Day 335, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): 2Corinthians 2:12–7:3
Commendation; Getting Support
Whether we need emotional support from a friend, references for a job interview, or financial support from possible donors, we all want to be valued for our character, deeds, message, or product. What do we do when we feel disrespected or undervalued? Do we need to toot our horn to get some attention? The Apostle Paul sometimes felt disrespected and devalued. What did he do?
In today’s Bible reading, we see that the Corinthians had some association with false prophets or teachers who served for material gain.In contrast, Paul commends himself to them by reviewing his character and purpose.
His approach
The Apostle Paul assures them that the motive for his ministry is not to see what he can get out of them. The apostle says, “Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God” (2 Corinthians 2:17, NIV).
Why do we serve God and people? Is it primarily to reap material benefits or to carry out the will of the Lord? Do people know that our focus is to fulfill God’s will and to serve them? If we want people to trust us and keep a commendable reputation, we must have integrity. And, we must do everything with their best interests at heart.
His proof
Paul loathes boasting. He believes the proof of their ministry is in the results. Paul says,
You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:2-3, NIV).
What proof do we have of the value of our contributions? Is God changing others into better people as they follow our Christian example and Christ’s teachings?
His confidence
Paul is bold in his speech, but some people interpret it as arrogance. He admits his approach is direct, but it’s because of his enthusiasm in the message God gives him to deliver—a life-changing, glorious message (3:6,12).What impression do we leave with people, that our confidence is in ourselves or in God and his message?
His focus
Paul’s focus is not on himself. He says, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake” (2Corinthians 4:5, NIV).
When we read all the things Paul suffered to bring the gospel to people without much recognition or praise, we might ask, “Paul, how did you do it? Didn’t you get discouraged and want to quit?”
We might ask him this because there are times of discouragement in our lives when we wonder if we are making any progress. Are the work, pain, and disrespect worth it? Paul faced this, too. We can’t change others, so we must work on our own attitudes. He explains,
Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God (2 Corinthians 4:1-2, NIV).
Paul’s commitment
Paul suffers much for the gospel ministry. Jewish unbelievers and leaders constantly persecute him and his companions, and even try to kill them. However, he doesn’t count his life dear to himself; he knows he will have a spiritual body if they destroy his earthly body (2Corinthians 5:1).
By God’s grace, Paul and his companions survive and carry on the ministry for the sake of the Corinthian believers and others. The goal of Paul and his companions is to please God by their lives or their deaths. They know all Christians will appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ. They will give an answer for every deed they do on this earth, whether good or bad, useful or useless (5:10). And so they live to please him.
For this reason, Paul and his companions try to persuade men to turn from their sins, call out to God for salvation, and live for him. They are ambassadors of Christ to reconcile people to God so they might have eternal life.
What is God’s mission for our lives? Are we committed to fulfilling it? How do we view our lives?
Paul Requests Support
Despite all that Paul and his companions suffer and the love he shows them, the Corinthians are still unsure about him. They withdraw from Paul. After explaining his mission and ministry from the Lord, Paul pleads with the Corinthians not to withdraw but to open their hearts wide and accept him.
It is unfortunate and even embarrassing, but sometimes we have to remind people of all we have done for them and ask for their support. People forget. People are occasionally inconsiderate, disrespectful, and even loathe what is beneficial for them. We may recall that even God had this problem with Israel, as recorded frequently in the Old Testament books of the Bible.
God was extremely patient with the Israelites, and he is patient with us as well. Have we forgotten the good he has brought us through our parents, teachers, pastors, or friends? We, too, need reminders of God’s grace and providence in our lives. Let’s thank someone today for the input they had in our life. Let’s give them our support!
Discussion
If we use Paul’s example, how should we commend ourselves before others?
What things have your parents, teachers, pastors, or others significantly contributed to your life? How can you show them your support?
citizens from the city of Corinth in first century Turkey
Focus Verse
2Corinthians 5:9-10 (NIV)
So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments or prayer requests to me, Rod Harrier
Looking Ahead: Because of God's grace in our lives, and the needs of others, we need to Give Generously. Find out more in our Next Lesson.
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