SCRIPTURE: 2 CORINTHIANS 13
BIBLE VERSES:
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? ” (2 Corinthians 13:5)
“We are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong; and our prayer is that you may be fully restored/” (2 Corinthians 13:9)
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Greet one another with a holy kiss. 13 All God’s people here send their greetings.” (2 Corinthians 13:11-12)
“ May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14)
FINAL WARNINGS (vs. 1-10)
Before Paul returned to Corinth for his third visit, he warned that he will not spare the sinners. He urged them to examine themselves and test their faith. He hoped that they will follow the truth and remain strong. For the authority that God gave him was to build them up, not tearing them down.
FINAL GREETINGS (vs. 11-14)
Final message of Paul:
- Aim for perfection.
- Listen to my appeal.
- Be of one mind.
- Live in peace.
- The God of love and peace be with you.
- Greet one another with a holy kiss.
BENEDICTION:
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (v. 14)
THOUGHTS:
Three most important messages of Paul to us:
- Examine yourself and be sure you are saved.
- Be obedient to God’s Word.
- Be perfect in your faith.
There are several approaches in confronting others. We can ignore the problem, blast people away with their sins, isolate them, gossipping about their problems and break relationship. But Paul built relationship by taking a better approach – sharing, communicating and caring. May we follow Paul’s approach in dealing with others.