STUDIES
IN
SECOND CORINTHIANS
COMMENTARY BIBLE LESSONS
by DR. D. PAUL TUCK SR.
A BAPTIST PULPIT PUBLICATION
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
These
studies were first written
by
the author and
taught
to the students of
Historic
Baptist College
Scarborough,
Ontario, Canada
and
preached from the pulpit of
Landmark
Baptist Church
Scarborough
in
1987.
They
were rewritten by the author
in
1993-94
DEDICATION
I
dedicate this work to the
Missionary/Pastors
and Evangelists
in
the Republic of the Philippines
those
men of God who teach and preach
landmark
Baptist principles and the doctrines
of
the Sovereign Grace of God.
Many
who subsist only on a diet of rice and
sleep
on a mat in a nipa hut. Yet they
continue
in the faith to win their countrymen
to
a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
--------------------------------------
All
rights to copy or reprint these notes
are
reserved by the author and
copy
permission will be granted to
missionaries
and churches by
writing
to-
BAPTIST PULPIT MINISTRIES
48
Cobbler Crescent
North
York, Ontario
Canada
M3N 2Y7
First
Printing
1994
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LESSON 1.............. Introduction
to Second Corinthians....................................................... Pg 4
LESSON 1
........ Persecuted for the
Gospel 1:1-12.......................................................... Pg
5
LESSON 2.............. A
Positive Gospel 1:13-24................................................................... Pg
8
LESSON 3.............. Paul's
Purpose in Writing...2:1-11...................................................... Pg
12
LESSON 4.............. The
Treasure of An Open Door...2:12-17........................................... Pg
15
LESSON 5.............. Living
Epistles 3:1-6........................................................................... Pg
19
LESSON 6.............. The
Superiority of the New Covenant 3:7-16...................................... Pg
22
LESSON 7.............. Endurance
in Ministry 4:1-7................................................................ Pg
24
LESSON 8.............. The
Result of Suffering for Christ-4:8-18........................................... Pg
27
LESSON 9.............. Living
in the Light of Eternity 5:1-10.................................................. Pg
31
LESSON 10............ Living
in View- the Bema of Christ-5:9-21......................................... Pg
35
LESSON 11............ Ambassador's
For Christ 6:1-13......................................................... Pg
43
LESSON 12............ Biblical
Separation 6:14-16................................................................ Pg
47
LESSON 13............ Encouragement
to Practical Holiness-7:1-8........................................ Pg
50
LESSON 14............ The
Value of Reproof 7:9-16.............................................................. Pg
54
LESSON 15............ Giving
Living! 8:1-15......................................................................... Pg
57
LESSON 16............ Associated
in Mission 8:16-24........................................................... Pg
62
LESSON 17............ Ministering
to the Saints 9:1-6............................................................ Pg
66
LESSON 18............ Purposed
Giving 9:7-15...................................................................... Pg
69
LESSON 19............ Apostolic
Authority 10:1-7................................................................. Pg
73
LESSON 20............ Measuring
Apostolic Authority 10:8-18.............................................. Pg
77
LESSON 21............ A
Bride For Jesus 11:1-13.................................................................. Pg
81
LESSON 22............ The
Christian Warfare 11:14-33......................................................... Pg
85
LESSON 23............ The
Glory in Infirmities 12:1-10......................................................... Pg
89
LESSON 24............ The
Work and Care of the Ministry-12:11-21..................................... Pg
93
LESSON 25............ A
Word to Obstinate Sinners 13:1-14................................................. Pg
98
Bibliography........... .......................................................................................................... Pg
103
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON
ONE:- CHAPTER 1:1-12-
INTRODUCTION:-
Second Corinthians was written by
Paul to the Church in Corinth, likely in the fall of 57 AD. The letter was
written from Macedonia (7:5), some think from the city of Philippi.
There are at least three main
purposes seen in the letter.
(1) To give instruction in doctrine and
practical exhortation.
(2) To
give further instruction for the offering being gathered for the poor saints at
Jerusalem (e.g. 9:1-5).
(3) To
make an extended defense of Paul's apostleship in view of false accusations by
some within the Corinth Church (e.g. 10:10; 11:13-15; 13:3).
The two main sources of study of
background material for this letter are, the Book of Acts, and Paul's first
letter. (Read Acts 18:1-18).
The Corinth Church was founded on
Paul's second missionary journey in AD 50 (Acts 18:1-17). Paul lived at
Corinth for about 18 months, living in the house of Aquila and Priscilla. On
his third missionary journey in (AD 52)
Paul wrote his first letter as he had already come to know the people of
the Corinth Church. He made a short visit to Corinth in order to combat
opposition to his ministry, and to correct the evils in the church (2 Cor.
2:1; 12:14; 13:1-3) which did not seem to be very effective. Paul also
refers to a letter which seems to have become lost and is not included in the
New Testament canon. Paul wrote other letters which were no doubt not inspired
Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16). Paul writes this second letter from
Macedonia (probably Philippi) to prepare the way for his third visit. Titus
with two companions delivers the letter to the church (2 Cor. 8:6; 16-24).
As you study the text of this
epistle (or any other) it is wise to follow the "golden rule of
interpretation".
"When
the plain sense of Scripture makes common sense, seek no other sense;
therefore, take every word at its primary, ordinary, usual, literal meaning
unless the facts of the immediate context, studied in the light of related
passages and axiomatic and fundamental truths, indicate clearly
otherwise"- Irving L. Jensen.
One is very much aware in reading
this letter, that for Paul, the Christian life is going all out for Christ, or
it is no life at all. In Paul's first letter we see "Christian conduct
indicated". In this his second letter, we see "Christian conduct
illustrated".
In defense of himself, Paul let his
ministry stand up or speak up for him. No preacher can be effective in his
ministry if he ever takes a personal defensive position. Someone has well said,
"the best defense in an offense". Paul's only personal defense was in
relationship to his apostleship. In all other, the facts stood up for themselves
as he preached the gospel of the sovereign grace of God. The best way to fight
the devil, is to preach Christ and Him crucified, buried and risen again.
CHAPTER
1:1-12 PERSECUTED FOR THE
GOSPEL
1. SOURCE OF ENCOURAGEMENT:- vs 1-4
A. Apostle
of Christ:-
1.
By the will of God- a Sovereign God.
2. With other brethren-
God's man is not alone!
3. Church of God-
visibly located in Corinth.
The New Testament Church is local and
visible. Paul is here saying that he is God's apostle to God's visibly located
Church in Corinth.
B. Greetings
Extended:- vs 2-4
1. Grace-
"Unmerited favour" or "God's riches at Christ's expense".
2. Peace- cf John
14:27; 16:33; 20:19.
Christ is called "The Prince of
Peace".
3.
Lord- The use of the word "Lord" (Gr. Kurios) means Master, owner,
and is the Greek equivalent to the Hebrew word "Jehovah". In this we
see the deity of Christ as Paul makes Him equal with the Father in the Godhead.
4. Mercy and comfort- this
verse to the Christian, as to Job of old, balances God's justice with His
mercy, grace, peace and comfort.
"mercies"- literally-"always
has feelings of compassion"
The Father is characterized by mercy or
compassion.
"comfort"- means every
consolation.
5. "Who comforteth
us"- Paul and Timothy were comforted by God the Father. This comfort is
not here applied to all Christians- cf vs 6-8.
6.
Paul shows God's purpose in tribulation and comfort- vs 4. It is much
easier to comfort someone else if you too have had the same or similar trial.
2. SUFFERINGS OF CHRIST:- vs 5-9
A.
Christ's Suffering Shared:-
1. Abound in us- vs 5
2. Afflicted- vs 6
3.
Partakers- vs 7 The Corinthian Church shared in the sufferings of Paul
because they were the sufferings of Christ. Likewise they would share in
the consolation, their own and
Paul's together with Christ.
4. Our trouble in Asia- vs 8
cf Acts 19:22-23; 1 Cor. 15:32; 16:9.
5. "Sentence of death"- vs 9
The word "sentence" is best translated as "answer". It
seems sometimes the only answer a guilty conscience can give is one of death. The
Jews cried out concerning Jesus "crucify Him". The same type of crowd
also wanted to kill Paul many times.
B. Christ's
Consolation Shared:-
1. Our consolation
aboundeth. vs 5
2. Effectual suffering-
(or is wrought) -worked out to given end.
3.
Endured suffering- that which is persevered in. They could have gotten out of
it if they ceased to preach Christ. However they endured it for the Gospel's
sake.
4.
Your consolation and salvation:- They were tried but consoled by Christ, they
endured it for the consolation of others such as those in
Corinth. In other words, "they set an example in suffering".
The
word "salvation" here means deliverance and does not refer to the
salvation of the soul, but of the flesh in the sense of deliverance in
tribulation and trial.
5. Ye are
partakers-partakers of suffering and partakers of consolation.
6. Paul's trouble is not
stated, but could be referring to what is mentioned in 1 Cor. 15:32; 16:9;
Acts 19:23; 20:18-19.
7. Not trust in
ourselves but in God which raiseth the dead.- Trials ought to lead us to a
greater measure of faith and trust in God.
Paul ever looked beyond the veil of death.
3. SALVATION IN CHRIST:- vs 10-11
Victory in trial and tribulation!
A. Past
Deliverance:-
Paul had often faced
persecution for the gospel's sake and been delivered. cf Acts 9:16; 2 Cor.
11:23-28.
B. Present
Deliverance:-
1. He does now
deliver-
2. Christ helps in time
of trouble.
3. By your prayers for
us help or work together).
4.
The gift (deliverance) hoped for. The word trust in vs 10 could better be
translated "hope". Not "hope as in maybe" but "hope as
in
guarantee" because of the one in whom we trust. The Christian hope is a
sure foundation which leaves the details to Him.
C. Future
Deliverance:-
Paul's ultimate trust
was "in God which raises the dead" cf Job 19:25-26.
Paul's trust in God
looked beyond the veil of flesh.
D. The
Result of Prayer:- vs 11
"since you help by
your prayers"- Their prayers contributed to the resulted deliverance.
CONCLUSION:-
vs 12 1.
Our rejoicing- our boasting or bragging.
2. The witness of our
conscience.
3. Simplicity and Godly
sincerity-
(Gr. holiness and purity
of God).
4. Not fleshly (natural
man) wisdom.
5.
Grace of God- 1 Cor. 1:3- Grace is the basis of all we ever receive from
the hand of God. Let the Christian never reply that he/she
deserved what they received from God, or that by some stroke of goodness within
themselves they received from Him.
6. Our conversation-
literally- "we behaved ourselves"-
7. More abundantly to you-
(in the Corinth Church). We have lived as we have for your sakes.
Thus we see Paul's stand in the face
of tribulation. How do we stand, with much less persecution than he had? Let us
be encouraged to endure our little hardship as we realize what those who have
gone on before us have endured for the name of our Saviour Jesus Christ.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Draw a map of
Greece and Macedonia and locate each, as well as the cities of Corinth, Athens,
and Philippi.
Published
by
BAPTIST PULPIT MINISTRIES
30 Church Street South
Richmond Hill, Ontario
Canada L4C 1W2
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON TWO
2 CORINTHIANS
1:13-24 A POSITIVE GOSPEL
These verses involve Paul's
contending for apostolic authority, his missionary journey, and his advocating
of a positive gospel of Jesus the Son of God.
1. APOSTOLIC AUTHORITY:- vs 13-14
A. Sincerity
of Message:-
1. Paul sought to
vindicate his sincerity in writing.
2.
There was no double meaning in Paul's writing. He meant exactly what he said.
There was nothing he had hidden or written between the
lines.
3. Paul was not a man of
double standard.
B. Scope
of the Message:-
1. The word
"acknowledge" means "to know well"-
cf 1 Corinthians 14:37; 16:18.
2. Paul's authority and
the message of the gospel was "known well" in the Corinth Church.
3. Besides his assurance
that he is writing to them honestly, they have their own knowledge of how Paul had
lived in their midst.
4. "To know to the
end"- That is, "never lose sight of what I have taught you".
5. Vs 14- Paul
here states that "they had acknowledged in part - or in part know us
well".
But
the fact Paul had to straighten them out in so many things or areas, they did
not know him well enough. Their knowledge of his authority and doctrine was
only partial.
6. "We are your
rejoicing"- glory or boast.
"You
are ours"- The key to the meaning here is in the words "in the day of
the Lord Jesus". Because of Paul's work and ministry they will rejoice in
judgment at the coming of Christ. Paul will rejoice in the reward of his labour
and the partial knowledge of him and his doctrine will then be complete.
7. It appears that Paul
always expected the imminent return of Christ, and so lived, as should we.
2. APOSTOLIC OUTREACH:- vs 15-18
Paul herein discusses his previous
plan to visit Corinth enroute to Macedonia.
A. Plan
of Paul:- vs 15-16
1. "I was
minded"- or, "had it in mind" to visit you.
2. This was a solemn
wish on Pauls part to visit the Corinth Church.
3. We see here a desire
on Pauls part for fellowship, and to labour in further instructing the church
in their area of need doctrinally.
4.
Even though Paul was an apostle and founder of the Corinth Church he does not
push himself upon a sovereign church body. This
underscores the Baptist principle of the sovereignty of the local church congregation.
A principle too often neglected today in favour of a form of Baptist popery,
boardism and conventionism. There was no popery with Paul.
5. Paul wished to stop
over in Corinth enroute to Macedonia, and again, coming from Macedonia enroute
to Judea. (vs 16).
B. Purpose
of Paul:-
I differentiate between
Paul's plan and purpose in that his purpose is the basis or reason for his plan
or action.
1. Second benefit - or
favour.
This
would be a gift of Paul's love in sharing his ministry with them. The true
minister of Christ ought to rejoice, not in what he gains for
himself, but what he can give to the spiritual and physical well being of those
to whom he ministers. (cf Luke 6:38).
2.
The two visits would give Paul more time in Corinth. Time which Paul no doubt
thought would be to the greater benefit of the Corinth
Church.
Note:- This
was Paul's original plan, one which in fact did not take place. He instead went
directly to Macedonia and then to Corinth, enroute to Judea.
(1 Cor. 16:5).
3. "Sent forward to
Judea"- (vs 16).
Here we see the principle
of church association in Paul's mission. This visit was to carry the contributions
of the churches to Jerusalem
(Acts 24:17; Rom.
15:25; 1 Cor. 16:4).
The words "brought
forward" means, with full support and blessing.
4. "Thus
minded"- had a desire (to come to you).
"lightness"- fickleness as to speak
without a real and proper desire to visit you.
This no doubt had to do with his change of
original plan. However, Paul did keep to his priority of original purpose in
visiting them.
5. "According to the
flesh"- a desire only of myself.
6. "Yea yea, and
nay nay- a figure of speech showing double mindedness. Paul did not wish to
appear this way to the Corinth Church.
7. Vs 18-
"Our word to you"- the word (of Christ) preached.
- was not "yea and nay"- is not
changeable, first yes, and then no. Paul now proceeds to talk about his message.
3. APOSTOLIC
MESSAGE:- vs 19-24
A. Positive Message: vs 19
1. Paul's message was of Jesus Christ the Son of
God.
2. Paul preached a "Person".
By the term Son of God he advocates Christ's deity. Jesus is GOD!
cf 1 Cor. 1:1-4; 2
Cor. 1:1-2.
3.
Paul in this verse places himself as the channel whereby the unchanging Word
was sent to them. With the use of the term "Son of God", we
see the slight change in subject as Paul makes a point of application.
4.
Paul may find it necessary to change his plans on occasion, but the Word of
Christ is not yea and nay. Christ is the same yesterday, today
and forever. (Hebrews 13:8).
5. Paul was not alone in
preaching this positive gospel. Silas and Timothy shared with him in ministry.
6. All of God's promises
are positive and established (vs 20). The purpose of God's promises is
to bring glory to Himself first of all.
"Amen"- a
positive expression in claiming something from God. It literally means "so
be it".
"by us"- means
in and through us the apostles.
Note:- I am sure God
also receives glory as we individual believers lay claim to His promises (2
Cor. 7:1; Heb. 6:12; 2 Peter 1:4) but Paul is here laying claim to his
apostolic ministry.
B. Powerful
Message:- vs 21-24
1. We see in the
remaining verses, some of God's positive, powerful promises (P.P.P.)-
a)
stablisheth- establish, confirm, strengthen. God makes us strong in Christ.
This is the continuing work of sovereign grace within the
believer. It is part of the progressive sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. cf
Titus 2:11-15; 1 Thess. 5:23; 3:13.
The Holy Spirit conforms
believers into the image of, or likeness of Christ. (Romans 8:29; 2 Cor. 3:18;
1 John 3:2).
b) annointed us- This
refers directly here to the apostolic calling.
However, all born again
believers are annointed-(1 John 2:20,27 cf Acts 10:38).
c)
sealed us- Making the believer as God's own. This is done by the Holy Spirit
when one comes to Christ in repentance and faith
(Eph. 1:13; 4:30).
The seal is inward, it
is the renewing Spirit.
d) earnest of the
Spirit- earnest is literally "earnest-money", something in hand as a
down payment or guarantee of the full payment for the purchased possession.
Ephesians 1:4-
"the earnest of our inheritance for the redemption of the purchased
possession".
Those
elect in Christ in eternity past (Eph. 1:4) are regenerated (Eph. 2:1)
by the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit, brought to repentance
and faith in Christ (Rom. 2:4; Hebrews 6:1), indwelt by the Holy Spirit
(Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 6:19-20), are annointed, sealed, and given the downpayment (earnest) of what they will then
receive at the second coming of Jesus Christ.
Note:- This is
the purpose of Calvary and nowhere should be thought to effect anyone but God's
elect. Only "believers" are efficiently
effected by the shed
blood of Christ.
"The cross of
Christ is sufficient for all men. It is efficient for all who believe"-
John Calvin.
We can believe in
eternal security or security of the believer because of election.
Also vs 22 shows us-
1. That the believer has
already received the earnest of his inheritance which assures us that what the
Spirit has begun, He will complete.
2. The place of
established promise is "in our hearts", the seat of our being, our
soul.
3. The power that binds
God's promises is faith-Greek- "in your God given faith you stand."
CONCLUSION:-
This section of
Paul's letter (vs 22-24) is closed out with a directive as to why they
were spared by a second visit. This no doubt refers to what he says in chapter
two about his displeasure about the incestuous person whom he had (in his first
letter) wished excluded from the church roll.
Paul again
disclaims lordship over their faith. The preacher cannot make people live right
or believe right. They can only preach the word and leave it with the Holy
Spirit. Too often pastors try to play the role of the Holy Spirit, and do His
work. Paul wished to be but a "helper of their joy" (Phil. 1:25-26).
Their faith was not
affected but some of its accompaniments and fruits were neglected.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Begin your own Word
Study by looking up in at least two other sources, the meaning of-
1.
stablisheth. 2. anointed. 3. sealed by
the Spirit. 4. the earnest of the Spirit. 5. By faith ye stand.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 3 2 Corinthians 2:1-11
PAUL'S PURPOSE IN WRITING:-
In these verses we have Paul's
purpose in writing his "first" letter explained.
1. SOLICITUDE:-
Paul took great care in the welfare
of others, particularly in the churches
of the Lord Jesus Christ.
A. Cheerfulness:-
Paul
was concerned that, he not come to Corinth as with a rod, or provoked to deal
with their divisions.
1. He wished to come in a cheerful manner,
not with a spirit of heaviness or sorrow.
2. If Paul were to come and deal with
their divisions they would be sorry (grieved) but so would Paul. The scene
would be as a father chastening a son.
3. Paul realizes that in grieving them, he
would cut off the source of his own joy.
B. Confidence:-
vs 3
1. Paul's confidence in their rejoicing
over his joy was that this would cause them to do those things which would
bring him joy.
2. Paul felt that his care for them would
result in their doing what was right.
C. Concern:-
vs 4
1. "Out of much affliction"-
This
was the source of his own feelings. Having to write and reprove them, Paul
considered it an affliction. It brought him anguish of soul.
2. "Anguish of heart"-
Paul's
reproof was not in anger, but in deep rooted sorrow.
3. "Many Tears"- weeping
How
deeply Paul cared for the Lord's churches!
4. "Not to grieve you but to show my
love for you all"- The object of all true love is the concern for the
welfare of others. (cf 1 Cor. 13).
5. Paul would rather grieve the church
than have it given over to sin. The scene is one of a parent, in that while it
hurt him to discipline his child, the outcome of not doing so would grieve him
more.
D. Cause:- vs 5
"If anyone has caused grief, he has caused
it only in part to me.
"overcharge"-
refers to the offender. Paul regards the wrong done as not to him, but to the
whole church (in a modified sense).
2. SUFFICIENT:-
vs 6
A. Punishment:-
1. The
punishment referred to was the exclusion of the incestuous man- 1
Corinthians 5.
2. "Inflicted of many"-
This
may only refer to the majority of the membership who would not associate with
him. To the minority it appears as a dereliction of duty.
3. The word "sufficient" is in
reference to time, not to quantity of punishment. It has lasted long enough.
B. Personal
Responsibility:- vs 7-10
1. They were to take personal
responsibility in-
a) forgiveness- vs 7
b) comfort - vs 7
c) confirmed
love. Love that is strong. vs 8
2. They were to take heed lest-
a) he be overcome with grief for his sin.
To feel like he was without hope. Too many Christians have felt this way due to
the reaction of church members (even pastors) following sin or even some
misfortune.
b) "he thinks the church had no care
for him"-
Churches
in discipling members should take care that the individual disciplined not
misconstrue their intentions. This is also necessary in our maintaining certain
standards. Let our purpose be always clear, and let no one ever think we do not
have personal concern for their welfare. God hates sin, but the sinner can find
forgiveness in Christ. We must be prepared to forgive and forget.
c) They not regard the forgiveness Paul
himself displayed toward them. We are to forgive others as Christ has forgiven
us-Eph. 4:32; Matt. 6:14-15.
3. SATAN'S WORK:- vs 9-11
Care should always be taken, not to
leave a door open to Satan.
A. Duty
of the Christian:- vs 9-10
1. Proof:-
Paul sought
to prove their faith and obedience.
cf
2 Cor. 13:5; Gal. 6:4; 1 Thess. 5:21.
Our
perseverance in the faith is the proof of it.
To be sure
we are not "all talk and no action".
2. Forgive:-
Matthew
6:12-14; 1 John 2:12.
Paul
says, "I have forgiven him in the person (margin- sight) of Christ.
One
who ceases from sin should enjoy full fellowship in the church.
(The
full sense here is that Paul forgives any personal offense against him. The
offense against the church, he forgives, if the church does. Paul in no sense
infringes upon the sovereignty of the church, in making her decision for her.
-and no pastor should ever be guilty of this, although I have known some who
have).
B. Devices
of Satan:- vs 11
1. He seeks to gain an advantage (as he
sought with Job- Job 1:6-12).
2. An unforgiving spirit gives Satan
advantage.
3. Lack of love in the church gives Satan
an advantage.
4. Lack of unity in the church gives Satan
an advantage. cf 2 Corinthians 11:3.
CONCLUSION:-
We too should have
the same care, find the same sufficiency, and be ever watchful of Satan's
wiles, as was Paul in his admonition to the Corinth Church.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Read 1 Corinthians
5, and then write a short paragraph on the discipline of the incestuous man
with a view to his restoration.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 4 2 Corinthians
2:12-17
Paul did not seek
to make excuses for changes in his itinerary with a view to visiting Corinth.
He simply had priorities, the priority of -
1.
Preaching the Gospel.
2.
Taking the offering to Jerusalem.
This offset his
heartfelt desire to spend more time in Corinth. This is often the case in the
Christian ministry. In these verses Paul says much about the importance of
preaching.
1. PRIORITY OF PREACHING:- vs 12
A.
Contents of preaching:-
1. Christs Gospel. The message of the church
is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The purpose for His coming into the world was
"to seek and save
that which was lost". Luke 19:10; Matthew 20:28; 1 Cor. 15:1-8.
2. The contents involve a Person. Acts
4:12; 1 John 5:11-13,20.
B. Commission
of Preaching:-
Jesus
said, "preach the gospel to every creature. We are not to be concerned
about who is elect or non-elect. That is God's business. It is our work to
preach the gospel.
The Lord opened up a
door for Paul to preach the gospel, and that is what he did.
cf- Mark 16:15; Matthew 28-19-20.
C. Concern
of Preaching:-
"Troas"-
Paul's
concern was people. To preach Christ to the people of this port city of Mysia,
from where Paul crossed the Aegean Sea to Macedonia. Paul sought to preach the
gospel of Jesus Christ where they had no previous witness.
cf Romans 15:20.
"Why should anyone
hear the gospel twice when millions have never heard it even once"- Oswald
J. Smith.
2. PURPOSE IN PREACHING:- vs 12-13
God opens doors to those who preach
His Word and seek His leadership.
A. Open
Door:-
1. Paul says, "the Lord opened the
door". Paul was in God's way, in a position to be led by the Spirit of
God. cf Genesis 24:27; Psalm 32:8.
2. God can open and close doors- Revelation
3:7.
B. Open
Leadership:-
1. Paul was open to Spirit direction.- as
was Philip in Acts 8.
2. Restless spirit:-
Paul
was concerned because he could not find his co-worker, Titus. While Paul could
and sometimes worked alone, he usually had others working with him. We also see
here Paul's concern for other workers.
3. Paul took this to mean he should go
directly to Macedonia.
4.
Circumstances are not always a sign of Spirit leadership, but
apparently it was this time. The believer needs to take care that he/she
does not become merely a victim of circumstances, and call that the will of
God. Many great blessings and deliverance lies just beyond hard times and
severe trials. I think the key here to Paul's action is found in the words
"I had no rest in my spirit". This was apparently something that was
continuous, and Paul otherwise was not in the midst of severe trial.
3. POWER OF PREACHING:- vs 14-17
A. Spiritual
Victory:- vs 14
God
uses the foolishness of preaching to win the lost to Himself. Spirit powered
preaching still produces results. We are living in a day when preachers and
churches are resorting to gimmicks to draw men to the church. First of all, we
are not to draw men to the church. We are to lift up Christ (John 12:32
) and He will draw men to Himself. The church is God's armoury. Soldiers
train in the armoury, they go out in the field to fight the battle. The
churches today have gotten it all backwards. Church bells sound nice, but they
say, "come to church".We are to go out into the highways and byways,
to every nation and every creature, with the gospel of sovereign grace. Not to
ring church-bells, but door-bells.
1. Spiritual victory is
a reason for thanksgiving.
"Thanks be unto God which always
causes us to triumph in Christ....".
2. A place of
thanksgiving.- We triumph in Christ! Peter triumphed, and walked on the water
until he took his eyes off of Jesus and saw the
waves around him.
(Matthew 14:28). We ought to be ever
thankful because we as believers, have been taken out of the world and now have
a new standing in
Christ.
B. Spiritual
Knowledge:-
1.
Revelation- manifest. God's knowledge is unveiled to the believer. He reveals
to us through His Word, and by His Spirit, the mystery of
His will. (Eph. 1:9; Romans 16:25-26.
2. Knowledge- The
"savour" (Song of Solomon 1:3). God reveals His will to believers
which is a sweet savour to the soul. One who claims
to
be a Christian and does not have a sincere desire to know God's will and way, ought
to check his birth certificate. One who is born
again by the Spirit of God, will love the Word of God.
3.
We receive illumination through the preaching of the Word of God. God's
revelation is complete in the Bible, but illumination never ends. (1 Corinthians
13:8-13).
C. Sweet
Savour:-
God's Word is sweet to
the taste of the elect, those who
walk
in the footsteps of the Saviour. The believer ought to be as Paul declared,
"a sweet savour" to both the believer and those who perish (the unsaved).
Someone has rightly said, "we are the only Bible many people will ever
read; the only Jesus that many people will ever see; if they do not read the
Bible or see Jesus in us, they will certainly be hindered in coming to
Christ". The Christian by the life he/she lives is preaching the gospel to
others.
Note:-
Paul here gives a clear-cut
reason for preaching the gospel to all people. Of course we do not know who the
elect are, or who will be saved or lost. Beyond this lack of knowledge on the
part of the evangelist, God has a clear purpose in preaching the gospel to the
non-elect and elect as well. Paul says here clearly:-
"To
the one we are a savour of life"- that is to the elect, all those chosen
in Christ before the foundation of the world.
"To
the other, a savour of death"- That is to those who are non-elect, yet,
commanded with all men to repent. The gospel seals their doom as they refuse to
make any effort towards repentance. The elect believe the gospel, while the
non-elect, spurn it, refuse it, and remain of their own will non-repentent of
sin. So we see in this verse how important it is to "preach the gospel to
every creature"- Mark 16:15. How sad to see so many refuse it and
seal their own doom.
D. Sufficient Saviour:- vs 16
We can taste and see that the Lord is good! The
Word of God and the Person of Christ is sufficient, even to us today. However,
Paul takes this a step further. We are in a sense the saviour of others.
"of death unto death"-and "of life unto life". Remember,
that God uses people to reach people. Like as Christ is a stumbling stone to
many people, even so the Christian is a stumbling stone to those who reject
Christ eternally. Howbeit, to those chosen in Christ, before the foundation of
the world, they see in us hope, because we lead them to Christ.
The
cross makes Christ a "sufficient Saviour". John Calvin said,
"the cross is sufficient for all men, but efficient to those who
believe".
E. Sincere
before God:- vs 17
1.
We preach of sincerity, knowing that God sees and hears what we say and do. We are not hucksters, peddlers, short
measuring and
adulterating the Word of God.
2.
Many preach the Word, but do it insincerely, to make merchandise of God's people.
Oh how well this verse fits today's society! Just turn
on your television or radio and see what Paul meant. (cf Jude 4; 1 Tim. 4:1-3;
2 Tim. 3:13; Acts 20:28-29).
3.
There were those in Paul's day, and there are more than enough today who
corrupt the Word of God. The trend today is away from the
sovereignty of God, to a doctrine of salvation by good works. Men are being taught
that there is a spark of divinity in every man, that he can come to God by free
choice. How contrary to the teachings of Paul (Romans 5:12-19) or Jesus
in John 6:37,44,65".
CONCLUSION:-
The preaching of
Christ and missionary enterprise ever has priority of all else. Paul could
fellowship in heaven, but now, he must ever reach forth for the prize of the high
calling in Christ. (Philippians 3:13-14).
ASSIGNMENT FOR
LEARNING:-
Look up the word
"Troas", and write a short paragraph telling what you learn about
this place.
Take time each day
to ask the Lord to lay some soul upon your heart and use you to win him to
Christ.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 5
LIVING EPISTLES 2
Corinthians 3:1-6
Paul looked at the grace of God
found in the lives of those whom he had won to Christ as sufficient
commendation of his ministry.
1. COMMENDABLE LIVES:- vs 1-4
Letters
of commendation were not needed between Paul and the Corinth Church. They knew
each other well and were known of others.
A. Living
Epistles:- vs 2-3
1. The Corinth Church was Paul's epistle
(letter).
2. This epistle (letter) was written in
the heart of Paul. This shows us the degree of closeness Paul had with all of
the churches and especially the one in Corinth.
3. This epistle was known and read by all
men. Everyone knew of Paul, and they also knew of the Corinth Church. We might
well ask ourselves, how well do others know us? What do they read in our lives
as to the Person of the one we claim to represent. I am afraid that too often
we really mess up and misrepresent our Saviour. We often do not fully adorn the
doctrines of Christ. Too many today have become staunch legalists and fail to
live the sovereignty of God and the doctrines of grace become a license to sin.
The doctrines of grace do not teach antinomianism.
4. Our faith (or lack of it) is our identifying
mark in the world.
Jesus
said, "by their fruits ye shall know them"- Matthew 7:16,20.
5. The Corinth Church was a living epistle
(letter) written by apostolic ministry.
6. Written by the work of the Holy Spirit
in their hearts.
Salvation
is the work of God's grace, wrought in the heart (not head) of men. cf Romans
10:9-10.
7. Paul's reference to "stone"
is to the law of Moses which was written by God on tablets of stone.
Paul
may also have been speaking in view of the prophecy of Ezekiel- Ezekiel
11:19-
"And I
will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will
take the stony heart out of their flesh and will give them a heart of
flesh". cf Jer. 24:7;
Ezek. 36:25-26.
8. The reference here is to regeneration-
see ch. 5:17 and Eph. 2:1-5.
One
cannot become a living epistle apart from the in-working of the Holy Spirit and
the new birth. John 3:3.
B. Loving
Epistles:- vs 4
1. We trust or rely upon Jesus Christ.
Trust means to believe in with total reliance upon Christ.
2. To Godward- Christ is the only way to
God. cf John 14:6. Men have tried other means only to fail. No tower, no
rocket ship will ever get a man to heaven.
3. The writing Paul refers to is that of
God's love and grace in the believing heart.
Oh
that men would know that the demands of God's justice is met only in His love
and mercy found in the Person of His Son, Jesus Christ!
4. Our trust should only be in Christ who
is our Salvation- 1 Corinthians 1:30.
As
sinners awakened by Divine sovereign grace, we exercise faith in God, who leads
us by His Spirit unto Himself, through Jesus Christ.
2. CONFIDENT MINISTRY:- vs 5
Paul's
confidence is in the God who called him to faith and apostleship.
God alone is the source of life and
our sufficiency.
A. Our
Source:- vs 5
1. Paul's dependence in all things was in
God.
2. Any theology which does not place total
dependence upon God is not the theology of the Bible.
3. Man's ability to think spiritually
according to the standard of God's holiness is totally dependent upon the work
of the Holy Spirit who alone is able to quicken (make alive or regenerate) a
humanly depraved soul- (Romans 3:10-23; Eph. 2:1). to the place where
he/she is able to exercise any free moral agency. (John 3:16).
4. With respect to Paul's apostolic
office, the source of his revelation, Paul is showing them that it is not in
himself, but in God.
B. Our
Sufficiency:- vs 5
1. Paul never puts himself on a spiritual
pedestal.
The
source of his office is God, and, the sufficiency of his office and ministry is
God.
2. Paul relied wholly upon the leadership
of the Holy Spirit.
He
told the Philippians- (Phil. 3:4-11) that he had no confidence in the
flesh and counted those things of the flesh as dung (waste-literally manure).
3. Albert Garner translates the word
"sufficient" as "competent" and refers to Jeremiah
10:23; cf Proverbs 3:5-6.
4. This is a general principle in
Scripture, that God initiates and enables us in every state, condition, trial,
and act of service.
cf
1 Cor. 15:10; Phil. 2:13; 2 Cor. 12:9.
3. CAPACITATED MINISTERS:- vs 6
"who
has made us able ministers of the new covenant".
Paul
makes a distinction here between the Old and the New Covenant (testament,
agreement, policy). If you have a new covenant (policy or agreement) then the
old one cannot be in force any longer. The New Covenant fulfils the demands of
the old and replaces it.
A. Letter-
killeth:-
1. Paul's reference to the letter is
basically to the law of Moses as brought out in verse 7.
2. The work of "enabling" is
that of a sovereign God, who, in Paul's case arrested him on the Damascus Road
and effected a work of grace in his heart. (see Acts 9).
The
law did not do this- Paul was a grade A student of the law.
Religion
did not do it- Paul was a zealous Jew.
Politics
did not do it- Paul was a zealous Pharisee.
Grace
and grace alone enabled Paul, thoroughly transforming his life. cf Acts 9 and
Acts 23:6; 26:5; Phil. 3:4-8.
3. The purpose of the letter of the law
was to show forth all men as sinners, guilty before a holy and just God. cf Rom.
3:20; 3:27; 4:15; 5:13; 5:20; 6:14-15; Gal. 3:12; 3:21; 3:24; 5:14; Heb. 7:19.
4. Paul explains the killing power of the
letter in Romans 7:7. It indicts the Adamic nature of man.
B. Life
- by the Spirit:- 6-b
1. The Spirit (Gr. pneuma) is the life
giver.
Mankind
is condemned by Adam's sin and the indictment of the law, but the Spirit
quickens the sinner to trust in the sufficiency of God's grace, who provided us
with a redeemer and mediator, Jesus Christ. cf John 6:63; Romans 8:2; 8:11; 1 Peter 3:18.
2. The legal indictment of the Mosaic law
condemns man to everlasting punishment in hell, while the Holy Spirit quickens
repentant sinners to everlasting life. cf John 3:16,18,36; 5:24; 1 John
5:11-13.
Man
does not have to do one solitary thing to go to hell. He will automatically go
there unless he receives Jesus Christ as his own personal Saviour and Lord. Man
must believe the gospel to be saved.
3. Paul then lifts the matter of his
ministry and his apostolic authority, out of the hands of the law and men, and
into the hands of Providence.
CONCLUSION:- While
the apostolic office is now closed and revelation is complete in the Written
Bible, the application of it remains with us today. Salvation still remains to
be "of the Lord. Our sufficiency remains in Christ, not by
knowledge of the letter of law or theology, but by the reception of God's offer
of pardon and grace in the Person of the One who hung in the believers place on
the cross of Calvary, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
If you have not
done so, will you receive Jesus as your personal Saviour right now? Write us,
or ask your pastor for more information.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Make a chart, using
as many Scriptures as possible to show the difference in purpose between law
and grace.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 6 2
Corinthians 3:7-18
Paul now takes on the Old Covenant
of Moses, and shows the glorious superiority of the New Covenant in Jesus
Christ.
There is some similarity here with
the theme of the letter to the Hebrews which shows the New Covenant in Christ
to be better than the Old Covenant law of Moses.
1. CONDEMNATION OF THE LAW:- vs 7
"The ministry of death"-
Moses law was written on tablets of
stone.
A. Children of Israel:-
1. This shows the designation of the law.
It was designated to Israel, God's chosen nation.
2. The glory of the law is seen in a
number of ways-
a) Only Moses could go into the Mount to
receive it.
b) It is glorious in its supernatural
reception from the hand of God.
c) It is glorious in that God communicates
with sinful humans who were incapable of reaching out to Him. cf Romans
3:10-23.
d) It was glorious in that it was God's
initiative in coming to man who is humanly depraved. cf Romans 5:12-19.
e) It is glorious in that it formed a
marriage contract between national Israel and Jehovah. cf Exodus 19:3-10;
Deuteronomy 5:1-22.
3. The purpose of the law is seen in the
use of the word "death" vs 7- cf Galatians 3:19,24.
There is no
redemption under the law.- Gal. 4:4,5.
B. Countenance
of Moses:-
Paul
shows the glory of the law given at Mount Sinai as seen in the countenance of
Moses- vs 7 cf Exodus 34:30.
As
glorious as the law was, it was only temporal (Romans 10:4) and limited
to showing man as the sinner he is.
cf
vs 7,11; 2 Corinthians 2:16; 3:10,12,13.
2. COVENANT OF GRACE:- vs 8-11
"The ministration of the
Spirit"- vs 8
(ministration here means ministry or
service).
The
ministry of the Spirit excels in that the law condemned and the New Covenant of
grace offers redemption.
A. Ministry
of Condemnation:- vs 9-a
If
we can see glory in that which God gives us, which in actuality only condemns
us (which the law does).
B. Ministry
of Righteousness:- 9-b
That
which serves to make us righteous (which is Christ) cf 1 Corinthians 1:30;
Acts 13:38-39. Christ excels and the New Covenant exceeds the old.
C. Ministry
of Glory:- vs 9-11
1. That which had glory (the law) had no
glory in respect to that (New Covenant) which excels in glory.
2. Christ does what the law cannot do.
Grace abound- Romans 5:20.
3. If there was glory in that which is done
away-(complete, finished, served its purpose and is therefore ended). How
much more (glorious) is that which ever remains effective (the New Covenant in
Christ).
3. CONTRAST IN COVENANTS:- vs 12-17
The
greatness of our hope in Christ gives Paul boldness to speak plain. The image
is always clearer than the shadow.
A. Old Covenant:- (Moses law)
1. Moses was veiled from the people.
2. The vision was a dimmed one. vs 13
3. The law was temporal- to be abolished.
It was fulfilled by Christ Himself.
4. The condemnation of the law blinded
them, left them sightless. They were convicted by their own human depravity.
5. Israel remains in darkness (nationally)
since they still trust in the law which cannot, nor was it intended to save
them. Individual Jews today can come to Christ on the same grounds as a Gentile
and be saved (Romans 9-10-11).
B. New
Covenant:- (in Christ)
1. Is the end of spiritual blindness- vs
14
2. Israel (as a nation will see Christ
when the veil is lifted). vs 16
3. The bondage of the law is released by the
Spirit of the Lord- vs 17
This
"liberty" refers to that which frees from the curse and
bondage of the law, and not to some physical or charismatic emotionalism as
espoused by certain of the Pentecostal Movement.
4. Paul includes himself in that class
which is changed into the image of God.
5. The image of God is obtained by faith,
made possible by the death and shed blood of Jesus Christ.
6. The progressive change is our
sanctification which begins at justification when we first trust Christ, and
continues through life as we walk with Him.
7. We are unveiled and see the glory of
God in a mirror (the Word of God- James 1:23-25).
8. From glory to glory is the continuous
change in grace throughout eternity. cf 2 Timothy 2:10; 1 Peter 5:1.
ASSIGNMENT FOR
LEARNING:-
Make a chart
depicting the contrasts between law and grace. Use other Scriptures as well as
those in this chapter.
Today, give thanks
to God for His unspeakable grace. Ask Him to help you live in the light of it,
and share it's message with others.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 7
ENDURANCE IN MINISTRY 2
Corinthians 4:1-7
Paul proceeds to tell how they
endure affliction of ministry in Christ as vessels in His service.
1. ENDURING VESSELS:- vs 1-2
We
have this ministry (service)- refers to that of liberty in the New Covenant (ch.
3:9-17).
A. Perseverance:-
1. Perseverance here is based upon
Providence- "we received mercy".
2. The vessel is dependent upon its maker.
3. "We faint not"- because of God's
Providential mercy and care given from the beginning.
4. The source of our perseverance is the
enabling grace of God- cf John 15:4; Romans 8:30-39; 1 Cor. 1:8.
B. Presentation:-
"Manifestation of
the truth".
1. Renounce all dishonest things-
Reference is to those things he
thought were glorious before he was called of God.- not depending upon the law,
flesh, etc.
This
could also refer to false teachers- 2:17- who use other than the
straight forward methods of teaching as Paul uses.
2. "Not walking in craftiness"-
to practice trickery and cunning- Paul used no gimmicks to entice people to
"buy his product". He would make a very poor modern day T.V.
evangelist.
3. "not handling the Word of God
deceitfully"- not corrupting it, or twisting it to his own end.
We
do not interpret the Bible by our doctrines, but form our doctrines
based upon rightly dividing the Scriptures. (You can make the Bible say
anything you want it to say, if you twist it hard enough!)
4. "Manifestation of the truth"-
a) Concealment and craft versus
manifestation, or making things plain.
b) Truth revealed by Paul versus
corruption of truth used by others.
5. "Commending ourselves to every
man's conscience in the sight of God"-
Paul
used one method in speaking to "every conscience of men".
In
general the conscience is made the faculty of moral judgment in men.
This
is a historic baptist distinctive. The conscience is made the judge of
objective moral truth. God is the overall or final judge of men.
2. ENLIGHTENED VESSELS:- vs 3-4
The
believer has been enlightened and regenerated by the gospel, and is not a
vessel groping in darkness for some far distant port.
A. Greatness of the Gospel:- vs 3
1. If our gospel be hid-
Even
if our gospel be veiled (as is the law).
2. It is hid- to them who are lost- that is, it is veiled to them who are
perishing.
3. The gospel is not hidden to God's elect
but to those who are perishing. Those who have been enlightened and
regenerated, know the power of the gospel. It's greatness is known and seen in
the transformed life of the believer.
B. Glorious
Gospel:- vs 4
1. Unbelievers are blinded by Satan.
(Satan
is called the god of this world- cf John 12:31).
2. Satan works on the mind of sinners to
keep out the light of the gospel of saving grace.
3. The gospel is seen here to identify
with a Person-Christ. The good new (gospel) is not a new set of law- rules and
regulations, a creed or doctrinal statement. Christianity in the Bible is a
Person, JESUS CHRIST!
4. The gospel reveals Christ-the image of
God.
Phil.
2:6; Col. 1:15; Heb. 1:3.
Thus
we see His deity. Jesus, the Son of God, is God. see John 1:1-2.
5. In truth, the glory is not in the
gospel itself, but in the Person- Christ. (John 1:14-18).
3. EARTHEN
VESSELS:- vs 5-7
Paul
seeks no glory for himself or for the flesh, but rather lifts up Christ.
The
apostle is but an earthen vessel- meat for the master's use- cf 2 Timothy
2:21.
A. Message:- vs 5
1. We preach Christ Jesus-
Again,
Paul's message was in a Person.
2. To preach means to witness or give
evidence- to testify to- cf Acts 1:8.
3. We preach Jesus Christ as Lord- this
refers to the deity of Christ. He is Lord and Master.
4. "Ourselves your servants"-
Servant
means minister - a bond slave of Christ.
5. "For Jesus sake"- the nature
of Paul's obligation.
Paul
was not a "volunteer for Jesus", he was a bond slave of Christ,
completely committed to Him.
B. Method:-
vs 6
The
source of Paul's message was in a sovereign God who has His own method of
reaching into the heart of a depraved man.
1. Paul's source was the God of creation.
2. "shined into our hearts"-
God's ability to divide light from darkness is further revealed in enlightening
depraved men. cf Genesis 1:3.
3. God is the source of light in Paul and
those who preach Christ. Paul here further attests to his apostolic authority
and direct revelation.
4. Paul preaches Christ, for God reveals
His glory through Christ- cf vs 4
5. The way to God is through Christ,
through the preaching of the gospel.
Let
us ever declare to the lost, the gospel of the Person of Christ. The cross ever
remains the central theme of the Bible.
C. Mortality:-
vs 7
1. The gospel of the New Covenant in
Christ is referred to as a "treasure".
2. A treasure in an earthen (mortal)
vessel.
3. Paul no where exalted himself as a
special minister of Christ. Even here we see no popery, but simple mortal men
entrusted with a glorious message. Paul was always just Paul, not Reverend,
Father, or some other title.
4. The purpose in God's use of earthen
vessels-
"that
the excellency of the power (to keep His servants for His service) may be of
God and not of us".
"unto
Him be glory"- see Ephesians 3:21.
Therefore Paul's
endurance of hardship in the ministry was enabled by God for His glory.
ASSIGNMENT FOR
LEARNING:-
In verses 1-7,
contrast the Satanic fleshly things from the Godly, spiritual things.
Today, as you pray
as God to help you separate the fleshly things from the spiritual things in
your life.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 8 2
Corinthians 4:8-18
In the remaining verses of chapter
four, Paul summarizes what he has said about endurance in the ministry, giving the
result of endurance of suffering for Christ.
1. SUFFERING FOR CHRIST:- vs 8-11
A. Persecution:-
1. Troubled on every side. Surrounded by
trouble or problems often bigger than you are.
2. Perplexed (as to see no way out).
Someone has well said, "when the outlook is dim, try the up-look".
3. Persecuted.- It is a hard thing to be
troubled and perplexed, but it is even harder when you are persecuted in that
position. That is exactly the position that ministers of Christ many times find
themselves.
4. Cast down- trampled. The enemies of
Christ will not only knock you down, but trample on you after they do.
5. Bearing in our body- dying vs 10.
Those who have become martyrs for Christ, bear in their bodies the marks of
suffering for Christ. Christian friend, let me ask you. Do you have any marks
on your body for Christ? To what extent are we living and working for the Lord
and Saviour, Jesus Christ?
B. Preservation:-
1. Not distressed. God will keep us in
stressful times.
2. Not in despair. Christians should not
despair.
3. Not forsaken. As Jesus was with the
disciples and with the first church, He will be with us today.
Remember,
when it comes to trials and distress, Jesus is already ten miles down the road.
4. Not destroyed. The house built on the
rock will stand whereas one built upon sand will wash away with the storm.
5. Life of Christ revealed- vs 10
(Christ-likeness).
The world is looking, waiting to see the reality of our faith. They need to see
Christ in us, as no doubt they could see Him in the lives and ministry of the
apostles, particularly Paul.
C. Purpose:-
vs 11
1. We which live (in Christ). The believer
lives in and through the Person of Jesus Christ.
2. Delivered unto death- cf Galatians
2:20.
3. For Jesus' sake- 12:10
4. Christ revealed in our mortal flesh- cf
5:15; Galatians 2:20.
God has a very positive purpose in allowing His people to become subject to suffering and trials. For one thing, our faith means more to us when it is tried, and we come out better for it. Before you can get gold out of ore, it must go through the fiery furnace. The extreme heat melts the gold and a separation is performed from the dross. History has proven that this is much the same with the Christian. The Christian becomes strong through trials and persecution. It is said, "the blood of martyrs is the seed of the church."
2. SEPARATION IN CHRIST:- vs 12-14
"Death worketh in us..."
Paul's
living the Christ life, first meant dying to the self-life. The death to Paul's
flesh meant life to those to whom he preached.
Their
sacrifice of themselves Paul say's, brought life to such as were now members of
the Corinth Church.
Those
who would win others to Christ must be willing to pay the price of death to our
flesh.
A. Confession:-
vs 12
"death in us"-
1. This principle is seen in the corn of
wheat Jesus talked about in John 12:24-26.
2. Christ tasted death to give us life- Heb.
2:9.
3. Paul's confession before others was one
of death to self. His Christlikeness (1 Timothy 6:13) enabled others to
embrace the life in Christ.
4. Paul faced death continuously, but in
so doing the gospel was brought to others.
5. Vs 13- Paul quotes from Psalm
116:10 which literally translated means, "I speak my faith", or,
"I speak only what I believe and is evident in my life".
There
is an old saying that goes like this. "The way you live speaks so loud I
cannot hear a word you say". What is our true confession?
B. Confidence:-
vs 14
1. "knowing"- Paul's life was
based upon his faith in Christ and the certainty of the resurrection. The word
"know" is used often by Paul, especially in his letter to the
Ephesian Church.
2. Paul could hazard his life for Christ
because of his faith in Him which goes beyond this life and its system of
things.
3. The basis of resurrection for Paul is
Jesus Christ. This is reference to the first resurrection- cf Revelation
20:5; 1 Thess. 4:16; Luke 14:14; Phil. 3:11; which takes place at the
rapture of the saved in Christ. (cf 1 Corinthians 15:20-24).
God's
actual resurrection program is in stages from Christ (the firstfruits) to the
end of the millennium when the unsaved dead are raised to eternal punishment.
see Revelation chapter 20.
4. "And shall present us with
you"- The word "shall" is definite and is better translated
"will".
While
"us" is in italics and therefore not in the original, the
translation is implied.
The
presentation is at the Bema of Christ- 2 Cor. 5:10)- where all believers
will be presented having been "reconciled in the body of His (Jesus) flesh
through death" Colossians 1:22.
5. The believer is separated eternally in
Christ, which gives Paul confidence to face death physically. The Christians
standing in Christ is secure eternally - cf Romans 5:1-6; 8:1,11,18,21,31-39.
3. SPIRITUAL RENEWAL IN CHRIST:- vs
15-18
Renewal
should be a natural everyday experience in the life of the Christian. We need
not think it only for backsliders. Indeed, if we be not renewed daily we will
find ourselves among the backslidden, dead and useless. God's provision for us
is seen here as we learn from Paul-
A. Abundant Grace:- vs 15
1. Abundant
means plentiful.
2. Grace is more than unmerited favour.
It
is G-R-A-C-E-, God's Riches At Christs Expense.
This
grace is eternally available to the blood bought (redeemed) child of God.
3. "Thanksgiving"- this word is
based upon the word "provision".
Every
year at Thanksgiving time (a special day of Thanksgiving held in Canada and the
U.S.A. each Autumn) we give thanks (or we should) for God's provision. In the
Lord's Supper, members of the local church give thanks (in memorial of me) for
Christ's shed blood- His provision.
4. It seems impossible to render into
English the combined clearness and force of meaning of the original Greek, as
seen in this verse.
The
thought is this-
"The
greater grace manifested in the greater number of the saved, causes greater
thanksgiving, to the glory of God"- American Commentary on the New
Testament- Dr. Albert Garner, Second Corinthians- Page 173.
If
when we get to heaven someone should happen to ask me how I got to be there; my
reply could only be, "amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a
wretch like me". (from a sermon preached by the author in Calvary Baptist
Church, Henderson, Texas, 1985).
B. Affliction:-
vs 16-17-a
1. "For which cause we faint
not"-
Because
of-
a) The hope of the resurrection.
b) The abundance of grace- cf 2 Cor.
12:9.
c) Thanksgiving to God through the
salvation of more people- see Luke 15:7,10.
Thus
we see the importance emphasized on soul-winning.
2. Paul's faith kept him going.
His
faith was grounded in Christ, His cross and His resurrection. (Remember, Paul
saw the living Christ).
Do
we have this faith in Christ? Or, do we too often faint.
3. The word "faint" does not
mean to lose one's salvation, rather to stagger, become discouraged, utterly
spiritless, exhausted, or wearied out through fear- (Amplified Bible).
The believer
becomes a "castaway", rendered useless.
4. "Though our outward man
perish"-
Our
physical bodies progressively decay.
5. "Our inner man is renewed day by
day"-
Our
inner self- new man in Christ- is progressively renewed daily.
6. "Our light affliction"-
Light
in the view of eternity and the glory of God.
C. Abundant
Salvation:- vs 17-b-18
1. The slight distress of the present hour
worketh a reward in the resurrection, at the Bema of Christ.
2. What a contrast Paul saw between the
light affliction of this world and that which is eternal glory. cf Romans
5:3; Romans 8:18.
3. "While we look"-
Consider
and see- to fasten the gaze on that which one has made the object of life
(Christ).
4. The Christian's purpose and object in
this world is not in the things of this world.
5. The things of this world are temporal-
brief and fleeting.
Visible to
the physical eye of flesh but do not last. 2 Peter 3:10.
6. Things not seen (invisible) are
eternal-
Thus-
"Only
one life will soon be past only what's done for Christ will last".
cf
2 Peter 1:11; Ephesians 1:18.
ASSIGNMENT FOR
LEARNING:-
Take a concordance,
look up and comment on verses about persecution, tribulation, trial, and
affliction.
Today would be an
opportune time to pray for Christians in lands and places where it is extremely
difficult to live for Christ due to persecution.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 9 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
1. ACCOMMODATION:- vs 1
A. Earthly
House:- vs 1
1. Paul refers here to knowledge of our
physical bodies demise, that this is not the end of anyone's existence.
2. The earthly house of this tabernacle is
reference to the physical body which is the earthly dwelling place of the soul.
3. Here we see that there is more to a
person than the physical body.
Man
was created in the image of the triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit -Genesis
1:26; cf 1 Corinthians 11:7.
Man
is declared to be triune by such Scriptures as 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
4. When our physical body is
"dissolved" that is, when it is finished. The body decays, dies, and
goes back to dust.
5. This is the reason that spiritual
Christians do not put as much attention on the physical as on the spiritual man.
"This
world is not my home, I'm just passing through. My treasurers are laid up,
somewhere beyond the blue. The angels beckon me, from heaven's golden shore;
and I just don't feel at home in this world any more".
B. Eternal
House:- vs 1
"We
have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the
heavens".
Paul
had not yet been converted and was not with the other apostles when they heard
Jesus say,-
"In
my Father's house are many mansions....I go to prepare a place for you".
Nevertheless, he had it right, by revelation. (John 14:1-6).
The hymn writer wrote:-
"I've
a home prepared where the saints abide;
Just over in the glory land".
1. "a building of God"-
Man
has his skyscrapers which one day like the Tower of Babel, will tumble to the
ground.
God
is ever in the building business.-
a) He sent His Son who built a church.
b) Through the churches he is building a
kingdom which one day will consume all kingdoms.
(Revelation
11:15).
2. "an house not made with hands"-
A
dwelling place which is not of human origin, of the hands of flesh.
Paul
contrasts this house with the temporary tent-like dwelling of the physical
body.
3. "Eternal in the heavens"-
Again
Paul has in mind the existence of man beyond the grave. cf Job 19:25-27.
God's
provision in Christ is "eternal". Christ gives the believer, eternal
life- John 3:16; John 10:27-30.
Paul
said the Christian hope is "laid up in heaven". - Colossians 1:5.
John
saw in his revelation, a city, "the new Jerusalem coming down from God out
of heaven"- Revelation 3:12; 21:2,10.
The
Scriptures abound to show us life after death. Everyone will spend eternity in
one of two places, the new heaven and earth, or the Lake of Fire. In Christ
we have everlasting life....John 3:15-16.
2. ASPIRATION:- vs 2-5
"For this we groan, earnestly
desiring......."
The
Christian in His tent like body sighs for the heavenly body- cf 1
Corinthians 15:35-54.
A. Earnest
Desire:- vs 2-4
1. "Earnestly desiring"-
yearning.
2. The believer longs from within to
receive a new body- cf Phil. 3:21.
3. Here Paul shows the change in one who
is saved.
His
aspiration in life (that which he aspires toward) is to spiritual things. His
attitude is heavenly rather than earthly.
4. "To be clothed"-
Nakedness
is a sign of the unsaved state, the depraved soul. Adam and Eve, after they
sinned were depraved, and God had to prepare animal skins (which required the
shed blood of the animal) to cover their nakedness.- Genesis chapter 3.
The
believer in Christ ever seeks to be clothed, both physically and spiritually.-Romans
13:14; Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 4:24; Col. 3:10,12,14.
The
verb translated "to be clothed" means, "to put on over it".
Several
things are implied here:-
a) The need for clothing is spiritual.
b) If our body is referred to as our
clothing, then man is not just a physical body.
c) The actual person now resides in a
physical body. The saved person will put on a new body or covering at the first
resurrection.
d) This disproves the theory of the
Jehovah's Witnesses, Armstrongism and others, that the body and soul are one
and the same.
5. "with our house (new body) which
is from heaven"-
Our
physical body was made from the dust of the earth, our new bodies will be
heavenly.
B. Earnest
of the Spirit:- vs 5
The
word "earnest" means "downpayment", as in the term "earnest money"- cf 1:22.
1. There are two pledges Paul gives here
of their future glory-
a) Their conversion.
b) The gift of the sanctifying Spirit who
works in our lives and gives assurance of the future.
2. The indwelling Spirit is the
downpayment on our eternal home, God having worked a work of grace in our
hearts- Ephesians 1;11-14.
This
work of grace is according to election (Romans 9:11) on God's part,
whereby we are justified by faith in the finished work of Christ on Calvary. cf
Romans 9:11; 5:1-2; Acts 15:9; Galatians 3:2; Romans 8:9; Ephesians 1:13-14.
3. ASSURANCE:- vs 6-8
Fannie
Crosby was blind, but like Paul she could see better than anyone physically
when she wrote-
"Blessed
assurance Jesus is mine
Oh
what a foretaste of glory divine;
Heir
of salvation, purchase of God,
Born
of His Spirit, washed in His blood".
Anyone
who reads and believes their Bible can’t deny that it teaches the absolute
assurance of ones personal salvation in Christ. cf John 3:16; John 3:36;
John 5:12; Romans 10:9-13; 1 John 5:10-13; John 20:31.
A. Confident
Knowledge:- vs 6
1. While we are at home in the body (physical)
we are absent from the Lord. This is the big problem for the Christian. We are
at home in our bodies. That is why so many of us spend so much time in front of
the mirror. So much emphasis today is on the physical. We should treat our
bodies well, and take care of ourselves. However, we will not spend eternity in
this same physical body. This should be a joy to some who think they are ugly,
or too fat, or too short. The truth however, is that we are often too much at
ease in our fleshly body. We ignore, or spend so little time in preparing our
eternal (spiritual self) body.
2. "We walk by faith, not by
sight". This is the reason we have so many problems. We become accustomed
from birth to our five senses. We go by what we see. We are like the man from
Missouri, we have to be shown. However, the Christian does not and really
cannot walk by sight. We must walk by the exercise of faith (vs 7).
We
rest upon the promises of God's word- we have not arrived in heaven yet.
3. There is a spiritual application here
in that "the Christian who is too much at home in the flesh is absent from
the place of God's blessing".
It
has been said, "he is so heavenly minded, that he is no earthly
good".
This
is often used in a put-down of Christians, by the unsaved and unspiritual. Most
often we are the opposite, "so earthly minded that we are no heavenly
good". cf Galatians 5:16.
B. Christ's
Presence:- vs 8
1. "We are confident"- of being
in Christ's presence. Philippians 1:23.
2. Paul was ready and willing to leave
this world and depart to be with Christ. This shows us that when one dies, his
soul goes to be with the Lord, while his body awaits in the earth, the day of
resurrection.
This
is true also of the unsaved or unredeemed, except that his/her soul goes to
hell (hades) which literally is the place of the departed unsaved dead.
No
matter who we be, the Bible clearly teaches that
this
life is not all there is to ones existence. We
will
all live eternally, somewhere. cf Hebrews 9:27.
And
you dear reader, where will you spend eternity?
Have you
trusted Jesus Christ as your own personal
Saviour and sinbearer?
If not, will you not consider Him today?
Write
us for information about God's plan of salvation, or ask your pastor or instructor
to explain it to you.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Take your
concordance, look up at least (5) Scriptures which show where people will dwell
after they die, showing the destiny of both saved and unsaved. Comment on each
verse.
Why not witness to
one unsaved person today? You may just be the won the Lord will use to win that
person to Christ.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 10 2
Corinthians 5:9-21
For the Christian there is no
judgment (Romans 8:1;). The believers sins are judged already in
Christ (Romans 8:3) by the sacrifice of his life and blood. There is
however, a judgement of the believers deeds. That is, of rewards for service
(or lack of). This judgment is better referred to as "the Bema of
Christ". These verse deal with this subject.
1. ACCEPTED OF GOD:- vs 9-10
A. Ambition:- vs 9
1. The
word "whereas", connects what Paul says about labour, to what he has
said about his willingness to be absent from the body, and present with the
Lord.
2. Paul could endure affliction because
his ambition was not tied to this life, or to this world.
3. Not like Paul, too many today are far
too much at home in our earthly tabernacle.
Test
yourself by comparing, "how much time you spend in attending to your body,
as you do to your soul"?
4. The Christian's ambition should be
spiritual and eternal- Philippians 3:14.
5. Paul later wrote Timothy, "Study
to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth".
B. Accountability:-
vs 9-10
1. Paul sought acceptable labour. The word
"labour" means "work in the sense of striving".
2. Acceptable labour would mean to strive
with all energy of body and soul, to work in such a way as would be pleasing
unto the Lord. Paul was little concerned as to whether or not his labours
pleased men. He was the servant of God, and so are we if we are truly saved,
born again. It was Jesus Christ who called and sent Paul and to Him he was
accountable.
3. "Whether present or absent"-
in the body or out of it, Paul wanted to please God.
4. Paul knew he would be held accountable
at the judgment (Bema or tribunal) of Christ- Romans 16:10.
5. The reward accordingly:-
a) We must (all) appear. Paul, and
every Christian.
b) "According to that he hath done in
his body"- This is reference to time and the physical body. The judgment
will be in eternity, but based upon labours in time (this life).
c) "whether good or bad"- this
is reward for works not salvation of the soul that is implied. Both good and
bad works will be rewarded at the Bema of Christ.
6. How the Christian conducts himself in
his body will be rewarded at the Bema of Christ.
This
gives the reason for Paul's ambition (labour) to please the Lord.
Note:- The word for "body" is "soma"
and refers to
the
physical body. "soma"- body- can be separated from
"pneuma"- spirit. The word for "soul" is
"psuche"- 1 Thessalonians 5:23- thus, the three can be
separately distinguished.
7. It should be noted that, the
"Judgment seat of Christ" is for the rewarding of the believers
works, not for salvation. The believers sin is judged in Christ at Calvary. cf Romans
5:18-19. Salvation is all of grace, not of works. cf Ephesians
2:8-9; Titus 3:5.
Works
is the fruit of salvation, not the cause. The believers fruit must stand
Heaven's inspection- 1 Peter 1:17.
2. APPEARANCE BEFORE MEN:- vs 11-13
A. Persuasion:-
1. Persuaded of the Lord.-
This
is implied by the word, "knowing the terror of the Lord"- The word
"terror" means, "fear"- Hebrews 10:31.
2. Persuade men- We plead with men to be reconciled, and to be in
service to God. One cannot however, serve God until he is reconciled to Him
through the merits of Christ.
3. We see here Paul's driving compelling
zeal for souls. While Paul taught "sovereign grace", he also
recognized "human responsibility".
As
Spurgeon says,-
"Don't
fancy that election excuses sin- don't dream of it- don't rock yourself in
sweet complacency in the thought of your irresponsibility. You are responsible.
We must give you both things. We must have divine sovereignty, and we must have
man's responsibility. We must have election, but we must ply your hearts, we
must send God's truth at you; we must speak to you , and remind you of this,
that while it is written, "in me is thy help", yet it is also written
O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself". (-from his sermon on ELECTION- by
C.H. Spurgeon).
B. Profession:- vs 11b-13
1. "We
are made manifest"- revealed- laid open.
Our
profession is in the open before God.
2. Paul had hope, that the way he lived,
was an open book to the Corinth Church. He had nothing to hide. In their
conscience they knew how Paul had lived and preached.
3. Paul said, that they should have the
same profession
as
he had, by acting with sobriety, earnestness, and sincerity of service- 2
Timothy 2:24-25; 1 Thessalonians 2:6-12.
4. Paul (vs 12) was not going to
repeat his vindication of his apostolic ministry.- cf 2 Cor. 1:14; 3:1.
5. "give you occasion"- by
writing this letter to you.
"to
glory on our behalf"- to boast on behalf of us, as to our sincere purpose.
"that
ye might have something to answer them"- (vs 12)- be prepared to
answer them.
"them
which glory in appearance (outward) and not in heart (inward) or the new, inner
spiritual man.
Those
heretics and gainsayers which glory in the flesh. cf Matthew 15:1-20.
Note:- There are also many today which glory in the
flesh. They are legalists who think that Godliness is found in what you wear or
don't wear; in certain garments or types of clothing. Their holiness is in
their particular style, rather than in the Person of our living Lord, Jesus
Christ.
6. Paul sought a true Godly profession of
the heart, as in himself, so in the Corinth Church. True Godliness is in
submission to Christ, not to a set of rules, laws, or regulations of men.
(vs
13)-
"beside
ourselves"- mad
"sober"-
temperate
3. ABLE MINISTRY:- vs 14-21
Paul's ability had God as its
source. "The love of Christ constraineth us"- Here we get to
the heart of the Christian gospel. One who sees himself as God sees him, a
sinner condemned, unclean, and unworthy of God's love, mercy and grace, can see
very little in others. Oh how we need this constraining power of Christ's love.
It will deal with any idea of Phariseeism we might obtain. We need to see men
through the eyes of "Christ's love", and this will enable us to
identify with them, right where they are, not where they ought to be. Many
Christians never win a soul to Christ because they are too good for them, too
proud, and not willing to go out where the sinners are. Christ spent most of
his time in the Market place and was known as one who ate with sinners.
In these verses we see an able
ministry.
A. Substitution:- vs 14
1. The
vicarious death of Christ- cf Romans 5:8. His death was a
substitutionary (vicarious) death.
2. Christ died upon Calvary for the
purpose of taking upon Himself the penalty of the sin of the believer. You can
be sure that Christ never died for the sins of unbelievers. If He did, they
would all be believers. Christ died for His people (Matthew 1:21) for
the elect (Eph. 1:4).
That
Christ's death is vicarious, we see from such scriptures as Isa. 53:5; Gal.
3:13; Hebrews 2:9; 9:28; 1 Peter 2:24; 3:18; also 2 Cor. 5:21.
3. "Christ died for all"- vs
14
Christ
took the place of sinners, and died in their stead. The payment for the penalty
of sin was equal to the demands of the law and Justice of God. In the
atonement, God places the responsibility for sin and its consequences squarely
upon the shoulders of man.
John
Gill says, "This scripture never fails to have a place in the controversy
about the extent of the death of Christ. Universal redemption is concluded from
hence, by the following arguments, now to be examined.
1. The first is taken from the word all
here used, if, or since Christ died for all. But it ought to be observed, that
the text does not say that Christ died for all men, but for all; and
therefore, agreeable to other scriptures, may be understood for all the
people whom Jesus saves from their sins; of all the sheep for whom
He laid down His life; of all the members of His church, whom He loved, and for
whom He gave Himself; or of all the sons for whom He tasted death, and, as the
Captain of their salvation, brings to glory.
2. That it is said in the latter part of
the text, that those for whom Christ died, for them also he rose again; who
therefore ought to live to him that died and rose again for them. Christ died
for no more nor for others than those for whom he rose again; such for whom he
rose again, he rose for their justification; if Christ rose for the
justification of all men, all men would be justified, or the end of Christ's
resurrection would not be answered; but all men are not, nor will be justified;
some will be condemned: it follows, that Christ did not rise from the dead for
all men, and consequently did not die for all men.
3. That the "all" for whom
Christ died, died with Him, and through His death are dead, both to the law and
sin; then were all dead. Besides, the end of His dying for them was,
that they might live, not to themselves, but to Him that died for them; neither
of which is true of all mankind; not to take any notice of the nature and
manner of Christ's dying for these all; which was for, in the room and
stead of them, and denotes a substitution made,, a satisfaction given, which
issues in the full discharge, acquittance, and justification of them, and is
not the case of every individual of human nature."-John Gill, "The
Cause of God and Truth"- Page 41-42
Charles
Spurgeon says, "But, you ask me, is there any limit to the atonement at
all? I say I think there is;and the limit seems to be, not in the value, but in
the purpose. The limit seems to be this theory--for whom did He die? In
whose place and stead did He stand? If He stood in the place and stead of the
whole world, then He made atonement for the sins of the whole world, and the
whole world will be saved. If He stood in the place and stead of his Church,
then He made atonement for His Church, and the whole Church will be saved. We
believe that Christ took the place and stead of every believer, that the
believers sin was put on Him, and thus the ex-sinner can go forth free. But I
hear a voice saying, "I challenge substitution, and I object to
that." So be it. I ask you, did Christ die for sin at all? I must be
answered -yes. Then for whose sins did He die? If His own, then He suffered
righteously. Did He die for the sins of the whole world? Then justice cannot
demand this again. Did He die for part of the sins of the whole world? Then the
rest of the sins will still condemn the world; then must have Christ died in
vain. We believe that He that He took all the sins of some men. It was
not a fictitious condemnation; it was not a fancy sin made for the occasion; it
was a positive sin that had been committed by God's people, and is transferred
from them to Him who laid down His life for His sheep; loving us, and giving
Himself for and in the stead or in the place of His people."-Exposition of
the Doctrines of Grace, Metropolitan Pulpit, Page 317.
Thomas
J. Nettles says, "None would doubt that Christ by His nature could have
provided an atonement sufficient for all men without exception, just as
the Holy Spirit could regenerate all men without exception. But in actual fact
the Holy Spirit does not regenerate all men, though He is entirely capable of
doing so. And even though the Spirit's omnipotent power is called for in the
regeneration of any sinner, His bringing one sinner from death to life is not
His bringing all sinners from death to life. In addition, one must remember that the death of Christ
is a once-for-all historical event- "He died for our sins, once for all, the just for the unjust"- and
when we speak of atonement, we must speak about what He accomplished during
those hours on the cross. The work of the Spirit is fundamentally different in
that He continues to work in history and regenerates men in every age. Christ's
work of atonement is done, but the Holy Spirit's work does not occur within the
framework of an unrepeatable incarnational event"-
(By His Grace and for His Glory, Thomas J. Nettles, Baker Book House, Page 307-308).
4. We therefore believe with these and most
of our Baptist forefathers in a limited atonement. Limited to those who believe
yes, but limited to those whom Christ did receive from the Father (John 6:37)
elect from eternity past (Ephesians 1:4,11; 1 Peter 1:3-4). The bottom
line however is this, "not one person who ever truly wants to be saved and
come in repentance and faith, trusting Christ for salvation, will ever be
rejected. (John 6:37).
5. "then were all dead"-All for
whom Christ died are dead (spiritually). Certainly, all of mankind is
spiritually dead in trespasses and in sin. Man is humanly, totally depraved. By
this we do not mean that man is as sinful in practice as he could be. We simply
mean that if left to himself, he will only get worse and that he possesses no
light in himself that will lead him to God. Without the work and power of the
Holy Spirit, the depraved sinner cannot and will not come to God for salvation.
Ben M. Bogard says, "To fail to understand the Bible doctrine of heredity depravity and the work of the Spirit in salvation is to fail in every way in the understanding of the way of salvation and all that pertains to the....The doctrine of the depravity of the human race is fundamental. Wrong in that doctrine- all else will be wrong".
Ben
M. Bogard, Total Hereditary Depravity-in the Introduction; Bogard Press
Publication.
6. Man is dead in sin, humanly depraved, incapable of saving righteousness. Every man is spiritually dead, and will (each) be held accountable for his own sin.
B. Spiritual
Life:- vs 15-17
1. Redeemer:-
This
verse explains the reason for the conduct of the apostle Paul. He had lived a
life of self-denial. He saw in Christ, life eternal. Christ the Redeemer, also
rose again for those whom He purchased with His own blood. Christ rose for the
justification of those for whom He purchased in His death.
"He
paid a debt He did not owe
I owed a debt I could not pay
I needed someone to wash my sins away.
And now I sing a brand new song, amazing grace.
Christ Jesus paid the debt that I could never
pay".
2. Resurrection:-
"that
they which live"-
True
Christians- made alive unto God by the Redeemer Christ, who is the firstfruits
of the resurrection.
"they
which live"- does not refer to all men, (there is no universal salvation)
since all are dead spiritually. It must therefore refer to those who are
"alive in Christ", to the saved.
Because
He lives, we who are in Christ live- thus because He died and rose again, the
believer has an obligation (Paul called it elsewhere, a debt) to live for
Christ.
3. Reconciliation:-
We
see here "reconciliation" in that the sinner, brought to Christ
through the death and blood sacrifice, is brought to a living relationship with
God. This is at least part of the message we will see in verse 17 and 21.
In
being reconciled to Christ, Paul says, "henceforth know we no man after
the flesh" vs 16
One
of the great sins of our day is the failure of Christians to see their brethren
in the light of Calvary rather than that of human depravity. Love certainly
covers a multitude of sins-1 Peter 4:8.
Religion
looks for Christ in so-called holy objects such as crosses and candles, and the
Eucharist. After the resurrection, the disciples saw Christ in a different
light. He had been with them but now was in them. cf John 14:16-18; John
7:38; 20:22.
We
now look upon Christ spiritually, rather than physically because of-
4. Regeneration:-
The
word "creature" in verse 17 is best translated as
"creation". cf John 1:11-12; 3:3; Titus 3:5.
The
idea of regeneration is to be "made alive". cf Ephesians 2:1.
The
picture here of the regenerated man, said to be in Christ" is the
difference between the old and the new. See Ephesians chapter 2 for the
contrast between the two.
There
is a radical change in the sinner through the new birth (John 3:3).
Spiritually dead sinners, incapable of reaching let alone maintaining, God's
standard of righteousness (Romans 3:23) are now alive to righteousness
and able to exercise their free moral agency in Christ. Before regeneration the
sinner is capable only of regression, to sin more and more. Without the work of
grace in his life, the sinner is dead to righteousness.
5. Remission of sins:-
I
doubt we can pass over these verses without mention of this subject. There is
in fact, in the New Testament, no atonement. The word
"atonement" means "covering" and is an Old Testament word.
In the authorized (KJV) version, the word atonement is mentioned but once in
the New Testament. That is in Romans 5:11. Most scholars agree that this
word is best translated "reconciliation". In the Old Covenant
they had "atonement" once a year, the blood of a lamb covered
their sins for one year. In the New Covenant (which is far better) we have
"remission". The word "remit" means to "pay in
full". This is more than a covering. Christ blood paid in full the sin
debt of the believing sinner. In this we can be reconciled to God.
(It
is not God who is estranged and needs to be reconciled, but man). In paying the
sin debt Christ made it possible for the believer to be reconciled to God.
C. Stewardship:-
vs 18-20
1. Ministry:-
Being
reconciled to God through Jesus Christ makes the believer responsible. Having
found a cure for some dread disease, would we not be responsible to share the
good news with others, sick with the same disease? What greater disease is
there than "sin"?
The
products of reconciliation become in a sense the producers of it.
"To
wit"- or "in that"- "God was in Christ"-(deity). The
basis of ministry is in the fact, Christ is God in a human physical body.
"reconciling
the world unto Himself"-
God
came to the world, in the Person of His Son, Jesus Christ. His purpose was to
redeem and reconcile. There is a general call to the world at large. Christ and
His disciples preached the gospel of the Kingdom to the multitudes, but there
was a particular call of the Holy Spirit to the hearts of the elect. The
particular call is efficient and effective. John 6:37; 6:40,44,60,65, 8:43.
There
is no way that one could read these Scriptures and believe in universal
salvation.
"not
imputing"-
Not
counting or crediting their trespasses to them. cf Romans 4:3,6,8,11,22,24;
5:13.
The
sins of the believer are credited to Christ's account, while Christ's
righteousness is imputed or credited to the account of the believer by faith. Romans
3:28; 4:5,24,25.
"the
word of reconciliation"-
Literally-
"in us the word of reconciliation. Note that it is the "word" of
reconciliation. No man, preacher, priest or bishop can forgive sin. God uses
men to plant the word of reconciliation in the minds and hearts of sinners.
"Ambassadors"-
As
ministers of reconciliation, we are official representatives of Christ. The New
Testament Church is the executive in the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, and Paul
recognized the magnitude of that commission. This verse teaches the Baptist
doctrine of "Priesthood of all believers". Christs ministers
represent not only the King, but the whole purpose of the Kingdom.
The
application here is to all of the Lord's Churches and to each individual member
to understand the importance of our ministry in Christ. What awesome
responsibility we have! What a tremendous debt we owe! We represent Christ!!
"Be
ye reconciled to God"-
They
were already reconciled, so Paul is not exhorting them personally, but showing
that it is man that needs to be reconciled to God, and not God to man. Yet we
see here the amazing love and grace that though man has wronged God, God seeks
the initiative in reconciliation. There is no hope for mankind apart from
sovereign grace.
D. Sin-Bearer:-
vs 21
We
have already mentioned "substitution", but we have it again in this
verse. Paul underlines the source and purpose for reconciliation.
"He
(God) hath made Him (Jesus the Son) to be sin for us"-
Christ
did not become a sinner, He took its debt upon Himself. He made Himself
responsible for it, not as its source, but as its payment.
"who
knew no sin"-
He
was a perfect sinless lamb. The only one available for such a task. No man can
do what Jesus did in bearing the sin of mankind. Jesus was our example, but, He
was much more than that. As the God-man, without sin, tempted in all manner as
we are tempted, He bore our sin upon Himself.
"that we might be
made"-
The
word we can only refer to the elect in Christ. To be made refers to the act of
creation. The believer is a new creation in Christ Jesus.
"the
righteousness of God in Him"-
The
only righteousness that God will look upon, is that of His Son. That
righteousness is in a Person, not in adherence to a law or set of rules and
regulations. (See 1 Corinthians 1:30). This is imputed righteousness.
May we ever realize that there is no righteousness but CHRIST. And may we ever,
as the hymn writer, say,-
"Nothing
in my hands I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling".
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Use a good Bible
dictionary, and do a word study on substitution, reconciliation, atonement, and
regeneration.
Today, pray for
your pastor, his wife and family.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 11 2
CORINTHIANS 6:1-13
In this chapter Paul continues his
message concerning Ambassadorship. Here he shows some marks that identify a
faithful ministry. Let us be sure these marks also identify us.
1. MINISTERS OF GOD:- vs 1-5
The
word "minister" (vs 4) means servant, bond-slave, or waiter. How
different this is from much of the modern concept of the minister as a man who
is put on a pedestal and called "Reverend" or even "The right
Reverend". see Matthew 20:28; 1 Peter 5:3.
A. Co-operation:
vs 1
1. "workers"- (not shirkers) men
of responsibility, labourers, men of service.
2. "together"- Paul was not
alone (neither are we) he had many co-workers, men and women of God.
The
Christian ministry is a Church-body ministry.
3. "with Him"- cf Matthew
28:20.
We
work, not alone but with and under the authority of Christ. That work is
described in (5:18-20).
Note:- It should be noted that the Scriptural way of
doing the Lord's work is, in and through the Lord's local New Testament
Church. Churches today have delegated their authority and responsibility to
parachurch organizations. These are foreign to the New Testament.
4. "That ye receive not the grace of
God in vain"-
The
grace of God refers to that which we receive at conversion and through which
the Holy Spirit operates within the believer to conform him into the image of
Christ. cf Titus 2:11-13.
"in
vain"- for nothing- to receive it without bringing forth its proper
fruits. cf Gal. 2:21; Luke 8:13.
How
useless is an apple tree that bears no fruit- likewise a Christian, or a
church.
B. Call
to Decision:- vs 2
1. "I have heard thee"- literally- "harkened to thee". The
sinner is dead, the call of enablement comes from God. As Christ called Lazarus
from the grave, so God calls the sinner. This cannot refer to men seeking God,
since that is not really true (Romans 3:11).
God
effects the call to the spiritually dead sinner, thus the term, "effectual
calling".
cf
Romans 8:30; 1 Cor. 1:9; Gal. 1:15; 2 Thess. 2:13; Romans 1:6; Revelation
17:14; etc.
2. "In
a time accepted"-
This
is a quote from Isaiah 49:8, which words are addressed to the servant of
Jehovah, whose work it was to raise up the tribes of Jacob, also, to be a light
to the nations, and salvation to the ends of the earth. The prophetic reference
here no doubt is to Jesus Christ. The time here refers to God's timetable. An
accepted time is a favourable time. God is calling men and women to Himself
through the gospel, the preaching of the cross. cf 1 Corinthians 1:21-24.
3. "In the day of salvation have I
succoured thee"-
The
day of salvation refers to the ministry of Christ at Calvary, and extended
throughout the dispensation of grace.
"succoured"-
sustained.
4.
"Behold now is the accepted
time"-
Paul's
bold declaration that right now in this age of grace is the acceptable time to
come to Christ, to be saved.
5.
"Now is the day of
salvation"-
This is the dispensation of grace,
of God's deliverance. God is now dealing with mankind in grace. This also
underscores the need to come to Christ now. There is an urgency in both the
proclamation and reception of the gospel. Hyper-calvinists and Hardshells are
wrong in not preaching the gospel, nor urging men to come to Christ. God saves
men through the foolishness of preaching the message of the cross. (1
Corinthians 1:17-21).
C. Consistent
Life:- vs 3-5
1. "No offence"-
No
occasion in stumbling- to put up a stumbling block.
2. "that the ministry (service) be
not blamed"-
Consistent
church life does not put the ministry of Christ in bad light.
3. "approving ourselves"-
Commending
ourselves by our manner of living. Showing forth positive proof of our
salvation.
4. "Ministers of God"-
Servants,
bond-slaves of God. Those who wait on, or give something to others.
Ministers
are called of God, or they are not called at all. God makes ministers, they do
not make themselves.
5. "Patience"- steadfastness.
"afflictions"-
distress (4:8) necessities, calamities.
"stripes"-
beatings
with a whip. In those days they tied tin on the end of the whip, which would
cut into the back of the victim.
"Imprisonments"-
Jailed,
locked up, put in bonds.
"Tumults"-
riots.
"labours"-
striving hard work.
"watchings"-
sleepless waiting.
"fastings"-
hunger, to go without food.
Paul
was consistent in his example as a follower of Jesus Christ. Are we? Philippians 4:11-13.
2. MISSION OF LIVING:- vs 6-11
The
previous verses show what the minister is subject to. The next verses show the
object of that ministry. The reason for ministry. It is not difficult for the
minister of Christ to forget his goals in light of affliction and such as Paul
has mentioned in verses 1-5. Discouragement often comes, not with the onset of
trial or difficulty, but when we take our eyes off of Jesus our reason for
living and giving.
A. Christian
Graces:- vs 6-7
1. "By (Gr. "in")
pureness"- innocence.
2. "knowledge"- spiritual
insight.
3. "longsuffering"- patient
suffering or endurance of hardship.
4. "kindness"- a quality of
Christ most often used with those who persecute us. (we pray for them-Matthew
5:44).
5. "in the Holy Ghost"- the
enumeration of qualities is interrupted here to introduce the active personal
principle operative to bring forth Christian graces in the believer. The
Christian can no more live the Christian life in himself than he can save
himself.-Philippians 2:13.
6. "love unfeigned"- (in)- the
root principle of all other Christian graces. see 1 Cor. 13.
7. "the word of truth"-
(speaking forth) Truth is found in the Word.
"by
the power of God"- these two phrases work together as the word of truth is
proclaimed by the authority of God. The Holy Spirit being the active force.
8. "by the armour of
righteousness"- weapons of our warfare- Ephesians 6:10-18.
"on the
right hand and on the left"- the right hand to attack, the left hand to
defend.
B. Chastisement:- vs 8-10
Paul uses the word "chastening" in a
general sense of discipline rather than personal. He suffered the rigors of
warfare. The words used describe the several aspects of that chastening in
warfare.
I
believe that Paul's "thorn in the flesh" refers to such rigors for
which the Lord said, "my grace is sufficient for thee" (12:9).
Paul's thorn was not his poor eyesight as some suggest, but clearly, as in
these verses, the "messenger of Satan to buffet me"- (deal blow after
blow)-12:7. Paul shows some of the extremes to which the Christian
ministry took him by contrasting-
1. "Honour and dishonour"-
through glory and dishonour brought on him by his enemies.
"evil
report and good report"- defaming evil lies told about him, and by good
report or words told about him.
"as
deceivers and yet true"- branded as imposters, and yet vindicated as
truthful and honest.
"unknown
and yet well known"- treated as unknown and ignored by the world, yet
well-known and recognized by God and His people.
"as
dying and behold we live"- Paul faced death almost daily. At least once
was nearly beaten to death, and yet he still ministered, still lives. He still
was able to write to the Corinth Church.
"chastened
and not killed"- disciplined in ministry by the things I suffer, yet I am
not dead.
cf
Hebrews 12:4 "Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving
against sin".
"sorrowful
and always rejoicing"- grieved and mourning, yet rejoicing, overflowed
with joy. cf Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16.
"as
poor and yet making many rich"- poor ourselves yet with the ability to
make many rich. Paul was well educated and could have made himself rich in this
world, yet he chose poverty in this life to give others the richness of a home
for eternity.
"as
having nothing, yet possessing all things"- to the world Paul was a poor
man with nothing, but in reality he possed all things.
2. What Paul had in the things of this
world, he possessed the opposite in the kingdom of Heaven. In effect, he proved
in his life that "the way up, is down" cf Phil. 2:5-11.
Humility is indeed the final winner. Better to be "in Christ" than
lost forever without Him.
C. Children
of Ministry:- 11-13
1. "Oh ye Corinthians"- Paul
speaks directly to the Church in Corinth. Paul was the founder of this Church,
he had led them to Christ, had taught them basic truth. They were his spiritual
children in Christ.
2. Paul spoke boldly to his children, with
open mouth and holding nothing back. cf Ezek. 33:22; Isa. 60:5. He spoke
from the heart as a father to his children.
3. Vs 12 - "There is no lack of
room for you in our hearts, but you lack room for us in your affections (A.B).
The term "bowels" in the KJV is used as the seat of affection much as
we now use the word heart".
4. Paul (vs 13) asked the
Corinthian Church to return the affection he had for them as his own children.
5. Every church, every ministry, every
Christian should have children. As one man wrote, we are born to
reproduce". Are you reproducing
spiritual children? Every Christian can and ought to be a personal soul-winner.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
List the things
Paul says he suffered in these verses and compare them with 2 Corinthians
11:18-30 and 2 Corinthians 12:6-10. Write a paragraph on the subject
of Paul's suffering.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 12 2
Corinthians 6:14-18
Having asked the Corinthians Church
to open their hearts and affections to him, Paul now enjoins them to Biblical
separation. While Paul is talking to a church, which then involves
ecclesiastical separation, the church is made up of individual members. each
individual Christian should practice personal separation from sinful, ungodly
practices and alliances. I believe the principle applied in this chapter and in
the Word of God in general, applies to marriage, business, and church alliance.
It involves any secret society which requires an oath of secrecy and
allegiance.
A note of warning
should be given here against the modern practice of so-called secondary
separation. That is to separate from those who fail to separate in the first
instance. I also remind you that Jesus was known for his fellowship with
sinners. We need to go out after sinners. The separation then is mainly against
sin and heresy.
Let us now look at our text:-
1. BIBLICAL SEPARATION:- vs 14-16a
A. Communion:-
vs 14
1. Be not yoked up with unbelievers
(unsaved)
"mismatched
alliances"- Amplified Bible.
The
picture here can best be associated with a yoke of oxen.
Deuteronomy
22:10
"Thou
shalt not plow with an ox and an ass together".
Many so called Christian ecumenical
organizations involve ministers, churches, groups which deny the basic tenants
of the Christian faith. Baptists in our country have played interdenominationalism
in missions for so long, that many of our Canadian Baptist churches are just
dipping Protestants, having lost their Baptist identity. Ecumenical mass
evangelism has weakened our Baptist churches. You cannot compromise on anything
without giving up something. Many who are called Baptists do not know what a
real Baptist is. They have not been taught Baptist distinctives.
2. Fellowship:- (partnership)
Righteousness
can have no fellowship with unrighteousness. Here we must draw the line in our
ecclesiastical associations.
3. Communion:-
What
do light and darkness have in common? They are complete opposites.
B. Concord:- vs 15
The word "concord" means harmony.
1. There is no harmony between Christ and
belial.
Belial
or beliar- in the Old Testament is not a name. It means worthlessness,
wickedness. Here it seems applied to Satan.
2. What part in common has a believer with
an unbeliever?
The
word "infidel" has a different meaning today. Today an infidel is an
atheist.
The
word "unbeliever" best suits the translation according to most
commentators.
3. The worlds philosophy and that of the
Christian is entirely opposite.
Christ
says'-
"Do
unto men as you would have them do unto you".
Matthew
7:12.
The
world says'-
"do
men before they do you".
The
world also says'-
"eat,
drink and be merry for tomorrow you die".
Luke
12:19.
Christ
says'-
"Thou
fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall these
things be which thou hast provided"? - Luke 12:20 cf Matt. 16:26.
4. Agreement:-
"What
agreement can the Temple of God (Church) have with idols"?
Idolatry
is forbidden under Mosaic law- Exodus 20:3-5. There can be no agreement
between Satan led idolatry and Christ. The Bible forbids the worship of other
gods or images etc.
2. BIBLICAL ASSOCIATION: 16b-17
A. The
Church Temple:-
1. Dwelling place of the living God.
2. Our associations should exemplify
Christ.
3. Our association maintains our
distinction as separated brethren. Separated from the world, the flesh, and the
devil on one hand, and separated unto God on the other. cf 1 John 2:15-17.
4. The church (gathering of believers) is
to be a holy Temple (Ephesians 2:19-22) that grows together.
5. Wrong associations can destroy an
individual Christian or an entire church.
Someone
rightly said, "we are known by the company we keep". Also,
"birds of a feather flock together".
B. The
Church Received:- vs 17
1. Ecclesia- "Come out"- The
meaning of the Greek word for church is "Gathering or Assembly" it
has with it the idea of "gathering out of". The Church is a visible
gather of people called out of the world unto Christ, for the purpose of
worship and service to Him. The church in the New Testament is always local and
visible. Not universal and mystical or invisible.
2. To fellowship with unbelievers in
ecclesiastical association is to break the basic principle of the meaning of
the word church. This is one of many reasons for both Biblical separation and
communion restricted to the membership of each local church.
3. BIBLICAL RELATION:- vs 18
A. Relationship
Positive:-
1. I will be a Father.....I will, is
positive.
2. You will be my children...You will is
positive.
3. The dwelling place of God...vs 16-
The New Testament local gathering or assembly (church).
4. I will walk in them....The promise of
God's presence.
5. Received by God...fellowship,
recognition, power.
The
Lord Almighty shows us God is omnipotent in His relationship with a separated
church.
B. Relationship
Negative:- vs 14 and 17
What
should be the ecclesiastical relationship between believers and unbelievers?
What should be the attitude of the Christian to false doctrine?
1. Earnestly contend for the faith- Jude
3
2. Do not receive false preachers?- 2
John 9-11
3. Walk not in the counsel of the ungodly-
Psalm 1:1
4. Have no fellowship...reprove them...-Ephesians
5:11
5. Do not be unequally yoked...Come out
from among them...2 Corinthians 6:14-18.
6. Rebuke them sharply that they may be
sound in the faith....1 Timothy 5:20; Titus 1:13.
7. "Thou shalt not plow with an ox
and an ass together" Deuteronomy 22:10; 2 Chronicles 19:2.
PULPIT
AFFILIATION:- What is it?
Pulpit affiliation
is the association of preachers of unlike doctrine, practice, order, in the
pulpit of a New Testament Church, including musical and gospel singers- 2
John 6-13; 1 John 2:19. Paul taught Timothy to "preach the Word, for
some would not hold to sound doctrine"- Titus 1:9.
Jesus Christ said,
"Purge out the old leaven". Paul said, "a little leaven,
leaveneth the whole lump" Luke 12:1; 1 Corinthians 5:7-8.
-
"The Jew, The Gentile and The Church"
Dr. D. paul Tuck Sr.- Page 41
This is the
Biblical directive for healthy Christians and New Testament Churches.
This is the reason
we do not join the "Counsel of Churches", have membership in secret
lodges, or take part in ecumenical or interdenominational missions and
evangelism.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Write a paragraph
on the need for Biblical separation today. State ways and from whom we should
separate, and why. Give your source if you copy a statement from another.
Separation is not
"ideal" it is sometimes necessary. If there is anyone from whom you
are separated, pray for that person today. Ask God to help you resolve whatever
it is that causes your separation.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 13 2
Corinthians 7:1-8
The word "therefore" in
verse one connects what Paul is about to say about holy living, with the
promise of God in 6:18. Because of the believers family relationship
with God, we should walk and live in a Godly way.
1. PERFECTED HOLINESS:- vs 1-2
The word
"perfect" means to "work out" or "make complete" in
a practical sense.
The
believer is already "perfect" or "complete" in Christ as to
his standing or position. (1 Cor. 1:30). His state however is a
different matter. This is effected by our daily walk with Christ. Paul wrote
similarly to the church in Philippi..."work out your own salvation with
fear and trembling" Philippians 2:12. The Christian is to work out,
or in reality allow the Holy Spirit to work out what has been worked or planted
within us by God's grace in regeneration or the New Birth. cf Philippians
2:12-14; Titus 2:11.
How
is this accomplished on man's part?
A. Cleanse
ourselves:- vs 1
The
word "cleanse" is continuous action. We must bathe regularly to keep
clean. The unregenerate person cannot do this. He must first be born again. The
will of the saved man has been freed to live after Christ in the Spirit.
1. "From all filthiness of the
flesh"-
The
word "filthiness" refers to pollution or defilement.
2. Pollution is everywhere and in every
form today. The worst form of pollution is that of the heart and mind. Much of
television and magazines is polluted and is most detrimental to the life of
holiness.
3. The word "flesh"-
(Greek-sarx) is here contrasted with the spirit (pneuma). That which is of this
life is referred to. As already said, separation is necessary to holy living.
4. Paul is not suggesting that we clean up
the "old man" here, as that is impossible. (He must die!) That which
we are to perfect in holiness, is not the carnal nature. We must feed the new
man which is after Christ.
5. "In fear- (reverential respect) of
God". cf James 2:12.
B. Correct
Living:- vs 2
1. "Receive us"- make room for
us, open your heart and affections toward us.
The
Lord's Church should receive the Lord's people who walk uprightly. Those
disfellowshipped by another church should not be received without checking out
the reason the person was excluded. Sometimes churches exclude people for
improper or non-scriptural reasons, but usually not. The tendency today is as
it was in Corinth, to include all manner of sin and loose living within the
body.
2. "We have wronged no man"-
We
have done harm to no one. (why should you not receive us?) Paul's not being
received was due to the loose living within the church and doctrinal error on
the part of the church. In this case, the church was in error (but was still a
properly constituted New Testament Church- 1:1).
3. "We have corrupted no man"-
We
have not brought anyone into corruption or defilement.
4. "Defrauded no man"-
Cheated
or taken advantage of no man.
5. These verbs denote outward
rather than inward injury. Paul's denials probably refer to charges
against him by his enemies.
His
injunction to receive them is in contrast with their association with
unbelievers. We need to be consistent with our doctrine and manner of living.
Holiness
cannot be perfected without consistency.
NOTE:-
Those of us who insist on
holding to historic Baptist (landmark) principles as to the church, and to the
Doctrines of sovereign grace, are too often treated as was Paul. We are
ostracized (cut off from fellowship), falsely maligned (slandered) by those who
have departed from the faith and practice of our Baptist forefathers.
C. Contrast:- vs 3
1. "I
speak not this to condemn you"-
I
say it not- This refers to Paul's request to receive them, which he did not
want to imply condemnation for not receiving them, but to urge them to do it.
Note:- Scripturally, condemnation comes from within
rather than from without. We condemn ourselves- see John 3:18 for
example.
2. Paul had contrasted their lack of
receiving him with their reception of unbelievers around them.
3. "In our hearts"-
Paul's
expression of love for the Corinth Church.
4. "to die and live with you"-
to
live together and to die together.
This
should be the attitude of all of God's people toward each other, and towards
the ministry.
2. PERFECTED IN TRIBULATION:- vs 4
Paul
goes on to show how God works out His grace in the life of the Christian in
tribulation.
Hebrews 3:6; 10:35; 1 John 2:28.
A. Confidence:- vs 4
1. Paul's attitude in time of trial makes
him bold.
Bold
means- confident.
"When
the going gets tough, the tough get going".
2. Paul's confidence toward the Corinth
Church, caused him to have pride in them. He could boast of them.
B. Comfort:- vs 4
1. Paul
was filled with comfort in his trials because of the Corinth Church. To know
that there was a church in the city of Corinth to honour God, caused him
comfort in trial, and brought him great joy.
2. We should never underestimate the
blessing that a church brings to its ministry, whether pastor or missionary.
The reception the minister of Christ receives from the people of God is ever so
important.
C. Companionship:-
vs 5-6
1. Paul goes on to express his joy and
comfort in the companionship of Titus, who brought him additional comfort in
good news from Corinth.
2. Paul came into Macedonia from Troas (2:12-13)
with the same unrest in spirit. He is probably referring to his tribulation of vs
4. He was waiting to hear from Titus regarding the state of affairs in
Corinth.
3. "Our flesh had no rest"-
He
refers to his human nature which had uncertainties concerning things in
Corinth.
4. This unrest was quieted with the coming
of Titus, his companion in the gospel. There is great comfort in time of trial
brought by the companionship of fellow ministers in the gospel.
D. Conflict:-
vs 5
"without
were fightings - within were fears"-
Paul
and his associates found outside of themselves, conflict with opposers, in and
without the churches. Within themselves, fears arose from these conflicts which
included the state of the Corinth Church.
E. Consolation:- vs 6-7
The word consolation is the same as
"comfort" in verses 4 and 6, and means "encouragement".
Encouragement
is seen here in two aspects:-
1. It's source - God.
2. It's channel - Titus.
God
uses men to do his work in the world. Paul was encouraged by God, but the
channel God used was Titus.
This
shows the importance of our ministerial fellowship, and on the local
church level, the encouragement in church fellowship (cf Hebrews 10:25).
Churches ought to fellowship with each other in the gospel. It is Scriptural
for sovereign New Testament churches to work together. Church members ought to
work together as well.
3. PERFECTED THROUGH PENITENCE:- vs
8
Titus
brought to Paul the encouraging news of the repentance of the Corinth Church.
The change in their attitude towards Paul, and the reception of the incestuous
man whom with Paul's urging in his first letter they had disciplined by
exclusion.
(1
Cor. 5:13).
A. Chastening:-
1. Paul had written his first letter as a
form of chastening in effort to correct things within the Corinth Church.
2. "To make them sorry"- means
to cause them to grieve.
3. The word "repent" is better
translated "regret".
It
shows the true tenderness of heart in Paul.
4. The brevity of their grief was short
lived because of their change of heart.
B. Contrition:-
Their
contrition- change of heart and mind- is seen in their repentance. Their
earnest desire, "mourning your fervent mind toward me" (vs 7).
Paul
could rejoice and be encouraged because holiness in the Corinth Church was
being perfected by their repentance.
It
does not take great things to disrupt the fellowship and ministry of God's
Word. We can see this as we study through Paul's dealings with the Corinth
Church.
Chastening
is certainly oft times used of God to encourage practical holiness.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Write a paragraph
on the subject, "The need and result of Discipline in the Lord's
Church", based upon this chapter.
Discipline is
necessary but should be none with much prayer. Do you know someone whom your
church had to discipline? Pray for that person today.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 14 2
Corinthians 7:9-16
Paul goes on to explain the purpose
of reproof in his first letter, and shows its value as seen in their repentance
and change of heart toward him. Particular reference is made to their coming to
grips with the problem of the incestuous man in their membership. As we look at
these verses we see.....
1. SORROW OF REPROOF:- vs 9-10
Godly
reproof, or reproof in love is felt by both the giver and the recipient of it.
To a Godly minister, it is never joyous to reprove anyone.
A. Its
Value:- vs 9-10
1. Paul rejoiced, not that they were
grieved (made sorry) by his reproof, but that they grieved to the point of
repentance.
2. The value of reproof is seen in their
change of heart towards Paul's ministry, and their willingness to have a clean
membership, by putting away or excluding the incestuous man.
B. Its
Victory:- vs 9-10
1. The victory of reproof is their
repentance. The whole idea of church discipline is not merely to clean up the
church roll, but to bring the erring one to repentance.
2. "after a Godly manner"-
As
God meant for you to feel.
3. "You might receive damage by us in
nothing"-
No
harm was done to you by us, in reproving you.
4. "Godly sorrow worketh
repentance"-
Grief
worked or enabled by God. This is effectual grace; or grace effecting or
enabling change.
Effectual
grace does not only work for conversion of the sinner, but in the sanctification
of the converted as well.
5. "unto salvation not to be
repented"-
The
two words translated "repent" are not together in the Greek text.
Repented here means "regret" cf vs 8. Salvation here is not
justification, but is used in its general sense including all of the work of
grace from beginning to end.
Repentance
brought the Corinth Church to salvation from the power of sin, and into a
proper fellowship with the Head, and with other churches in Christ.
6. "but the sorrow of the world
worketh death"-
The
grief of the world works out spiritual death. So Paul is saying that the
effectual work of the Holy Spirit in their midst brought them through
repentance to salvation, and thus, from the spiritual death unto life. Death is
here contrasted with salvation. cf John 3:36; 5:24; 6:40.
2. SERVICE OF REPROOF:- vs 11-12
Paul
here explains how his reproving them in his first letter, particularly
concerning the incestuous member, served to work together for good in their salvation.
A. Purpose:-
The purpose of Paul's
writing his first letter.
1. The grief that Paul brought was the
enabling grace of God at work in their church.
2. "Carefulness"-
Zeal
or earnestness it wrought for you.
3. Clearing:-
Means
defence. Reproof led them to repentance which in turn brought them to defend
themselves against the implication of sharing in the incestuous persons guilt.
4. Indignation:-
against
the offenders.
5. Fear:- perhaps of the apostles rod- 1
Corinthians 4:21.
6. Vehement desire:-
Longing-
They feared he might come with a rod, but nevertheless, they longed to see him.
7. Zeal:-
refers
no doubt to their zeal to punish the offender.
8. Revenge:-
avenging
or punishment. Paul's purpose was therefore fulfilled and "in all
things" the church proved herself to be pure in the matter of the
incestuous man.
B. Plan:-
vs 12
1. Subject:- involved the church and the
incestuous man.
2. Object:- not the subject, but to show them, "our care for you in the
sight of God".
3. SPIRITUAL RESULT OF REPROOF:- vs 13-16
The
purpose worked out in the plan of reproof was rewarded with its desired result.
Church discipline ought not to be a permanent fixture in our churches.
Discipline is never to be used in a political sense to control a person. A
reminder that discipline according to Jesus (Matthew 18:15-18) in its
final issue is to be carried out by the church, not the pastor or the deacon
board.
See
here the results that ought to be forthcoming.......
A. Comfort:- vs 13
1. We
were encouraged as you were encouraged. The word comfort as used here means
"to encourage".
Paul
had comfort over the accomplishment of his purpose. He had achieved his goal!
2. The joy of Titus safety and positive
report gave Paul additional comfort
(encouragement).
3. The change of heart in the Corinth
Church brought renewal to all concerned.
cf Psalm 51.
B. Cause
For Boasting:- vs 14
Paul
bragged on the Corinth Church and now such bragging is shown to be based upon
truth.
C. Careful
Obedience:- vs 15
Fear
and trembling denote the quality of the obedience in receiving Titus.
D. Confidence:- vs 16
The
spiritual result of reproof led to confidence in all things on the part of Paul
toward the Corinth Church.
Paul
was encouraged that he saw in them evidence, true fruit of repentance, proving
themselves to be true Christians.
Note:-
We see in this chapter, the
power, purpose and the practicality of church discipline.
ASSIGNMENT FOR
LEARNING:-
Review your notes
and assignments. (For those using these notes for Bible Institute or College
level studies, it is time to prepare for mid-term examinations; Chapters 1-7;
Lessons 1-14).
Prayer is a vital
part of Bible Study. Pray that the Holy Spirit, the author of the Bible will
open your understanding to know and apply God's Word to your life.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 15 2
Corinthians 8:1-15
Paul's "confidence in all things", is now extended into the
area of giving. In this area we see two important principles at work....
1. Faith Promise Giving.....
2. Associational Missions...
1. THE BASIS OF GIVING:- vs 1-5
The
principle of giving to God leaves no one out. Nobody is too poor to give, or
should never say they cannot afford to give. In truth, we cannot afford to
refrain from giving.
There
is three kinds of giving.....
a) The tithe:- that is, 10% of all income.
b) Faith Promise:- This is giving upon the
faith principle apart from and beyond the tithe. This type of giving operates
in the faith realm.
c) Sacrificial Giving:- Giving from the
heart, when it hurts. Giving everything as did the early Christians on at least
two occasions. cf Acts chapter two and four.
The
giving mentioned here in chapter 8, may well be a combination of the last two
types. cf vs 2.
A. Liberality
of Giving:- vs 1-2
1.
Paul here tells the
Corinth Church of the giving of the churches (assemblies) in Macedonia.
2.
The liberality of
their giving had two sources:-
a) The grace of God bestowed upon them.
b) The abundance of joy.
3. The liberality of their giving had two
obstacles which they did not allow to stop the flow of blessing in giving:-
a) A great trial of affliction. cf 1
Thess. 1:6; 2:14; Acts 16:19; 17:5.
b) Their deep poverty. cf Mark
12:44.
4. This shows us that faith in God has
no obstacles, but what one allows to hinder him in giving to God.
5. By use of the word
"liberality", we see their harvest was limited only by the amount of
seed-faith shown.
B. Love
of Giving:- vs 3-5
The Macedonian churches
(assemblies) gave out of love.
Giving
should be motivated by love, not our hope of reward.
The
Macedonian Churches loved God as seen in that:-
1. God blessed them abundantly (The reward
of faith).
2. They were joyful to suffer affliction.
3. They had faith beyond their
circumstances. Love and faith (abides-1 Cor. 13:13) is not bound by
circumstances.
Our
lives should be lived above our circumstances, not as its victims, dictated to
or directed by them.
4. The word "power"- (Gr.
dumamis) translated here, is "ability".
Paul
is saying, "they gave as they were able and even beyond their
ability".
5. "of themselves"- they did it
voluntarily from their hearts. No one will give much of anything who does not
first "give themselves". Usually the best givers in any church is the
ones who are involved in her ministry.
6. The Macedonian Churches (prayed) begged
(with much entreaty) most insistently, for the (gift) favour of their
(fellowship) association in (giving) serving the saints (in the Jerusalem
Church).
7. They gave their contribution (not as we
expected) but more so, they gave themselves......
a) To the Lord.
b) To us (His agents).
8. Paul bore witness (record) to their
giving, not because they were asked to, for they volunteered of themselves.
9. "by the will of God"-
vs
3-5 are actually one sentence,
and all that Paul includes was that which they did, as directed by the will of
God.
They
submitted to the cause of a sovereign God.
10. How does our love measure up to that of
these churches? How do our churches today measure up to them?
2. BENEVOLENT LIVING:- vs 6-9
One
does not know much about living until he learns the meaning of giving!!!
A. Applied
Living:- vs 6
Paul
here applies to the Corinth Church, what he had said about the Churches in
Macedonia.
1. Paul (desired) exhorted or urged Titus
to continue or complete the same benevolent (beneficent contribution) in the
Corinth Church. To urge them to associate as liberally in mission as did the
Macedonian Churches.
2. "the same grace"-
Literally-
"this grace", a virtue extending from the grace of God
mentioned in verse one.
The
grace of giving is the result or fruit of God's grace wrought in the believer.
To the Christian, giving to God's work ought not to be a difficult thing.
B. Abound
in Living:- vs 7
1. "Therefore"- This should be
translated "but" as the conjunction indicates that Paul turns from
his account of the Macedonian Churches, to direct exhortation addressed to the
Corinthian Church.
2. "as ye abound in everything"-
The
word "thing" in the authorized version is in italics
indicating it is not in the Greek, but it is implied by the context,
meaning everything they do. They still (as do we) needed exhortation to abound
in giving.
They
abounded or excelled in- by (denoting that by which they excel).-
a) by faith
b) utterance- by word
c) knowledge
d) diligence- zeal
e) love to us.
3. See that since you excel in these, that
you excel also in giving.
C. Abundant
Living:- vs 8
Giving
(not just financial) is a test or thermometer of love. Paul goes on to compare
our giving with Christ's.
1. "I speak not by order"-
Or,
"I do not command (order) you to give". I am not dictating to you.
You are an independent local church, a sovereign body of Christ. Even though
Paul was an apostle, he never once overrode the sovereignty of the churches.
2. "but by occasion of the
forwardness of others"-
To
point out to you the zeal of others.
3. "and to prove the sincerity of
your love"-
To
prove or point out the zeal of your love also.
4. "for ye know the grace of our Lord
Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that
ye through His poverty might be rich"-
Christ is
our example, our standard:-
a) "The grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ"-
His
kindness, His gracious generosity, His undeserved favour and spiritual
blessing.
b) "Ye know"-
Are
becoming progressively to be acquainted with and to recognize.
c) "He was rich"-
Implies
His eternal existence as God before His incarnation in human flesh.
d) "for your sakes He became
poor"-
We
see here basically two things:-
1. Christ's condescension (taking on a
human nature).
2. Humiliation-- that which He endured as
a man which was finalized on the cross.
e) "That ye through His poverty might
be rich"-
1. Justification by faith.
2. Sanctification through faith.
3. Glorification (abundantly supplied).
The
riches of salvation-
a) Penalty of sin- Past
b) Power of sin- Present- daily
c) Presence of sin- Future- at the second coming of Christ.
5. Paul thus tests the genuineness of
their love, since Christ is their example.
The believer
is enriched by the poverty of Christ. cf 5:21.
True love
must be self-sacrificing.
3. BALANCED LIVING:- vs 10-15
A. Counsel:-
vs 10-11
1. Paul gave advice (counsel).
He
could only recommend to a sovereign Church. They must make their own decision.
2. Paul's advice was that they should finish
what they had started a year previously. They had agreed to associate in
mission but apparently had not made much progress.
3. "Perform the doing of it"-
Carry
out your agreement. Be as eager to complete the project as you were to begin
it. Oh, but it is so easy to make plans and start projects! It is quite another
thing to finish what we start out to do. How important in our every day living
that we learn to "finish the job". What a waste of time and effort,
not to mention finances, when we do not finish our tasks.
B. Control
on Giving:- vs 12
1. One must first be willing to give-
associated work is one of voluntary free will.
2. Giving proportionately-
Giving
is based upon present ability. You start with what you have, not with what you
do not have.
The
law of "sowing and reaping" is that you reap in proportion to your
sowing (Galatians 6:7-10).
In
giving to God, the only limit is "faith"- but every Christian has
faith to start with however little or weak it may be.
Faith
used (sown) is faith multiplied (more seed). The standard for their giving (the
basic seed-faith) was what they already had or possessed.
C. Co-operation
in Giving:- vs 13-15
1. All can give- every church can
co-operate. Every member in individual churches can give. Faith- Promise giving
leaves out only those who refuse to give.
2. "equality"-
Share
and share alike- according to ability.
Paul
sets no limits- no fees, such as conventionism does, to be able to associate.
The
principle of equality is important to fairness and equality of both individual
members and to sovereign churches.
Every little
supplies the whole.
"not
to ease others and afflict you but that you may give as you are able as an
equal to a needy church (Jerusalem) and someday, they may return the favour as
an equal".
3. "as it is written"- (in Exodus
16:18).
Paul
uses the gathering of manna to illustrate the gathering and working of the
Lord's churches in associated work.
Each
man in Israel gathered an omer of manna (about three wine quarts), no more, no
less, thus we see equality.
Thus
we see Paul's admonition with regards to "Giving-Living". Principles
and standards which have been historic Baptist principles, and still work
today.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
List and comment on
the standards and principles of giving in associated work among the churches.
Should this standard still be in practice among New Testament churches today?
Prayer:- Ask the
Lord to help you to be a "cheerful giver".
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
ASSOCIATION IN MISSION
LESSON 16 2
Corinthians 8:16-24
The entire eighth chapter is centred
around the associated benevolent effort of a number of churches. The work
involved the raising of funds to assist the poor saints in the Jerusalem
Church. A careful look at these verses give us an outline of the principles of
New Testament practice in all forms of "associated work" among
sovereign, independent churches. All New Testament churches are seen in
scripture as independent with regards to sovereignty, yet interdependent when
it comes to missionary evangelism and benevolent work.
1. CAREFUL ADMINISTRATION:- vs
16-19
There
can be no mission work of much worth accomplished, without some administration.
New Testament mission work kept (and so should we) administration to a minimum.
But never forget!
A. God
Uses Men:-
1. In these verses we see men who stand in the forefront. Paul, Titus, the brother (well known among the churches).
2. It is understood that the most important
men were those not mentioned, but members of the several churches which
associated in support of the endeavour.
We
can never underestimate the need for, and importance of the men of our churches
in mission work.
This of
course, most certainly involves women as well.
B. God
must have Glory:- vs 19
1. The administration of mission work has
as its highest standard, "the Glory of God".
2. For God to be glorified, the work of
missions must be "His work". Our methods must be based upon Scriptural
practice. I believe God leaves us plenty of room to change methods from age to
age, or in differing cultures, but the basic standards or principles set forth
in Scripture do not change. They do not need to, and to do so is to our
detriment and that of the Lord's Churches.
3. Paul's method of mission work lays the
ground work for Scriptural New Testament practice today.
4. In New Testament times, the churches
were the channel by which mission work was done, and through whom it was done,
and in
whom
Christ receives glory. cf Ephesians 3:21.
5. Can God be glorified in methods
contrary to those He advocates Himself in His Word? Apart from the local
churches?
Boardism,
conventionism, interdenominationalism weakens the churches, and detracts from the
New Testament Church distinctives laid out by Scripture for Church polity and
practice. Weak churches mean weak members and in the end a weak Christianity.
2. COMMENDED MESSENGERS:- vs 19
In
New Testament times, messengers represented the co-operating churches. These
were not delegates, as no church can delegate her authority and still
maintain it as a sovereign body-church. Messengers therefore represent the
will of the church which sends them. They are responsible to that church
and that church alone, in which they are a member, and sent.
The
Scripture here shows the basic principle of a messenger assembly.
A. Chosen
of the Churches:- vs 19
1. The brother referred to was evidently
chosen by the churches. He was not chosen by a board, by Pastors, by a
convention, or even by Paul himself.
2. Dr. Ben M. Bogard- Baptist Way Book,
writes:-
"note
the fact that here is a committee of the churches, consisting of Paul, Titus
and "the brother whose praise was in all the churches" A committee of
at least three, an inter-church committee, a committee not of one church only,
but a committee chosen of the churches, a joint committee. The duty of this
committee was "to travel with this grace (gift) and to
"minister" this grace or gift "to the glory of the Lord"
according to the "declarations (instructions) of your (the church) ready
mind".
3. "Messengers of the churches"-
a) The word "messenger"
translated here is
"apostolos"
meaning "an apostle". The same word is used of Epaphroditus in Philippians
2:25.
(see-
messenger, apostle, angel, in Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament
Words).
b) These messengers were church sent or
commissioned. They were not sent out by a board or convention, but by the
church of their membership.
B. Controlled
by the Churches:-
New
Testament mission work was controlled by the churches. All of these men
(including Paul-Acts 13) were church sent.
Chosen
to-
1. Travel with us with this grace.
2. Declared by your ready mind. That is,
bound by the instructions from their church.
3. Purpose- vs 20- Control was not
in the messengers. The basic responsibility lay with the churches.
4. Provide honesty before God and men.
5. Through proven men- vs 22
6. Titus was Paul's assistant or
co-worker.
3. CO-OPERATIVE PROGRAM:-
In
these verses we see a true "Co-operative Program". Not such as
is run by the Southern Baptist Convention, of which Dr. Robert Ashcraft says,
"This is altogether different from a board or committee engaging in a work
on their own motion and incurring expenses, acting without instructions and
then calling on the churches to pay the bills".-
(Identifying Missionary Baptist
Distinctives, Page 84.)
Dr. Ben M. Bogard says,-
"Such
a thing as a convention is unknown to the Scriptures. Such a thing is therefore
a usurper, a violator of Divine law and should not be tolerated by the
churches. It was to the churches the commission was given and these churches
themselves are under the law of the Master. The churches are free and
independent within the limits of the New Testament law".- Baptist Way
Book, Page 25.
A. Commission:-
The
commission Paul operates under is that given by Christ to the churches in Matthew
28:19-20.
Paul
is ever found working within the framework of (sovereign, visible, local) New
Testament Churches.
He
was sent on his missionary journey's by a church- (Acts 13:1-4) and he
reported back to that church (Acts 14:25-28).
1. "The church as such is the
therefore the unit in missionary operations".
-Ben M. Bogard-
Baptist Way Book- Page 21
2. Paul planted churches and worked with
them in carrying out the Great Commission.
3. A careful study of these verses show
that Paul's doctrine of the church in relation to mission endeavour was that
the responsibility lay in a sovereign body, the New Testament (local) Church.
B. Co-operation:-
Churches can and did
co-operate, work together as equals in mission endeavour.
1. Through a co-operative program.
2. Under local church sponsorship.
3. With a minimum of administration (vs
20)
4. To provide an honest program (vs 21)
a) Through local churches, not, "The
Apostle Paul Evangelistic Association".
b) church sponsored co-operative programs
avoid much of the scandals of "man centred" programs such as we see
today on television and radio. It also avoids much of the fleshly
"politicking" of denominationalism.
5. Co-operate with the associated work.
Show proof of your love and our bragging about you.
6. "We believe that it is the
privilege and right of local churches to co-operate with each other in carrying
out the commission of the Lord; that such co-operation is righteously effected
only when the principles of Christ are preserved in the work fostered; and that
all associated endeavour of local churches should be carried on in such a way
as to preserve the sovereign integrity of each local body in all matters of
faith and practice".
2
Corinthians 8:1-6; 16-24; 2 John 1-4; Matthew 16:18-19; Acts 15:19-27.
(From
the doctrinal statement recorded in the "Constitution and By-Laws" of
Landmark Baptist Church, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.-founded by the author).
May
God help us to stand true to His Word and the principles of work so clearly
taught in it, and practised by true Baptists in every age since Jesus and John
the Baptist.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Recommended
reading:- "Associations are Scriptural" by Dr. Ben M. Bogard.
"Introduction
to the New Testament Church" by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Write out a brief
paper examining the subject of "Associated Mission Work".
Prayer:- The Holy Spirit leads believers in
mission work. Churches ought to work together. Pray that your church will work
with others, yet keep to the principle of being "an independent Baptist
Church."
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
MINISTERING TO THE SAINTS
LESSON 17 2
Corinthians 9:1-6
Paul here continues to discuss the
subject of ministry. Giving of ones self is not limited to our tithes and
offerings, but every aspect of our lives. Paul's effort to raise funds for the
poor saints in the Jerusalem Church was more involved than that of mere fund
raising. It was a ministry of the saints, to the saints, which involved a
number of local churches in an associated effort. Paul in his epistles sought
to stir up the church to meet her responsibility.
1. SUPERFLUOUS WRITING:- vs 1-3
Paul's reason for writing the epistle was to stir the church to giving that which she had already committed herself to.
A. Provoked
to Readiness:- vs 2
1. Forwardness of mind. Willingness,
readiness and eagerness to promote it the cause.
2. Favourable boasting. I have bragged
about you. I have told others proudly of your readiness.
3. Provoked zeal. Your enthusiasm has
stimulated the majority of them (in Achaia).
B. Purpose
Fulfilled:- vs 3
1. By sent brethren. Men of God sent to
assist you in fulfilling your
commitment.
2. Supported boasting. Lest our pride in
you should be made an empty boast.
3. That ye might be ready. (as I told them
in Achaia you would be.
4. Sometimes it is good for our faith and
commitments to the Lord's work to be shared by the faith and labourers of
others. Many times we say yes, only to become easily discouraged at the first
sign of difficulty.
2. SHARED MINISTRY:- vs 4-5
A. Associated
Effort:-
1. "they of Macedonia etc."
2. The funds Paul was raising for the
Jerusalem Church was the labour and faith of several Churches. If one church
would not meet her commitment, others could become discouraged and they would
not reach the goal they had earlier agreed upon.
3. "Come with me"- If others
from Macedonia come with me when I come to collect your gifts for the Jerusalem
Church; and they see you not ready, then, my boasting of you would seem empty
and cause humiliation on your part as well.
4. Members should work together in the
church, and churches should work together in the ministry. While each church is
sovereign and independent, she may choose to work in association with other
churches in carrying out the Lord's instructions in Matthew 28:19-20.
B. Assumed
Responsibility:-
1. That we be not ashamed. That our faith
not be left naked. Our pride in you should be made an empty boast.
2. The use of the brethren. Paul sent
other brethren ahead of him, to encourage the church in her commitment to his
mission.
3. Previous notice. The brethren would
encourage the church in preparation for Paul's arrival. To make arrangements in
advance for the collection to be received.
4. Prepared bounty. (generosity- a
bountiful gift would be largely generous.)
5. Note:- The church had to be ready (vs
3) and then the gift. Only a ready church can be generous in their support
of a mission endeavour. Churches need to be taught before they will become good
givers, supporters of mission endeavour, etc.
6. The Spirit of giving- "as a matter
of bounty (generosity) and not as a matter of covetousness. It is important
that the spirit of our giving be of God and not for selfish reasons, as to what
we can get out of it ourselves.
3. SOWING AND REAPING:- vs 6
A. Sow
Specially:-
Deliberate
sowing. There must be definite purpose in sowing. The church, like the farmer
must purpose their sowing of faith-seed.
B. Sow Specifically:-
We
will reap the kind of seed we sow. This shows the plan and pattern of sowing.
Churches should plan their giving after New Testament pattern. We today need a
pattern (blueprint) for our mission work as they had in New Testament Churches.
Many
churches give at a whim as one who shops in a supermarket without a grocery
list, plan or purpose. Paul did not instruct the Corinth Church after this
fashion. They had committed themselves a year previously to the planned,
purposed, giving of associated work. Paul urges them to come forward with that
which they had so generously promised. Let it not be a show of words, but faith
in action.
I
can well remember being on deputation for mission work, where some churches
took offerings or promised support which I never received. This is a form of
dishonesty. We ought not to make promises (vows) we cannot hope to keep.
Faith-promise
giving must not be one of empty words, but one of affirmative action. This can
only be accomplished by prayer- purpose- plan- pattern- and proportionate
giving.
C. Sow
Sumptuously:-
We
will reap in proportion to the amount of seed sown. I remember hearing the
Russian preacher, Peter Deyneka say in his broken english, regarding
"prayer."
"Mucha
prayer! Mucha power!
No mucha prayer! No mucha power!
This
is a principle in the Christian faith as it is in nature. We reap in proportion
to and of the kind of, seed sown.
What
we reap is based upon our-
1. Prayerful giving.
2. Purpose in giving.
3. Pattern in giving- Planned.
4. Proportion of giving.
The
result will be the POWER of giving as the Church is enabled to fulfil
the Great Commission.
Our
churches today, sadly lack this type of ministry.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Look up several (at
least three) Scriptures which teach about giving and comment on them.
If every Christian
would give at least ten percent of their income to their church, that church
would likely not have financial difficulties. Begin now to pray for the
finances of your church.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 18 2
Corinthians 9:7-15
"PURPOSED GIVING"
These verses actually continue from
the previous ones on the subject of "Ministering to the Saints". The
subject of giving is a touchy one with many Christians today. However the Bible
has much to say about the subject, and Christ Himself taught that "it is
more blessed to give than to receive." Here in the remaining verses of
this chapter, we learn the right way to give, as Paul here calls "Purposed
Giving."
1. ACCOUNTABLE GIVING:- vs 7
Giving
is to be accountable. Christians will be held accountable to God as stewards of
His money, and how we conduct ourselves in His ministry in general. As any
public servant is accountable to the people, so the one who is a Christian,
therefore, a servant of God, will be held accountable for their investment of
time, talent, and money.
A. Act
of Giving:- vs 7
1. Every man can give. The emphasis here
is not on the amount, but upon the action. One should not do nothing,
simply because he cannot do everything.
2. Give with purpose. The Christian has a
purpose in life, given him in his new birth. That new purpose should be
reflected in every area of his life. The life of Christ is reflected in daily
living and this includes our giving. Giving living is Living Giving! Our utmost
purpose in giving is to please Christ. Giving is as much a part of our worship
of Christ as is our attendance to the study of the Bible, to prayer, to church
attendance, and to singing hymns of praise. Yet most of us allow giving to come
in last in the race to worship God.
B. Ability
to Give:- vs 8-9
1. Grace Abounding:-
(a) Sufficient in all things.
Everyone
has the ability to give (something.)
(b) Abound to every good work.
No
one lacks the ability to abound, spring forward towards a good work for God.
Grace
abounds in the Christian's life as he learns to invest what he has to make more
for further and future investment. This is a principle of faith-promise clearly
taught here.
(c) In working with handicapped people, I
have learned that these who are so poor, give so much. I can never outgive a
handicapped person in willingness, and commitment. Nor, in reaching out in
faith and love to others. Such simple childlike faith, and willingness to give
and share their lives with others who outwardly have so much more than they do.
( I refer to a so-called "normal" person.)
2. Grace Amazing:-
(a) Recorded grace- (it is written).
The
Scripture records the outcome of God's grace abounding in the lives of men. The
heroes of faith recorded in Hebrews 11 were men who knew enough to sow
faith-seed. They used what abilities they possessed, wisely.
(b) Grace given to the poor.
No
man is so poor that he has nothing to give to God. The widow may only have her
"two mites" but how blessed she was over the religious leaders, and
honoured in the presence of Christ and in the Word of God.
It
is not how little you have, or how much you give. Rather, how you give what you
have, and how you live.
3. Grace of Everlasting Righteousness:-
This
refers to God's righteousness in Christ. As we give of our money to assist in
the gospel, the righteousness of Christ is extended to others. What you do for
Christ, builds for eternity. The thought of this verse, quoted from Psalm
112:9 is one of the perpetuity of righteousness. God's righteousness is
given to and perpetuated in His saints, through Christ.
3. ABUNDANCE IN GIVING:- vs 10-15
A. Source:- vs 10
1. He
that ministereth seed. The word "ministereth" could better be
translated "supplieth". The reference here is to the
"source" of the seed.
2. God is the source of all things, the
Creator of the universe.
Men
often choose to worship the creature or the created while ignoring the Creator,
God Almighty. There is a personality behind all things made. Paul wrote to the
Colossians, stating of Christ, "for by Him were all things created, that
are in heaven, and that are in earth....."(Col. 1:16). John wrote,
"All things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that
was made" (John 1:3).
3. God Himself is the source of all
giving. Everything has its source in Him, and comes to us by His hand.
B. Supply:-
vs 10-11
1. Bread for your food:-
Bread
is made by man, but comes from grain that is seed-sown, and God-made and
supplied.
2. Multiply seed sown:-
This
is a secret man still seeks to learn. I was amazed as a boy when my daddy
taught me how to plant corn. Five kernels placed in one hole, grew up into a
great stalk with several cobs of corn. On each cobb, one could find hundreds of
kernels. My friend, nature teaches us many spiritual lessons, if we will but
look and listen. Faith-Promise giving is like planting corn. The more you sow,
the greater the supply reaped.
3. Increase- fruits of your righteousness.
We
live on in faith, as we give in faith. This is a spiritual principle that
involves every area of life.
4. Enriched in everything, to all
bountifulness-
The
enrichment of God's grace and blessing is unto all gracious measure.
5. Channel of thanksgiving-
The
church is the channel of thanksgiving, God's light-house to the world. As we As
we learn to give, we find we become a channel of Divine blessing.
C. Service:- vs 12
1. Administration
of service:-
The
gift from the Corinth Church would serve to do what the farmer planting corn
does. It multiplies to the abundance of many.
This
is the teaching of Christ in Luke 6:38.
2. Supplieth the want:-
Meets
the need, first in Jerusalem, and in the return of God's supply to the giver.
3. Saints:-
God
uses them. The Church (local) is the channel of outreach in Mission. The term
saint in the Bible is applied to every Christian.
4. Of thanksgiving unto God:-
When
we give to others we contribute to others being able to offer praise unto God.
It is like a choir, one voice by itself is nothing, but many voices that blend
together in praise, bring worship to God and blessing to all concerned.
Likewise is our giving.
D. Subjection:-
vs 13-15
1. Experiment of ministration:-
The
experience of service or ministry.
2. God is glorified:-
by
our service of giving.
3. Profession:-
Profession
that is merely verbal is not a true profession. James says, "faith without
works is barren." Their giving would put legs on their faith, or be faith
in action.
4. Unto the gospel of Christ:-
Their
professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ would be seen in their abundant
giving in associated mission with the other churches.
The
gospel needs to be expressed practically as well as verbally.
Our
profession likewise is seen in our carrying out the message of the gospel of
Christ to others.
5. The word "subjection" here
means "loyal obedience." The Corinth Church had voiced a desire to
take part in the benevolent work with the churches of Macedonia. Now Paul was
exhorting them to practice what they preached, or quite literally as is
sometimes said, "put your money where your mouth is."
6. Your liberal distribution:
Your
generous hearted liberality. Your liberal service. "to them and to all the
other needy ones."
This
is the meaning of this last phrase in vs 13. It may suggest that the
Corinth Church was on record as being liberally benevolent.
Hebrews
13:16- "But to do good and
to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased."
7. Prayer:- vs 14
Sharing
the burden, sharing in grace. Those in Jerusalem would return the blessing as
they prayed for the Corinth Church. vs 14
We
usually pray harder, and can better identify with those who share with us in
the work, than with those who don't.
People
who pray usually identify more readily, and fully with a cause, than those who
do not.
The
grace of God in this church is said by Paul to be "exceeding." That
is, "grace in surpassing measure." (See 8:1.) This is grace
that was in the Church. God always begins where we are, and gives us more in
working in and through us. God was now working that grace out through the
church.
8. Thanksgiving to God for His unspeakable
gift:- vs 15
The
Corinth Church's sharing in the relief of the poor in Jerusalem would render
thanks to God for His unspeakable gift. Reference no doubt is to Christ and His
death on Calvary for the sins of God's elect.
The
evidence of our reception and sharing in Christ is seen in the fruit of our
living for Him.
Let
others see Jesus in YOU.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Look up the
following Scriptures and list six rules for giving.-
Deuteronomy
16:17 cf Matthew 5:42; Matthew 6:3; Matthew 10:8; Romans 12:8; 1 Corinthians
16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:7.
Today, pray for the
financial needs of your church, and especially for its missions giving.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 19 2
Corinthians 10:1-7
"APOSTOLIC AUTHORITY"
The people of Paul's day were little
different than our own with respect to authority. The subject of apostolic
authority is vital in our understanding of the inspiration of the New Testament
Scriptures.
To some extent, the questioning of
Paul's authority may be understood. Paul was not one of the twelve apostles. He
did not walk with Christ during His earthly ministry (Acts 1:21-22).
Paul was a persecutor of Christians. However, Paul met the qualifications of an
apostle with his personal encounter with Christ on the Damascus Road. ( cf
Acts 9 and Acts 1:21-22). Though one said to be "born out of due
time" (1 Corinthians 15:8), Paul carried out the work of an apostle and was recognized by the twelve as
"an apostle to the Gentiles" (Acts 9:15; Romans 11:13; Galatians
2:9.)
Paul continually was forced to
defend his authority, particularly with some in the Corinth Church, which
sought to walk in a manner contrary to Christ. Paul's approach to those who
would oppose his authority was Christ-like as:-
1. WILLING EXAMPLE:- vs 1-2
Paul ever sought to exemplify the
Person of Christ (Phil. 2:5). Paul's call to Christ-likeness is seen in
verse one, as he draws their attention to the "meekness and gentleness of
Christ."
A. Personal
Power:-
1. Meekness- the word means
"mildness."
cf
1 Peter 2:23; 1 Peter 3:4; Matthew 5:5; Galatians 5:23.
2. Gentleness-
cf
2 Corinthians 7:2; Galatians 5:22; 2 Timothy 2:24.
3. Note
that Paul's idea of "power" was not in the use of "big
words" and a lot of noise and gibberish. Power, to Paul was to exemplify
the Person of Christ who said, "and
I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." Paul
did not lift up Paul, he lifted up Christ.
B. Personal
Presence:-
1. "in presence am base among
you"-
The
word "base" means, "lowly". This refers to Paul's personal
appearance while with the Corinth Church.
2. "in absence am bold"-
From
a distance Paul speaks more boldly. So Paul is brave enough from a distance but
before them he is humble and differential.
Paul
was charged with being contentious and hard, but lacking the spirit to keep it
up before or in the presence of others (cf vs 9, 10.)
Paul
ironically uses the language of his opposition.
3. Applied to our time, those who are
labelled "fundamentalists" and "historic baptists", are
often called legalists and narrow minded, lacking in love and social concern.
This is usually far from the truth.
4. We see in these verses, the very human
personality of Paul. God has used and allowed human personality in giving us
His inerrant and authoritative Word.
5. Paul therefore states his approach to
the Corinth Church. Two words are here translated "bold."-
(a) The first, means to be brave or
courageous.
(b) The second, to be aggressively bold in
one's bearing or conduct.
6. "Against some - some in the church
- "which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh."
This
term here refers to the human side of man, the natural man (Gr. sarx)
without the Spirit of God.
Paul
is here charged with a two-faced and pretentious conduct.
It
should be noted that Paul's difficulty is not with the Church at large, but
with certain leaders within it.
This
sometimes happens, even in our day, when young pastors or elders would
"lord it" over the congregation, or hold to certain doctrines in
extreme measure, more the church has or does. It also happens where personality
differences are allowed to interfere with the ministry of the church.
7. This shows the danger that even we
today must guard against in our churches. That of pastors, committees, deacons,
working apart from the knowledge and direction of the church body of authority.
Misguided authority can bring much harm to a church and to the ministry.
2. WEAPON'S OF WARFARE:- vs 3-6
"The
weapon's Paul used here were not fleshly weapon's of men, but mighty spiritual
weapon's of God."
A. Pattern:-
vs 3 (spiritual)
1. Paul sought to use spiritual weapon's
in a spiritual battle. cf Ephesians
6:4.
2. "We do not war after the
flesh"-
We
do not fight a spiritual battle in a fleshly manner.
We
are still fleshly in the sense of being in our physical bodies, but we are to
walk after the new nature which we have in Christ.
3. "are not carnal"-
Those
of natural ability, of the flesh.
You
do not win souls by mouthing off to people, or by giving them a piece of your
mind. (Most of us would not have much left if we did that.)
B. Power:-
vs 4-5
1. "mighty through God"-
God's
power invested in His Church on the day of Pentecost, and indwelling her, and
every saved believer in Christ (Romans 8:9; 1 Cor. 3:16; 6:16.)
The
power of the Holy Spirit is the greatest resource of the Lord's churches. The
Lord God almighty reigns in His churches. For the church to resort to the
gimmickry and carnival tactics of men, in place of God's Spirit is as a king
resorting to begging.
2. "The pulling down of
strongholds"-
To
invade satan's kingdom without "the mighty power of God" is to doom
ourselves to failure.
Jesus
told of the work of the Holy Spirit- John 16:8 "and when He is
come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of
judgment."
1
John 5:4- "for whatsoever
is born of God overcometh the world, even our faith."
3. "Strongholds"-
Entrenchments
and fortifications of opinion, in which men strengthen themselves against the
gospel"- E.P. Gould- American Commentary on the New Testament.
4. "Casting down imaginations"-
Reasoning
- cf Romans 2:15; Mark 11:31; Romans 2:3; 1 Corinthians 13:11 where
the translation "thought", or "reason" conveys meaning.
5. "And every high thing that exalteth
itself against the knowledge of God"-
Anything
which by its height appears to have an advantage against God. Erected as to
appear to give advantage against God's truth.
God's
power will cause those to crumble as it did the Tower of Babel.
The
term "high things" or "high places"- is used in the Old
Testament in reference to places of Baal worship. cf Lev. 26:38; Numbers
21:28; 33:52; Isa. 15:2; Isa. 16:12.
6. "bringing into captivity, every
thought to the obedience of Christ"-
Leading
captive, every thought. The hostile thoughts of men are to be captured and
brought into the realm of obedience to Christ. cf Phil 2:10-11.
Reference is
probably to those who oppose Paul's authority as an apostle of Christ.
C. Practice:-
vs 6
1. Ready to avenge every disobedience,
whenever your obedience is completed.
2. There are two sides to Paul's
employment of spiritual weapons of righteousness.
(a) The destruction of opposing forces.
(b) The discipline of those who continued
hostile.
3. The church which practices discipline
in a Godly, Scriptural manner, will avoid much of the problems Paul faced in
the Corinth Church. The effect of the divisions and disunity in the church, no
doubt hindered them in their collection for the saints in Jerusalem, being a
strong factor in the delay in carrying out what they had boasted of a year
previous.
3. WELFARE OF THE CHURCH:- vs 7
A. Outward
Appearance:-
1. Paul is asking- Do you look at things
that are before your face?
2. Do you really look into the facts, as
supposed, is what they were urged to do by the Judaizers among them. Paul then
has given them some additional information that would help them understand his
apostolic authority.
3. What sometimes appears at first glance
outwardly, is not necessarily what is on the inside.
"....man
looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart" (1
Samuel 16:7).
B. Ownership:-
1. "if any man trust.....he is
Christs."-
The
words "to himself" means "has confidence in himself." The
meaning here is not of the ordinary belonging to Christ as in salvation, but as
in official connection as an apostle. One commissioned to apostolic office.
2. "let him of himself think
again."-
He
should consider this again with himself.
3. The one who considers himself to be an
apostle should recognize in Paul, the signs of an apostle. There were some who
were labelled "false apostle"- see 11:12-14.
If
these would look at the facts before them, they would see Paul as an apostle of
Christ.
Paul belonged to Christ-
cf Rom. 14:8; 1 Cor. 6:19.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Write a brief paper
on the importance of the "apostolic office". Please list your sources
of reference.
Have you prayed for
your Pastor today? Pray for his family as well.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 20 2 Corinthians 10:8-18
Paul has begun to
deal with the subject of his authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ. Some have
rejected this authority. Paul here not only claims, but establishes his
authority as an apostle.
1. THE PURPOSE OF AUTHORITY:- vs
8-11
Authority
is not for the well-being of the person holding it, but for the one who is
under it. Thus Paul taught that the benefit of his authority as an apostle of
Jesus Christ was not to himself, rather to those in the church which he
founded. Particular reference is to the Corinth Church.
A. Edification:-
vs 8
1. The purpose of Paul's authority was to
strengthen and build up the church, not to destroy her.
2. The divine order in apostleship is not
to cast down, or hold back, or keep in check, as much as to cause or assist in
spiritual growth.
3. "I shall not be ashamed"-
The
word "ashamed" is literally "naked." Paul would not be ashamed
when the results of his apostleship are all gathered in (at the Bema of Christ)
cf 12:19.
B. Earnest
Appeal:- vs 9-10
1. Purposed letters:- not to terrify the
Corinthians. Paul was not using his letters merely as a scare tactic to get the
church to "tow the line."
2. Powerful letters:-
Paul's
letters were said by some to be weighty and powerful. Indeed, he seems to be
able to write more powerfully than he could speak or appear in person. At least
this was the accusation made against him.
3. Present Personally:- vs 10
To
some at least Paul's bodily presence was weak, and his speech contemptible,
which means that they did not take his writing as seriously, that he would not
come on to them as strong in actual presence.
The
reference here is not to Paul's physical appearance.
4. Paul's contemptible speech refers to
"what he says", not, "how he says it."
The
word translated "contemptible" means "despised, actually
considered of no value or account by men."
Therefore
they were referring to the content of his message rather than to his manner of
delivery.
C. Expected
Consistency:- vs 11
Paul
exhorts his readers in the Corinth Church to expect consistency. He will be in
person, as he is in his writing.
Paul
is not saying or implying one thing on paper, and then to be expected to back
down when he stands in their congregation.
Likewise
today, one should not put in print what he will not back up in deed. Paul will
practice what he preaches in his writing and in his actual preaching.
2. PATTERN OF AUTHORITY:- vs 12-14a
The
world measures success and authority by human measurement. They compare man
with man, business with business. This is not so in the spiritual realm.
Numbers are not as important as spirituality. Quality by far outweighs
quantity.
A. Commendation:- vs 12
1. Paul
is saying here-
"For
we do venture to place ourselves among or by the side of, certain of them that
commend themselves."
2. The implication is that there is a
venturesomeness in self-praise that he has no desire to undertake.
3. There appears to be a class of self
commenders among the Corinth Church. Paul does not praise himself, rather
allows his work to speak for him. This should show them that he is not being
boastful and self asserting in his letters while timid in action.
4. "But they...."-
Paul
shows that those "false apostles" who measure and compare themselves,
are not wise. This is a characteristic of the self commendation of the
opponents of Paul.
5. Men who set up their own virtues as a
standard of excellence. Standards must not be inward, but objective if one
would have a true estimate of himself.
6. The monk, the ascetic and much of the
"self-worth" advocates of our day are such as Paul addresses. God has
a standard for us in Christ. We are to look to a "Person" as our
objective, not to ourselves. This involves moral and spiritual absolutes, and a
Biblical standard of righteousness rather than the situation ethics of Godless
humanism and man-made codes.
We
are to be reminded that "man looks upon the outward appearance; but God
looks upon the heart"
1 Samuel
16:7.
B. Control:-
vs 13
1. "There is no limit or restraint to
the self-commendation that measures itself by itself. The subjective standard
is vague and elastic, and the man who adopts it boasts without measure
really."
-
E.P. Gould- American Commentary on the New Testament.
2. The measure of Paul's boasting is the
length of the line which measures his work; and that stretches from Jerusalem
to Corinth.
3. Paul was where he was, by divine
Providence. The evidence of his apostleship was in the way the Lord led him
from Jerusalem to Corinth where many had been saved and baptized into the
fellowship of New Testament Churches.
4. While the Bible does not teach apostolic
succession, it does teach and even here shows, the succession of churches by
apostolic ministry.
And there is
a line of New Testament Churches from Jerusalem to our land, with like churches
found in every age.
cf Matthew
16:18; 28:20.
5. Vs 14- "For we stretch not
ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you. For we are
come as far as you also in preaching the gospel of Christ."-
I
quote from Dr. E.P. Gould (ibid)- "That is, our proper measure brings us
unto you in our work, and so we do not need to stretch ourselves beyond that to
come to you. The measure is evidently the ground actually covered by Paul in
his work. Merely to travel over the ground in coming to them, does not bring
him properly to them, nor make him reach to them; it is necessary to preach,
and labour, and found churches, over all this intervening space, to make him
reach them in any such sense that it will be a measure of his work, and hence
of his glorying. (see vs 15,15) There is evidently here an allusion to
the enemies of the apostle, whose presence in Corinth involved a stretching of
themselves their limit.
For
we came through even to you in the gospel of Christ. This confirms the
preceding statement that he does not need to stretch himself to reach to them.
He has actually reached them without that skipping of any intervening place, or
imperfect working of it, that would constitute stretching himself out."
-American
Commentary on the New Testament- Page 205.
3. POWER OF AUTHORITY:- vs 14b-18
The
power of apostolic authority is seen in Paul's preaching and the establishing
of churches in many cities.
A. Contents:-
1. Christ- The gospel Paul preached was
Christ. Not about Christ, but the Person Himself.
2. The importance of this message has its
basis in the sovereign grace of God. Paul preached the Christ of God. This is
the foundation of faith, the foundation of the church. cf 1 Corinthians
1:23-24; 3:11.
3. Paul lived in and for the gospel of
Christ.
4. In an age when the gospel of Christ is
set aside, we need to learn the value of the gospel in the life and ministry
of our churches. The gospel of Christ is rooted and centred in Calvary's
cross.
B. Continuation:-
1. Continued operation of faith within the
Corinth Church of which Paul had boasted to them of Achaia.
2. Paul continued to boast in his own
labours in Corinth, not as some who boasted in other men's labours. He refers
to the unlimited and unregulated boasting of the disturbers of the church.
3. Paul was a pioneer missionary and as he
did in Corinth, so he would continue to do elsewhere.
4. Paul had a desire to take the gospel to
the regions beyond Corinth.
5. There are those today, of cults and
splinter baptists such as "Hardshells" which are parasites who exist
off of the faith and efforts of others.
They
will not labour or evangelize themselves but build their congregations on the
labours of others.
Of
such were the false apostles in Corinth.
C. Concentration:-
Paul's concentration
was-
1. On the Lord-
"He
that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."
2. In unworked fields of labour- vs 16
3. In building up the faith of the church
he founded, which, when done, he would have more whereof to boast.
4. True approval comes from God, not as we
seek it for ourselves. cf Psalm 75:5-6.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Write an outlined
paragraph on "Preaching Christ" from vs 14-18.
You preach Christ
daily in the deeds that you do, the life you live. Why not endeavour to share
the gospel with someone else today? Pray before you go, ask the Lord to lead
you to a soul today.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 21 2 Corinthians 11:1-13
Paul here continues his commendation
concerning himself as an apostle and particularly where the Church in Corinth
was concerned. He begins these verses with an analogy to the church-Christ
relationship, as a woman engaged to a man.
1. THE ENGAGEMENT:- vs 1-6
Paul
asks the church to bear with him as he asks in his folly (foolishness in
glorying over his apostolic work) to show the relationship between the New
Testament Church and Christ.
A. The
Work:-
1. Paul says that through his apostolic
labour he had won, founded, and presented the Corinth Church to Christ.
2. In this verse he states his jealousy-
literally, "the jealousy of God."
Paul's
jealousy was righteous, as of God- (cf 1 Cor. 10:22; Zech. 1:14; 8:2.)
3. "Espoused"- The word
"espoused" here is "betrothed" as one spoken for. It means
somewhat much more than our word "engaged" does today. In those days
and that culture, the engagement was actually a step in the marriage process,
which to break would require a bill of divorcement; as Joseph was mindful to do
in "putting away" Mary, his "espoused" wife, when he found
out she was pregnant- (Matthew 1:18-19; Luke 1:27; 2:5.)
4. "One husband"-
Paul
thinks of himself as the person who arranges a marriage for another. He has
acted as a friend of Christ in securing the Corinthian Church to be the bride
of Jesus.
A
woman is not to be as a harlot with several men, but to be presented unto one.
So also is the church; and this had been Paul's work in Corinth.
B. The
Woman:-
1. "As a chaste virgin"-
Paul
was concerned lest the one he had chosen to be a bride for Christ has been
unfaithful.
2. The word "chaste" means
"pure."
Paul
wanted a bride that was pure, holy, righteous.
3. The word "virgin" has taken a
beating by religious liberals, but it does not mean merely a "young
woman", but one which has not been involved sexually with another
man. Of such was Mary the mother of Jesus. Of such Paul hoped, was the Corinth
Church.
4. "to Christ"-
To
one husband, even to Christ. The emphasis is on "one husband" and the
"pure virgin". Paul has arranged for an exclusive tie between the
Corinth Church and Christ, not to be shared by another.
Paul's
object is to present the church to Christ as pure, not led off by false friends
to another love.
5. Many churches have thus departed from
Christ and are no longer recognized as His churches, His Body, His Bride. (Rev.
2:5; 1:20; 19:7; 21:2).
C. The
Wiles:-
Paul
relates the work of destroying relationships to Satanic-demonic influence.
1. "As the serpent beguiled
Eve"-
cf Genesis
3:1-8
Paul
relates those who would lead the Corinth Church away from Christ, to the
serpent beguiling Eve in the Garden of Eden.
2. Satan uses men in his subtility
(sneaky, crafty-like ways.)
He
plays on the mind to confuse and divide. His lying demons (1 Kings 22:22; 2
Chron. 18:21-23) seek to lead men astray from God and truth.
3. "Corrupt minds"-
It
is the thoughts and intents of the heart that Satan seeks to corrupt. He uses
men and things to play on the lust (Adamic) nature of men.
So
today, corrupted television and movie films, pornographic books and magazines
that play upon the base nature of men.
Visual
aids are a vital teaching aid, but Satan too knows this ever so well.
4. "From the simplicity that is in
Christ"-
To
detract from the "singleness and purity" of Christlike living.
This
is the great danger that stands before Christians in our day. There is so much
to sidetrack us from the simple message of the gospel and Christlike living.
Some
today get all hung up on some particular doctrine. It may be right, but even
good doctrine can get us sidetracked from the gospel. We become unbalanced in
our theology. This is the problem with both Arminianism and Hyper-Calvinism
(Hardshells and those who teach Two-Seeds doctrine.)
5. "Another Jesus"-
Jesus said,
"many will come in my name" (Matt. 24:5).
There
are those who claim to identify with Christ, but they preach another gospel.
They cry "love" but are of another spirit. The world looks for
personal Charisma rather than the message content. This is immaturity to say
the least.
Paul
says, they should not receive another Jesus or one that is different, or a
different spirit, or adhere to a different gospel. than he had preached to them
from the beginning.- cf Galatians 1:6-11).
Those
who hold to the religion of sacrementalism, who hold the cup up as a fresh
sacrifice for sins, preach another Jesus. The Jesus of Calvary, and Jesus
Christ suffered the sacrifice for sin "once, for all, and forever."
cf Hebrews 9:12; 9:24-26, 28; 10:10-12,14,18.
To
preach another Jesus is a supposition contrary to Biblical fact, since there is
no other Christ, no other Spirit, no other gospel, but that which is preached
by Paul. (Acts 4:12) So Paul say's, if it were so, "bravely would
you bear with him."
2. THE EXALTED SAINTS:- vs 5-7
Paul continues to vindicate his
apostleship.
A. Chiefest
Apostles:-
The word
"chiefest" is better translated "super excellent."
1. Paul was an apostle as well as the
twelve. He was not to be treated by some in Corinth as if he were not, or was
of less authority.
2. Paul refers to his gospel as not being
a whit behind what was being taught by the twelve.
3. Christ had called Paul, and had, and
was using him equally as he was the twelve.
Immaturity
compares men with men, rather than God.
4. Vs 6- Paul's speech may be rude or
he may speak crudely as a layman, but he was not so in knowledge.
B. Committed
Offence:- vs 7
1. Paul's question - Did I sin in
preaching Christ to you (freely) without charge?
Was
I wrong in humbling myself in foregoing my apostolic privilege of receiving
support from the church?
Their
"exaltation" was that Paul introduced them to the Kingdom of God, and
it did not cost them a cent!
(cf
1 Corinthians 9:4,6-15; Acts 18:3; 20:34.)
2. One of the charges laid against Paul
was that they felt inferior to the other churches.- cf 12:11-13.
3. THE ENDEARING SUPPORT:- vs 8-13
Paul was supported in an associated
effort in his missionary work of
establishing the Corinth Church.
A. Supporting
Churches:- vs 8
1. Paul was helped in his ministry by
other churches.
He
(robbed) took from the hand of other churches, support, in addition to what he
made through his own labour (1 Corinthians 9:6-15; Acts 18:3).
2. "Taking wages of other
churches"- With support from other churches, Paul was better able to serve
them, (the Corinth Church.)
3. This shows us that other churches can
work together (Scripturally) in the support of Christ's missionary, even through
Paul was not in fact their missionary, being sent out by the Antioch Church (Acts
13).
B. Supplied
Service:- vs 9
1. Paul was chargeable to no man in
Corinth. When he was in need, that need was supplied by the brethren from
Macedonia.
2. Paul never allowed himself to be a
burden to the Corinth Church. He could never be charged with that.
3. Paul boasted in his conduct in the
regions of Achaia (which included Corinth) in not being a burden to the Corinth
Church. He preached the gospel without charge for that purpose. He could not be
accused of preaching for money.
4. God knows it is not because I do not
love you, that I took no remuneration from you.
C. Separated
From Accusation:- vs 12-13
1. Paul sought to cut off all occasion of
false brethren to accuse him of preaching for money (vs 12).
2. Those who so accuse Paul are false
apostles, who make themselves apostles. They are self appointed preachers.
3. Even
today, we must take care in receiving funds from churches and organizations which
are not Scriptural. To do so could be
misunderstood by others as that we endorse the false doctrines taught by them.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Search out at least
three commentary sources on 2 Corinthians 11:2.
List briefly their
comments, and list your sources of reference.
Have you ever been
falsely accused? Pray for those who do so, and endeavour not to listen to
slander and gossip where you do not have proof of the case at hand.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 22
2 Corinthians
11:14-33
"THE CHRISTIAN WARFARE"
In verse (13) Paul talked of men in
the Corinth Church who regarded themselves as apostles. The word
"apostle", here
(pseudapostolai) is a false apostle (apostolos). An apostle is "one
sent forth". These men, sent themselves.
The words "transforming themselves" means to take on the
appearance, not the reality of apostles of Christ.
Paul goes on to discuss the
Christian warfare. To the Ephesians he writes, "for we wrestle not against
flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers
of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high
places." cf Daniel 10:13.
Paul's warfare was not against men
themselves, but Satan used, even possessed men. Satan can, and does use anyone
who is not living a separated life. The best of us can be tools in the hands of
the enemy of our soul if we are not constantly on guard. Wrong motives, wrong
doctrine can achieve a wrong end, one which will cause both us and the cause of
Christ much harm.
So Paul's warfare was-
1. SATANIC:- vs 14-15
A. Transformed
Satan:-
1. It is no surprise for Satan to
transform himself into an "angel
of light."
Satan
can take on the appearance of good.
E.P.
Gould states, "The element of all holy natures is light (see 1 John
1:5,7; Luke 2:32; John 1:4,5,7,9; 8:12; Eph. 5:8.)
On the other hand darkness is the element of evil (see Luke 22:53; 2 Cor.
6:14; Eph. 5:8; 6:12.) The charge indicated therefore is extreme.- American
Commentary on the New testament- Page 210.
2. Behind every man who preaches false
doctrine is a lying spirit of Satan. (cf Galatians 1:8.)
It
is the work of Satan to detract from the person of Christ, from his church, and
from the gospel of God's sovereign grace.
3. Satan seeks to destroy and is very
subtle. He will use every method he can to achieve his goal. While he is known
as a "roaring lion" (1 Peter 5:8) he more often comes as an
angel (messenger) of light.
Sometimes
he even wears a white suit, and carries a red Bible under his arm! He quotes
Scriptures, and talks of love while seeking to devour the souls of men. He
comes as a "healer" claiming to work miracles, and to perform signs
and wonders.
B. Transformed
Servant:- vs 15
1. His (Satan's) ministers (servants)
transformed
(made to
appear) as ministers (servants) of
righteousness.
2. We need to remember the warning of
Christ- Matthew
24:24, concerning false christs, and false
prophets who would come on the world scene. I suppose it has always been so,
that men have paid more attention to personal charisma than to the message
content. However, with the advent of television I am sure this has increased as
"self-made ministers" with great oratory, preach false doctrines, and
lead captive unlearned and unread souls. Cults such as Armstrongism (Worldwide
Church of God), Jehovah Witnesses, Seventh Day Adventist. False doctrines
enshrined in the teachings of Cambellites (Church of Christ), Pentecostal
Charismatics, Catholicism, and Protestantism. Now the doctrines of the
"New Age", Humanism, Ecumenism, and witchcraft. Arminianism which
emphasises human ability against the doctrines of sovereign grace. Doctrines
that put the emphasis upon feeling good rather than Biblical fact. Sacrementalism
that puts the emphasis on a present sacrifice, against the Biblical fact of the
finished work of Christ on Calvary. We need to be on guard against all of these
things which are attempting to make inroads within our Landmark Baptist ranks.
3. "whose end shall be according to
their works"-
Not
according to their appearance and pretence. The final fate is what determines
the reality of things.
The
word "works" is the key here.
Jesus
said, "by their fruits ye shall know them" cf Matthew 7:15-20.
"a
good tree is known by its fruit"- There should be some evidence of Christ
being in a persons life (cf 1 Corinthians 5:17.)
A
persons works does not save a man, no matter how good they may appear to be,
humanly speaking. However, works (corresponding action) should be found in one
who is saved or born again.
2. SUFFERING:- vs 16-27
Paul
here introduces his suffering of affliction for the cause of Christ.
"Again
I say"- ( as in vs 1)
Vs
16 may be translated, "But
if you do not avoid it, even if it be a foolish person, receive me, (or suffer
me) that I may boast some little."
Paul
here uses his affliction as proof of his sincerity and apostleship. Paul's
boasting is that of defense.
A. Boasting:-
vs 17
1. Paul concedes that boasting in one's
self is not the Lord's way. However, since these false apostles apparently
liked to boast, Paul said, he would resort to this foolishness and compare his
affliction with their's. Paul is turning their weapon around and pointing it
right back at them. cf vs 18.
2. Since many seem to want to resort to
glorying in the flesh, I will go along with it for a time.
3. Vs 19- "I am foolish to be
sure; but then you are wise, and wise people are patient with the
foolish."
The
one who boasts in anything other than a sovereign God, sooner or later opens
themselves up to looking the fool they really are.
B. Bondage:- vs 20-22
1. You
bear the suffering if a man bring you into bondage.
This
is a strong expression of the harsh authority exercised over the church by
these false teachers.
(see
Matthew 23:8-12; 1 Peter 5:2-3.)
We
have some pastors who like to lord it over the sheep of Christ. We need to
beware of Popery, much more "Baptist Popery." In many churches, the
people in the pew are urged only to pray and pay. Too many know far to little
of what is really going on with the business of the church. This is wrong and
unscriptural.
2. From the description of these enslavers
we see that it is subjection to persons, and not an enslaving system like the
law, that is meant here, as in Galatians 2:4; 4:9.
These false
teachers were acting as dictators...
a) devour you- extortion practised by
false teachers.
b) Take of you- captures you, as a hunter
takes game.
c) Exalt himself- assumes airs of
superiority.
see
again- Matthew 23:8-12.)
d) If a man smite you on the face- an
expression of proud, rude treatment.
3. These false teachers,
"lorded" it over the church, keeping them in bondage, in opposition
to the New Testament practice of soul liberty and equality of membership within
the church body.
Denominationalism
today does just that same thing.
4. Vs 21- Keeping people in bondage is
not a real and true sign of strength. The weakness of Christ was Paul's
strength. The boldness Paul speaks of is "glorying or confidence." He
was confident in his apostleship, while apparently they were not confident in
their's, hence they found it necessary to keep the church in bondage. Cults do
this today.
5. Vs 22- In Paul's use of the three terms
here, he places the emphasis on the "predicate". Hebrews is reference
to nationality- Israelites refers to theocratic origin. The "seed of
Abraham" refers to the covenant and promises of God.
C. Beaten:-
vs 23-27
1. Paul's reference to ministers (servants)
of Christ is associated with the sufferings of Christ.
2. Paul wrote Timothy, "all that live
Godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution' (2 Timothy 3:12).
3. In these verses the true signs of
apostleship are listed-
a) labours- hard work for Christ.
b) stripes- beaten or whipped for the
cause of Christ.
c) prisons- jailed for the cause of
Christ.
d) in deaths- facing or hazardously close
to death.
4. Paul was on the frontlines of the
battlefield in his warfare for Christ.
(vs 24)-
beaten by Jews, those supposedly religious leaders and followers of God.
5. "Beaten with rods"- (Acts
16:23), stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19), suffered shipwreck (Acts
27:41 - this is a yet future reference). A night and a day in the deep
(must refer to one of his shipwrecks).
Paul shows
himself more a minister of Christ- in every way he was in danger and trouble- vs
26-27.
This
all of course was in fulfilment of what Christ told Ananias concerning Paul's
suffering for Him (Acts 9:16).
3. SOLICITUDE:- vs 28-33
Unlike
false apostles, religious parasites who live solely off the labours of others,
Paul had care for the churches, and for others.
A. Care:-
vs 28-33
1. Besides all of the trials Paul had to
suffer through, he remained burdened with his primary responsibility of care
for all the churches, as an apostle of Christ.
2. Apostleship meant responsibility for
which Paul came behind no man.
3. There are many today who want to bear
the title "minister" but devoid themselves of the labour and
responsibility that goes with it.
Jesus
said, "whosoever would be great among you, let him be your minister
(servant)- Matthew 20:26.
4. Too many so-called pastors today allow
their care for the flock stop at the door of the church-house.
Good pastors
are not only concerned for the spiritual but temporal welfare of the flock as
well.
B. Concern:-
vs 30-33
1. Paul's glory was in those things which
concern his infirmities.
2. Many today glory in their degrees,
their religious garb, their positions of prestige.
Paul
gloried in that he was found worthy to suffer for his Master.
3. Paul's concern for others was returned
to him as he was helped in his escape from Damascus- vs 32-33.
LET US SEEK TO WAR THE
TYPE OF WARFARE PAUL DID!!!!
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Research and
explain how Aretus (King of Arabia) could be over Syria which at that time was
a Roman Province. (vs 32)
Please give your
sources of reference.
The Bible teaches
us to pray for those who have the rule over us. Pray for your government
leaders today.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 23 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Paul has been using the tactics of
those false leaders in the Corinth Church with regard to "boasting"
about his achievements which prove his apostleship. He found it necessary (vs
1) to glory in these things although he realized it was not really
expedient. Paul now comes to another area of discussion, that of visions and
revelations.
1. REVELATIONS:-
Visions
and revelations are here dealt with as Paul continues to contend for his
apostleship. Paul does not put down
these things, and the one talked about is merely speculation, although many
opinions have been advanced.
There
are many today who have laid claim to dreams, visions, and revelations. It must
be noted that the Scriptures are complete (1 Corinthians 13:9-10; James 1:25)
and there is no more revelation of Scripture. Such as would claim revelations
from the Lord other than the written Word of God, are not of God but of the
flesh, or even from Satanic origin. Those who give such credence to writings
such as The Book of Mormon, The Keys to the Scripture by Mrs Mary Baker Eddy,
the writings of Ellen White, the Watch Tower, the Plain Truth, etc. are not to
be held as Scripture. In fact all of them are loaded with false doctrine,
contrary to the teachings of the Bible.
Most
visions and revelations today come in one of two categories.-
A. They
are of Satanic origin.
B. They
are of the flesh.
The
latter, the result of too much late night coffee or snacks, and can be easily
cured by a good dose of alka-seltzer.
While
we do not have Biblical revelations since the completion of Scripture (Revelation);
we do have, and badly need Spirit led illumination of the written Word of God.
I
do not doubt the reality of the experiences Paul here describes. I do however,
doubt the practicality or the necessity, if not the reality of their existence
in our day and age.
Let
us examine the case at hand:-
A. Heaven:-
vs 2-4
1. "I knew a man"- Some think
that this was actually Paul when he was at Lystra.
2. "in Christ"- this is the term
used for one who is a saved, born again Christian.
3. "Fourteen years"- about this
time.
4. "in the body or out of it"-
Whether he actually left his physical body- Paul says, "only God knows for
sure."
This
adds to the Biblical proof of distinction between the physical body and the
actual person.
5. "caught up to the third
heaven"-
The
words "caught up" -(Greek-harpazo) to snatch away. This term is used
in regard to Philip (Acts 8:39) and the rapture (1 Thess. 4:17).
There
is much disputing about this phrase, "third heaven."
Dr.
E.P. Gould says, -
"There
seems little doubt he had in mind the Rabbinical idea of seven heavens. He was
himself a Rabbi, and the language here is such as to suggest that doctrine and
nothing else. Both the terms "third heaven" and "paradise"
belong to that nomenclature, and the nature and connection of the two
statements confirm the reference."-
For
further on this see-
An
American Commentary on the New Testament, Volume 5, page 216.
6. Vs 3 - "and I knew"-
literally, "I do know".
This
appears to be another instance but may be another of Paul's own experiences.
Who else he might be talking about is mere speculation.
7. "Paradise"- (vs 4)-The
terms "third heaven" and Paradise" are used separately and
therefore cannot refer to the same place. Jesus spoke of Paradise to the thief
on the cross (Luke 23:43). See also-Rev.2:7.
This
was originally a Persian word which denotes a Pleasure Garden. It is the abode
of the blessed spirits who dwell in the presence of God. The term is used in
the Septuagint, or Greek version of the Old Testament, in describing the Garden
of Eden (Genesis 2:8). In Paul's day it was used commonly by Jewish
writers to speak of heaven (Luke 23:43).
8. "Heard unspeakable words"-
(not lawful to utter)-
(vs
4)- Literally- "things too sacred to repeat."
Perhaps
because the finite mind cannot comprehend them?
B. Humility:-
vs 5-6
1. Paul here shows that by experience he
will glory in his spiritual experiences rather than those that pertain merely
to the flesh.
These
experiences come under the hand of a sovereign God rather than by Paul's own
achievements.
2. "But in mine infirmities"-
The
things he endured in his daily identification with Christ, as His servant. Paul
contrasts what he endured with his performance or accomplishments.
3. Such glorying (or boasting) puts to
death the old nature and dethrones self in place of the LORD.
4. Humanly speaking, in the flesh, Paul
might desire to boast- (vs 6) but he will not act foolishly, but in
truth.
5. Paul forbears boasting in the flesh-
"lest
any man should account of me above that which he seeth me to be, or heareth
from me."
Paul
had the ability to boast but restricted himself so as not to give a wrong
impression to others.
Paul's
boasting in a letter could be taken wrongly by those who did not know him or
see him in actual performance.
2. RESTRAINTS:- vs 7-9a
Paul
was not a young colt romping in the green pastures. He was a harnessed,
disciplined thoroughbred, in the King's service.
A. Permitted Affliction:- vs 7
1. Purpose of it-
a) "lest I should be exalted"-
this is mentioned "twice."
b) "through abundance of
revelations"- as an apostle.
Perhaps
including the afore mentioned revelation, but most certainly that which
resulted in inspired, God-breathed Scripture- Ephesians 3:3.
2. Power of it-
a) "a thorn in the flesh"-
Power
from without to afflict his human nature or physical body.
b) "The messenger of Satan"-
An
angel or spirit from the devil (a demon) permitted by God.
cf
Job 2:6; Eph. 2:2.
That
Paul's thorn in the flesh was not, or at least much more than some suggest as
poor eyesight, can be seen by careful examination of the text.
3. Pressure of it-
"To
buffet me"-
The
word "buffet" means "to deal blow after blow". This no doubt
is described as Paul's affliction or infirmity. cf 11:23-33. Paul was
beaten, imprisoned, stoned, left for dead. This is the buffeting of which Satan
was permitted to inflict upon Paul. "lest I should be exalted above
measure."
B. Prayers
Refused:- vs 8
Paul
prayed three times for the removal of this thorn in the flesh, but God's answer
was "NO."
We
must be ready to submit to the will of a sovereign Lord who knows what is best
for us.
C. Promise
to the Afflicted:- vs 9
1. "and He said unto me"-
God
always answers the prayer of His child.-
a) Sometimes He says "no."
b) Sometimes He says "wait."
c) Sometimes He says "yes."
Sometimes
"yes" is in the form of a trip home to heaven. What perfect healing
that is!
2. "My grace is sufficient"-
In
everything God does, He does it from the abundance of His grace. Paul did not
need more than "grace." There are many who would either take from or
add to, grace. Grace plus work! Grace plus the law! Grace plus baptism! Grace plus keeping a certain day! We cannot rob
God of His glory, nor of His divine sovereignty in grace. Our sufficiency must
be in Him. Grace saves....Grace teaches us how to live- Titus 2:11.
3. "Strength complete in
weakness"-
The
power of God is magnified in the weakness of men.
Spiritual
good is greater than material.
4. God's promise to His child is to ever
sustain him or her by His grace.
3. RESIGNATION:- vs 9b
A. Prating
glory:-
1. If Paul was to talk foolishly, he would
do so concerning his infirmities.
2. It
is best to boast of what others do or say, rather than on ourselves.
B. Power
of Christ:-
1. Paul was resigned to the power,
authority, strength of Christ.
2. The word "rest" in the Greek
text, means "to fix the habitation; to take up the abode in."- (see John
1:14; Revelation 7:15; 21:3.)
3. We cannot know the power of Christ
until we realize our own limitation, our own weakness, infirmities.
Affliction,
like a fiery furnace, has its way of bringing this out and separating the gold
from the dross (ore).
4. REJOICING:- vs 10
Paul could therefore rejoice in
infirmities.
A. Willing
Pleasure:-
Paul
had submitted to the Lordship of Christ. He could therefore take pleasure in
infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses,
which were for the cause of Christ.
B. Weakness:-
"when I am weak,
then am I strong"-
One is never so strong
as when he must depend wholly upon the Lord.
This
is a lesson hard to learn in our modern day, macho he-man society.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Write a paragraph
on Paul's outlook on infirmities.
Please state any reference sources.
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 24 2 Corinthians 12:11-21
Paul goes on to defend his
apostleship and to tell of his work and concern for ministry Christ gave him.
In this one cannot help but see Paul's love and concern for the Lord's
churches. We note here some "missionary practicalities" which should
be part of our mission work today. Principles of approach and conduct with
regard to dealing in church matters.
1. APPRECIATION:- vs 11-12
The
lack of commendation on behalf of the Corinth Church shows a lack of
appreciation, understanding, and respect for Paul and particularly his
apostolic office.
A. Position:- vs 11
1. Paul
was in a position of (as he called it) foolishness. To have to glory (boast) of
his own achievements in order to have respect and honour for his office.
2. Paul was placed in an undignified
position as a missionary, of having to defend his ministry. While this may be
necessary where a missionary is found to hold to an unscriptural position or
practice. It is the responsibility of the missionaries church of membership, in
Paul's case in Antioch to correct such difficulty.
3. It must be noted however, that in our
case at hand, the problem was not with the missionary (Paul) but with the
Corinth Church.
4. No missionary should be put in a
position where he must beg for recognition. Paul was ignored by some at least
within the Corinth Church. Forced to lower himself to a defense of his
apostleship, which no doubt robbed him of precious time which should be used in
a positive outreach ministry in his field of labour.
This
happens when the church allows itself to be run from a clique within it, rather
than by the congregation. Also, when God's people lose their vision of outreach
ministry, they become entangled in meaningless squabbles, and caught up in
petty doctrines.
It
sounds like some of our churches in our day.
5. Paul's position as regards the other
apostles is stated,-
"In
nothing am I behind the very chiefest (most excellent) apostles, although I am
nothing."
His
position was equal, yet in humility he claimed nothing for himself. cf Galatians
2:20.
B. Power:- vs 12
1. Paul's apostolic authority is seen in
that which he accomplished.
2. Miracles wrought by Paul had a purpose,
as with all apostles and with Christ Himself. The signs and wonders which
accompanied the apostolic ministry were for the purpose of confirming the Word
of God which was not yet complete, in written form. In short, they did not
possess a complete Bible. Miracles attested to the Divine origin and authority
of the apostolic ministry.
(cf Mark
16:15-20; Romans 15:19; Hebrews 2:4).
3. "Signs, wonders, and mighty
deeds"- (powers)-
These
are the three New Testament words for miracles.
a) denoting them as tokens of Divine
approval.
b) by the wonder which they inspire.
c) by the power that they display.
4. Miracles and spiritual gifts as such
were restricted to the apostolic age, a period which began with Jesus first
miracle in Cana of Galilee (John 2:11) and closed forty years later with
the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., and the completion of the canon of
Scripture.
(cf
Micah 7:15 with John 2:11).
From
Christ's first miracle to 70 A.D is a period of 40 years.
cf
also 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 and James 1:25.
5. Appreciation of Paul should have
brought forth commendation of him due to the effect and authority of his
ministry.
6. Pastors and missionaries need to know
the churches appreciate them, if not for their person, at least for their
office. This was more important in Paul's case since he was the founder of the
Corinth Church.
Churches
ought to have a way of recognizing and showing their respect to their founder,
even if he is no longer around.
C. Patience:- vs 12
1. "In
all patience"-
A
missionary needs the proverbial "patience of Job."
2. This phrase should better be translated
"in every patience." It denotes every kind of patience which
kept Paul to his purpose in spite of obstacles.
3. The word "patience" needs to
be on top of the priority list of every Pastor, Missionary, and Christian
Worker, in dealing with others.
2. ALTRUISTIC SERVICE:- vs 13-17
We
see here Paul's unselfish service not only as directed by Christ, but as
regards the churches of his care.
A. Personal
Practice:- vs 13
1. Paul states that the Corinth Church had
no reason to feel inferior to other churches, except perhaps in their personal
support of Paul.
2. Paul had been supported by other
churches and wherein he lacked, he made up for by "working with his own
hands" as a tentmaker.
3. Paul had not done less work in Corinth,
nor were the results accomplished lesser because he chose not to take wages
from them. cf 11:7-8.
4. Paul did not wish to be burdensome to
the Corinth Church. Yet, he seems to admit a slight disservice to them in his
words "forgive me this wrong."
5. Churches do need to learn the principle
of giving, of supporting themselves rather than depend upon welfare. Of
supporting the ministry.
6. Pastors and missionaries need to teach
people to tithe, to lead out in faith-promise missions giving, and as the case
may arise, in sacrificial giving.
B. Parental Duty:- vs 14-17
1. Paul
states, he is prepared for a third visit to the Corinth Church. (he had been
there twice before.)
2. He still maintains his desire of not
being burdensome to the church. His reason stated- "I seek not yours, but
you."
Paul
wanted people, not material things. To gain them, not their possessions. This
was not true of the false teachers in their midst, and it is not true of many
so-called TV and radio preachers in our time. The pastor and missionary is to
be motivated by souls, not material gain.
3. "The children ought not to lay up
for the parents but the parents for the children"-
Paul
here reasons from the analogous relation of parents to children. Paul is their
spiritual father who led them to Christ and founded the Corinth Church.
4. Paul's unselfishness stands out here in
contrast to the principle brought out in his first letter as to paid ministry.
cf 1 Corinthians 9:5.
5. Vs 15- "and I will gladly
spend and be spent for you."
Paul's
parental duty as a shepherd shows his total unselfishness in his willingness on
behalf of this church which gave him more trouble than any other.
6. To Paul it seemed that the more he
expressed his love to them, the less he received back from them. The principle
of unselfish giving is first of all most Christlike, and secondly needs to be
the motivation behind every Pastor, Missionary, and Christian worker. If every
Sunday School teacher had the attitude that Paul shows here, our churches would
grow because of quality. (True quality will lead to proper quantity- church
growth experts need to emphasize this.)
7. Paul's willingness to serve them
freely, gratuitously, is a proof of his greater love; and now do they, he asks,
so misunderstand him as to take this very occasion to love him less?
8. "I caught you with guile"-
(craft) vs 16-17
If
in anything else, I was crafty in that I have received from you through Titus
and others, what I did not take personally. Paul refers to their gift to the
Jerusalem benevolent fund.
There
are some good lessons for the Christian worker to learn in dealing with others.
Paul did not use others to do what he did not want to do himself, and neither
should we. Paul did not seek to take advantage of the Corinth Church.
3. APOSTOLIC APPEAL:- vs 17-21
Paul
now appeals directly to their consciences with a pointed question. "Did
I?"
A. Integrity:-
vs 17-19
1. Paul's integrity is now put on the
line. "Did I make gain of you by any that I sent unto you?"
Paul
asked, if any of the men whom he had sent to Corinth had made gain of them. Did
Paul in fact use others to do any underhandedness or dirty work for him?
Sometimes
men are not "man enough" to face others and get someone else to do
their dirty work for them. Paul's integrity was on the line and he let's them
know this was not the case with him.
2. Paul had sent Titus and another
"unnamed" brother to Corinth. Paul asked, "did these men make
gain of you?" The answer in the negative is implied in the question.
3. Did we not all walk by the same spirit
and in the same steps? We all had the same mind and followed the same course.
4. The lesson here is that we should never
say one thing and practice another. We need to practice what we preach.
5. Vs 19- "Think ye that we
excuse ourselves unto you?" We do not want you to think we use this as an
excuse in defending ourselves unto you. Paul's approach was not to defend
himself, but his office. He stood, not for himself but for Christ.
"We
speak before God in Christ"-
Before
God (who is revealed in Christ) we speak. Again, concerning Paul's integrity,
he was not speaking to the Corinthians as much as he was speaking for God.
Again, this underscores his apostolic authority.
We
too (while not being inspired as Paul was) should realize that God is witness
to every manner of speech we make. (So be careful little lips what you speak.)
"we
do all things dearly beloved for your edifying"-
Everything
we do, is done to lift you up or build you up spiritually. It is not for
ourselves but before God and for you we speak.
Use
of the words "dearly beloved" shows Paul's endearment of the Corinth
Church.
B. Impenitence:-
vs 20-21
1. Paul's fear is here related. He did not
want to come to Corinth and find them not as they should be spiritually. Also
that he would not be to them the same, because of their lack of spirituality.
Paul
spoke as he did for their edification so as that they would know where he stood
before he came to them.
2. The relationship of the Corinth Church
to Paul has been much the subject of the last part of this letter. Paul did not
want to leave any false impressions concerning himself. In both of his letters
he had instructed the church as to the necessary changes they needed to make.
He did not want to come and find them still impenitent.
3. Repentance is a way of life for the
Christian. It is necessary constantly that one lives a repentant life.
Penitence is a sign of spiritual maturity.
4. Paul's fear of being found of them what
they did not wish, refers to castigation of their offenses. cf 10:2-6.
The
sins listed here are those that belong to the factions, and personal and party
strife among them.
5. vs 21- "lest when I come again
(visit you) my God will humble me among you (bring me low because of your low
living) and I shall bewail (mourn) over many of them who have and are living in
sin, and have not repented of the uncleanness, and fornication and
lasciviousness, which they have committed.
This
was Paul's fear and that which led him to write first. It would give them time
to straighten out some things in their church.
Paul
did not want to come and find that they still had not dealt with the sin of
impurity.
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Look up and list
the meaning of the words used in verse 21, "uncleanness, fornication,
lasciviousness."
Please list your
sources of reference.
Today, pray with
the Psalmist, "create in me a clean heart Oh Lord."
STUDIES IN SECOND CORINTHIANS
LESSON 25
2
Corinthians Chapter 13
Paul now closes out his letter with
a word to obstinate sinners. The danger of stiffnecked rebellious hearts. He
warns of forthcoming discipline. There is a reckoning day for every man. No one
shall escape the judgment of a righteous and just God. Church discipline is
necessary for the purity of the Church, but also for the good of the
individual- cf 1 Corinthians 11:28-32.
1. PRONOUNCEMENT:- vs 1-4
Paul reminds them that this coming
visit will be his third (12:14). He then cites Deuteronomy 19:15.
A. Proceedings:-
vs 1
1. At the mouth of two witnesses and
three. This is the literal translation of this citation from Deut. 19:15.
2. Ecclesiastical proceedings
(transactions) will be instituted against offenders (such as in 12:21).
3. Concerning this, E.P. Gould says,
"I
fear lest I shall find, when I come, divisions and unrepented lusts among you.
It will be my third coming, and this time you will not find my bodily presence
weak; it will be a time of judgments and of the summoning of witnesses."-
-American
Commentary on the New Testament, Vol. 5, Page 222.
cf
Matthew 18:16.
B. Prediction:-
vs 2
1. Paul speaks of his repeated warnings
and that in coming, "I will not spare you."
2. Paul counteracts the impression some
had that he was weak and did not mean what he said (10:1,10.)
3. Paul predicts that when he comes, he
will expose sin in the Corinth Church and deal with it as the church should
already have done.
C. Proof
of Christ:- vs 3
1. Since they sought proof of Christ
speaking in him, that he was not weak, but strong. He will show it by not
sparing them when he comes.
2. They seemed more interested in this
kind of power rather than that which saves from sin. Carnal men always put the
emphasis on the physical more than the spiritual, on outward more than inward,
on the "now" rather than on eternity.
3. "but is mighty in you"-
Powerful
among you, or in your midst.
The
power (authority) of Christ manifest in the church. The Corinth Church had
authority to deal with sin in their midst (but were not using it.)
D. Power
of Christ:- vs 4
1. Christ was "crucified through
weakness."
The
word "through" could better be translated "from."
Christ
is God who in Jesus was veiled in human flesh. He became sin for us (5:21).
Evil men were allowed to kill a human body but there was no man, yea, no grave,
could keep him in it!
2. Christ "lived by the power of
God"-
He
arose and remains alive by the power of God.
3. The believer also, while in Him our
body is weak (subject to sickness and physical death), our soul lives forever,
by the power of God.
cf John
14:19; 1 Corinthians 15:20-21.
4. The
outward appearance of weakness should not be taken as weakness in authority.
Christ was not weak, neither is Paul, and the
Corinth Church will know this when he visits them the third time.
5. There is a modern idea that
Christianity is for sissy's and love is a sign of weakness. However, true love
hangs in tough and stands for principles. The so-called humanistic situation
ethics is a far cry from true love (the agape love of God.)
2. PROOF OF FAITH:- vs 5
A. Knowledge
of Truth:- vs 5
1. "Examine yourselves"-
The
need existed to look within themselves (as a church.)
This
was akin to what Jesus said to the church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:5).
The need to remember, to examine, to look into the faith of the church.
2. "whether ye be in the faith"-
Gould
suggests this term to mean, "whether they were living right."
However, the term refers to the system of teaching or doctrine.
Dr.
Albert Garner says, "in harmony of the system of faith in Christ."
cf
1 Corinthians 16:13; Jude 3; 2 Timothy 4:7.
It
appears that Paul is saying, that if the faith they are expressing is not
producing Christ, then perhaps they should check to be sure they have not
departed from the doctrines (teachings) of Christ.
Note:-
He is not talking about
individual personal salvation, but the church's doctrinal stand.
Many
churches today need to heed this suggestion of Paul.
3. "Prove your ownselves"-
Paul
asked the Corinth Church to prove themselves. He wrote to Timothy (2 Timothy
4:5) "make full proof of your ministry." This means to give
complete outward evidence of your calling or standing.
Paul
is saying that the Corinth Church should seek to give evidence of being a true
church of Christ.
Many
churches today have ceased to be churches of Christ as evidenced by their
doctrines and practice.
B. Knowledge
of Christ:- vs 5
1. "Know ye not your ownselves, how
that Christ is in you?"-
Do
you not know that Christ dwells or resides in His church? cf 1 Corinthians
3:16; 6:19.
2. The power (authority) of Christ is in
His (local, visible) New Testament Church. The Great Commission which includes
the authorization to disciple all nations and administer the ordinances, is
given to the Lord's true churches.
3. "Except ye be reprobates"-
"unapproved"-
without authority-counterfeits.
Could
it be, Paul suggests, that this Corinth Church is not really a true church,
even though founded by him? Were they, such as John mentions- 1 John 2:19-
"apostates?"
C. Knowledge
of Apostleship:- vs 6-7
1. The word "we" is in sharp
contrast to "they."
Paul
says, "I trust (hope) you do know that we are not unapproved counterfeits?
2. Knowing proper authority was important
in Paul's day, and it is still vital to us today (although many do not think
so). We are living in a time when all authority is despised in churches, in
government and in the home. To not recognize Paul's authority was to not
recognize God's call upon him, nor see the dangers of the sin they had in their
midst.
This
is a principle which remains the same today in every area of life and society
where authority is found, and is as necessary now as ever before.
3. Vs 7- This verse is similar to Romans
6:1.
You
do not have to do evil to make us look approved. They do not need to resort to
sin so that Paul can assert authority over them, and prove his apostleship. He
would rather look to be unapproved than for them to resort to that.
4. It appears that at least some in the
Corinth Church were looking for a more judgmental spiritual head to rule them
rather than to operate as an independent sovereign New Testament Church, with
Christ given authority to discipline them who needed it.
As
a pastor, over the many years of my ministry, I have observed this problem in
many people who have been raised under the oligarchy of the Protestant denominational
machinery, or, the autocratic, totalitarian system of ecclesiastical despotism
of Popery in the Church of Rome. They have much difficulty with the
independent, sovereign, local congregational form of government of Baptists.
The
freedom which includes soul-liberty, and the priesthood of every believer is
enough to almost blow their minds!
5. Vs 8- "For we can do nothing
against the truth"-
We
have no power (authority) against the truth of the gospel. If that is
represented in their living, he can do nothing against it, but, "for the
truth- the gospel."
Truth
is invincible - Matthew 16:18.
3. PERFECTION:- vs 9-14
Paul
is glad that in his weakness the Corinth Church is made strong. This, Paul
wanted for the perfection (maturity) of the church, that they might learn to
depend upon their God given authority to discipline offenders, and not on the
authority of an apostle. They should learn, as a son, to be responsible for
themselves, and not have to run to their father for everything. (Paul, as founder
of the Corinth Church, was their spiritual father.)
A. Absence:- vs 9-10
Paul's absence had a benefit to them. If present,
he would use sharper language in dealing with their problems. However, it would
force them to mature and deal with things themselves. They would not leave it
to "daddy" but grow up and do what needs to be done.
B. Authority:-
vs 10b
Paul
acknowledges his God given authority, not as they thought, to use it in a
destructive sense, but rather constructive, to "edify" (build up) to
help them on to maturity.
C. Appeal:-
vs 11-14
1. "Finally"-
as for the
rest- each exhortation has a purpose.
2. "Be perfect"-
Be
perfected. Allow perfection to have its work in your midst. Perfection here
means "maturity."
It
is a progressive action towards growing up to maturity.
3. "Be comforted"-
In
light of the many needs in Corinth, find comfort in Christ. cf John 14:16-18.
4. "Be of one mind"-
Singleness
of heart and purpose in following Jesus Christ, as He is our example. (cf Phil.
2:5.)
This
is a call to unity as opposed to the many divisions that were in the Corinth
Church. No church can prosper in carrying out the
work of God if her members are pulling in different directions.
5. "live in peace"-
(in
the church)- Hebrews 12:14; Eph. 4:3.
Jesus
taught, "blessed are the peacemakers" Matthew 5:9.
6. "The God of love and peace"-
We
will know the presence of the God of love and peace as we endeavour to keep the
spirit of peace or follow it. Love and peace comes to the peacemakers. The
outflow from us is a result from the inflow of heaven into our lives.
Grace
worked in us by the Holy Spirit reaches out from us to those around us.
7. "Greet one another with a holy
kiss"-
An
expression of Christian affection (love). The Greek word for affectionate love
is "phileo." The word used here by Paul is the noun
"philema." It was used as a token of Christian brotherhood, as a
welcome or farewell. This greeting knew no social distinctions as to race or
wealth. Discretion is used in its use, especially between sexes. Most North
Americans could well learn to express their affections better, as the European
or Oriental peoples do. The "holy" kiss, is more than the normal
greeting or custom, but is centred in the affections of Christ. We are members
of His body, and members one of another.
cf
1 Peter 5:14; Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:26; Luke
7:45; 22:48.
8. "all the saints"-
Separated
ones, Christians where Paul was writing from (Philippi), send their greetings
of love in Christ. Romanism has discredited this word "saints" which
is applied by Scripture to every true believer. Paul referred to "the
saints in every church he wrote to."
There
is a tie that binds the hearts of born again believers in Christ. There is a
common bond found only by the mention of the name "JESUS" that
transcends language, race, nationality, and culture.
The
greatest name that ever graced the lips of men and angels, is the name JESUS!
9. Paul's apostolic benediction:-
a) GRACE:- the basis of God's expression
of Himself in Christ, and our sufficiency in all things. This grace is of, and
through, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is Lord! This verse helps establish Christ's
deity.
b) LOVE OF GOD:- the attribute of God that
gives us Christ, our Saviour (John 3:16; Romans 5:8.)
c) COMMUNION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:- This
refers to His office work. He is not a mere power force as the Jehovah
Witnesses teach, but a Person who communes, communicates, works, in the life of
the believer. 1 Peter 1:2; John 14:15-18; John 16:7,8,13,14; Romans
8:9-16,26.
d) "Be with you all"-
All
those within the membership of the Corinth Church.
e) "Amen!"- So be it! Praise the
Lord God!
-End
of Study
ASSIGNMENT
FOR LEARNING:-
Write a three point
lesson on the text, 2 Corinthians 13:14.
Please state the
source of any quotes you might make.
Prayer:- Pray now a
prayer of thanksgiving, you have finished the course on Second Corinthians. Ask
the Lord to help you put these truths into practice.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
The
following books were used in the preparation of this course of study.
1. The
Bible, Authorized King James Version.
2. The Amplified Bible
3. The Bible, New King James Version.
4. American Commentary on the New
Testament- Volume 5.
5. Baptist
Commentary- Dr. Albert Garner.
6. Second
Corinthians- Robert B. Hughes
7. Second
Corinthians- Irving L. Jensen
8. Crudens Concordance to the Bible-
Alexander Cruden.
9. Strongs Exhaustive Bible Concordance
10. Youngs Analytical Concordance to the
Bible.
11. Thompson's Chain Reference Bible.
12. An Expository Dictionary of New Testament
Words- W.E. Vine.
13. Greek- English New Testament- Bagster.
14. The Interlinear Greek-English New Testament-
Berry
15. Barnes Notes on the New Testament-(One
Volume)-Albert Barnes
16. The Church of the New Testament- J.H.
Melton.
17. Notes on Second Corinthians
(unpublished)-David Paul Smith.
18. The New Roget's Thesaurus in Dictionary
Form- Norman Lewis
19. Introduction to the New Testament Church-
D. Paul Tuck Sr.
20. Studies in First Corinthians- D. Paul
Tuck Sr.
21. A
Systematic Study of Bible Doctrine- Thomas Paul Simmons.
22 Systematic
Theology, John L. Dagg.
Published
by
BAPTIST
PULPIT MINISTRIES
48
Cobbler Crescent
North
York, Ontario,
Canada
M3N 2Y7
E-mail:
bpulpit@rogers.com
Telephone
416-739-1895