The BIG Picture (Shorts)

Part 3 of 4 • ⏱️ 2-Min Read Passage: Romans 9:14-24 Scripture Focus: "What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." (Rom.9:14-15) Today's Lesson Paul addresses the objection of whether God is unrighteous for setting aside national Israel in favour of a new administration. The apostle refutes this, demonstrating that God owes mercy to no man. Quoting Exodus, Paul reminds us that God's mercy is governed by His sovereign grace rather than human effort or willing. Using Pharaoh as a historical illustration, Paul shows how God endured a rebellious ruler to demonstrate His power and make His name known throughout the earth. God displays His righteousness both in showing mercy and in allowing stubborn unbelief to manifest its full consequences. When Paul speaks of vessels fitted to destruction, he is referring to national ...

Part 3 of 4 • ⏱️ 2-Min Read Passage: Rom.8:18-27 Scripture Focus: "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Rom.8:18) Today's Lesson Having established our identity as joint-heirs with Christ, Paul addresses the present reality of suffering in a fallen world. As sons of God, our current trials do not signal divine abandonment or displeasure. Rather, Paul urges us to view temporal hardship through the lens of eternity. The present sufferings of this life are entirely outweighed by the eternal glory that will be unveiled in us at the resurrection. All of creation groans under the bondage of corruption, eagerly awaiting the manifestation of the sons of God. As believers, we also groan within ourselves, possessing the firstfruits of the Spirit while waiting for the redemption of our physical bodies. Saved by hope, we patiently endure present trials, knowing our ultimate transformation...

In Acts 21, Paul joined in a purification rite at the Temple—not because he needed it for salvation, but to show respect and accommodation toward his fellow Jews who were zealous for the Law. He did this to quiet rumors and to build bridges, while never compromising the truth of the gospel of grace. Paul’s act reminds us that accommodation is not compromise. He remained steadfast in the doctrine revealed to him—that we are saved by grace through faith, apart from works of the Law. Yet he was patient, humble, and willing to walk alongside others in their journey, showing them respect while gently pointing them to the liberty we have in Christ. Today, we too are called to this balance: Accommodation : Respecting others’ convictions without judgment. Patience : Bearing with those who may not yet see the fullness of grace. Commitment to truth : Standing firm in the doctrine of grace, never wavering from the liberty we have in the Spirit. Paul’s example teaches us that our witness is strong...