Bible Reading Plan 9/13 to 9/19
Path 1: New Testament and Psalms
In Acts 8–10, the gospel moves beyond Jerusalem into Samaria and toward the Gentile world. Philip preaches Christ, Saul is converted from persecutor to witness, and Peter learns that God shows no partiality. The Spirit confirms that Jesus’ kingdom is gathering one people from every nation through faith in Christ.
God Shows No Partiality: Peter’s encounter with Cornelius teaches that membership among God’s people is no longer defined by ethnic descent or ceremonial separation. God cleanses those who come to Christ, granting the same Spirit to Gentile believers. Peter's letter to the Israelites explains that God doesn't show favoritism and they are amazed when the Spirit descends on gentiles.
Path 2: Old Testament Pentateuch/History
In Judges 13–15, Samson is set apart from birth to begin delivering Israel from the Philistines. Yet his calling unfolds through personal weakness, rash desires, and violent conflict. God nevertheless uses Samson’s flawed actions to confront Israel’s oppressors, showing both divine sovereignty and the growing moral disorder of the judges period.
Path 3: Old Testament Wisdom/Prophecy
In Jeremiah 31–32, God promises restoration after judgment, including a new covenant in which his law is written on his people’s hearts and their sins are forgiven. Jeremiah’s purchase of a field during Jerusalem’s siege becomes a visible pledge that houses, fields, and vineyards will again be possessed in the land.
A New Covenant Written on the Heart: Jeremiah 31 promises something deeper than political restoration. God will write his law upon his people’s hearts, forgive their sins, and cause them truly to know him. The new covenant therefore answers the persistent covenant-breaking seen throughout Israel’s history: God himself provides the inward renewal necessary for a faithful people who willingly live under his rule.