Bible Readings: 9/7 to 9/13
Path 1: New Testament and Psalms
In John 16–18, Jesus promises His disciples the Spirit who will guide them into truth and convict the world. He prays for His followers’ unity and sanctification before being betrayed and arrested. In His trial before Pilate, Jesus testifies that His kingdom is not of this world, yet He stands as the true King and Judge.
The Kingdom Not of This World: When Jesus declares His kingdom is not of this world, He rejects earthly methods of power, yet His reign is no less real. It is different in kind from political empires — not ordained by worldly power, nor built on the conventions of statecraft, but that does not mean it will not or should not influence all things. Jesus prayed, “Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”.
Path 2: Old Testament Pentateuch/History
In Exodus 37–38, the craftsmen construct the ark, table, lampstand, altar, and courtyard of the tabernacle. These furnishings symbolize God’s holiness and His dwelling among His people. The tabernacle takes shape as a portable sanctuary, foreshadowing Christ who tabernacled among us and the church as the temple of the Spirit.
Path 3: Old Testament Wisdom/Prophecy
In Proverbs 13–14, the contrast between righteousness and wickedness is further developed. Righteousness brings security, life, and stability to households and nations, while folly and sin lead to ruin. Wisdom calls for careful speech, diligence in work, and reverence for the Lord as the foundation of flourishing life.
The Household of Wisdom: Proverbs teaches that a wise woman builds her house while folly tears it down (Prov. 14:1). The nuclear family itself is patterned after the family of God, reflecting His covenant order. Strong households, grounded in righteousness, become the foundation for cultural stability and generational faithfulness.