Today’s Scripture: 2nd Corinthians 11-13
Things to remember in today’s reading:
- Paul defends his preaching and exposes those he calls “super-apostles (11:5-ESV), who were preaching “another Jesus …a different spirit ….a different gospel” (11:4) and many of whom were preaching out of greed (2:7)
- Paul boasts of things that show his weakness (11:30) and that glorify God’s grace and power
- Paul tells of his conversion and of the “thorn” he was given to keep him from becoming conceited.
- As Paul prepares for his 3rd visit, he appeals to the rebellious to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith. Their response to his call to repentance will be their TEST!
- Paul closes his letter to the Corinthians with five commands:
- Aim for restoration
- Comfort one another
- Agree with one another
- Live in peace
- Greet one another with a holy kiss
Things God is teaching me in today’s reading:
- We may be falsely accused for being zealous for God and His work.
- In all things we must never forget why we do them – to the glory of God to build up and not tear down (12:13; 13:10).
- A study of a church in turmoil shows how painful the process can be to call the rebellious to repentance and to restore the unity and harmony that God intended in the local congregation!
Things to act on in today’s reading:
- I will give thanks for my brothers and sisters in Christ with whom I have fellowship in the local work and for the elders who oversee that work and for the deacons and teachers who facilitate the public worship and the edifying of the boy of Christ!
- I will encourage the preaching of the gospel by our local evangelist, Alan Cornett, by sending him a note of appreciation
Things to pray about in today’s reading:
- Lord, give me an attitude like Paul’s to “spend and be spent” for the souls of others!
- Lord, let me be content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions and calamities in doing your work!
- Be with your servant Jesse; comfort and strengthen him!
Thanks for reading with me dear friend. Have a blessed day!!
— Randy Sexton