Faith & Reason Nexus

2 Corinthians 3:1-3

Some Thoughts Concerning Living Epistles:

WRITTEN ON PREPARED MATERIAL

• 2 Corinthians 3:3 – We are the letter of Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, on tablets of flesh, not on stone.
• Ephesians 2:10 – We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.
• Jeremiah 31:31-33 – God promises a new covenant, where His law will be written on our hearts.

WRITTEN WITH GOD’S SPIRIT

• Ephesians 3:3-5 – The mystery of Christ has been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets.
• Revelation 1:7 – Jesus will come with clouds, and every eye will see Him.
• Acts 18:5-8 – Paul, with the help of the Spirit, preached in Corinth, and many believed and were baptized.

BEARS THE WRITER’S EXPRESSION

• Philippians 2:3-5 – We are to do nothing out of selfish ambition, but humbly value others above ourselves, having the same mindset as Christ.
• Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
• Galatians 5:24 – Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

KNOWN AND READ OF ALL MEN

• 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10 – The Thessalonian church was known for their faith, turning to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
• Romans – Our lives should testify of God’s transforming power. (Romans 12:2)

SHOULD BE FREE OF BLOTS

• Matthew 5:16 – Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
• Philippians 2:14-16 – Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, shining like stars in the world.
• Romans 12:17 – Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but live in harmony with everyone.

SHOULD BE MOST LEGIBLE

• Acts 4:13 – When the apostles spoke, they were recognized as having been with Jesus.
• 1 Peter 3:15 – Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
• 1 Corinthians 16:13 – Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.

WHAT KIND OF AN EPISTLE ARE YOU?

• Are you a living letter, reflecting the work of the Spirit and the expression of Christ in your life? How does your life reflect the teachings and example of Jesus to others?