Paul warned the Corinthians of the great danger involved in false teaching. Not only is it misleading to those seeking Christ, false teaching delivers an open invitation for the Lord’s wrath. The apostle confidently stands before God offering his ministry as a living sacrifice to the divine creator.
In this section of his epistle to the believers in Corinth Paul calls on his fellow workers not to succumb to doubt as they ponder over the word or “God’s grace” received through the apostle’s ministry.
“1 As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2 For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:1-2)
Paul speaks on behalf of Timothy and himself, as they encourage the Corinthians to follow in their footsteps along the narrow path that leads to eternal life. The apostle now lists facts about their ministry, meant to unite rather than divide.
“3 We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. 4 Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; 5 in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; 6 in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; 7 in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; 8 through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; 9 known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.” (2 Corinthians 6:3-10)
To gauge Paul’s ministry, one would need to know of the various situations the apostle and his fellow missionaries found themselves in on their journeys. Paul cites the well known track record by which he knew at the very least, the facts about his ministry was glorifying to God.
“11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you.” (2 Corinthians 6:11)
Paul reaches out to the believers in Corinth, reminding them of the outpouring or love he first extended to them during his first visit. As Paul and his fellow missionaries continue to spread Christ like love as a part of their mission to fulfill prophecy and advance the gospel to the four corners of the earth, a biblical commands given onto all believers.
“12 We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us.” (2 Corinthians 6:12)
The apostle shares his passion for the Corinthians which he felt had not been reciprocated in lieu of his tardiness to return to Corinth. The apostle’s hope was for believers throughout the Greek region (and the whole world) to rely on the Holy Spirit and the truth found in the word for their spiritual growth instead of Paul whose circumstances were out of his control, safely in God’s hands.
“13 As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also. 1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 6:13-7:1)
Paul calls on the Corinthians to open their hearts as he himself had been and would be until the fulfillment of his mission on earth.
Abiding by the law of Christ, which is based on love, all believers must follow in Christ’s footsteps as we continue to advance the gospel and share the good news about the Lord and His triumphant return. We are to rid our lives of all impurities, striving tirelessly to eliminate sin all together. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
