11940 Telephone Avenue Chino, CA. 91710 / 909-628-9428 Find us on: chinochurchofchrist.org Contributions via ZELLE, give@chinochurchofchrist.org
February 22, 2026
The churches of Christ salute you. Romans 16:16
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
This is the Daily Bible Reading Schedule for February 2026. The daily readings are taken from the Gospel Gazette website.
BIBLE CLASSES AND WORSHIP
Sunday
Adult & Children Bible Classes: 9:30 am to 10:15 am
Worship: 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Bible Study and Worship: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Wednesday
Bible Class 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Mark Anthony is leading our Bible class. The last Wednesday of the month we will have an evening of singing.
Thursday
Ladies’ Bible Class 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Roma Lacuata is conducting a study from the book of John.
Those serving today…
AM Service
Adult Bible Class and Preacher: Robert Harper Announcements: Leon Strayer Scripture Reading, (1 Peter 3:13-15): Bob Mellard Opening Prayer: Horace Wiley Communion: Robert Anderson Song Leader & Closing Prayer: Tony Moore
PM Service
Reuben Lacuata is conducting a study in the book of Ecclesiastes.
We would like to extend a welcome to those who are visiting today! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask. We are honored with your presence and look forward to getting to know you.
• Ukraine – Especially our brothers and sisters in Christ who are impacted by the ongoing conflict. • Our Seniors – Remember all of our senior saints, with special prayers for those who are homebound. • Our Families – Pray for families raising children in today’s world and for those carrying the heartache of loved ones who have wandered from the faith. • Our Shepherds – Reuben Lacuata and Brunel Merilus, as they lead with wisdom and care.
Works Supported by the Congregation:
Benevolent Efforts:
• City of Children (Orphanage in Mexico) • Orphan’s Lifeline International, including our sponsored young man, Anil Pangi • Agape Village (Children’s Home)
Evangelistic Efforts:
• Preacher Training Schools: Bear Valley Bible Institute, Sunset International Bible Institute, and Southwest School of Bible Studies • Congregation in the Philippines: Bicol Region. • Television Ministry: In Search of the Lord’s Way (a nationwide gospel program)
Dates for February:
2/24: Lunch Bunch will be meeting at Casa Sanchez located at 2264 S. Mountain Avenue, Ontario, at 11:30 am. 2/25: Last Wednesday of the month singing practice at 7 pm. 2/26: Ladies’ Bible Class meets this month at the building at 1:00 p.m. 2/28: Young Adult Night…
LOOKING AHEAD…
The 3rd Annual Ladies’ Day at the Hi-Desert church of Christ will be held on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is available online at https://www.hidesertchurchofchrist.com/events/event-one-5npbf or by calling Lynette Dorling at 909-993-3086. This year’s theme is “Do Not Fear” (Isaiah 41:10).
Since March has five Sundays, our fifth Sunday potluck will be held on March 29, and the evening service will be canceled.
The 14th Annual Ladies’ Tea at the Temple City church of Christ will be held on Saturday, May 2. Registration will commence at 10:30 a.m., followed by the program at 11:00 a.m. This year’s program, titled “Useful to the Master,” will feature guest speaker Kristen Heather. Kindly RSVP by March 28th via text to (310) 571-8936.
Scripture Writing Plans for the Whole Year — February
What is the purpose of scripture writing?
Spending just ten minutes each day writing and meditating on scripture can help you retain both the passage and its meaning. Scripture writing is a simple yet powerful practice that deepens your understanding of God’s Word and strengthens your spiritual walk. This February Scripture Writing Plan focuses on the theme of “God’s Love for You.”
Special thanks to Corey Schissler for sharing scripture writing.
For those interested in using a special journal for daily scripture writing, Amazon offers a variety of options, including hardbound, spiral-bound, and paperback journals specifically designed for scripture journaling.
ANGEL OF THE LORD
Who Is the Angel of the Lord in the Bible?
A careful consideration of the various texts in the Old Testament that mention the “angel of the LORD” (KJV) or the “angel of Jehovah” (ASV) reveals that this being was not of the ordinary angel class.
The Angel of Jehovah promised to multiply Hagar’s seed, and she confessed, “You are a God who sees” (Gen. 16:10, 13). The Messenger told Abraham, “By myself, I have sworn, says Jehovah” (Gen. 22:15-16). He identified himself as “the God of Bethel” (Gen. 31:11, 13). The Messenger was distinct from God, and yet he clearly possessed the traits of a deity.
A very strong case can be made for the view that this person was the pre-incarnate Word (Jn. 1:1), who became flesh in the form of Jesus Christ (Jn. 1:14). John the Baptizer was to prepare the way for the “messenger of the covenant” (Mal. 3:1), which, according to the New Testament, was Christ (Mt. 11:10).
Jehovah promised Israel that his “angel” (messenger) would be with them in the wilderness (Ex. 23:20ff), and Paul speaks of the presence of Jesus on behalf of the nation as they wandered in Sinai (1 Cor. 10:4).
This is the Daily Bible Reading Schedule for February 2026. The daily readings are taken from the Gospel Gazette website.
Please Continue to Lift Up in Prayer…
BIBLE CLASSES AND WORSHIP
Sunday
Adult & Children Bible Classes: 9:30 am to 10:15 am
Worship: 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Bible Study and Worship: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Wednesday
Bible Class 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Mark Anthony is leading our Bible class. The last Wednesday of the month we will have an evening of singing.
Thursday
Ladies’ Bible Class 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Roma Lacuata is conducting a study from the book of John.
Those serving today…
AM Service
Adult Bible Class and Preacher: Robert Harper Announcements: Natan Merilus Scripture Reading, (1 Peter 3:8-12): Sebastian Fonseca Opening Prayer: Tony Moore Communion: Danny Proffitt Song Leader & Closing Prayer: Leon Strayer
PM Service
Reuben Lacuata is conducting a study in the book of Ecclesiastes.
We would like to extend a welcome to those who are visiting today! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask. We are honored with your presence and look forward to getting to know you.
• Ukraine – Especially our brothers and sisters in Christ who are impacted by the ongoing conflict. • Our Seniors – Remember all of our senior saints, with special prayers for those who are homebound. • Our Families – Pray for families raising children in today’s world and for those carrying the heartache of loved ones who have wandered from the faith. • Our Shepherds – Reuben Lacuata and Brunel Merilus, as they lead with wisdom and care.
Works Supported by the Congregation
Benevolent Efforts:
• City of Children (Orphanage in Mexico) • Orphan’s Lifeline International, including our sponsored young man, Anil Pangi • Agape Village (Children’s Home)
Evangelistic Efforts:
• Preacher Training Schools: Bear Valley Bible Institute, Sunset International Bible Institute, and Southwest School of Bible Studies • Congregation in the Philippines: Bicol Region • Television Ministry: In Search of the Lord’s Way (a nationwide gospel program)
Dates for February
2/19, 2/26: Ladies’ Bible Class meets this month at the building at 1:00 p.m.
2/24: Lunch Bunch will be meeting at Casa Sanchez located at 2264 S. Mountain Avenue, Ontario, at 11:30 am.
2/25: Last Wednesday of the month singing practice at 7 pm.
LOOKING AHEAD…
The 3rd Annual Ladies’ Day at the Hi-Desert church of Christ will be held on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is available online at https://www.hidesertchurchofchrist.com/events/event-one-5npbf or by calling Lynette Dorling at 909-993-3086.
This year’s theme is “Do Not Fear” (Isaiah 41:10).
ALSO… Our next 5th Sunday potluck will be March 29 and evening service will be canceled.
Scripture Writing Plans for the Whole Year — February
What Is the Purpose of Scripture Writing?
Spending just ten minutes each day writing and meditating on Scripture can help you retain both the passage and its meaning.
Scripture writing is a simple yet powerful practice that deepens your understanding of God’s Word and strengthens your spiritual walk.
The February Scripture Writing Plan focuses on the theme of “God’s Love for You.”
Special thanks to Corey Schissler for introducing me to scripture writing.
F.Y.I. For those interested in using a special journal for daily scripture writing, Amazon offers a variety of options, including hardbound, spiral-bound, and paperback journals specifically designed for scripture journaling.
AMOS
What is the Book of Amos in the Bible?
Amos was a prophet in the northern kingdom of Israel in those days before the fall of Samaria, the capital city (722/21 B.C.). He cries out against the idolatry and wickedness of his people. He warns of a judgment coming upon Israel and certain pagan peoples.
He also provides a prophetic preview of the establishment of Christ’s kingdom — the raising up of “the tabernacle of David” (9:11; cf. Acts 15:16).
The English “angel” is an anglicized form of the Greek aggelos (pronounced angelos). The term signifies a “messenger.”
The word aggelos is used in several ways in the Scriptures.
• It commonly denotes a heavenly order of created beings (Psa. 148:2, 5), who are by nature “spirit beings.” These creatures carry out the will of God on behalf of his people (Heb. 1:14). In Bible times, angels were visible on occasion (Acts 10:3; 12:7ff). Such manifestations are not evident today because miraculous events have ceased (1 Cor. 13:8–10).
• The word aggelos may be used for a human messenger who serves as an envoy. John the Baptist, for example, was God’s “messenger” (Mt. 11:10; Mk. 1:2).
• The term aggelos was also used figuratively, representing a providentially permitted physical sickness (2 Cor. 12:7).
• The aggelos of the churches of Asia may have been messengers who were in contact with John while the apostle was imprisoned on the island of Patmos (Rev. 1:20).
Chino church of Christ Bulletin 11940 Telephone Avenue Chino, CA. 91710 / 909-628-9428 Find us on: chinochurchofchrist.org Contributions via ZELLE, give@chinochurchofchrist.org
February 1, 2026
The churches of Christ salute you. Romans 16:16
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
This is the Daily Bible Reading Schedule for February 2026. The daily readings are taken from the Gospel Gazette website.
BIBLE CLASSES AND WORSHIP
Sunday Adult & Children Bible Classes: 9:30 am to 10:15 am
Worship: 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Bible Study and Worship: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Wednesday Bible Class 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Mark Anthony is leading our Bible class. The last Wednesday of the month we will have an evening of singing.
Thursday Ladies’ Bible Class 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Roma Lacuata is conducting a study from the book of John.
Those serving today…
AM Service Adult Bible Class and Preacher: Robert Harper Announcements: Natan Merilus Scripture Reading, (1 Peter 2:18-25): Hector Mora Opening Prayer: Robert Anderson Communion: Horace Wiley Song Leader & Closing Prayer: Reuben Lacuata
PM Service Reuben Lacuata is conduct a study in the book of Ecclesiastes.
We would like to extend a welcome to those who are visiting today! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask. We are honored with your presence and look forward to getting to know you.
• Ukraine – Especially our brothers and sisters in Christ who are impacted by the ongoing conflict. • Our Seniors – Remember all of our senior saints, with special prayers for those who are homebound, including Lee Dacus and Leota Jackson. • Our Families – Pray for families raising children in today’s world and for those carrying the heartache of loved ones who have wandered from the faith. • Our Shepherds – Reuben Lacuata and Brunel Merilus, as they lead with wisdom and care.
Works Supported by the Congregation:
Benevolent Efforts: • City of Children (Orphanage in Mexico) • Orphan’s Lifeline International, including our sponsored young man, Anil Pangi • Agape Village (Children’s Home)
Evangelistic Efforts: • Preacher Training Schools: Bear Valley Bible Institute, Sunset International Bible Institute, and Southwest School of Bible Studies • Congregations in the Philippines: Metro Manila, Bicol Region, and Baguio • Television Ministry: In Search of the Lord’s Way (a nationwide gospel program)
Dates for January:
2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26: Ladies’ Bible Class meets this month at the building at 1:00 p.m. 2/8: 2nd Sunday Singing following evening service. Please bring a dish to share. 2/24: Lunch Bunch will be meeting at Casa Sanchez located at 2264 S. Mountain Avenue, Ontario, at 11:30 am. 2/25: Last Wednesday of the month singing practice at 7 pm.
LOOKING AHEAD…
The 3rd Annual Ladies’ Day at the Hi-Desert church of Christ will be held on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is available online at https://www.hidesertchurchofchrist.com/events/event-one-5npbf or by calling Lynette Dorling at 909-993-3086.
This year’s theme is “Do Not Fear” (Isaiah 41:10).
ALSO… Our next 5th Sunday potluck will be March 29 and evening service will be canceled.
Scripture Writing Plans for the Whole Year —
For February
What Is the Purpose of Scripture Writing? Spending just ten minutes each day writing and meditating on Scripture can help you retain both the passage and its meaning.
Scripture writing is a simple yet powerful practice that deepens your understanding of God’s Word and strengthens your spiritual walk. The February Scripture Writing Plan focuses on the theme of “God’s Love for You.”
Special thanks to Corey Schissler for introducing me to scripture writing.
F.Y.I. For those interested in using a special journal for daily scripture writing, Amazon offers a variety of options, including hardbound, spiral-bound, and paperback journals specifically designed for scripture journaling.
ADOPTION
What Is the Biblical Understanding of Adoption?
The Greek word is huiothesia, from huios, “son,” and tithemi, “to set, put, or place.” The word suggests the idea of putting one into the position of a son. It is used five times in the New Testament.
• The Christian’s reception of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 2:38) is God’s pledge that he has been adopted as a son. Unlike Christ, who was a son as to his very nature (i.e., deity; cf. Heb. 5:8), we have been adopted into the family of God by the new birth process (Jn. 3:3-5; cf. Gal. 4:5; Eph. 1:5).
• The future resurrection of the body on the last day is spoken of as an adoption (Rom. 8:23). This suggests there is a fuller measure of inheritance than what we presently enjoy.
• The nation of Israel experienced adoption in the sense it was selected and used as a divine instrument to facilitate the coming of the Messiah (Rom. 9:4). However, each Jew is accountable to God for their own personal obedience (Rom. 1:16-17).
Adultery is sexual intimacy between a married person and someone other than their lawful mate. The act begins in the mind (Mt. 5:28; Mk. 7:21) and ultimately manifests in physical union (cf. Jn. 8:4). Adultery may be a casual “fling,” or it may involve a relationship under the guise of “marriage” (i.e., marriage outside the bounds of scriptural authorization).
Jesus taught that the person who divorces their spouse, unless the divorce is because of fornication and marries another, is committing adultery (Mt. 19:9).
Another passage suggests that a divorced woman, simply by being “put away,” becomes an adulteress (Mt. 5:32). However, this cannot be the passage’s meaning.
• The sense may be that the “put away” woman is exposed to the temptation of finding a new partner and becoming an adulteress. • Or, the meaning could be that the mere fact that her husband has divorced her may lead others to suspect that she has committed adultery, hence hanging that reputation upon her.
Adultery is a forgivable sin, provided the sinful activity is discontinued, and God’s pardon is sought in the divinely prescribed fashion (1 Cor. 6:9-11).
This is the Daily Bible Reading Schedule for January 2026. The daily readings are taken from the Gospel Gazette website.
BIBLE CLASSES AND WORSHIP
Sunday
Adult & Children Bible Classes: 9:30 am to 10:15 am
Worship: 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Bible Study and Worship: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Wednesday
Bible Class 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Mark Anthony is leading our Bible class. The last Wednesday of the month we will have an evening of singing.
Thursday
Ladies’ Bible Class 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Roma Lacuata is conducting a study from the book of John.
Those serving today…
AM Service
Adult Bible Class and Preacher: Robert Harper Announcements: Leon Strayer Scripture Reading, (1 Peter 2:11-17): Bob Mellard Opening Prayer: Horace Wiley Communion: Robert Anderson Song Leader & Closing Prayer: Tony Moore
PM Service
Reuben Lacuata is conduct a study in the book of Ecclesiastes.
We would like to extend a welcome to those who are visiting today! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask. We are honored with your presence and look forward to getting to know you.
• Ukraine – Especially our brothers and sisters in Christ who are impacted by the ongoing conflict. • Our Seniors – Remember all of our senior saints, with special prayers for those who are homebound, including Lee Dacus and Leota Jackson. • Our Families – Pray for families raising children in today’s world and for those carrying the heartache of loved ones who have wandered from the faith. • Our Shepherds – Reuben Lacuata and Brunel Merilus, as they lead with wisdom and care.
Works Supported by the Congregation:
Benevolent Efforts:
• City of Children (Orphanage in Mexico) • Orphan’s Lifeline International, including our sponsored young man, Anil Pangi • Agape Village (Children’s Home)
Evangelistic Efforts:
• Preacher Training Schools: Bear Valley Bible Institute, Sunset International Bible Institute, and Southwest School of Bible Studies • Congregations in the Philippines: Metro Manila, Bicol Region, and Baguio • Television Ministry: In Search of the Lord’s Way (a nationwide gospel program)
Dates for January:
1/27: Lunch Bunch will be meeting at Casa Sanchez located at 2264 S. Mountain Avenue, Ontario, at 11:30 am.
1/28: Last Wednesday of the month singing practice at 7 pm.
1/29: Ladies’ Bible Class meets this month at the building at 1:00 p.m.
LOOKING AHEAD…
The 3rd Annual Ladies’ Day at the Hi-Desert church of Christ will be held on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is available online at https://www.hidesertchurchofchrist.com/events/event-one-5npbf or by calling Lynette Dorling at 909-993-3086.
This year’s theme is “Do Not Fear” (Isaiah 41:10).
ALSO… Our next 5th Sunday potluck will be March 29 and evening service will Be canceled.
Scripture Writing Plans for the Whole Year — For January
What Is the Purpose of Scripture Writing?
Spending just ten minutes each day writing and meditating on Scripture can help you retain both the passage and its meaning.
Scripture writing is a simple yet powerful practice that deepens your understanding of God’s Word and strengthens your spiritual walk. The January Scripture Writing Plan focuses on the theme of New Beginnings, reminding us that God truly is the God of new beginnings.
Special thanks to Corey Schissler for introducing me to scripture writing.
F.Y.I. For those interested in using a special journal for daily scripture writing, Amazon offers a variety of options, including hardbound, spiral-bound, and paperback journals specifically designed for scripture journaling.
ACCURSED
What Does It Mean to Be Accursed in the Bible?
The word “accursed” (KJV) translates the Greek anathema four times in the New Testament. It carries the weighty idea of being “devoted to destruction,” a term that should be approached with caution and understanding.
• In Romans 9:3, Paul’s profound love for his people is evident as he expresses his willingness to be “cut off from Christ” if it could somehow have brought salvation to the Jews. This was a figure of speech known as hyperbole, an exaggeration for emphasis, but it underscores the apostle’s deep affection for his people.
• Elsewhere, Paul contends that no one, speaking by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, could declare Jesus “accursed” (1 Cor. 12:3). The meaning of “accursed” here may be — “deserving of death.” This may reflect a charge being made about Christ by some at that time.
• Those who mingle the gospel of Christ with false doctrines will be eternally cut off from communion with God — if they continue in such a godless course (Gal. 1:8-9).
• Anyone who refuses to “love the Lord” is destined to be banished from God’s presence, hence devoted to destruction (1 Cor. 16:22). To love him in the fullest sense is to submit to his will to secure salvation (Jn. 14:15).
Luke wrote the Book of Acts. He addressed it to Theophilus, a Gentile Christian official.
The aim of the narrative is to record the establishment of the church of Christ on the day of Pentecost (see reference) and the spread of the Christian movement throughout the ancient world — all the way to Rome.
The book, a comprehensive record of some thirty-three years of Christian history, delves into the details of Peter’s ministry among the Jews in the first division (chapters 1-12). The final portion (13-28) provides a detailed account of Paul’s labor among the Gentiles. The book meticulously records numerous examples of how men and women became Christians under the oversight of inspired apostles.
This is the Daily Bible Reading Schedule for January 2026. The daily readings are taken from the Gospel Gazette website.
BIBLE CLASSES AND WORSHIP
Sunday Adult & Children Bible Classes: 9:30 am to 10:15 am
Worship: 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Bible Study and Worship: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Wednesday Bible Class 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Mark Anthony is leading our Bible class. The last Wednesday of the month we will have an evening of singing.
Thursday Ladies’ Bible Class 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Roma Lacuata is conducting a study from the book of John.
Those serving today…
AM Service
Adult Bible Class and Preacher: Robert Harper
Announcements: Alex Ortiz
Scripture Reading (1 Peter 2:4–10): Sebastian Fonseca
Opening Prayer: Tony Moore
Communion: Danny Proffitt
Song Leader & Closing Prayer: Leon Strayer
PM Service
Reuben Lacuata will be starting a study in the book of Ecclesiastes.
We would like to extend a welcome to those who are visiting today! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask. We are honored with your presence and look forward to getting to know you.
• Ukraine – Especially our brothers and sisters in Christ who are impacted by the ongoing conflict. • Our Seniors – Remember all of our senior saints, with special prayers for those who are homebound. • Our Families – Pray for families raising children in today’s world and for those carrying the heartache of loved ones who have wandered from the faith. • Our Shepherds – Reuben Lacuata and Brunel Merilus, as they lead with wisdom and care.
Works Supported by the Congregation
Benevolent Efforts: • City of Children (Orphanage in Mexico) • Orphan’s Lifeline International, including our sponsored young man, Anil Pangi • Agape Village (Children’s Home)
Evangelistic Efforts: • Preacher Training Schools: Bear Valley Bible Institute, Sunset International Bible Institute, and Southwest School of Bible Studies • Congregations in the Philippines: Metro Manila, Bicol Region, and Baguio • Television Ministry: In Search of the Lord’s Way (a nationwide gospel program)
Dates for January
1/22, 1/29: Ladies’ Bible Class meets this month at the building at 1:00 p.m.
1/27: Lunch Bunch will be meeting at Casa Sanchez located at 2264 S. Mountain Avenue, Ontario, at 11:30 am.
1/28: Last Wednesday of the month singing practice at 7 pm.
LOOKING AHEAD… Our next 5th Sunday potluck will be March 29 and evening service will be canceled.
Scripture Writing Plans for the Whole Year — Beginning in January
What Is the Purpose of Scripture Writing?
Spending just ten minutes each day writing and meditating on Scripture can help you retain both the passage and its meaning.
Scripture writing is a simple yet powerful practice that deepens your understanding of God’s Word and strengthens your spiritual walk. The January Scripture Writing Plan focuses on the theme of New Beginnings, reminding us that God truly is the God of new beginnings.
Special thanks to Corey Schissler for introducing me to scripture writing.
F.Y.I. For those interested in using a special journal for daily scripture writing, Amazon offers a variety of options, including hardbound, spiral-bound, and paperback journals specifically designed for scripture journaling.
Bulletin 01-18-2026 Website
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ABRAHAM’S BOSOM
What Is Abraham’s Bosom in the Bible?
In the first century, it was the Jewish custom to recline at the table during meals. Thus, the saying, “recline in the bosom,” signified a place of honor near the host. The apostle John enjoyed such an honor at the Passover supper the night before Christ was crucified (cf. Jn. 13:23). The phrase is also used for Jesus’ intimate relationship with his Heavenly Father (Jn. 1:18).
In Luke 16:23, the phrase “Abraham’s bosom” describes the state of blessedness afforded the beggar Lazarus following his death. The term not only reflects a reward but also a place of honor and implies consciousness. It represents the condition of the godly soul between the time the body dies and its final resurrection. It would be the equivalent of “paradise” (Lk 23:43).
The word “accursed” (KJV) translates the Greek anathema four times in the New Testament. It carries the weighty idea of being “devoted to destruction,” a term that should be approached with caution and understanding.
• In Romans 9:3, Paul’s profound love for his people is evident as he expresses his willingness to be “cut off from Christ” if it could somehow have brought salvation to the Jews. This was a figure of speech known as hyperbole, an exaggeration for emphasis, but it underscores the apostle’s deep affection for his people.
• Elsewhere, Paul contends that no one, speaking by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, could declare Jesus “accursed” (1 Cor. 12:3). The meaning of “accursed” here may be — “deserving of death.” This may reflect a charge being made about Christ by some at that time.
• Those who mingle the gospel of Christ with false doctrines will be eternally cut off from communion with God — if they continue in such a godless course (Gal. 1:8–9).
• Anyone who refuses to “love the Lord” is destined to be banished from God’s presence, hence devoted to destruction (1 Cor. 16:22). To love him in the fullest sense is to submit to his will to secure salvation (Jn. 14:15).
