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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THE C.V. OF AN APOSTLE
LORD’S DAY, MARCH 15
2 Corinthians 11:22-33
2 Corinthians 1:8-11
“Who is weak, and I am not weak?
who is offended, and I burn not?”
THE C.V. OF AN APOSTLE
Having established the reasons for “boasting” about his credentials, the Apostle Paul then proceeded to give a snapshot of his ministry. Observe, however, how Paul gloried not in what he achieved, but rather in the infirmities and afflictions he suffered as he laboured for Christ.
First, some of the opponents of Paul may have boasted of their Jewish descent. However, Paul was not in any way inferior in this aspect, for he was born of Jewish parents (2 Cor 11:22). Moreover, if they claimed to be ministers of Christ (of which they were not – thus Paul said he spoke as a fool), then Paul in every sense had worked harder and suffered more than these so-called “super-apostles.”
2 Corinthians 11:24-25 describes how Paul was often persecuted where he sought to preach the gospel. He was scourged to the maximum legal limit of thirty-nine stripes five times before the writing of the epistle. He also had to suffer stoning, the beating by rods, and shipwreck.
2 Corinthians 11:26-27 deals with the extent of his travels. These travels were accomplished at a time devoid of the transportation available today. Many of the journeys were arduous, with the Apostle enduring much hunger, cold and thirst. Moreover, there was always the threat of robbers. Danger lurked in every corner.
On top of these, Paul was not often received by the people. There were those among the Gentiles who hated him because the message he brought would result in an end of idolatrous practices. The majority of the Jews regarded him as a heretic. And as he ventured among the brethren, there were those who were false who resisted him. As an Apostle, Paul often had to stand alone.
On the other hand, the false apostles were only concerned for their own bellies. Would they be ready for such afflictions? Not so, for at the first sign of trouble they would flee, for they were but hirelings.
THOUGHT: I will glory in my infirmities in Christ.
PRAYER: O Father, help me to be ready to suffer for Christ’s sake.