Today’s Bible Reading

September 21

Old Testament I
1 Kings 12:25 - 13:32
1 Kings 12:25-13:32 tells the story of Jeroboam, who became king over the northern tribes of Israel after Solomon's death. Jeroboam, however, was afraid that if the people continued to worship in Jerusalem, they would eventually turn back to Rehoboam, Solomon's son and the king of Judah. So, he set up two golden calves as idols and told the people that they could worship them instead.

God was displeased with Jeroboam's actions and sent a prophet to denounce him. The prophet declared that the altar that Jeroboam had built would split apart and that the ashes on it would be poured out. He also prophesied that a future king of Judah, named Josiah, would destroy the idols that Jeroboam had set up.

Despite the prophet's warnings, Jeroboam refused to repent and even tried to seize the prophet. As a result, God punished Jeroboam by afflicting him with a disease, and his son died.

This story serves as a warning against idolatry and disobedience to God. It also shows how God raises up prophets to speak truth to power and to call people back to obedience. Finally, it highlights the importance of repentance and the consequences of refusing to turn from sin.

Old Testament II
Jeremiah 23
Jeremiah 23 is a chapter in the Old Testament book of Jeremiah, in which the prophet Jeremiah delivers a message from God to the leaders of Judah. The chapter can be summarized as follows:

In the first part of the chapter (verses 1-8), God denounces the leaders of Judah for failing to care for the people under their authority. He promises to raise up a new king, a righteous Branch from the line of David, who will reign with wisdom and justice and restore the people to their land.

In the second part of the chapter (verses 9-22), Jeremiah speaks out against false prophets who are leading the people astray with their lies and deceit. He warns that God is not pleased with their actions and that they will face punishment for their sins.

In the final part of the chapter (verses 23-40), Jeremiah declares God's judgment on those who prophesy falsely and lead the people astray. He warns of a coming storm of destruction and calls on the people to turn away from their sins and return to God.

Overall, the chapter emphasizes the importance of true leadership and the danger of false prophets who lead people away from God. It also provides hope for the future, as God promises to raise up a righteous king who will restore justice and peace to the land.

New Testament
Colossians 1:21 - 2:27
Colossians 1:21-2:27 is a section of Paul's letter to the Colossians that emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ for salvation and sanctification. In this section, Paul highlights the preeminence and power of Christ, reminding the Colossians that in him, they have everything they need for salvation and growth in godliness.

In Colossians 1:21-23, Paul describes how the Colossians were once alienated from God and enemies in their minds because of their evil behavior. However, through Christ's death on the cross, they have been reconciled to God and can now stand before him holy and blameless, as long as they continue in the faith.

In Colossians 1:24-29, Paul explains his own role in proclaiming the gospel of Christ. He affirms that his ministry is to make known the mystery of Christ, which is that he lives in believers, giving them hope of glory. Paul's desire is that all may be presented mature in Christ, and he works hard for this goal.

In Colossians 2:1-5, Paul expresses his concern for the Colossians and their spiritual well-being. He wants them to know how hard he has worked for them and the Laodiceans, that their hearts may be encouraged and united in love.

In Colossians 2:6-15, Paul urges the Colossians to continue to live in Christ, rooted and built up in him. He warns against being taken captive by empty philosophies and traditions that are not in line with Christ. He also reminds the Colossians that through Christ, they have been set free from the powers of this world, and that they have been made complete in him.

In Colossians 2:16-23, Paul addresses specific false teachings that were circulating among the Colossians. He argues that they should not let anyone judge them based on things like food, drink, or religious festivals, as these things are merely a shadow of what is to come. Instead, they should hold fast to Christ, who is the head of all rule and authority.

Overall, this section of Colossians emphasizes the sufficiency and preeminence of Christ for salvation and sanctification. Paul urges the Colossians to hold fast to Christ and not be swayed by false teachings, affirming that in Christ, they have everything they need for life and godliness.