Paul begins this passage with the word λοιπόν signifying that he is coming to the end of his writing. The correct meaning of λοιπόν is “finally” as rendered by the NRSV. Paul says “Finally, brothers…” Murray J. Harris says of the use of brothers in Greek adelphos, “Paul uses the term here in addressing the whole Corinthian congregation in order to remind them of the unity that believers have in Christ.”[1] In Paul the use of adelphos usually is inclusive of sisters, the NRSV is correct in...

The apostle talks about two scenarios, the first being where one sets his or her mind to the flesh (Rom. 8:6) and the other where one sets his or her mind on the Spirit. (Rom. 8:6, 9). Verse 6 is a continuation of verse 5 which has already spoken of two lives, one for those who live according to the flesh with the mindset on things of the flesh and another for those who live according to the Spirit with their minds set on things of the Spirit. (Rom. 8:5) Paul goes on to describe the state...

1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 is Paul’s sincere prayer to God the Father and the Lord Jesus (v11). The prayer has three petitions—the first one...