Tag: 2nd Corinthians 13
Test yourselves!
Scripture reading for August 15th: 2nd Corinthians 13
Key Scriptures for over-comers: 2nd Corinthians 13:2-5 “I already gave you a warning when I was with you the second time. I now repeat it while absent: On my return I will not spare those who sinned earlier or any of the others, since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you. For to be sure, He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power. Likewise, we are weak in Him, yet by God’s power we will live with Him to serve you. Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you–unless, of course, you fail the test.”
Pastor Paul was concerned about those in the church that were still living in sin. He had warned the church that this was dangerous and repeated the warning that these people should be dealt with. He would come in Christ’s authority and power to deal with these people if necessary. But a better way was for them to do a healthy self-examination. Each member must test themselves to see whether they were truly in the faith through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. When we have Christ in us, we have the power to repent and live free from sin.
Observations for over-comers: Regular self-examinations concerning Christ in us is a healthy form of discipline. “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” (Proverbs 12:1)
Aim for perfection!
Scripture reading for August 14th: 2nd Corinthians 13
Because of the false teachers, there were many in Corinth that had not repented of their sins. Often, false teachers fail to call people to repentance and preach a false gospel of grace without the need to repent. Paul was concerned that on his third visit there, he might have to deal severely in discipline with those still living in sin. “I am afraid that when I come again my God will humble me before you, and I will be grieved over many who have sinned earlier and not repented of the impurity, sexual sin, and debauchery in which they have indulged.” (2nd Corinthians 12:21)
Failure to repent of known sin is dangerous to the soul involved as well as to the whole church. People living in know sin and claiming to know Christ give a false witness of the power of God to deliver from sin’s power! The Apostle Paul knew that if that was the case, he would have to deal with this when he arrived in order to restore the church.
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you–unless, of course, you fail the test.” (2nd Corinthians 13:5) When we are conscious of Christ Jesus living in us and through us, we can no longer use our bodies and minds for sinful purposes. When we are truly born again from above and have the Holy Spirit, He leads us to be like Christ! Healthy self-examination is good for the soul!
“Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2nd Corinthians 13:11) We must aim for perfection through Christ living in us!