2 Corinthians 8:9
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”

Grace is a beautiful word. We use it today to speak of the beauty of motion. We might refer to the “grace” of a gymnast or a figure skater. The word used in the Bible speaks of the giving nature of God. Webster defines it as, “the free unmerited love and favor of God, the spring and source of all the benefits men receive from Him.” In other words, grace is the character trait of God that causes Him to want to give what is best to men. This grace is immeasurable. Paul wrote to the Ephesians regarding the giving nature of God,

“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. . . “ Ephesians 1:7

“. . . that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:7

Notice, he spoke of the riches of grace, and of the exceeding riches of grace. Riches refer to having a great amount. The term exceeding, means too much, or an over abundance. We could say, God has too much grace. So much, He cannot help but pour it out on those who belong to Him.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”

While His grace is more than we could ever completely fathom, it is also something we can measure and experience. It is measured at the cross. It was on the cross, ‘the exceeding riches of His grace” was poured out; Jesus used the simple phrase “He gave His only Son.” Because of the gift of Christ, the grace of God should never be questioned. Instead, it should be scrutinized. We should take our experiences, and measure them in light of the cross of Christ. While I will not even pretend to understand why each of us experiences the particular trial we are facing, I will take my trial and look at it through the eyes of grace, or the shadow of the cross. At the place where Jesus laid down the riches of His glory, in order to pave a way for me to come to God.

His grace is not only measured at the cross, but can also be experienced daily by the believer. Paul wrote, “for you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ…” This grace was something they were experiencing; because He became poor, they were becoming rich. Now, it is important we understand the language that Paul is using. He is not stating that following Jesus is the path to financial success or great earthly wealth. This is not a get rich quick scheme where, if you follow Jesus and are a faithful tither, you will end up the richest guy on the block. Paul is referring to the wealth of spiritual blessings that belong to the child of God. Earlier in the chapter, he spoke of the Macedonians who, though they were very poor, they were big givers and filled with great joy. As you daily walk with Jesus, you will experience the abundance of His grace flowing out to minister to you, regardless of the difficulty you are facing. If you are questioning His grace, go back to the cross and measure it. Reflect on how God gave His Son.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 8

1. The church back in Jerusalem was experiencing persecution and hard, lean times.  Paul made it his habit to take up a monetary collection for them from the churches he visited, and later to present this gift to the church at Jerusalem.  In verse 1 Paul brings up the churches in Macedonia, who although they were not well off financially, were generous in their giving. Read Luke 21:1-4.  What is important to God about our giving?  In God’s eyes, does having a lot mean that you can give more?
2. Look at verse 3 and 4. Write down some of the things that characterized the Macedonian church’s giving.
3. Notice verse 5.  What is the most important part of giving to God?
4. Look at verse 6 and verses 10-11.  It seems that the Corinthians had made some kind of commitment to give to the church in Jerusalem.  Paul had sent Titus to make sure that they followed through on that commitment.  How important is it to you to keep your word?  What things get in the way of us keeping our promises?  Read Matt 5:33-37 and James 5:12.  Is God reminding you of a commitment that He wants you to follow through on?
5. Read verses 7-9.  Paul is not giving a legalistic outward command to give.  Rather, he is calling them to follow the example of Jesus in giving all of ourselves for the cause of the kingdom.  Is loving generosity an important value to you?  Do your actions bear this out?
6. In verses 12-15, Paul builds on the idea that the church is the body of Christ.  Read 1Cor 12:12-27.  Do you consider other as often as you consider yourself?  Especially do you care for others in the body of Christ that way?
7. Titus had a tremendous reputation.  As you read through this chapter, note some qualities about Titus that are listed here.  This is the same Titus that Paul writes to later in the book of Titus, so keep him in mind when we come to Titus in the regular bible reading in a few weeks.

Old Testament:
Job 33- Ransom
Job 34- Mr. Fix It

2 Corinthians 7:10
“For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.”

Unfortunately, sadness is a common feeling. We have experienced it in all its varying levels and intervals. We have had little things happen that caused us to frown and go quiet, and we have had deeper experiences that gripped us with sorrow and caused us to weep or even wail. Paul is speaking here, not of the sorrow that comes from your favorite team losing a game, or even losing someone you love, he is speaking of the sorrow that comes upon a person when they realize they have sinned against God. The Psalmist wrote of a time when he was overcome with that kind of sadness;

Psalms 6:6 “I am weary with my groaning; all night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears.”

Often, when a person’s sin is exposed publicly or privately, they will show signs of great sorrow. It is not uncommon for people to come to the altar with tears streaming down their faces and confess they have fallen once again into an easily besetting sin. Like the Psalmist, they are certainly remorseful for what they have done, and are looking for a way of escape. Paul warns that although sin will often produce sorrow, not all sorrow will produce a change in behavior.

“For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation…”

The true evidence that a person is remorseful for the sin they have committed, is not the tears that are produced, but the change of behavior that follows. Paul uses the word “repentance;” a word that carries the idea of turning, and involves a turning from sin to God. Too often, we are satisfied with tears, thinking that is enough to show that we are truly sorry for the wrong we have committed.

“What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication!” 2 Corinthians 7:11

Paul is describing what godly sorrow will produce. “Clearing of yourself” refers to the removal of the guilt and shame, that comes with sin and failure. It is not the byproduct of a good cry, but of a change of actions, that will clean our conscience. He speaks of the need to apply diligence to your walk with the Lord. This is often seen in building walls that will keep you from going back into sin again. “Indignation” is a word that speaks of intense anger. The person who is sorrowful over sin, is a person who is angry at sin. It has been my experience, we avoid people at whom we are angry; the same will be true of sin. “Fear” is often looked at as a negative feeling, and certainly there are things we are afraid of that are irrational and silly; however, sin is not one of them. The person who wants to succeed in walking with Jesus, must have a healthy fear of sin and it’s effects upon our lives. As long as you think you are immune to sin’s tempting hooks, you will not avoid it, and you’ll find you continue to fall.

Finally, Paul speaks of “zeal” and “vindication”. True turning from sin will create in us a new intensity to follow Jesus. Sadly, I often see people come forward weeping over their sins, only to see them for the last time. Instead of determining they will press on in their walk with God, they go out the doors of the church, right back into the lifestyle that led to failure. If we want the vindication, the victory, the freedom to overcome our constant failures, we must determine to increase the intensity we pour into our relationship with Jesus.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 7

1. In verse 1 Paul appeals to the Christians to live clean, holy lives, because of the promises of God in the last three verses of chapter 6. Go back and list those out.
2. Look at verse 2-3. Does Paul himself live the way that he is telling the Corinthians to live? An example is a powerful tool to help others live for Jesus.
3. Notice that Titus was a comfort to the Paul. Notice also that the message of the Corinthians doing well in the Lord was a comfort to Paul. Even those who know Jesus well are encouraged as He works in and through others. Do you regularly consider the impact you have on others? Are you aware how meaningful your life can be in God’s hands?
4. In verses 8-12 Paul references the corrective letter that he had written to them earlier (we know it as 1 Corinthians). Notice:
   1. Paul at first regretted sending the letter, because its harsh tone might hurt them. But once he saw them respond positively to the correction, he was glad that he sent it. Have you ever had to correct someone and been sorry about it? Have you ever known the joy of someone welcoming the correction?
   2. Paul was happy not just that they were sad, but that they were sad enough about their own sin to turn from it. Compare and contrast godly sorrow with a worldly sorrow. What does godly sorrow produce?
   3. Ultimately, Paul wrote not just to fix a wrong, but because he truly cared for the Corinthian believers. Do your efforts to correct others come from a desire to make things right, or from a desire to demonstrate God’s love and care?

Old Testament:
Job 31- My Eyes
Job 32- Self-Righteous

2 Corinthians 6:16
“For you are the temple of the living God.”

Although this verse is tucked away in a passage not well trodden, this portion of the text is fairly well-known. It is not uncommon to hear this verse quoted, even among those who have not chosen to surrender their lives to Christ. When donuts are on the table and we are about to indulge, we might hear someone say, “You know our bodies are the temple of the living God, we should not defile the temple.” While it is true, what we eat can have an effect upon how we feel, and thus distracts from what we are capable of accomplishing, that is not the primary message of this passage. Paul is talking about the danger of establishing relationships that will lead us astray. He wrote,

“Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” 2 Corinthians 6:14

Then he went on to quote from Isaiah,

“Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” Isaiah 52:11

The greatest pitfall for the children of Israel, was establishing relationships with those who did not follow the ways of God. Once those relationships were started, it was not long before the people of God were departing from the Word of God, and practicing the ways of the ungodly. While this is a danger in any type of relationship, it is especially deadly with romantic relationships. Too often, Christians who are single, will settle for someone who is not really committed to the Lord, rather than being lonely and alone.

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

When it comes to relationships, this verse is especially critical. Instead of making a relationship our goal, and seeking to find someone, we should spend our energies seeking the Lord and trusting His promises to provide all that we need. I remember hearing Pastor Jon Courson sharing on the idea of trusting the Lord, when it comes to finding the right person. He used Adam and Eve as an example. When it came time for Adam to find his mate, the Lord had him go to sleep. There, as he rested, the Lord brought along the only person designed especially by God, just for him. Jon went on to say, “had Adam not rested, and ran around looking, he would have ended up with an ape.” Some are seeking a relationship, instead of seeking the Lord. Loneliness is pushing them to seek in places where they are only going to find the wrong person, and ultimately get hurt. Remember, you are the temple of the living God, and there are places where your feet should not take you, and relationships that should never start.

Paul is not suggesting Christians all huddle together and avoid contact with anyone who is not a follower of Jesus. In fact, Paul spent his life making relationships where he could share Christ with others. The difference is influence. We should establish relationships with those who don’t know Christ, and seek to win them to Christ (dating is not the way to do that.) At the same time, we should establish relationships with those who have committed themselves to Jesus, and seek to pattern our lives after them. Paul said, “follow me as I follow Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)

Be careful!

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 6

1. Paul tells the Corinthians not to receive the grace of God in vain. The Greek word translated “vain” could also be translated as “empty-handed”, or “purposeless”. In other words: do something with the grace that God has shown you.   Is your life substantially changed from when you were not a Christian? Do you labor for the kingdom with a sense of purpose?
2. Read verse 2. When should we begin to give God our best? Although life has seasons, and we must wait on the Lord for His timing on many things, we can pursue knowing Him and actively showing love to people at all times.
3. Paul essentially says in verse 3 that his whole life was lived in such a way that it reflected well on Jesus and that he would be able to serve others without them questioning his sincerity. Examine your own life. Are there areas of your life that do not reflect well on your Savior? What is God calling you to do to have a more effective witness with others?
4. Read verses 4-10. Make a list of all the ways that Paul’s life was demonstrating the authenticity of his ministry and his relationship with God.
5. In verse 10 you can really hear Paul’s love for the Corinthians. As you seek to minister to others, do you seek to speak openly, freely, generously? Are you clear with them that your motive is love?
6. Paul tells the Corinthians that they are not restricted by him, but by their own affections. In other words, the only limitation on us is how much we let God work in us. Are there ways that God might want to work in your life that you are restricting? Are you giving too much affection to anything, and if so how does that affect what God would do with you?
7. Being unequally yoked means connecting together two different animals that are not compatible because of the differences inherent to their nature (size, strength, temperament). In verses 14-18, Paul deals with the subject of our deepest relationships and commitments, and how these need to be with other believers. Jesus himself was a “friend of sinners”, so this does not mean that we cannot have relationships with unbelievers. However, our best friends, husbands/wives, business partners, really anyone we join ourselves to, should love Jesus. What are the types of problems that can come up if this is not the case? This passage says to be careful about the commitments we make. However, if you have already made such commitments, God’s instruction from 1 Corinthians 7 is that we should honor these commitments, seeking to be a witness to the other party.
8. Paul refers to us as the temple of the Holy Spirit; this is an awesome thought! God almighty lives in us! Everywhere you go, you bring God with you. Spend some time thinking/praying about that. What does that mean for what God wants to do with you wherever you go?

Old Testament:
Job 29- Memories
Job 30- Why Do Bad Things Happen?

2 Corinthians 5:10
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

A few years ago, I watched a very interesting story on the news. An armored vehicle, after leaving a local bank, had neglected to properly close the rear truck door. Upon making a turn, bags of money fell out of the truck and broke open on the street. People, seeing what had happened, went nuts, rushing into the street, picking up cash and shoving it into their pockets. In the midst of the chaos, a young boy grabbed a handful of coins and ran off. That night, he felt so guilty he could not sleep. The next day at school, the little boy dropped eighty-five cents on his teacher’s desk and told her about the event. She, wanting to encourage him for doing the right thing, contacted the bank to arrange for the return of the money. Since more than $200,000 was lost that day, and only eighty-five cents returned, the bank wanted to honor this young man and asked him to come to the bank to receive an award. When the mayor of the city heard of his deed, he also wanted to honor the child with a public gathering. Later, word reached the executives at Disney, who decided to honor the young man. They invited him, and his whole class, to Disney World; all expenses paid. What a remarkable picture of grace. One young man took what did not belong to him and gave it back to the rightful owners, and in return, was richly honored and showered with blessings.

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

Paul writes every believer will one day appear before the judgment seat of Christ. At this throne, we will not be judged for our sins; those were judged at the cross and forgiveness was appropriated to each of us when we received Christ. No, at this throne, sin is not the issue, nor is judgment the reward. Instead, our Christian life will be examined. We will be rewarded with treasures in heaven for what we did on earth. When we choose to offer our God-given gifts, talents, time and treasures back to Him, He will not only accomplish great things through us, but reward us for it later.

Earlier Paul had written to these same believers and asked, “What do you have that you did not receive?” Everything we have really belongs to God. Our natural talents are as much a representation of His grace, as our spiritual gifts. We need to take what does not belong to us and return it to its rightful owner.

Now would be a great time to examine your life. All of your time, talents and treasures are a gift from God. How are you using them for the Kingdom of Heaven? What are some ways you can get involved in serving Christ? Keep in mind, we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, and we don’t want to appear empty-handed.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 5

1. The idea at the beginning of chapter 5 was begun back in the middle of chapter 4: that although in this life we suffer for the sake of the gospel, we should not let that deter us, for in the next life, the rewards of earthly faithfulness are well worth it. Paul then uses the analogy of a tent and a house, comparing them to our earthly and heavenly bodies, respectively. How are tents and houses different?   Looking at verse 1, what are the differences between the earthly tent body and the heavenly house body? Read what Jesus said in Matthew 10:28, and John 14:1-3.
2. Verses 2 and 4 repeat the idea of groaning in our earthly bodies. What are some ways that these “tents” are difficult to be in? How will it be better when we are given new, eternal bodies?
3. In the midst of the teaching on our future heavenly home and body, verse 7 captures a critical idea: in this life, we walk by trusting in God and His Word, not by trusting in what we see. Clearly, we cannot see what we will become (see 1John 3:2), but we have the promise of God that it will be wonderful. How often do you make a deliberate choice to trust what the bible says, in spite of the culture standing in opposition to it?
4. Read verses 6-10. In verse 8 Paul says that he would love to get his new body and go to be home with the Lord (also read Phil 1:21-24). Does Paul’s desire to go to heaven cause him to have an “escapist” mentality, where he checks out of this life and does nothing (look at verse 9)? Are you actively engaged in living this life for the hope of the next life?
5. In verse 11-14 Paul states that because he sees the judgment to come, he makes it his goal both with his words and his life in any way possible to persuade people to give their hearts to Jesus. Have you taken time recently to consider the eternal estate of people you love who are lost? Take time to truly pray for these people, and ask God to give you a compassion for the lost and a drive to reach them.
6. Consider verse 15. If you are a born again Christian, given the life of Jesus, how should you now live?
7. Look at verse 17-21. What are the benefits in these verses of being “in Christ”? List each one of them.
8. As a result of the work that God has done in us, He desires to do a work through us. Having been reconciled (made right with) God, He has given us the ministry of reconciling others to Him. Who in your life might God want to use you to reach? Paul said that he “implored”, or begged the Corinthians to get right with God. Do you have enough love for others to beg them to consider Christ?

Old Testament:
Job 27- Watch Your Mouth
Job 28- Mother Load

2 Corinthians 4:3-4
“But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.”

A few years ago we purchased a pool table for the kids as a Christmas gift. Because of the size of the table it was not practical to wrap, so we set it up in the middle of the living room, threw a table-cloth over it and set our breakfast on it. Our disguise worked. The kids went about the morning without even noticing there was a huge gift right under their noses.

Paul writes, God has given us the precious gift of eternal life. A gift received by recognizing we are sinners, and placing faith in Christ. A gift that results in having our sins forgiven, being made right with a Holy God, and having our lives transformed from the inside out. This precious gift, that is so easily received, is sitting right in front of everyone, yet many fail to see it. The reason they fail to see it is because the Gospel has been veiled to them by the devil.

“But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe…”

The word veiled, also translated hidden or covered, comes from a word meaning to hide. Webster defines the word veiled as “disguised or obscured by a covering.” God, because of His love for us, sent His Son to make a way for our sins to be forgiven, and to give us eternal life. He placed this message in the hands of His followers, who continue to herald it around the world, in their homes, schools, and places of work or leisure. Even though the death and resurrection of Jesus were public events, the Bible is the greatest selling book of all time, Christians are in every corner of the world, and the Gospel is preached on the airways and internet, still, many fail to see their need for Christ. Paul explains it is because the god of this world (Satan) is blinding their eyes and obscuring the message of Christ.

Just as the ministry of the Christian is to declare the good news of salvation, the ministry of Satan is to obscure it. He desires to cover up the Gospel message, and make it look like something it is not. He has used many different coverings to hide the Gospel. Some have been blinded with pleasure. They think coming to Christ will mean missing out on the real “fun in life.” For others, he uses fear. They are afraid of what will happen to them if they release control of their lives, and put it into the hands of Christ. Still others are blinded with hurt. They have had difficult experiences in life, causing them to question if there really is a God who loves them.

When we look at our friends, loved ones, or our circle of influence, and see those who have yet to receive or surrender to Christ, we must understand it is because their minds have been blinded and the Gospel veiled. Rather than being discouraged or repelled, we ought to pray. Our prayers ought to be specifically for God to remove the blinders from their eyes, so the light of the Gospel of the glory of Christ could shine on them.

As you seek to invite your friends to Christ, church, or an outreach event, pray that God would remove the veil, that they might see Christ as He really is, and invite Him to reign in their hearts and lives.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 4

1. Serving others in the name of Jesus is something that is not always easy. The enemy, the world, and our own flesh often oppose us. We can easily be discouraged. According to verse 1 and verses 16-18, what things kept Paul from becoming discouraged?

• In verse 2 Paul speaks about living a wide open life for Christ: renouncing sin, turning away from scheming, plainly speaking the word of God, and shining with truth. He was not a “secret” Christian. Why does hiding your Christianity never work?

2. In verses 3-4 Paul speaks about Satan as the “god of this world” (see also 1 John 5:19). Even though Paul was living such a vibrant life for Jesus, and even though the gospel was clearly presented, Satan was still in opposition (read John 8:44). In this verse what does he do to stop people from seeing Jesus? Read verse 6 to see how God overcomes this.
3. Read verses 5-6.   As we seek to communicate the gospel to those who are lost, who the enemy is coming against, we must keep Jesus central. What do we preach and what do we not preach? As we do this, who breaks through the darkness and blindness of those we are trying to reach?
4. We are clay pots, easily broken and made of dust. Yet we contain a valuable treasure: the gospel and the Spirit of God. How does knowing this affect how we minister to others? How does it affect how they see God?
5. Verses 8-12 speak of a principle in the Christian life: God uses a person who dies to himself and lets God live through him (see Luke 9:23-25). Do you daily lay down your wants and desires at Jesus’ feet and say “not my will but your will, Lord”? According to these verses, how does living this way affect others?
6. Read verses 13-15. Paul preached, trusting that God would work. It was risky for him to preach the gospel, and it often cost him. But others were important to him; to him Christianity wasn’t just about getting himself saved, but seeing others saved as well. How much of a priority is it to you to see “grace spread to the many”? If it is not ask God to change your heart today.

Old Testament:
05Job 25- How To
Job 26- The Edge

2 Corinthians 3:18
“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”

Have you ever looked around at the circumstances you are facing and wondered what God is doing in your life? Why it is that you are facing these particular trials, while someone else seems to be immune to them. The answer to that question is tucked away in this verse. Paul writes,

“We… Are being transformed into the SAME image…”

All who have trusted Christ for salvation, have been born again and are in the midst of a process that began at conversion, and will continue until we reach heaven. It is the process of being conformed into the image of Jesus. Paul instructed the Romans that God uses all things to reach that end (Romans 8:28). Every difficulty, every blessing, every person, every trial, is a tool in the hand of the Master to make us more like Jesus. Earlier Paul wrote,

“. . . who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant . . . ” (2 Corinthians 3:6)

One of the ways we are made effective ministers, is that we are being made more like Jesus. The longer we walk with Him, the more we should become like Him. If we are struggling to understand what God is doing with a particular trial, we must look into the pages of His Word, at the person of Jesus, and determine what is lacking in us. I am often frustrated by the way others treat me, but then I am reminded of the way Jesus was treated. I realize God desires for me to love those who don’t love me, to be merciful and gracious to those who are unkind or even hostile. The work of Jesus is being done in me.

Notice, Paul not only tells us what God is doing, but how He does it. He writes, we are being transformed, “by the Spirit of the Lord.” This work of becoming more like Jesus is a work of the Spirit. It is not something that can be accomplished apart from the work of God, or by sheer resolve of heart. It is a work done by allowing the Spirit of God to work within us. A number of years ago, I was sitting on the floor of a church listening to Pastor Chuck teach through John 15. As he explained what it meant to abide in Christ, he said, “God does not want to walk through the factory and see all the work you are doing, He wants to walk through the garden and enjoy the fruit.” I remember being particularly struck by that example, realizing that the secret to my growing in Christ, becoming like Christ, and bearing the fruit of Christ, was spending time with Christ.

It is God’s desire for each of us to become more like Jesus. The more like Him we become, the richer life becomes and the more effective we are in reaching others for the Kingdom. However, it is a work of the Spirit; we must allow the Spirit free reign to speak to us, lead us, and correct us through the Word of God. As we subject ourselves to the work of the Spirit, we will also find that the power of the Spirit is available to us. We will truly become “able ministers of the New Covenant.”

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 3 

1. Because his apostleship has been called into question by some within the church, Paul has found the need to respond to those criticisms. He will do this several times in this letter, but he does not want to do so with just talk.   Read verses 1-3. What is this first part of his “resume” as he re-establishes his ministry to the Corinthians? Read Matt 11:16-19, and Matt 7:16-20. As you seek to be a witness for Christ, make sure that you are more than just talk.
2. Consider verse 3. God changes us from the inside out, changing our hearts by His Spirit. How has God changed who you are on the inside? In verse 4, Paul states that they have a great trust toward God because of Jesus. How does knowing Jesus help us to trust God? What in His life and character has proved that God is trustworthy?
3. In verses 5-6, Paul puts the things he is talking about in perspective: his confidence is not in his self. How has Paul been made sufficient for the ministry to which God has called him? How are we made sufficient?
4. Read verses 6-11. The Old covenant, the law, was a relationship based on our performance. Although there were certain glorious things about this covenant (one of which was that God’s holy character was revealed), it is doomed because of our inability to perform to God’s standard. However, the new covenant, Grace through faith, has a greater glory, because this relationship is based on trusting in Jesus’ ability to work through His Spirit. What are some ways that this new relationship with God is better than the old? Note verse 17.
5. Paul found a great boldness and confidence in knowing the power of God’s Spirit at work in Him. Do you know this power? Ask God to fill you with His Spirit afresh, that you may walk in His power. What does God want to do with you? Although you are not sufficient for His calling on your life, is He?
6. In the same way that the Moses veiled his face, Israel has a veil over their face, and cannot see how the OT scriptures prophesy of Jesus. Read 1Cor 2:12-16. When you read your bible do you ask for understanding from God? Make a habit of it!
7. Look at verse 18. As we spend time looking upon, studying, and getting to know Jesus, what happens to us?

Old Testament:
Job 23- Where Are You?
Job 24- Still Thirsty?

2 Corinthians 2:15-16
“For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?”

As a child I spent a great deal of time, perhaps a little too much, watching cartoons. I remember seeing, on more than one occasion, a scene where a character smelled the fragrance of a home-baked pie. The smell would lift him in the air and carry him to the window sill of the farmer’s house where the delicacy sat. Regardless of the danger posed by the farmer, he would attempt to steal the pie. While I am quite certain Paul did not see the same cartoon, he is reminding the Corinthians of the effect their lives can have of drawing others to Christ. He refers to our lives as being like a fragrant aroma that will lead other people to Jesus. Notice he refers to us as being two different aromas, to two different groups of people. If we follow his word order, he seems to be suggesting, to the Christian, the one who is being saved, we are the smell of death, while to the unsaved, we are the smell of life.

Jesus spoke of abundant life being a byproduct of a relationship with Him. He spoke of torrents of living water, and of bearing the fruit of the Spirit. All of this flows from the life of the Christian who is abiding in Christ. Not only providing the Christian with abundant life, but it is also designed to lure others to Jesus. The more time you spend growing in your relationship with Jesus, the greater effect you will have in leading others to Christ.

Paul also spoke of the fragrance of death. Death has at least two smells. One is the rotting smell of decay, a horrendous smell. The other is the fragrant smell that comes off the grill. In Old Testament times, the children of Israel were required to offer multiple sacrifices to the Lord. Part of the purpose, was to offer a sweet aroma to the Lord. The smell of burning flesh is a sweet aroma in heaven and a wonderful smell on earth. Have you ever been driving home, smelled someone grilling, and hoped that the smell was coming from your house?

Paul mentioned being led in triumph by the Lord. The idea is not only that of God leading him into victory, but Christ having victory over Paul. In ancient times, when a general was conquered, he would be laid at the feet of his conqueror, who would put his foot on his neck. We will have the greatest effect on others when Christ has conquered us. When we choose, like Paul, to lay our lives down and pick up Christ, a sweet aroma will fill the air and lead others to do the same. How often have you heard the testimony of another Christian, who speaks of putting aside sin and self, to live for Christ and others, and you were encouraged to go deeper in your relationship with Jesus? That is the fragrance of death leading to death.

Paul wrote that he dies daily, and always carries about in his body, the dying of Christ. He said he was crucified with Christ, and now lives for Christ. If we want to have an increased impact on others for the kingdom of heaven, it is time that we surrender all to Christ, and abide in Him.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 2

1. In verses 1-3 Paul gives some great principles on relationship and conflict. The Corinthian church was plagued by problems. They were a very “fleshy” church; they often didn’t act like Jesus. Because Paul loved them, at times he had to correct them, both by letter and face to face. It’s almost never a comfortable thing to correct someone.
   A. In verse 1 Paul says that he has made up his mind not to come to them “in sorrow”. In other words, having said his peace to them, he gave them space and time to change. Do you have any broken relationships? Have you said what the Lord would have you say to that person? If you have, ask God for patience with those people, and give God room and space to work.
   B. In verse 2, Paul indicates that although he loves them very much and would be very happy to see them; at this time they would not be happy to see him. Sometimes in our relationships we have such affection for a person that we push things too much. We care more about how they make us feel, than about the person. Take some time to assess your most important relationships. Ask God to help you to want what is best for them, and not simply what you get from them or want for them.
   C. Verse 3 sums up the reason for these things. Relationships are about joy! Read Matthew 22:36-39. When you put the welfare of others first, how does that affect your relationship with them? Ask God to fill you with His Spirit when you spend time with loved ones. As He does you can be a joy and a blessing to be around, and God can use you to heal those broken relationships.
2. Read verse 4. Paul had to speak some very hard words to the Corinthians in his last letter to them. What was his motivation for speaking this way to them? What was not his motivation? When you deliver difficult counsel to someone, do you make sure to communicate that you love them?
3. As we look at broken relationships, it is valuable for us to take time to thank God for all that He has done and continues to do to heal the brokenness in our relationship with Him. What has God done to keep our relationship with Him joyous?
4. In verses 5-8 Paul speaks to them of the man who needed to be corrected in his first letter (See 1 Corinthians 5:1-7). Note verses 7 and 8. What should we consider after we have rebuked or corrected someone?
5. Look at verses 10-11. Forgiveness is central to the Christian life. We are a forgiven people, because of a forgiving God, and so we should be forgiving. Read Matthew 18:21-35. When we are not forgiving, how does that leave an open door for Satan to do damage in our lives?
6. Paul had no rest in his spirit in the ministry in Troas, despite an open door from the Lord. Something was missing, and he moved on to Macedonia. This looked like a failure, but notice Paul’s comments in verse 14. Does Paul sound defeated? What caused him to have the attitude that he had?
7. We have a fragrance that comes off of our lives. As Christians, we want people to sense Jesus in us. However, although He is beautiful to us, to the unrepentant He is not. Are people clear about who Jesus is when they spend time with you? Do they know more about Him when they are around you?

Old Testament:
Job 21- What’s In It For Me?
Job 22- Participate

2 Corinthians 1:8
“For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life.”

Sometimes, it is comforting to know we are not the only ones to face difficulty. Paul was a godly man involved in the business of the Kingdom, yet he found himself face to face with trials that caused him to despair. Fortunately, Paul walked through those trials and came out the other side with insight to help each of us. He points out three things which should guide us through our difficult days.

First, he speaks of the comfort that comes from the Lord. One of my favorite titles for God is found in this chapter. He is called, “The Father of mercy and the God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3). Paul went on to describe the mercy of God, explaining it is both sufficient and abundant. He declared, no matter what we might be facing, God has comfort available for us, and this comfort is so great we will be able to pass it on to others who are in the midst of their own trying times.

Second, Paul speaks of the confidence he had in the midst of his trials. He speaks of trusting the Lord, because He is the one who raises the dead. This reminds me of Abraham who was willing to offer Isaac, because he believed God could raise the dead (Hebrews 11:17-19), No matter what we are facing, if we face it with confidence in God and His word, we are trusting the One who can do the impossible.

Third, Paul explains, he did not walk this road alone, but was accompanied by the prayers of the saints. Often, when a friend is facing difficulty, we feel like there is something we should do, but we don’t know what it is. We do not have the financial resources to fix their problems, or the strength to lift them from their despair. Instead of feeling helpless, we should come alongside them in prayer. When Paul was released from his Roman imprisonment, he attributed it to the prayers of the saints coming alongside the work of the Spirit.

Finally, Paul speaks of having conducted himself with godly sincerity. In other words, he lived righteously through his trials. Instead of using the difficulty as an opportunity to compromise his walk with God, he chose to set a standard for others to follow. Too often, we allow difficult circumstances to give us excuse to sin. We complain, backbite, murmur, wander, or even indulge in vice, thinking our hardship gives us license. Paul chose to trust in and walk with Christ through his trial, and come out the other end as a shining example.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 1

1. In verse 3, Paul refers to God as the “the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort”. The Greek word translated “mercies” indicates compassion from deep in His heart. The word translated as “comfort” could also be translated as consolation, solace, encouragement, or refreshment. God comforts us because of his compassion. What are some of the ways that God has comforted you? Take time to thank Him for His compassion towards you.
2. Read verses 4-7. In addition to comforting us simply to help us, God comforts us that we can be a comfort to others. As you think about the ways that God has worked in your life, ask God to help you see how He might want to use you to minister to others in the same way.
3. Paul tells in verses 8-10 of a tremendously difficult time that he and his companions went through while in Asia. They were “burdened”, “despaired of life”, and had the “sentence of death” upon them. But notice the reason for this in the middle of verse 9, “that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead”. When we face seemingly impossible situations, God designs these as opportunities to trust Him in a greater way. What difficulties is God bringing you through now? Are you taking advantage of the opportunity to trust Him in it?
4. Paul speaks of his “boast”: that he lived in “simplicity and godly sincerity”, not according to his own power and resource but by the grace of God. Essentially, this means that Paul lifted a life that was an open book and had no hypocrisy. His only agenda was Jesus.   Have you ever lived this way? If not, what is holding you back? If you once did, but are not now, what have you allowed to creep in to get in the way? No matter where you’re at, ask Jesus for help to live like Paul!
5. Read verses 15-18. The Corinthians are accusing Paul of not being a man of his word. However, Paul wasn’t saying yes and then changing it to a no. He was just noncommittal until he was sure it was the Lord. Read Matt 5:33-37. Do you keep your promises? Do you stick to your yes’s and no’s? Do you count the cost before you make commitments?
6. The reason it is important for us to be trustworthy when we say we do something is found in verses 19-20. What is God’s character when He makes promises?
7. We are told that the Holy Spirit is in our hearts as a guarantee. The word for guarantee means “money which in purchases is given as a pledge or down payment that the full amount will subsequently be paid”. In other words, the fact that the Spirit lives in us, is a proof that Jesus will finish the work in us and take us home. Read Phil 1:6. How does this truth minister to you?
8. In verse 24 Paul speaks of not having dominion over (being the boss of) the Corinthians. Rather he says that he is a “fellow worker”, a Greek word that we get our word “synergy” from. Synergy means multiple forces working as one. What part do you play in the work of the kingdom of heaven? Do you have your eyes on the prize: seeing people come to know God and to grow in their relationship with Him?

Old Testament:
Job 19- Hope
Job 20- Repeat

1 Corinthians 16:9
“For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.”

As Paul comes to the conclusion of this letter, he writes to his friends in Corinth about his future plans. Notice, his plans all centered around serving the Lord and bringing the Gospel to others. He mentions a number of places that he will be traveling, including Ephesus, where he has “an open door.” This is a common phrase, both in our vernacular, and in the New Testament writings. We understand it to mean a way in, and use it with a wide variety of applications. We may refer to an open door for a new job, new house, or even a new relationship. When the term is used in the New Testament, it is restricted to speaking of opportunities for the furtherance of the Gospel. Paul explained this clearly when writing to the Colossians,

“. . . meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.” Colossians 4:3-4

The term “open” is used throughout the New Testament to refer to things that were closed until the Lord opened them. We read of eyes, ears, and graves being opened. We also read of the heavens being opened, and even the sealed scroll in Revelation was opened by the Lord. When Paul speaks of an open door in Ephesus, he is referring to an opportunity to minister where there was none before. Ministry is like that. There are people in your life who you have attempted to reach out to, and been rejected, but as you continue to walk with Jesus and pray for them, the Lord will open up a future opportunity to reach out to them.

One of the difficulties we face, is how to recognize when we have an open door. In Acts 13, Paul and Barnabas began their missionary campaigns. As we read the accounts, it was clear they had a wide open door to bring the Gospel to their world. Thousands of people were won to Christ, and dozens of churches were planted throughout Asia Minor and Europe.

But, how did they know it was the Lord who was sending them out? Two key elements in determining the will of God are revealed in their story. First, we are told, while they prayed and fasted, the Lord spoke to them. If we want to see doors open to minister to others, we need to seek the Lord. Jesus told us to ask, seek and knock. Perhaps now would be a good time to revisit your prayer list and add praying for an open door to share Christ with family and friends.

Second, Luke records, “So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went” (Acts 13:4). Once they heard from the Lord, once they recognized they might have an open door, they began to walk through it. The only way to be sure we have an open door into someone’s life to bring them to Jesus, is to take steps in that direction. Make a call, text, email, tweet, IM or meet them face-to-face and simply invite them to come with you to church. Or meet for coffee and share the great things that the Lord has done for you.

Keep in mind that with an open door comes adversity, but the difficulties are more than worth the treasure of seeing our friends come to Christ.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 1 Corinthians 16

1. Verse 13 states….Watch! After studying 1 Corinthians, what are you watching for?
2. Stand fast in the faith! An old wise man once said: “If you stand for nothing, you will probably fall for anything.” Do you know what you are standing for?
3. Be brave, be strong! Knowing how much God loves you is the best foundation for your strength and confidence. Read Acts 28:30-31
4. Verse 14, review 1 Corinthians 13. Let all that you do………………be done with love!

Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

 

Old Testament:
Job 17- Broken
Job 18- A Trap

1 Corinthians 15:20
“But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

When I was sixteen years old, driving to my first part-time job, a wild thought entered my mind. I thought, “I wonder what happens after we die?” I realized later I was grappling with one of the deepest philosophical questions man has ever attempted to answer, but at that time I had never considered anything like it before. As quickly as the question entered my mind, I came up with an answer, “When we die we go to heaven.” This was followed by the question, “What is heaven?” To which I answered, “Heaven is getting to do whatever you want for all of time.” I then asked a third question, “Who goes to heaven?” To which I replied,”Those who are good.” This of course brought me to a final question, “Who is good?” My final answer was a little more difficult to develop, but there on the way to work, I determined that I was good and anyone who lived up to my standard was also good and would be allowed into my heaven. In the few minutes that it took, I had asked and answered the most important questions that a person will ever be asked. I had also completely satisfied myself with my answers. Had anyone asked me what happens after we die, I would have spoken with authority, explaining the way to heaven and the purpose of life. As you can see, there was one obvious problem; it was all a product of my own imagination! My way of living, my heaven, even my god, were the product of my own imagination.

Philosophers have been grappling with these same questions since the beginning of time. Some have come up with very elaborate systems to explain what they think happens after death. The problem with all of these systems is the same, they are the product of the imagination of man. No one has died, gone to heaven, and come back to explain who God is, what heaven is like, and how to live in preparation for that time. No one, that is, except Jesus Christ. When speaking to a man named Nicodemus, Jesus explained that “no one has ascended to heaven except He who came down from heaven.” In other words, the only way to answer these questions is to listen to the One who came from heaven to prepare man for life after death.

According to the Word of God, the person who believes they are a sinner and Christ is the Savior, is prepared for life after death. That person will take a final breath in their earthly body and awake in the presence of the Lord, in a body prepared for eternity. Scripture refers to this as “the Resurrection”. The basis for our confidence in our future resurrection is the fact that Christ rose from the dead. How can we be certain that Christ rose from the dead? There are many avenues we could venture down to answer this question, not the least of which is to look at the lives of those who have trusted Christ and see how they have been transformed by Him.

Rather than imagining what we think life is about, or what happens after death, perhaps it would be better to listen to the One who knows. Take a few minutes to read through 1 Corinthians 15 in your Bible, paying special attention to the first few verse where Paul explains how we prepare for life after death.

If you have any questions contact me, I would love to help any way I can.
jg@ccvb.net
Pastor Jim

Questions for 1 Corinthians 15

1. After all the discussion of gifts, Paul comes back to the foundation: the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the message that was declared to the Corinthians, and it is the message that they believed in. Two main parts to the gospel message: 1) Jesus died for our sin. 2) Jesus rose again. Read Isa 53:11. What does Jesus’ death on the cross for your sin mean for your life? Read Romans 6:4 and 6:13. What does his resurrection mean for your life?
2. In verse 3 and 4 we are told that the things that happened to Jesus happened according to the Scriptures. That is to say that they were prophesied long before Jesus was born in the Old Testament. How does knowing that Jesus death and resurrection were accurately foretold hundreds of years before he was born help to validate the truth and reliability of the gospel message? The Bible is prophetically accurate.
3. Paul also states in verses 5-8 the many witnesses that confirmed the resurrection of Christ. How does the historical confirmation of many eyewitnesses increase your confidence in the message? The Bible is historically accurate.
4. In verse 8-10 we get a glimpse of Paul’s sense of unworthiness of being used by God. However he did not let this stop him from being used. What was Paul’s qualification for ministry?
5. Some in the church were saying that there was no resurrection, despite being taught that there was. The resurrection is, not an afterthought or a side issue. It is one of the central points of the Gospel of Jesus. Look at verses 12-19. Especially consider verse 19. What if there is no such thing as resurrection?
6. Read verses 20-28, we are reminded that there is a future after this life, and that it is much bigger than us. Is this future a regular part of your day to day thinking?
7. How do verses 31-34 speak to you?
8. In verses 35-53 we learn some truths about the new or glorified bodies that we will have when we are resurrected and go to heaven. Just as we took on the nature of Adam (sin, corruption and death), so we will take on the nature of Jesus (holiness, incorruptible, immortal). Take time to thank God for this; imagine what it will be like to live that way!
9. In verses 54-58, Paul sums up the reality of the resurrection for us. Look at verse 58. In light of the resurrection, how should we live? Is God speaking to you about any particular way He wants to change how you live?

Old Testament:
Job 15- Self Examination
Job 16- He Loves Me