Read New Testament in Three Months - November 28 - 2 Corinthians 1 - 4

Read New Testament in Three Months

November 28 - 2 Corinthians 1 - 4

2 Corinthians was written by Paul between 55 and 57 A.D., a couple of months after he had sent his first letter to the Corinth church. Paul had found out that most of the church had repented but there were still some false leaders of a small minority that were trying to cause Paul's authority and message to be disregarded. Again, Paul shares his heart with the church, sharing his love for her and his own walk to see her grow in Christ.

Paul's opening in chapter 1 tells of the trials and sufferings that he and others share for the cause of Christ, sufferings that are expected for our Savior also suffered. Also, that comfort is also received through the Spirit just as comfort was given to our Lord. And it is in this that we learn to comfort others in their time of need, working together for the good of all. 

In the next chapters Paul goes on to explain what he has been through, what he has heard regarding those who are trying to cause division between themselves and him and how his heart not to cause them despair by harsh correction made him postpone his coming to see them again. Paul is wanting to make it clear that he is desiring to present Christ to them and not bring attention to himself or lift himself up before man. As I read these chapters I can feel his love striving to come forth to the Corinth church, to bring correction to what is taking place there and also to warm them of the devices of the enemy. I can hear his desire for them to listen to what he has to say, not because he thinks more highly of himself then he ought but because he loves them and doesn't want them to suffer from their immaturity and the beguiling of the enemy to lead them astray. I hear a parent's cry to protect those he loves and only wanting the best for them, willing to pay the cost of whatever it takes for them to come to the fullness of what their Savior, Christ Jesus, paid for them to have in Him.

Read these chapters today as coming from the heart of a spiritual father, desiring their children to know what their Heavenly Father has made available to them through His Son and not as a man who is seeking to lord over them. Paul speaks of him being merely a man, will flaws just like other men yet he knows that he is following after Christ, sharing Him with them that they would grow in Him and share Christ Jesus with others, bringing great glory to our Heavenly Father. Precious saints, that calling wasn't just placed upon Paul and other disciples that walked during that time. That God is given glory through the spreading of the Good News of Jesus Christ is for us to share today as well. Far too many are not willing to pay that price nor even to abide in the truth of it, striving to grow daily by His grace and mercy that is given to us by Jesus' sacrifice and our Father's love towards us. Open your hearts, hear the Spirit's voice in acknowledgement of God in Christ in us, equipped to walk in a way that brings Him glory and honor. Let us desire the meat of God's Word and not just the milk...