His prophets.Assyrian resettlement – The Assyrian king brought people from other nations (Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim) to live in the cities of Samaria. At first, they did not fear the Lord, so God sent lions among them.Introduction of mixed worship – A priest from Israel was brought back to teach them about the Lord. However, the new settlers continued to worship their own gods alongside some form of worship to the Lord. This syncretism continued, with each group making idols and setting up shrines while claiming to worship God.Key Theme:2 Kings 17 records the downfall of Israel (the northern kingdom) because of idolatry and disobedience to God, highlighting that their exile was a direct result of rejecting His covenant.
Hoshea, last king of Israel – Hoshea became king over Israel and did evil in God's sight, though not as much as earlier kings. He became a vassal to the king of Assyria but later conspired with Egypt, which led to Assyria imprisoning him.Fall of Samaria – After a three-year siege, the Assyrians captured Samaria and carried the people of Israel into exile in Assyria. This marked the end of the northern kingdom of Israel.Reasons for exile – The chapter explains that Israel's fall was due to persistent sin: worshiping other gods, building high places, following pagan practices, rejecting God's covenant, and ignoring His prophets.Assyrian resettlement – The Assyrian king brought people from other nations (Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim) to live in the cities of Samaria. At first, they did not fear the Lord, so God sent lions among them.Introduction of mixed worship – A priest from Israel was brought back to teach them about the Lord. However, the new settlers continued to worship their own gods alongside some form of worship to the Lord. This syncretism continued, with each group making idols and setting up shrines while claiming to worship God.Key Theme:2 Kings 17 records the downfall of Israel (the northern kingdom) because of idolatry and disobedience to God, highlighting that their exile was a direct result of rejecting His covenant.
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Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy greet the church in Thessalonica, giving thanks for their growing faith and love. Paul commends them for their perseverance in the face of persecution and suffering, pointing out that their endurance is evidence of God's righteous judgment—that they will be considered worthy of His kingdom.He assures them that God will repay affliction to those who trouble them and bring relief to the faithful when Jesus returns. At Christ's coming, He will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, bringing judgment on those who do not know God or obey the gospel, while being glorified among His saints.Paul ends with a prayer asking God to make them worthy of His calling, to fulfill every good work of faith with power, so that the name of Jesus may be glorified in them, and they in Him, according to God's grace.
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy greet the church in Thessalonica, giving thanks for their growing faith and love. Paul commends them for their perseverance in the face of persecution and suffering, pointing out that their endurance is evidence of God's righteous judgment—that they will be considered worthy of His kingdom.He assures them that God will repay affliction to those who trouble them and bring relief to the faithful when Jesus returns. At Christ's coming, He will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, bringing judgment on those who do not know God or obey the gospel, while being glorified among His saints.Paul ends with a prayer asking God to make them worthy of His calling, to fulfill every good work of faith with power, so that the name of Jesus may be glorified in them, and they in Him, according to God's grace.
King Ahaz of Judah begins his reign at age twenty. Unlike his ancestor David, he follows the sinful practices of the kings of Israel, even burning his son as a sacrifice and worshiping idols.When Syria and Israel attack Judah, Ahaz seeks help from Tiglath-Pileser, king of Assyria, sending him treasures from the temple and palace as tribute. Assyria defeats Damascus, capturing its people.While in Damascus, Ahaz sees a pagan altar and orders Uriah the priest to build one like it in Jerusalem. He then replaces the bronze altar of the Lord with this new altar, offering sacrifices on it and relegating the original altar to secondary use. Ahaz also makes changes to the temple furnishings to please the Assyrian king.The chapter ends by noting that the rest of Ahaz's deeds are recorded in the chronicles of Judah's kings. After his death, his son Hezekiah succeeds him.
King Ahaz of Judah begins his reign at age twenty. Unlike his ancestor David, he follows the sinful practices of the kings of Israel, even burning his son as a sacrifice and worshiping idols.When Syria and Israel attack Judah, Ahaz seeks help from Tiglath-Pileser, king of Assyria, sending him treasures from the temple and palace as tribute. Assyria defeats Damascus, capturing its people.While in Damascus, Ahaz sees a pagan altar and orders Uriah the priest to build one like it in Jerusalem. He then replaces the bronze altar of the Lord with this new altar, offering sacrifices on it and relegating the original altar to secondary use. Ahaz also makes changes to the temple furnishings to please the Assyrian king.The chapter ends by noting that the rest of Ahaz's deeds are recorded in the chronicles of Judah's kings. After his death, his son Hezekiah succeeds him.
Paul continues his teaching about the return of Christ. He explains that the day of the Lord will come suddenly and unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. Believers, however, should not be caught off guard because they live in the light and should stay awake, alert, and self-controlled, clothed with faith, love, and hope of salvation. God has destined them not for wrath but for salvation through Jesus, who died so they may live with Him.Paul then gives practical instructions for Christian living:Encourage, help, and build up one another.Respect leaders who work hard among them.Be patient with everyone, avoid revenge, and always pursue goodness.Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.Do not quench the Spirit, despise prophecies, or accept evil—but test everything and hold onto what is good.He closes with a prayer that God will sanctify them completely in spirit, soul, and body until Christ's coming, assuring them that God is faithful to accomplish it. Paul asks for their prayers, urges them to greet one another warmly, and insists that his letter be read to all believers, ending with a blessing of grace.
Paul continues his teaching about the return of Christ. He explains that the day of the Lord will come suddenly and unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. Believers, however, should not be caught off guard because they live in the light and should stay awake, alert, and self-controlled, clothed with faith, love, and hope of salvation. God has destined them not for wrath but for salvation through Jesus, who died so they may live with Him.Paul then gives practical instructions for Christian living:Encourage, help, and build up one another.Respect leaders who work hard among them.Be patient with everyone, avoid revenge, and always pursue goodness.Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.Do not quench the Spirit, despise prophecies, or accept evil—but test everything and hold onto what is good.He closes with a prayer that God will sanctify them completely in spirit, soul, and body until Christ's coming, assuring them that God is faithful to accomplish it. Paul asks for their prayers, urges them to greet one another warmly, and insists that his letter be read to all believers, ending with a blessing of grace.
Paul continues his teaching about the return of Christ. He explains that the day of the Lord will come suddenly and unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. Believers, however, should not be caught off guard because they live in the light and should stay awake, alert, and self-controlled, clothed with faith, love, and hope of salvation. God has destined them not for wrath but for salvation through Jesus, who died so they may live with Him.Paul then gives practical instructions for Christian living:Encourage, help, and build up one another.Respect leaders who work hard among them.Be patient with everyone, avoid revenge, and always pursue goodness.Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.Do not quench the Spirit, despise prophecies, or accept evil—but test everything and hold onto what is good.He closes with a prayer that God will sanctify them completely in spirit, soul, and body until Christ's coming, assuring them that God is faithful to accomplish it. Paul asks for their prayers, urges them to greet one another warmly, and insists that his letter be read to all believers, ending with a blessing of grace.
Reign of Azariah (Uzziah) in Judah (vv. 1–7): Azariah became king of Judah and reigned 52 years. He did what was right in the Lord's eyes but did not remove the high places. The Lord struck him with leprosy, and his son Jotham governed in his place.Reigns in Israel (vv. 8–31):Reign of Jotham in Judah (vv. 32–38): Jotham, son of Azariah, became king of Judah. He did what was right in God's eyes but did not remove the high places. He built the Upper Gate of the Lord's temple. In his days, the Lord began to send Rezin of Aram and Pekah of Israel against Judah.In short: 2 Kings 15 records a series of short, violent reigns in Israel leading to instability and Assyrian oppression, while in Judah, Azariah and Jotham reigned long but failed to remove idolatry.
Vivir para agradar a Dios (vv. 1–8): Pablo exhorta a los creyentes a vivir vidas santas que agraden a Dios, evitando la inmoralidad sexual, controlando sus cuerpos en santidad y honor, y sin perjudicar a otros. Dios los llama a la pureza, y rechazar esta enseñanza es rechazar a Dios mismo, quien da su Espíritu Santo.Amor y vida diaria (vv. 9–12): Les felicita por su amor fraternal, pero los anima a seguir creciendo en él. También les aconseja vivir tranquilamente, ocuparse de sus propios asuntos y trabajar con sus manos para ganar respeto y no depender de otros.Esperanza en la resurrección (vv. 13–18): Pablo los consuela respecto a los creyentes que han muerto, asegurando que resucitarán cuando Jesús regrese. El Señor descenderá con voz de mando, los muertos en Cristo resucitarán primero, y luego los creyentes vivos serán arrebatados junto con ellos para encontrarse con el Señor. Les anima a consolarse mutuamente con esta esperanza.En resumen: Pablo exhorta a los tesalonicenses a vivir vidas santas y llenas de amor, trabajar con diligencia y encontrar consuelo en la promesa del regreso de Cristo y la resurrección.
Amaziah's Reign in Judah (vv.1–7): Amaziah, son of Joash, becomes king of Judah and rules for 29 years. He does what is right in God's eyes, though not fully like David, since high places remain. He executes the officials who killed his father but spares their children, obeying the Law of Moses. Amaziah defeats the Edomites in battle, striking down 10,000 in the Valley of Salt and capturing Sela, renaming it Joktheel.Conflict with Israel (vv.8–14): Amaziah challenges Jehoash, king of Israel, to battle. Jehoash warns him with a parable about a thistle and a cedar, advising him not to be prideful after his victory over Edom. Amaziah refuses, and they fight at Beth Shemesh. Judah is defeated, Amaziah is captured, and Jerusalem's wall is broken down. Jehoash takes treasures from the temple and palace along with hostages back to Samaria.Later Years of Amaziah (vv.15–22): Jehoash dies, and his son Jeroboam II becomes king of Israel. Amaziah outlives Jehoash by 15 years, but later a conspiracy arises against him in Jerusalem, and he flees to Lachish, where he is killed. His body is brought back and buried in Jerusalem. His son Azariah (Uzziah) becomes king and rebuilds Elath for Judah.Jeroboam II in Israel (vv.23–29): Jeroboam II, son of Jehoash, reigns in Samaria for 41 years. He continues in the sins of Jeroboam I. However, under God's mercy, Israel regains lost territories, from Lebo Hamath to the Sea of the Arabah, fulfilling the word spoken through Jonah son of Amittai. Jeroboam II's reign strengthens Israel, though spiritually the nation remains corrupt.Key Themes in 2 Kings 14:Partial obedience – Amaziah follows God's law in some ways but not fully.Pride leads to downfall – Amaziah's arrogance after victory over Edom causes Judah's defeat.God's mercy to Israel – Despite their sin, God shows compassion by restoring their land under Jeroboam II.The cycle of kings – Success and failure alternate, showing the fragility of earthly leadership compared to God's enduring rule.
Amaziah's Reign in Judah (vv.1–7): Amaziah, son of Joash, becomes king of Judah and rules for 29 years. He does what is right in God's eyes, though not fully like David, since high places remain. He executes the officials who killed his father but spares their children, obeying the Law of Moses. Amaziah defeats the Edomites in battle, striking down 10,000 in the Valley of Salt and capturing Sela, renaming it Joktheel.Conflict with Israel (vv.8–14): Amaziah challenges Jehoash, king of Israel, to battle. Jehoash warns him with a parable about a thistle and a cedar, advising him not to be prideful after his victory over Edom. Amaziah refuses, and they fight at Beth Shemesh. Judah is defeated, Amaziah is captured, and Jerusalem's wall is broken down. Jehoash takes treasures from the temple and palace along with hostages back to Samaria.Later Years of Amaziah (vv.15–22): Jehoash dies, and his son Jeroboam II becomes king of Israel. Amaziah outlives Jehoash by 15 years, but later a conspiracy arises against him in Jerusalem, and he flees to Lachish, where he is killed. His body is brought back and buried in Jerusalem. His son Azariah (Uzziah) becomes king and rebuilds Elath for Judah.Jeroboam II in Israel (vv.23–29): Jeroboam II, son of Jehoash, reigns in Samaria for 41 years. He continues in the sins of Jeroboam I. However, under God's mercy, Israel regains lost territories, from Lebo Hamath to the Sea of the Arabah, fulfilling the word spoken through Jonah son of Amittai. Jeroboam II's reign strengthens Israel, though spiritually the nation remains corrupt.Key Themes in 2 Kings 14:Partial obedience – Amaziah follows God's law in some ways but not fully.Pride leads to downfall – Amaziah's arrogance after victory over Edom causes Judah's defeat.God's mercy to Israel – Despite their sin, God shows compassion by restoring their land under Jeroboam II.The cycle of kings – Success and failure alternate, showing the fragility of earthly leadership compared to God's enduring rule.
Paul explains that, because he was deeply concerned about the Thessalonians' faith and endurance under persecution, he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them. Paul knew that trials would come, and he feared that the tempter (Satan) might have shaken their faith and made his ministry in vain.When Timothy returned with good news about their steadfast faith and love, Paul was greatly comforted and overjoyed. Their faith gave him renewed strength, even in his own struggles.Paul expresses his longing to see them again in person so he can help supply what is still lacking in their faith. He then prays that God would direct his way back to them, make their love for one another overflow, and strengthen their hearts to be blameless and holy when Christ returns.Key Themes:Christian leaders' deep concern for the spiritual health of believers.Encouragement through one another's steadfast faith.Prayer for growth in love, holiness, and readiness for Christ's coming.
Paul explains that, because he was deeply concerned about the Thessalonians' faith and endurance under persecution, he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them. Paul knew that trials would come, and he feared that the tempter (Satan) might have shaken their faith and made his ministry in vain.When Timothy returned with good news about their steadfast faith and love, Paul was greatly comforted and overjoyed. Their faith gave him renewed strength, even in his own struggles.Paul expresses his longing to see them again in person so he can help supply what is still lacking in their faith. He then prays that God would direct his way back to them, make their love for one another overflow, and strengthen their hearts to be blameless and holy when Christ returns.Key Themes:Christian leaders' deep concern for the spiritual health of believers.Encouragement through one another's steadfast faith.Prayer for growth in love, holiness, and readiness for Christ's coming.
Paul explains that, because he was deeply concerned about the Thessalonians' faith and endurance under persecution, he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them. Paul knew that trials would come, and he feared that the tempter (Satan) might have shaken their faith and made his ministry in vain.When Timothy returned with good news about their steadfast faith and love, Paul was greatly comforted and overjoyed. Their faith gave him renewed strength, even in his own struggles.Paul expresses his longing to see them again in person so he can help supply what is still lacking in their faith. He then prays that God would direct his way back to them, make their love for one another overflow, and strengthen their hearts to be blameless and holy when Christ returns.Key Themes:Christian leaders' deep concern for the spiritual health of believers.Encouragement through one another's steadfast faith.Prayer for growth in love, holiness, and readiness for Christ's coming.
King Jehoahaz becomes king of Israel (the northern kingdom). He follows the sins of Jeroboam (idol worship), so God allows Israel to be oppressed by Hazael and later Ben-Hadad, kings of Aram (Syria). Jehoahaz humbles himself and prays, and God shows mercy by giving Israel a deliverer, but the nation still continues in sin.Jehoahaz's son Jehoash (Joash) succeeds him as king. He also follows Jeroboam's sins and does evil in God's sight.During this time, the prophet Elisha is very old and sick. King Jehoash visits him, weeping, and Elisha gives him prophetic signs:Arrows of victory: Elisha tells Jehoash to shoot an arrow, symbolizing God's victory over Aram. Then he tells him to strike the ground with arrows. Jehoash strikes only three times, and Elisha becomes upset, saying that Israel will defeat Aram only three times instead of completely destroying them.After Elisha dies and is buried, a miracle occurs: a dead man's body touches Elisha's bones and comes back to life.In the end, Israel regains some cities that Aram had captured, fulfilling Elisha's prophecy that Jehoash would win three victories.Key Themes:God's mercy even when His people persist in sin.The importance of wholehearted faith and obedience (half-hearted actions limit blessings).God's power displayed even after the death of His prophet.
Parting the Jordan River (2 Kings 2:8)Healing the Waters of Jericho (2 Kings 2:19-22)Two Bears Devouring Mockers (2 Kings 2:23-24)Water Filling Ditches for the Moabite Army (2 Kings 3:16-20)Increasing the Widow's Oil (2 Kings 4:1-7)Resurrecting the Shunammite Woman's Son (2 Kings 4:32-37)Purifying Poisoned Pottage (2 Kings 4:41)Multiplying Food (2 Kings 4:43-44)Healing Naaman the Leper (2 Kings 5:1-14)Contaminating Gehazi with Leprosy (2 Kings 5:27)Making the Axe Head Float (2 Kings 6:1-7)Rendering the Syrian Army Blind (2 Kings 6:18)Restoring Sight to the Syrian Army (2 Kings 6:20)Causing the Blindness of the Enemy to Stop (2 Kings 6:20)Prophesying an End to a Great Famine (2 Kings 7:1-2)Foreknowledge of the King's Plot (2 Kings 6:12) Man revived in tomb when tossed on Elisha's bones (2 Kings 13:20)
King Jehoahaz becomes king of Israel (the northern kingdom). He follows the sins of Jeroboam (idol worship), so God allows Israel to be oppressed by Hazael and later Ben-Hadad, kings of Aram (Syria). Jehoahaz humbles himself and prays, and God shows mercy by giving Israel a deliverer, but the nation still continues in sin.Jehoahaz's son Jehoash (Joash) succeeds him as king. He also follows Jeroboam's sins and does evil in God's sight.During this time, the prophet Elisha is very old and sick. King Jehoash visits him, weeping, and Elisha gives him prophetic signs:Arrows of victory: Elisha tells Jehoash to shoot an arrow, symbolizing God's victory over Aram. Then he tells him to strike the ground with arrows. Jehoash strikes only three times, and Elisha becomes upset, saying that Israel will defeat Aram only three times instead of completely destroying them.After Elisha dies and is buried, a miracle occurs: a dead man's body touches Elisha's bones and comes back to life.In the end, Israel regains some cities that Aram had captured, fulfilling Elisha's prophecy that Jehoash would win three victories.Key Themes:God's mercy even when His people persist in sin.The importance of wholehearted faith and obedience (half-hearted actions limit blessings).God's power displayed even after the death of His prophet.
Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers how he, Silas, and Timothy first came to them. Even though they had faced opposition and suffering in Philippi, they boldly preached the gospel in Thessalonica with sincerity and without selfish motives. They did not seek praise, wealth, or power, but instead cared for the believers gently, like a mother caring for her children and like a father encouraging them to live worthy lives before God.Paul thanks God that the Thessalonians received the gospel not as human words, but as God's Word, which was actively working in them. He acknowledges their suffering at the hands of their own people, similar to how Jewish believers suffered from their countrymen.He also explains that though he longed to visit them again, Satan hindered him. Still, he expresses that the Thessalonians are his joy, glory, and crown in the presence of Christ when He returns.Key Themes:The integrity and sincerity of true gospel ministry.The tender, parental care of spiritual leaders.The reality of suffering for faith in Christ.Believers as a source of joy and reward at Christ's coming.
Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers how he, Silas, and Timothy first came to them. Even though they had faced opposition and suffering in Philippi, they boldly preached the gospel in Thessalonica with sincerity and without selfish motives. They did not seek praise, wealth, or power, but instead cared for the believers gently, like a mother caring for her children and like a father encouraging them to live worthy lives before God.Paul thanks God that the Thessalonians received the gospel not as human words, but as God's Word, which was actively working in them. He acknowledges their suffering at the hands of their own people, similar to how Jewish believers suffered from their countrymen.He also explains that though he longed to visit them again, Satan hindered him. Still, he expresses that the Thessalonians are his joy, glory, and crown in the presence of Christ when He returns.Key Themes:The integrity and sincerity of true gospel ministry.The tender, parental care of spiritual leaders.The reality of suffering for faith in Christ.Believers as a source of joy and reward at Christ's coming.
King Joash (also called Jehoash) begins to reign over Judah at age seven and rules for forty years in Jerusalem. Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash does what is right in God's eyes, though the high places (altars for unauthorized worship) are not removed, and people still offer sacrifices there.Joash orders that money collected at the temple—such as offerings, vows, and freewill gifts—be used to repair the temple. At first, the priests do not make repairs, so Joash and Jehoiada set up a new system: a chest is placed near the altar where money is deposited, and it is used specifically for temple restoration. The money is faithfully handled, given to workers, and used directly for repairs (not for temple utensils).Later, King Hazael of Aram (Syria) threatens Jerusalem. To avoid attack, Joash takes treasures from the temple and the royal palace and sends them to Hazael as tribute, so Hazael withdraws.In the end, Joash is betrayed by his own officials, who conspire against him and assassinate him in Beth Millo. His son Amaziah succeeds him as king.Key Themes:The importance of temple worship and proper use of offerings.The influence of godly leadership (Joash follows the Lord while Jehoiada is alive).Compromise with enemies through tribute instead of trusting God.The tragic downfall of a king who began well but ended poorly.
King Joash (also called Jehoash) begins to reign over Judah at age seven and rules for forty years in Jerusalem. Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash does what is right in God's eyes, though the high places (altars for unauthorized worship) are not removed, and people still offer sacrifices there.Joash orders that money collected at the temple—such as offerings, vows, and freewill gifts—be used to repair the temple. At first, the priests do not make repairs, so Joash and Jehoiada set up a new system: a chest is placed near the altar where money is deposited, and it is used specifically for temple restoration. The money is faithfully handled, given to workers, and used directly for repairs (not for temple utensils).Later, King Hazael of Aram (Syria) threatens Jerusalem. To avoid attack, Joash takes treasures from the temple and the royal palace and sends them to Hazael as tribute, so Hazael withdraws.In the end, Joash is betrayed by his own officials, who conspire against him and assassinate him in Beth Millo. His son Amaziah succeeds him as king.Key Themes:The importance of temple worship and proper use of offerings.The influence of godly leadership (Joash follows the Lord while Jehoiada is alive).Compromise with enemies through tribute instead of trusting God.The tragic downfall of a king who began well but ended poorly.
Paul, Silvanus (Silas), and Timothy greet the church in Thessalonica, thanking God for them and constantly remembering their faith, love, and hope in Christ. Paul notes that the gospel came to them not only with words but also with power, the Holy Spirit, and deep conviction. Despite persecution, the Thessalonians received the message with joy and became examples to believers throughout Macedonia and Achaia. Their faith in God spread widely, so much so that Paul did not need to say much; others testified about how they turned from idols to serve the living and true God and to wait for His Son, Jesus, who rescues them from the coming wrath.
Paul, Silvanus (Silas), and Timothy greet the church in Thessalonica, thanking God for them and constantly remembering their faith, love, and hope in Christ. Paul notes that the gospel came to them not only with words but also with power, the Holy Spirit, and deep conviction. Despite persecution, the Thessalonians received the message with joy and became examples to believers throughout Macedonia and Achaia. Their faith in God spread widely, so much so that Paul did not need to say much; others testified about how they turned from idols to serve the living and true God and to wait for His Son, Jesus, who rescues them from the coming wrath.
After King Ahaziah of Judah dies, his mother Athaliah seizes power by killing off the royal family to secure the throne for herself. However, Jehosheba, Ahaziah's sister, secretly rescues the infant Joash and hides him in the temple for six years under the care of the priest Jehoiada.In the seventh year, Jehoiada organizes a coup with the temple guards and military leaders. They crown Joash as king, present him with the royal crown and the “testimony” (law), and anoint him in the temple. The people rejoice, shouting, “Long live the king!”Athaliah hears the commotion, rushes to the temple, and cries “Treason!” But Jehoiada orders her to be taken out and executed.Jehoiada then makes a covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people that they will be the Lord's people. The people destroy the temple of Baal, tear down its altars, and kill its priest.Finally, Joash takes his rightful place on the throne at age seven, and peace is restored to Judah.Key Themes: God's protection of David's royal line, the danger of idolatry, the importance of covenant faithfulness, and God raising up faithful servants (Jehosheba and Jehoiada) to preserve His promises.
After King Ahaziah of Judah dies, his mother Athaliah seizes power by killing off the royal family to secure the throne for herself. However, Jehosheba, Ahaziah's sister, secretly rescues the infant Joash and hides him in the temple for six years under the care of the priest Jehoiada.In the seventh year, Jehoiada organizes a coup with the temple guards and military leaders. They crown Joash as king, present him with the royal crown and the “testimony” (law), and anoint him in the temple. The people rejoice, shouting, “Long live the king!”Athaliah hears the commotion, rushes to the temple, and cries “Treason!” But Jehoiada orders her to be taken out and executed.Jehoiada then makes a covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people that they will be the Lord's people. The people destroy the temple of Baal, tear down its altars, and kill its priest.Finally, Joash takes his rightful place on the throne at age seven, and peace is restored to Judah.Key Themes: God's protection of David's royal line, the danger of idolatry, the importance of covenant faithfulness, and God raising up faithful servants (Jehosheba and Jehoiada) to preserve His promises.
10. How many times did Naaman dip in the Jordan River to be cleansed?A) 3B) 5C) 10D) 7
9. Who advised Naaman to see Elisha about healing his leprosy?A) A Syrian soldierB) His wife's servant girl from IsraelC) GehaziD) King of Syria
8. When there was death in the pot (poisoned stew), what did Elisha add to make it safe?A) FlourB) SaltC) OilD) Honey
7. What happened to the Shunammite woman's son?A) He drowned in the JordanB) He died suddenly and was raised back to life by ElishaC) He was taken captive to SyriaD) He became sick but later recovered
6. How did God provide water for the armies in the desert?A) Rain from heavenB) A spring opened in the valleyC) Water flowed without wind or rain, filling the trenchesD) Elisha struck a rock
5. Which three kings joined forces to fight against Moab?A) Israel, Judah, and EdomB) Israel, Syria, and EgyptC) Judah, Philistia, and MoabD) Israel, Judah, and Aram
Colossians 4 SummaryFinal Instructions (vv. 1–6):Paul tells masters to treat their slaves justly and fairly, remembering that they too have a Master in heaven. He urges believers to devote themselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful, and to pray for him so he can proclaim the gospel clearly. He encourages them to act wisely toward outsiders and to let their conversations be gracious and seasoned with salt, so they know how to answer everyone.Personal Greetings (vv. 7–18):Paul sends greetings and updates through trusted coworkers:Paul closes by writing the final greeting with his own hand and asks them to remember his imprisonment. He ends with a blessing of grace.Key Themes:Prayer and watchfulness in the Christian life.Wise conduct and gracious speech toward others.The value of Christian partnership and encouragement.Faithfulness in completing the work God has given.
Colossians 4 SummaryFinal Instructions (vv. 1–6):Paul tells masters to treat their slaves justly and fairly, remembering that they too have a Master in heaven. He urges believers to devote themselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful, and to pray for him so he can proclaim the gospel clearly. He encourages them to act wisely toward outsiders and to let their conversations be gracious and seasoned with salt, so they know how to answer everyone.Personal Greetings (vv. 7–18):Paul sends greetings and updates through trusted coworkers:Paul closes by writing the final greeting with his own hand and asks them to remember his imprisonment. He ends with a blessing of grace.Key Themes:Prayer and watchfulness in the Christian life.Wise conduct and gracious speech toward others.The value of Christian partnership and encouragement.Faithfulness in completing the work God has given.
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