Read 2 Corinthians 13
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2013&version=NIV
13:1–3 All the sarcasm and foolish boasting of 2 Corinthians 10–12 comes to an end here. Paul’s third visit would bring talking to an end. In 2 Corinthians 1–12 Paul hoped that he would be able to come and find obedience. In 2 Corinthians 13 he vowed he would come and punish disobedience. Paul said he could come with punishment or with scolding (1 Cor. 4:21). Now was the time to see which one he would use. In 2 Corinthians 13:1 Paul quoted from Deuteronomy 19:15, which requires two or three witnesses to secure a conviction against a defendant (cf. Matt. 18:16; 1 Tim. 5:19). The issue to be proved was not the Corinthians’ sins but Paul’s authority in Christ (2 Cor. 13:3). His third visit would bring proof that he was God’s appointed apostle.
13:4 Paul presents a perfect model of ministry in 13:4. This verse gives a perfect outline of the letter’s major themes of God’s power becoming evident and active despite the weakness of its vessels.
13:5–10 Paul turned the tables on his critics (cf. 10:7, 11). He instructed the Corinthians to examine their character and conduct to see if they were truly Christian (cf. Titus 1:16). Paul again asserted his desire for the Corinthians’ approval even if he could not win it (2 Cor. 13:7–10).
13:11–14 “Christian love” (13:12; cf. 1 Cor. 16:20; Rom. 16:16; 1 Thess. 5:26; “holy kiss,” niv) was a culturally accepted Christian greeting and corresponds in Western culture to the handshake. In this particular case it symbolized the reconciliation and peace needed in the Corinthian situation. Paul concluded the epistle with a great trinitarian benediction (13:14), emphasizing the grace that finds its source in the Son, the love manifested by the Father, and the fellowship established and sustained by the Holy Spirit. This letter contains Paul’s longest benediction.
Discussion question
How do you think the Corinthians responded to verse 5? What would they look for to test themselves?
Reflection question
In what area of your life will you aim for perfection?
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I would think the Corinthians would take Paul's examination to heart and would look at themselves to determine if they were living the Christian life. Throughout 2Cor., Paul has been pointing out weaknesses and failings of the Corinthians, such as not following Paul's teachings and being led by non-Christians in this world. If they will do this self-examination and pray that God will lead them in the Christian life, I think they will be fine. This last sentence applies to us today as we strive to live the perfect Christian life.
ReplyDeleteSince the Corinthians had had a tendency to "wander away," I hope they got it on Paul's third trip and made a sincere attempt to follow the standards set by Jesus and then Paul. We are all human, and even today the news is full of people who appear to be moral and are known to attend church. They would surely have come out better if they were more careful to examine themselves regularly and comply with the Christian standards of behavior.
ReplyDeleteYes I would hope they would test or examine themselves. I believe I should do this also. I think Paul is explaining that we should all think about our actions & work toward living the way Jesus taught. That I need to review the direction that my life is going, and to make revisions when needed.
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