The theme for the Spring 2011 Bible conference in Phoenix is found both at the beginning and end of the book (1Ti 1:18, 1Ti 6:12). In each reference, different words and phrases are used. In the first, Paul speaks of the good fight of faith as an ongoing campaign, thus reminding us that we are part of a vast and great spiritual army. In the last, his words focus on our own personal struggle, a good reminder that no one can fight our battle for us. This scope and intensity will be captured as we follow Paul’s thought through the book.
Gene Cunningham - February 24, 2010
Beauty for Ashes #1
Study notes for this series are available . God is the source of all mercies and all comfort (2Co 1:1-5); "All" means He has no limitations. Comfort illustrations: parakeleto - to call someone to your side - (1) mother taking a child to her side for comfort, (2) coach who has invested his time in an athlete, then bringing him along side to encourage, (3) soldier holding the line next to you. "Why did God let this happen to me?" is the wrong question; "What does God want to do with this?" is the right one. "Comfort my people" (Isa 40:1-8). Jesus worked in a calm orderly way (Isa 42:1-4). He did not break the bruised weed. He carried out a caring, compassionate ministry. He'll give "beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, garment of praise for spirit of heaviness" (Isa 61:1-3).
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
Scripture References: Isaiah 42:1-4, Isaiah 40:1-8, Isaiah 61:1-3
From Series: "Beauty For Ashes - Florida 2010"
Have you ever stood in great need of comfort and encouragement? If so you know that in time of affliction there is no thought or word that has deeper meaning nor any possession of greater value than that of effective and genuine comfort. The objective of this study is to equip us to have the assurance that there is comfort available and to know how to be comforted as well as how to be a comfort to others in the fires of affliction.