Daily Bread – May 2, 2023 (The Third Day – Genesis 1:9-13) 1 Corinthians 1:8 – He will strengthen you to the end blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. Blameless One of the great wonders of salvation is that the blood of Jesus and the work of the Spirit have made us blameless (Colossians 1:21-23). The Greek word ‘babaios’, translated “strengthen,” means “standing firm on the feet, maintaining firmness or solidity, steadfast.” (Theological dictionary of the New Testament, 1964-1976, Vols. 5-9 edited by Gerhard Friedrich, Vol. 10). Paul is telling us how the One Who has made us blameless remains committed to ensuring we stand firm in His grace. Our Savior has washed us and cleansed us from our sins, removing every offensive thing. “Blameless” is a powerful word. Here, it refers to being without the stain of sin (‘anegkletos’). Whereas in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, “blameless” refers to being without spot or blemish (‘amemptos’). The blood has washed us and loosed us from our sins so we are without fault before Him. Our spirits and souls, which were stained and marred with iniquity, have been made whiter than snow (Revelation 1:5, 3:18; Isaiah 1:18). Looking unto the Author and Finisher (Leader and Perfecter) of our faith – Who has made our whole spirit, soul, and body blameless – secures our place of being continually kept by the power of God (Hebrews 12:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Peter 1:5). Blessings, Pastor Mark Spitsbergen