“Examine Yourselves” (2 Cor 13:5-14)

"Examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know you not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except you be rejected?”  (vs5)

Examine yourself: not everyone else by their doctrine and life, but YOURSELF first and most importantly.  Three times in half a verse, Paul says, “examine yourselves”, “prove your own selves”, and “know you not your own selves”, because he wants us SURE that we are saved.

Assurance comes by making your election sure and KNOWING that you believe the gospel. We are to examine if we’re “in the faith“, if we believe the gospel of Jesus Christ from salvation from sin to salvation to holiness. Do we believe that He saves freely, and the free gift is obedience to God by faith and love to men?  Do you believe that you’re not condemned to sin no more, and you have the Holy Spirit to help?

The gospel isn’t you doing, and it isn’t nothing being done. We believe God WITHOUT any works unto good works.  Do you believe this electing grace is yours, that’s unto godliness?

If we believe on Christ, then we have ASSURANCE before doing good works, and by faith, good works and MORE assurance comes (2 Pet 1:10).

Secondly, we are not to minister for our own names and welfare but for the good of others.  He sent ministers to help the church, not so that we get a name for ourselves (because only One Name is honored in the church) but for the GOOD of those who hear us (Eph 3:21). We are not selfish sinners using people to help ourselves, but we are SELFLESS children of Christ, using our gifts, not to destroy or gain attention, but to honor the Son of God so that others may experience the love we have in God - (vs6-10) “But I hope that ye shall know that we are not reprobate.    Now we pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we may appear approved, but that ye may do that which is honorable, though we be as reprobate. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.  For we rejoice, when we are weak, and ye are strong: this we also pray for, even your perfecting.  For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for casting down”.

Thirdly, if we do things God’s way, then we’ll have love, joy, and peace EXPERIENCED. There is a reward to obedience, so Paul teaches us to obey, so that we can experience the blessings of Christ, because they come no other way - “Finally, brethren, rejoice, be [perfect] made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you”  (vs11).

Recently, I was at the café studying, and I saw a horribly painful scene.  A mother and father, adults in their 30’s, had a two-year old boy in the car seat. The family had gathered for dinner, and there were several cousins and others around. The parents, after several minutes were “forced” to tell the relatives that they’d catch up, because they couldn’t persuade the toddler to leave his car seat. He shouted, screamed, and acted fierce as they approached. But, rather than parent the child and help him mature, they bowed to the toddler, came under his rule, and had misery as the result.

We cannot have peace in the home, church, or life without order. If we live by faith, receive the comfort of scripture, and rejoice in salvation, then we’ll experience God as promised, tasting the good of the land, and walking in peace. 

Friction produced by rebellion can only be remedied by submission to God.  You will be glad that you heard, because He is rewards the obedient and He dwells with those who keep His word (John 14:23).  Paul writes, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.  All the saints greet you.  The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen“ (vs12-14).

Don’t live another way and expect heaven or peace.  Live as commanded by the power of the Spirit. Live by faith in the Son’s blood and let LOVE for Him come from the fount of His love to you.  He elected and redeemed; He FORGIVES and gives continually.

Let Christ move you to Christian living, and you will have God.

I Will Not Spare the Unrepentant (2 Cor 12:12-13:4)

"For I fear lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I wish, and that I shall be found by you such as you do not wish; lest there be contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, backbitings, whisperings, conceits, disorder; lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and I shall mourn for many who have sinned before and have not repented of the uncleanness, fornication, and lewdness which they have practiced. This will be the third time I am coming to you. 'By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.' I have told you before, and foretell as if I were present the second time, and now being absent I write to those who have sinned before, and to all the rest, that if I come again I will not spare". (2 Cor 12:20-13:2)

Paul demands a change. He says that if he comes again the third time, and things haven't changed, that he will not spare. He will cast people out of church and demand they don't return, until they repent, desiring God's way.

It isn't enough to confess Christ; we must follow Him, too. We can't say, "Not condemned", unless we say, "Not condemned, to sin no more" (John 8:11). The Master NEVER forgives without cleansing.

Rolfe Barnard refused to sing, "Saved and Sanctified", and we should refuse also. It implies that salvation EXISTS without sanctification, and this isn't true.

We can repent, but if we don't, then we don't know God. We cannot have Christ and sin.

First, again, Paul proves the sincerity of his ministry. He had apostolic power, enabling him to give others miraculous gifts, and only apostles could do this. Philip, in Acts 8, could speak in tongues and work miracles because he received the gift from the apostles in Act 6. Simon the sorcerer understood that only the apostles could pass on the power, and this is because the apostles were special.  When they spoke and wrote, they were to be obeyed as the ambassadors of God with power to lay the doctrine of Christ in the church. All who pretend to speak in tongues and work miracles are utterly false and NOT to be trusted, even if they claim sovereign grace. If I say, "God is sovereign, elected you to be saved by the blood of the Lamb, so you can rape and murder", then I'd be a false prophet. And, when people say, "God is sovereign, etc, so you can speak in tongues, work miracles, get rich, and stay in health", they lie and aren't to be trusted. Speaking in tongues is other languages clearly understood by those who spoke them, even as they said, "And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?" (Acts 2:8).  Paul said, "Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds" (2 Cor 12:12).

Also, he didn't take from people, so he commends his ministry by the generosity of his heart. As I read the insides of Paul, Titus, and others, I see that ministry is MORE than accurate doctrine; it is accurate motive, heart, and life, living that others be helped, rather than using people to assist me - (2 Cor 12:13-19) "For what is it in which you were inferior to other churches, except that I myself was not burdensome to you? Forgive me this wrong! Now for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved. But be that as it may, I did not burden you. Nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you by cunning! Did I take advantage of you by any of those whom I sent to you? I urged Titus, and sent our brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit? Did we not walk in the same steps? Again, do you think that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ. But we do all things, beloved, for your edification".

He declares that those he sent were of the same selfless spirit, seeking not yours, but you.

He preaches, secondly, his fears and gives us great warning. He feared that many had sinned and not repented, that bitterness, hate, selfishness, envy, and self-exaltation still reigned within them. He pleaded, in hope of sparing himself misery and tears, that they would change, repenting of the fornication, uncleanness, and licentious intemperance that they were living. If they didn't, then he must put them out, like a parent forcing a teenager to live elsewhere because they refuse the rules of home - (2 Cor 12:20-13:2).

Thirdly, Paul speaks to us encouragingly. He says, Christ is in you, even as He is in me, and His power is enough to enable you to be godly. The same POWER that raised Him from death will present you faultless before the Throne, and this power is yours now - "since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, Who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you.  For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you" (2 Cor 13:3-4).

God hasn't called us to beat sin in self-strength. Believe the VICTORY is what He gives - "For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith  (1 John 5:4).

Nothing And Yet Commended (2 Cor 11:16-12:11)

“I am become a fool in glorying [proving myself faithful]; you have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chief apostles, though I be nothing” (vs11)

Paul is a nothing, but he is an apostle, and he has obtained grace to be faithful.

He proves his ministry by the sufferings, stripes, and near death’s that he endured. He proves it by exaltations from God to see glorious things. And, He proves it by God’s power to him as the nothing that he is, enabling him to honor God and prosper amidst trials that send unbelievers away to the world in rebellion and self-salvation.  Paul proves himself faithful, sheepishly, not glorying in having to commend himself, but he does it for our good, that we might prove ourselves FAITHFUL and share in the ministry - (2 Cor 11:16-21) “I say again, let no one think me a fool. If otherwise, at least receive me as a fool, that I also may boast a little.  What I speak, I speak not according to the Lord, but as it were, foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.  Seeing that many boast according to the flesh, I also will boast.  For you put up with fools gladly, since you yourselves are wise!  For you put up with it if one brings you into bondage, if one devours you, if one takes from you, if one exalts himself, if one strikes you on the face.  To our shame, I say that we were too weak for that! But in whatever anyone is bold––I speak foolishly––I am bold also”.

He suffered as an apostle, and it wasn’t all sweets on the way to heaven. False prophets brag about talent and success, Paul gloried in being shipwrecked, beaten, hungry, and naked - (vs22-33) “Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I.  Are they ministers of Christ? ––I speak as a fool––I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often.  From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one.  Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep;  in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;  in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness––   besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.  Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to stumble, and I do not burn with indignation?   If I must boast, I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity.  The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying.   In Damascus the governor, under Aretas the king, was guarding the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desiring to arrest me;   but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and escaped from his hands“.

He says, This is what I’ve endured for faithfulness, so I prove by my afflictions that I’m faithful, because they came BECAUSE of Christ and BY Christ they were endured.

Secondly, he commends his special revelations, also. He declares that he knew someone taken up to the third heaven who saw things TOO wonderful to be described and unlawful to be spoken.  Yet, he doesn’t glory in the man’s merit, but in the man’s exaltation by grace.  God PRIVILEDGES some to be examples and shows them marvelous things, proving we’re godly - (2 Cor 12:1-5) “It is doubtless not profitable for me to boast. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord:  I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago––whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows––such a one was caught up to the third heaven.  And I know such a man––whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows––  how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.  Of such a one I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities”.

Thirdly, Paul glories in the power of Christ to nobody’s, failures, and the tempted. He glories that when he’s WEAK, the Son of God is strong to him, like when a person can’t go on, they get strength from God to continue MORE marvelously, more humbly, and more LOVINGLY than before - (2 Cor 12:6-10) “For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me. And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.  Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me.  And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong”.

He didn’t see trials as abandonment but as opportunities for God to fulfill the promise in Christ that His grace is SUFFICIENT for every need.  So, he proves his ministry by the power he’s obtained to be content, faithful, and godly, amidst the greatest emptying of self-strength.

Thus, we are nothings, but God saves nothings and produces faithfulness in us. He makes us endure rejection and grief for Christ’s sake.  He gives us visions of Christ and gospel emotions indescribable. And, He is strength to us in our weakness, proving that as the nothings we are, we can serve God.

A godly man is thus HOLY (he does what God says in spite of trouble), humble (he knows himself to be nothing), and happy (because the power of Christ rests upon him and weakness only makes way for supernatural power, help, and strength).

Godly Jealousy (2 Cor 11:1-15)

The gospel is a wooing message, not merely commanding and stating truth, but those who preach it call you to Christ from their heart, and this is what Paul is doing - “For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.  But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the [heart devotion] that is in Christ” (vs2-3).  He is jealous over us and desirous that we follow Christ only and faithfully from a pure heart, forgiven and cleansed, and living that He be praised.  He is concerned that we will hear FALSE prophets while disregarding the true - “For if he that comes preaches another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him” (vs4). And, he proves his ministry by his sacrifice, knowledge, and love plainly revealed.

(vs5-12) “For I consider that I am not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles.  Even though I am untrained in speech, yet I am not in knowledge. But we have been thoroughly manifested among you in all things.  Did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?  I robbed other churches, taking wages from them to minister to you.  And when I was present with you, and in need, I was a burden to no one, for what I lacked the brethren who came from Macedonia supplied. And in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you, and so I will keep myself.   As the truth of Christ is in me, no one shall stop me from this boasting in the regions of Achaia. Why? Because I do not love you? God knows!   But what I do, I will also continue to do, that I may cut off the opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the things of which they boast”.

The false prophets glory in appearance and not in reality. They talk a good game, but rather than TURN you to Christ devotedly, they turn you to themselves and away from the Savior (Acts 20:29-30). They don’t desire that you keep both eyes on Christ, but they want you to disobey His message of faith and love - “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.   And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.   Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works”  (vs13-15).

Don’t be deceived by false prophets, as if everyone who says “sovereign grace” knows God. 

Word and Deed (2 Cor 10:4-18)

The only test of a human is WORD and deed: what do they do and teach? Do they GLORIFY God in doctrine and life - “Let such a person consider this, that what we are in word by letters when we are absent, such we will also be in deed when we are present” (vs11).

The gospel changes us into the character of Christ, so that we’re obedient in word and deed, even as He both TAUGHT and did things that proved Him the Son of God (Acts 1:1).

We have not been changed by human strength, but God came upon us in grace, cast down our idolatrous thoughts, and He set Jesus Christ as Lord of lords, so that we forsake everything and follow Him.  We see, by revelation, the forgiveness of sins in His blood and the Holy Spirit ABLE to cleanse, change, and produce fruit in us.  We hear a saving God, and we believe - “(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;  And after you become fully obedient, we will punish everyone who remains disobedient“ (2 Cor 10:4-6).

Paul had problems with some who thought he was all talk, and he assures us that as he was by letter - loving, gracious, Christ exalting, and firm - so would he be in person.  Like Paul, we are not among those who compare ourselves with ourselves, but we are sinners who obtained mercy, saints whose feet are washed by the Spirit daily, and new creations who live INDEBTED to Christ, rather than “better” than you or out for your favor - “Do you look at things according to the outward appearance? If anyone is convinced in himself that he is Christ’s, let him again consider this in himself, that just as he is Christ’s, even so we are Christ’s. For even if I should boast somewhat more about our authority, which the Lord gave us for edification and not for your destruction, I shall not be ashamed––  lest I seem to terrify you by letters. ‘For his letters,’ they say, ‘are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.’ Let such a person consider this, that what we are in word by letters when we are absent, such we will also be in deed when we are present.  For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise“ (vs7-12).

I had the privilege of seeing two believers THANKFUL to God and unworthy of each other.  They treated each other as unworthy to be so blessed of God, and they were filled with peace.  But, when humans leave GRATITUDE for what they have and become consumed by what they want and how they want to be exalted, then peace leaves and fussing enters in.

The false prophets were boasting in their abilities. They were preaching to people Paul saved by the gospel, and yet, they were defaming him.  He says that his proof of faithfulness is preaching the gospel, even to Corinth, and doing it in a way that his life manifested the sincerity of his message and calling - “We, however, will not boast beyond measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us––a sphere which especially includes you.   For we are not overextending ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was to you that we came with the gospel of Christ;  not boasting of things beyond measure, that is, in other men’s labors, but having hope, that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged by you in our sphere,  to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s sphere of accomplishment” (vs13-16).

We are not those who put ourselves forward; we are those whom God has commended by word and deed. He gave us the gospel that we preach, clearly, and He gives us the obedience of love whereby we preach it - “But ‘he who glories, let him glory in the LORD.’  For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends” (vs17-18).

This COMMENDATION is greater than the approval of millions of people. It is the approval that comes from God called “good works”, “obedience”, “fruitfulness”, etc.

Revenging Disobedience (2 Cor 10:6) - Matthew Poole

“And having a reading to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled” (2 Cor 10:6).

The apostle certainly means by this, excommunication; which was the rod which he had before mentioned, asking them if they would he should come unto them with a rod. This rod he here threatens them with; telling them, that he had another weapon of his warfare, of a spiritual nature too, to be used against such as preferred themselves to be believers, but walked disorderly; only he at present spared them, because though a great part of them were obedient, yet there were some amongst them of whose obedience he could not yet glory; but yet he hoped well, and therefore should wait until, by the use of all fair means, (such as exhortations and arguments), he had reduced as many of them as he could unto obedience. But that being done, God had entrusted him with another weapon, with which he would, in the name and by the authority of God, revenge his glory upon the disobedience of others. Herein the apostle hath set a rule and a pattern to all churches, where are multitudes that walk disorderly; not to be too hasty in excommunicating them, but to proceed gradually; first using all fair means, and waiting with all patience, for the reducing them to their duty, who will by any gentle and fair means be reduced; and then revenging the honor and glory of God only upon such as will not be reclaimed. 

“His Unspeakable Gift” (2 Cor 9:8-10:5)

 “So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.  As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!” (vs12-15)

GIVING

God is servant to His creation, ministering to us food and gladness, and giving His church gifts of grace (Acts 14:15-17).  Now, you serve also, learning the grace of life.  He will give you grace to be gracious, to give financially, and in doing this, you will help others survive and increase their thankfulness to God.  You will manifest your love to Christ - “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:  (As it is written, ‘He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remains forever.’  (vs8-9)

The gospel isn’t selfish, but it changes us to God’s character, and His unspeakable gift is that sinners who are selfish and concerned for our own will be TRANSFORMED into saints who care for others sacrificially and willingly. We believe all we have in Christ, and thus we FREELY give- “Now He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness,  while you are enriched in everything for all cheerful giving, which causes thanksgiving through us to God.” (vs10-11)

MEEKNESS AND GENTLENESS

The gospel tactic is love, meekness, and gentleness. We don’t get people to obey God in the flesh, but in the Spirit. We MINISTER unto them, patiently bearing with their failures, so that they can be saved. God WORKS by faith - belief of the gospel - and love - belief of the gospel in handling others - “Now Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am courageous toward you: but I plead with you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence wherewith I reckon to be daring against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh” (2 Cor 10:1-2).

This meekness isn’t cowardice or compromise. He BOLDLY tells the truth of God, drawing a line in the sand, and then standing in love to minister to all that he is able.

Which way will you turn to change your neighbor? Will you try anger, pride, bitterness, and wrath? Or will you use the meekness of the gospel and wait on God - “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (for the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds)”, man’s refuge of lies, “casting down human thoughts, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God and bringing into captivity every mind to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:3-5).

We are OF God now, so we use His tactics, giving and serving others patiently.

Bountiful Sowing and Reaping (2 Cor 9:1-9)

The more put in, the more received

“But this I say, He which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully shall reap also bountifully.  Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor 9:6-7).

The Lord Jesus bids us to be cheerful and atonement motivated givers. We don’t give to GET God’s favor, but we give because all things are ours, both temporal and eternal, in Christ the Lord (1 Cor 3:21-23). He blesses us freely.

We give as a matter of duty, moved by the example of others, exhorted by the apostles, and to the proving of our own soul.  We reveal our love by our actions, and these actions are to be abundant, so we get the more.  We don’t get more physically but spiritually, and He cares for the physical too - “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may about to every good work: (as it is written, He has dispersed abroad; he has given to the poor: his righteousness remains forever)” (2 Cor 9:8-9).

Don’t make the boasting of others void concerning you.  Let the praise of the saints harmonize with your character, and let your gifts flow from love and not guilt or covetousness.  Don’t give with strings attached or from the wrong spirit. Give as obtainers of mercy; give as BEING blessed of God with heath, family, income, etc, and all that you have.  Like Job, He could take away all, so all that I have, I must be thankful and blush before Him.  The best way to live is GIVING God myself, so that I get more of Him as well.

(2 Cor 9:1-6) “For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:  For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.  Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:  Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.   Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. “

“Proof of Your Love” (2 Cor 8:13-24)

“For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:  But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:  As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack” (vs13-15).

Everything is orderly, so give. There is no reason to be slow in your duties as Christians.  Give in the cause of Christ because the money is used, according to God’s will, for the good of the church. You don’t have to worry about it being wasted. Those whom you’ve found faithful will be faithful in this as well.  Prove your own love - “Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.  Wherefore show ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf”(vs23-24).

God uses the diligent. It doesn’t matter who has the most gifts; the Lord is KNOWN among those that obey Him by the obedience He gives. He reveals His favor by graciously bestowing upon others, not only gifts of speech but of character, so that what we do distinguishes us above others in faithfulness, though not in righteousness or merit - “And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you” (vs22).

We all obtain mercy, so we GIVE from the abundance of what we have, if the brother is in need. We are not moved by, “It’s mine” mentality, but receiving so FREELY, we give to the cause of Christ, taking enough for ourselves and using all else for His benefit and honor. This graciousness is God’s GIFT to us, as we’re transformed into His image - “But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. 17  For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you” (vs16-17).

It is God’s glory that we lay down our lives for the sheep. It shows the honor of the Father that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, as we are in His likeness.  This upright love is not only honorable to God, but it also PROVES before men our sincerity - “Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:  Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men” (vs20-21).

Paul has been proving by BEHAVIOR that his ministry is real. Prove yours by giving - “And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;  And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind“ (vs18-19).

“Perform the Doing of It” (2 Cor 8:1-12)

“And herein I give my mind: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do [start], but also to be willing a year ago.  Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.” (vs10-11)

The Son teaches us to give as the proof of our love. He laid down His life, so lay down your lives, sacrificially giving, as He did for you.  He gives DAILY, being gracious to us, so let us believe that we’re to abound in being gracious also.  Don’t be negligent.

The gift of giving is from God who for Christ’s sake puts love in you, causing you to respond PROPERLY to His grace - “Moreover, brothers, we do you to know of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; how that in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their generosity” (vs1-2).  You give NOT because you want to get a blessing meritoriously but because you’re thankful for what you have. You have love in your heart FREELY because God’s done so much for you.  God is love, so He gives to us by the merit of Christ; we give back, seeing Christ, because we are loving now too - “For to their power, I bear record, yes, and beyond their power, they were willing of themselves; praying us with much urging that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the sharing in of the service to the saints.  And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God” (vs3-5).   

It doesn’t matter what you have, whether little or much: only do what you can, and it is plenty   The Macedonians didn’t have much, but they abundantly gave, helping others, proving their love, and encouraging the saints - “For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man has, and not according to that he has not“ (vs12). It isn’t if you have a lot of gifts but if you give a lot with what you have (Luke 21:4).

God’s grace isn’t feelings but feelings and deeds. It isn’t merely, “I’d love to help”, or, “I’d love to see a church in my area”, but it is GIVING to the cause, concretely obeying by deeds (vs10-11).

God’s love is not wishful towards you.  He doesn’t look upon you saying, “I’d love to help”, and do nothing about it. He laid down His Son’s life, He gave us the promises, He saves us by the Spirit, and He receives us continually as PROOF that His love is genuine.  Prove yours - “I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the diligence of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.  For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that you through his poverty might be rich” (vs8-9).   Loves shows.  Don’t be negligent in any responsibility because you prosper in another area, but abound to every good work as laid before you in Christ - “Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.  Therefore, as you abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that you abound in this grace also” (vs6-7).

Be a generous DOER of deeds. Hold Christianity so truly and dearly that you obtain mercy to write the check, to organize the home, and to do everything HOVERING around the Center of Life.  “Because of Christ and for Him” is the motive of giving.

audio:   

http://www.sasolo.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=8610121241

Godly vs. Worldly Sorrow (2 Cor 7)

“For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world works death” (vs10)

Perfect or perform holiness in the fear of God.  Don’t think, “Saved by grace, my behavior is secondary”, but know that salvation by grace makes us graciously extend Christ to others, and be about this, from the heart - “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, accomplishing holiness in the fear of God” (2 Cor 7:1).

Paul is real towards us, and we’re to take him as an example. He doesn’t minister to hurt, but being loved of God, He loves people.  He doesn’t have the mind of, “I’ll just say it, and if it hurts, too bad”, but he weeps inwardly as he says things to help, though they hurt the brothers, now - “For though I made you sorrowful with a letter, I do not regret it, though I did regret it: for I perceive that the same epistle has made you sorry, though it were but for a season.  Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that you sorrowed to repentance: for you were made sorry after a godly manner, that you might receive damage by us in nothing.  For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world works death“ (2 Cor 7:8-9).   

There is a difference between the sorrow God gives and the sorrow of the world. The world’s sorrow leads to reformation, but not regeneration. It leads to changing your ways to the eyes of men, but never cleansing by the blood and Spirit.  The religion of the world and the sorrow of the world works death, for men never trust Christ, and like Judas, they perish COMFORTING themselves FALSELY (Matt 27:3-5).

The gospel gives a sorrow that brings you to Christ for grace. He doesn’t smite the sinner and say, “Improve and I’ll help you”, but He helps the smitten, comforting the lowly (2 Cor 7:6).  This God given repentance PRODUCES a change, so that what I did, I do no more, and I show myself clear in the matter - “For behold, this selfsame thing, that ye were made sorry after a godly sort, what earnest care it wrought in you, yea what clearing of yourselves, yea what indignation, yea what fear, yea what longing, yea what zeal, yea what avenging! In everything ye approved yourselves to be pure in the matter“ (vs11).

I may repent over and over for the same thing, but there is NO forgiveness without cleansing, and we must never leave the knees of prayer without the faith of cleansing by the Spirit, so that we’re able to do what pleases Him and sin no more.

The blessing of God makes you a blessing to others. As Titus heard that Corinth came to repentance, he rejoiced. As he rejoiced, he now comforts Paul, for he hears that these saints, though wrong in the past and sharply chastened of God, have returned to Christ and endure His rule.  They are not “fly by nights“, but they are His people who hear His voice, and this rejoices the man preaching - “Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation.  For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears.  Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus,  and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more“ (vs4-7).  2 Cor 7:12-16 says, “Therefore, although I wrote to you, I did not do it for the sake of him who had done the wrong, nor for the sake of him who suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear to you.  Therefore we have been comforted in your comfort. And we rejoiced exceedingly more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.  For if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed. But as we spoke all things to you in truth, even so our boasting to Titus was found true.  And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him.  Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything“.

Be careful.  True RELIGION hurts from time to time, deeply, but it produces a change of life you won’t regret.  Preachers, if they are God’s, speak to you PAINFUL things, not holding back anything that will help you, but they weep over your tears and plead to God it works joy in the future.

“That the Ministry Be Not Blamed” (2 Cor 6)

Trials prove that we are faithful:

“We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed.  But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God“ (vs3-4)

The Lord Jesus bids us to make our election sure by manner of life. Paul calls us here to receive NOT the grace of God in vain. We are not to hear the gospel unprofitably, but we’re to believe unto union with Christ in lifestyle - “We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain.  For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. “ (vs1-2)

He sets forth his own ministry as evidence of his sincerity: if he is real, then he is LIVING that men be reconciled to God, and his example is followed wisely (vs3-4).

God proves us FAITHFUL, not by the ease of life or eloquence of speech, but by the power of His love to CONQUER every trial and fear, producing faithfulness in us - “in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses,  in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings;  by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love,  by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,  by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true;  as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed;   as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things” (vs4-10).

If a man’s ministry is true, then be like minded. Receive the minister and minister yourself in newness of life.  Old things are passed away, and we have a new way of living that SAVES others and HONORS God thereby - “O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open.   You are not restricted by us [loved less], but you are restricted by your own affections.   Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.  Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?   And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever?   And what agreement has the temple of God with idols?”  (vs12-16)

He will receive you, love you, and show Himself to you MARVELOUSLY, as you do His will. There are SECRETS only known by love - “For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will dwell in them And walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people.’  Therefore ‘Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.’   ‘I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the LORD Almighty." (vs16-18)

Bless the Lord’s people and bless yourself by ministering to men.

“Good or Bad” (2 Cor 5)

Judgment Day Is To Be Prepared For

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he has done, whether it be good or bad” (vs10).

The Lord Jesus bids us to be reconciled to Him upon the basis of the blood that He has shed. He died for the elect, redeeming us to God and paying the penalty. And, He stands, by preachers, bidding ALL who hear to repent, to believe on Him (Acts 3:26). Be saved on His terms.  He isn’t stingy, nor is He merely calling His elect, but He wept over Jerusalem, and by preachers yearning and pleading, He bids you to be reconciled, whosoever you are, no matter what you’ve done - (2 Cor 5:20-21) “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him“.

Reconciliation is by God in Christ putting away sins. He punished the Son so that sins are gone. Upon this basis, receive NEWNESS of life freely. Receive the COMMISSION to live for Him because He died, and you died, in His cross - “For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died;  and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer.  Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.  Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation,   that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.” (vs14-19)

Heaven is SURE, and we desire it, longing for Him and relief. We desire to labor and suffer no more, to be in paradise - “For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.  For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven,  if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked.  For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life” (vs1-4).   This SURE hope keeps us diligent; it doesn’t make us slothful, even as Noah’s promise of salvation CAUSED him to build the ark, rather than excused disobedience. He didn’t say, “God will save” and then not build. But, assured of salvation, he labored, in spite of falls, thorns, and hardships, and he built that which saved him - “Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.  So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord.  For we walk by faith, not by sight.  We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.  Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.” (vs5-9)

Believers are ASSURED of everlasting life, and then we labor by assurance to make our calling and election sure. As ASSURED for heaven, we expect power to do good works.  We don’t have salvation saying, “I’m saved to live as I see fit”, but we have salvation saying, “I’m saved to please Him and be found pleasing to His greatness”.

We know the Judgment is true, so we PERSUADE men. We are not merely laying out facts, like the elect will hear, but we will not be disturbed.  Instead, we PERSUADE men with our own character, sincerity, and proof, preaching Christ to the wretched and the saved who both must be judged - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.  Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.   For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have an answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart.   For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you.   For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died“ (vs10-14).

Christ didn’t die to take away sins only; He died to make you live in newness, as forgiven, as a reconciler of others.  If you’ve obtained mercy, then make your election sure by STRETCHING out Christ to others, living by faith. 

The Power is of God and Not Us (2 Cor 4:3-5:1)

“For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the exceeding greatness of the power may be of God, and not of us” (2 Cor 4:6-7).

We have the gospel in fragile vessels, so that God may be glorified in saving us.  It is NOT a teaching of self-strength; the gospel declares a God who saves sinners and does everything by His power.

First, we have learned Christ by the power of God who shined light into our darkness. In the beginning, just as He created the heaven and the earth, He created us anew in regeneration, forming us into His children.  He caused the light of knowledge to shine, so that we know God. 

Satan had us bound by lies, thinking God was appeased by our efforts, though stained with sin.  We say, “It is the best I can do”, and we expect God to accept it, though it is vile and unthinkably below Him (Mal 1:7-8).  Yet, God REVEALS the law is so strict that my sins deserve death, and there is nothing I can do to honor God who demands perfection.  And, then, BLESS His holy name!  He shows the glory of His Son’s blood, as He died for us, taking away our sins, and earning heaven predestined unto us. He reveals Christ being GRACIOUS to sinners and giving men eternal life for their sins (Is 61:3).  2 Cor 4:3-5 says, “But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing,  whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.  For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake“.

Secondly, having learned the gospel, we keep learning it by trouble.  The problems of today cast us down, but not out.  They destroy SELF-confidence, but they lead us to a faithful God who saves us freely and miraculously.  I must see myself WEAK, so I can see how strong He is, so that I praise Him heartily, instead of taking His name in vain, saying “right things” from a spirit of flesh.  No, He conquers us and shines this light upon hearts TROUBLED with pain, broken with woe, and grieving the impact of sin - “We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed––  always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.   For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So then death is working in us, but life in you.  And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, ‘I believed and therefore I spoke,‘ we also believe and therefore speak”  (vs8-13).

God makes us see His graciousness, even as He came to the disciples when they were in the storm. He walks upon the storm of our trials, having full omnipotence and absolute control over them. And, He speaks peace to us, saying, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid” (Mark 6:50).  He receives us freely, so we receive Him.  Then, we taste the power of peace, worship Him from the heart, and tell of His greatness SINCERELY (2 Cor 4:13).  The power of the fleshly confidence is broken for the song of heartfelt praise.

Third, God reveals that we’re SAVED to save others.  We’ve endured and been comforted to comfort others by the comfort that we’ve received.  Now, we’re better able to SERVE by the tears, and service - making us like Christ - is pleasing to God, honors His glory as many are saved, and brings us and many to peace - “knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you.  For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God” (vs14-15).

Lastly, look, Oh child of God, at the promises of heaven, and keep yourself in God’s love, rather than pondering your woes unduly. Keep eyes on the promises, the wealth of the invisible God bequeathed to you by blood, and the heavenly hope will outweigh the grief of the light and temporary affliction - “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,  while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.  For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens“ (2 Cor 4:16-5:1).

Compared to what you have in Christ, what you must weep over now is small and short-lived. You will be in heaven, and your current tears are strengthening your witness, improving your prayers, and transforming you into someone who can help others abide in God’s love also.

One of the greatest people I’ve ever met, Linda Stalnaker, was dying of cancer when we met, only to pass a couple of months later.  She had been a rock in her home, and by the way that she died - obtaining mercy, day by day, to live honorable and glorifying to God in her witness - was used to strengthen many.  This woman’s four children all came to faith in Christ AFTER she passed away.  I’ve spoken to one or two who said, “We leaned on her so much, that after she was gone, we knew we needed God.  She wasn’t there.”  Thus, God made her an example in death, and made her a witness to Christ by her absence, helping her family by tears she didn’t want to shed and a grave she would have chosen to postpone.

"Able Ministers of the New Covenant" (2 Cor 3-4:2)

The message of God’s glory is the saving message of the gospel.  The law is His glory to condemn the sinner, demanding PERFECTION equal to His character. But, in the GOSPEL, He sets forth Christ crucified for sinners, so that He gives us life eternal, perpetually cleansing and pardoning us, being faithful in love, in spite of our sins.

Paul commends himself to the Corinthians, not by letters of their approval, but by the fact they know Christ through his teaching.  He is God’s instrument in the new covenant, used to preach Christ in love.  He, like all God-sent preachers is graced by God, so that he is the “able minister of the new covenant” -  “Do we begin again to commend ourselves? Or do we need, as some others, epistles of commendation to you or letters of commendation from you?  You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men;  clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.  And we have such trust through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God,  who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” (vs1-6)

The law’s glory is done away.  It is good to tell men of God’s standard and promise them wrath for not repenting, but the gospel’s glory is so far greater than the law, that it is like the sun to the moon, so that once risen, the other cannot be seen - “But if the ministry of death, written and engraved on stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of the glory of his countenance, which glory was passing away, how will the ministry of the Spirit not be more glorious? For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory.  For even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels.  For if what is passing away was glorious, what remains is much more glorious.” (vs7-11)

We approach God and live with Him, not by what I deserve by my promises and merit, but by what God has promised and Christ has earned for me.  And, this gospel of a “top down” God saving sinners is so hopeful that we use great plainness of speech.  If we tried to manipulate men and hide the truth, it wouldn’t help. But, we openly preach mercy to sinners because God uses mercy preached to bestow mercy and change people, manifestly revealing them as His, approved of and saved by Christ - “Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech: and not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished” (vs12-13).

The law’s glory is hidden by preachers, and Satan strives to assure men they aren’t as bad as scripture says… that God can be appeased by their best efforts. Yet, this VEILING of the law’s glory only shuts the door, so that people can’t trust Christ. As long as you think yourself anything more than hell-deserving and helpless, you will not turn to Christ.  But, when you do turn, then He will receive you, no matter the past -  “But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ.  But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. “ (vs13-16)

The gospel’s glory isn’t merely God, but it is also God revealing Himself in a changing way, so that as we see Him gracious in Christ, we’re changed into His likeness.  As we see Him GIVING us eternal life, we become gracious people. As He FREELY forgives, just by  receiving the GIFT of eternal life, we become forgivers and lovers of men - “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.   But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.   Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.  But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” (2 Cor 3:17-4:2)

The gospel’s glory is Jesus Christ Himself who saves us by the Spirit, conforming us into His wonderful image.  We’re made faithful, manifesting ourselves as of God by what and how we preach, by the impact of holiness visible.

Which covenant are you under?  Are you under the gospel that gives you life, makes you righteous, and blesses you repeatedly and eternally?  Or, are you under the law, cursed of God, with no way out except the Savior?

"Confirm Your Love Toward Him" (2 Cor 2:5-17)

Love people who have sinned, when they repent.  Love them freely - “So that contrariwise, you ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.  Wherefore I call upon you to confirm your love toward him” (2 Cor 2:7-8).

CONFIRM YOUR LOVE (vs5-11)

vs5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all. 6  Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. 7  So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. 8  Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. 9  For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things. 10  To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; 11  Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

1.  Grief is because we hurt people, forcing them to separate from our company, because we have done wrong (vs5).  
2.  Paul says, I’m only partly grieved. I’m not mad and put out.  I forgive. (vs5)
3.  I don’t want to burden you.  It is past, mercy is given, I receive him freely and joyfully.  You too!  I command it as becomes Christ.
4.  Rather than be mad, help him (vs7).  Paul is saying, I’m not angry; I’m encouraging your love to repentant children of God!
5.  You don’t want to burden.  Help him know forgiveness by your love and relieve him.  Take away the shame and the bondage, and in so doing, you’ll have freedom.  Rather than judging, you’ll be loved (vs7).  Our Lord says in Luke 6:37, “Judge not, and you will not be judged: condemn not, and you will not be condemned: forgive, and you will be forgiven”.
6.  Love him.  You have done right in receiving him, now do it fully.  Put no difference because of sin (vs8).  All aren‘t as lovely in their behavior, but all should be loved, even if they’ve done things before.
7.  In everything, obey, not only putting away the unbelieving but receiving the brother (vs9).
8.  We must forgive freely, or it isn’t forgiveness. It can’t be, “Hold them in doubt or watch them like hawks”. We cannot judge, lest we be judged (vs10).
9.  Forgiveness is real. It isn’t something we say, but before God, we do it, showing the love from the heart (vs10).
10.  Satan wants people to forget grace and tolerate sin.  Then, he wants us to forget grace and harbor ill towards people who repent. He wants us to sin that grace might abound, and he wants us to hate people who aren’t “holy like us” (vs11).

PROOF (vs12-13)

vs12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord, 13  I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.

1.  Here is proof of my love for you, Paul says.  I was so concerned for you that I left an open door of preaching to find out about you, not only must I know, but I must go through whatever needful expense to learn. I prove by my actions, Paul says, so let us PROVE our love, even as we desire it from others.  Be examples of what you want others to show. (vs12-13)
2.  He didn’t come for any purpose but the preaching of Christ, and he devoted himself to it, as every man must be devoted in his own city, ministry, and gifts. We must, each of us, in our own way, use our gifts where we are to honor God.  Don’t live your life for yourself and miss pleasure; live for the Son (vs12).  Paul didn’t say, “It is well with me, so forget others”.  He said, “How can I enjoy anything until I know how my children do?” (vs13)
3.  Paul is not a high up in his mind. He calls Titus, “our brother“. He is authoritative and yet humble, meek and yet bold. We must be both: not one. (vs13)

THE PREACHER AND HIS PREACHING (vs14-17)

Vs14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15  For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16  To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things? 17  For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.

1.  He thanks God, contemplating his labors, that God makes him a blessing and a curse: a blessing to believers, a curse to the ungodly, and God is pleased regardless, giving him victory in Christ, enabling him to preach in love (vs14)
2.  God gives the grace, the forgiveness, the conviction, and everything that we need, so that we conquer rather than fail at what we do. God is the STRENGTH of my heart(vs14).   We are His messengers, so surely He helps us succeed.  He will not be negligent to His cause, but He graciously and willingly assists us in exalting His Son, whom He loves.  Ps 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoices; and with my song will I praise Him”. 
3.  It doesn’t matter what people think.  The love of God is on us who do His will. Don’t be ashamed of God’s love being on you and the fact that you, by faith and love, thrill Him as scripture says.  He takes pleasure in His work in us, as He should (vs15).
4.  He smells Christ’s love, blood, and Spirit. He smells His Son when He sees us (vs15)
5.  It doesn’t matter that people hate God, so long as God loves the message. It is better to be a stink to men than to be abhorred of God. I don’t have to be successful numerically to please God and die in peace, but I must be faithful to the Son.  Therefore, faithfulness, and not responses, is the intention of the preacher, to please Christ in the hope that He gives LIFE to whom He will. We must BELIEVE it’s of God only. (vs15)
6.  We are some people’s enemies. They smell or see nothing in the gospel message, but they are blind and will die in sin. He who sees nothing in Christ is cursed of God. Christ is the God who saves sinners and to reject that is to be cursed (vs16).
7.  Some hear Christ and say, “Yes, that is true, and that is the message of life”, and they shall live ETERNALLY thereby. The goodness of God will be faithful to all who see goodness in God and believe it.  If you will see FREE GRACE as salvation’s glory, then free grace will save you as promised. (vs16)
8.  This makes us WEAK in the knees, as we see ourselves as messengers that must be heard or hell will be suffered eternally. Who can bear the weight of responsibility to men’s souls and the burden of hatred from sinners?  Our God makes us go willingly and stand. (vs16)
9.  There are many false prophets who care only for themselves, not sparing the flock, corrupting the word, and using the bible to regulate people and exalt themselves. They TAKE, instead of give (vs17).
10.  They change the meaning, make it say what they want, and take away the saving power, even though they quote the verse. It is NOT enough to have the bible preached; it must be accurately and lovingly preached, so that God’s Spirit is on the word, so that love and blessings can flow (vs17).
11.  It is God’s word, not man’s, so we better not meddle with or corrupt it. We must not change it in any way, isolating parts and ignoring other parts.  Let us BE FAITHFUL to what He says, preaching Christ in the volume of the book , not using scritures to say what I think, but saying what it says, honoring God (vs17).
12.  Sincerely, we set forth what He says in the spirit whereby He speaks. We are not using truth to magnify self, but we are preaching it in love, following Paul who loved the gospel and the people.  Like him, we forsake our “joy” to find the joy of others, whereby we’re happy for sure, even as the Shepherd left heaven for us! (vs17)
13.  This we do being “of God”. This isn’t human strength; this is grace manifested in heart and life, so that we’re fruitful by the Holy Spirit who alone produces love and truth (vs17).
14.  This we say and do before God. We are not those who’re ignorant of reality, as if we can fool Him without consequence.  We do everything in sincerity before His throne, as if He looks upon us, depending on and receiving GRACE from Him, rather than sneaking around and living like atheists while quoting bibles. (vs17)
15.  We speak as those that have obtained mercy. We don’t merely speak of Christ, but we SPEAK in Christ as possessors of God’s inheritance, so that we speak what we’ve seen and heard. (vs17)

God‘s Glory By Us (2 Cor 1:14-2:4)

“For all the promises of God in [Christ] are yes, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us” (vs20)

The Lord teaches us to show the same character to others, truthfulness, faithfulness, and love, that He shows unto us.

Paul was clear in his conscience that he’d SERVED the church at Corinth and others. He isn’t saying he’s faultless; he is declaring God’s grace has not only pardoned but also empowered him to love - “For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.  For we are not writing any other things to you than what you read or understand. Now I trust you will understand, even to the end  (as also you have understood us in part), that we are your boast as you also are ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus“ (vs12-14).

He declares himself honest, saying, “And in this confidence, I was minded to come unto you before, that you might have a second benefit. And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judea.  When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? Or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea, yea, and nay, nay? But as God is true, our word toward you was not yes and no.  for the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timothy, was not yes and no, but in him was yes. For all the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us” (vs15-20).

God is honored by doing good to sinners and saving people elected from the world’s foundation. He is TRUE and faithful to us, even though we spit upon Him.  He is GRACIOUS to people who use that grace to sin.  He is good to us because His faithful promises are based upon the obedience of His exalted Son, and they are received by faith alone, so they are sure and valid to all that believe.

He instructs us that his character, like his gospel, was faithful.  Paul didn’t say, “I’m coming to see you”, just to use words: he did it because he believed that he would make it there, God willing, but something came up.  He declares that he’s faithful, instead of being wishy washy, talking loud, but saying nothing that matters to the change of his heart.  He is honest and true, having learned FAITHFULNESS and graciousness from the promising and performing God.

Paul isn’t setting himself and pastors up as lords.  He says, “Now he which establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us is God; who has also marked us, and given the first portion of the Spirit in our hearts.  Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you, I came not as yet unto Corinth. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith you stand.  But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. For if I make you sorry, who is he then that makes me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?  And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.  For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have more abundantly for you” (2 Cor 1:21-2:4).

Christ LOVED us and gave Himself for us.  His God-sent servants preach Christ from the heart, wishing you good.

We are not using you to magnify our “ministries”, nor are we seeking positions of influence to dim the light of Christ. We are slaves of the Master who love you from the heart, using the gospel for your good, even when painful things must be said.  We are not lovers of doctrine and yet indifferent to men; we LOVE the Christ (gospel doctrine) and we love the people that we serve, knowing that we’ll meet believers again in heaven, recognize each other, and we’ll rejoice as only pastor and people can at the Great Day of Judgment (2 Cor 1:14).

Beware of being used.  Many take the name “pastor” for an occasion to the flesh, to yoke sinners to themselves, like wolves who feed off the sheep.