Chris R. Quinlan

(I wrote this several years ago. This paraphrase represents a careful study of this text and my attempt to paraphrase in such a way, not to replace the scriptures, but as a study tool to deliver the principles of this chapter in modern language. Feel free to compare this with the scripture [Romans 14] ) 1 With respect to differing beliefs on non-critical matters, do not dismiss the convictions of those Christians who you determine to have an immature faith. 2 It is inevitable that Christians will have differing convictions about what is morally right and wrong. 3 The Christians with opposing ideas on right and wrong must not belittle or think less of each other. 4 One Christian does not have the authority to judge another. God will give all Christians, at all maturity levels, the strength to endure. 5 All Christians should make every effort to have well-informed convictions and beliefs. 6-8 All personal convictions, no matter how conservative or liberal, are made so as to please...

I absolutely hate it when I hear in the news about a mass shooting. My heart grieves for those that lost love ones. As the details emerged from this latest mass murder, I find myself imagining what it must have been like inside that theater. I wonder what I would have done had I been in there. I also find myself wondering, like many others, what would cause someone to do something like this. At this point, I would not presume to guess, because I do not have enough facts, but I do have some thoughts as to what could possibly motivate someone to do this.  Romans 1:20 -21 & 28-31 20  For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.  21  For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish hear...

This was a bible study exercise I did on my own a couple of years ago but have never published.  My goal was to be as accurate as possible in communicating the thought of the text, while paraphrasing into modern conversational English. I’ve converted all Old Testament references and illustrations into principles that a modern reader could understand.  This a loose, but carefully worded paraphrase, that is not meant to replace scripture, but to serve as a devotional study tool. or simply an encouragement for your personal walk with God. I’ve provided a link to the ESV translation if you would like to compare it to a real translation. Listen up, all you who are God’s people. There is only one true and living God and there is no other. You must love God with every single fiber of your being. You must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands. Repeat them to yourself and to others. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are out with friends, at school, at...