2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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AN APPEAL FOR AFFECTION
LORD’S DAY, FEBRUARY 16
2 Corinthians 7:2-4
2 Corinthians 6:11-13
“Receive us; we have
wronged no man …”
AN APPEAL FOR AFFECTION
Paul now returned to his theme in 2 Corinthians 6:11-13. Once again, he declared his love and concern for the Corinthian Christians. This time round, he declared that the Corinthians were “in our hearts to die and live with you” (2 Cor 7:2). Paul was proclaiming that whether he lived or died, it was for the benefit of the Corinthians.
Paul’s heart was that of a true pastor. Just like our wonderful Shepherd Jesus Christ who was willing to lay down His life for the sheep (John 10:15), the Apostle Paul was also willing to lay down his life for the flock of God. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
On the other hand, the Corinthian Christians had initially narrowed their hearts towards the Apostle Paul even though Paul had done no wrong to them. They may not have liked what Paul had said and done, but he had conducted himself righteously in the sight of God and man. He had the spiritual welfare of the Corinthian Christians in his heart. If only they could continue to make room in their hearts to receive him! The experience of Paul is perhaps the experience of many a pastor. A situation may have arisen which requires warning and admonishment. Alas, the faithful preaching is not well-received, and the pastor ends up with many brickbats and hurtful words. How the pastor must desire that the detractors may enlarge their hearts to him too.
Let us seek to be the joy of faithful pastors rather than their grief. Thankfully, the Corinthian Christians repented to the joy of the Apostle Paul. Heed the injunction of Hebrews 13:17: “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
THOUGHT: Let there be godly affection among the brethren.
PRAYER: Father, grant me true and sincere affection for the brethren.