Jim Gallagher

2 Corinthians 12:9
“ My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Every few years someone writes a book about how they died, went to heaven, and returned to tell about their experiences. The story usually includes something about radiant light, warm feelings, and the awareness of all their loved ones awaiting their arrival. The authors are heralded as experts on the subject of the after-life and their books often become best sellers. Two thousand years ago Paul had an experience where he was “caught up” into heaven. As he reluctantly relates his story, two things stand out to me.

2 Corinthians 12:4 “. . . how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.”

Rather than giving a detailed description of heaven, Paul explains that it would be unlawful to attempt to express even the sounds that he heard. Imagine your favorite song, let the sweetness of the singer’s voice enter your mind, then imagine what that song sounds like if we had church Karaoke night, and I was singing. You might say “he is murdering that song, that should be against the law.” Any attempt by Paul to relate heaven to earth would not do it justice.

Scarcely any of Heaven’s glories can be compared to earthly experiences. However, we do find a few. We read of streets of gold, gates of pearl, glorious thrones and a glassy sea. We are also told, heaven will be a place without sorrow, pain, death, sin, or the need of a sun, because the glory of God will be enough to illuminate the skies. Additionally, Scripture describes the inhabitants of heaven. The saints will be in their glorified bodies, and angelic beings, beyond any earthly comparison, will be there, and the central focus of eternity is a throne where God sits as King and Judge. It interests me, when people write of their supposed experiences of visiting heaven, they never seem to mention that God is sitting on a throne as judge. Perhaps what validates Paul’s vision more than anything else, is his unwillingness to talk about it.

2 Corinthians 12:7 “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.”

When the revelation ended, Paul found he was afflicted with some sort of physical infirmity. What exactly it was he does not say. For two thousand years Bible students have been trying to piece together the puzzle and uncover to what he referred. While I do not pretend to know what he did not tell us, it is clear he is speaking of a physical infirmity that made life difficult for him. The suffering he experienced was so great he pleaded with the Lord to remove it, and he pleaded with persistence. Imagine the apostle on his knees crying out to the Lord to remove the infirmity which slowed down his progress in sharing the Gospel with a dying world. Then imagine as the silence of heaven is broken as God says,

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Instead of receiving healing, Paul was given grace. He went on to describe how, in suffering, Jesus shows up to provide strength. For Paul, it became a common experience to be weaker than the task required, and to experience the grace of God, which would give him more than was necessary to accomplish what he was called to do. He uses two words that we do not usually associate with suffering. The first is boasting and the second is pleasure. It was not that Paul was a masochist who loved suffering, but he had found that in his weakness, he would experience God’s strength.

Perhaps it is not a vision of heaven that we need, but a realization that in our weakness God wants to show His strength.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 12

1. In verse 1-4, Paul tells of a man who was caught up to heaven and who heard things there that were so wonderful that he could not explain them, and it wouldn’t even be right to try.  Do you ever spend time imagining heaven?  Do you have a dry, cliché’, “clouds and harps” view of heaven, or is your concept of it more like Paul says it is here?
2. Although Paul was aware of a person who had gone through this spectacular experience, look at what he says at the end of verse 6.  Where does he keep the focus?
3. God worked in Paul’s life tremendously, and in verse 7 he indicates that there could be a temptation to think that he was special and better than others.  God allowed Satan to beat Paul up a bit to keep him humble.  Read Job 1.  Read Romans 8:28.  God can even use our enemies for good purposes in our lives.  Thank God that He is in control!
4. Even though God uses difficulties and trials in our lives, it is not always pleasant.  Read verses 8-10.  Paul seeks to get himself out from under the difficulty, but God tells him no.  What things is God doing and trying to teach Paul according to these verses?  Do these principles apply in our lives?  Are you going through anything difficult that God is not letting you out from under?  Are you learning the same things that God was teaching Paul?
5. In verses 11-18 Paul is looking forward to a future time when he will see the Corinthians, and reminding them of how he has not been a financial burden to them.  The principles seem to be illustrated most clearly in verse 14-15.  Paul essentially says that he wants the best for them, as a parent does for his child and that as a parent he is happy to spend his life to care for them.  It is God’s desire that we grow up and mature as Christians, and that we eventually become spiritual “parents”, helping others to grow in their relationship with Jesus.  Read 2 Timothy 2:2.  Are you doing this now?  If not who might God want you to start with?  If you feel totally incapable of discipling another, what do you have to do to grow today so that you later are capable?
6. Look at verse 19.  What is Paul’s end goal in all that he says and does for the Corinthians?
7. Consider verse 20-21.  When Paul saw sin in the lives of the Corinthians, how did he feel?  Do you feel this way about sin in your own life?  Are you grieved over sin in the life of others?  Take time to pray for people you know who are walking in sin and are in need of repentance and trusting God.

Old Testament:
Job 41- He Is A Big God
Job 42- Poison

2 Corinthians 11:23
“Are they ministers of Christ? —I speak as a fool—I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often.”

Part of the reason for writing this letter, was Paul’s authority as an apostle was being challenged. When he came to Corinth, Paul chose not to receive a salary from the Corinthian church, instead he worked with his hands, and received support from the churches in Macedonia. He also chose not to use his great intellect or skills as an orator to persuade the people, but resolved to emphasize the simplicity of Christ, and relied upon the work of the Holy Spirit. As a result, after his departure, many ridiculed him and his teaching, calling his authority into question. Rather than responding to the criticism by referring to the seminary degree, the books he had written, or churches he started, Paul reminds them of the difficulties he faced in order to bring the Gospel to a lost world. This passage was admittedly difficult for the Apostle to write. He was not one who derived pleasure from boasting of his own accomplishments. As difficult as it may have been, I am glad he wrote it. For it reveals the hardships he was willing to endure for others to come to Christ.

“. . . In labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often.”

Notice the short list of Paul’s experiences: labors, stripes, prisons and death. In addition, he speaks in great length of perils and shipwrecks. To sum up, Paul was willing to endure great opposition in order to see others come to saving faith in Christ. Not every time Paul shared Christ was he met with beating, prison or threats of death. Albeit, even during those times, he was willing to invest the Gospel in the ears of others. He speaks of the difficulty of travel. The Jewish people were not known for being seafaring. In fact, it could be said of many, that they hated ocean travel. Paul was willing to set aside his fear of travel to bring Christ to others. He traveled to difficult places. He speaks of “peril”. This peril was due to the fact that not every road he took, or destination at which he arrived, was safe. Yet, he pressed on to bring Christ to a dying world.

Whether he faced threats, beatings or prison, Paul was willing to open His mouth to invite others to Christ. What are you willing to endure to see others come to Christ? Rather than living in the realm of theory, take a few moments to look back over the last few months and ask “What have I endured to invite others to Christ?” Perhaps today is the day to step out and take some risks for the Kingdom.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 11

1.     In verse 2, Paul says that he has a godly “jealousy” for the Corinthians.  This word means zeal, passion, or fervency.  What is Paul’s ultimate desire for the Corinthians?  Do you have anyone that you feel this way about?
2.     The Corinthians had some false, puffed-up teachers among them.  Paul wanted to protect them and so reminds them that the gospel is simple:  God loves us; Jesus died for the forgiveness of our sins, and sent his Spirit so that we could walk in newness of life.  Are you clear on the simple truths of Christ?  Make sure that these as you walk with God that these simple foundations are never replaced by seemingly “deeper” truths.
3.     Read verses 5-12.  Paul sought to preach the gospel free of charge to the Corinthians, being supported by other churches.  He did this for three reasons, found in verses 9, 11, and 12.  What were they?
4.     Every one of the New Testament authors warned of false teachers.  What do verses 13-15 teach us about false teachers?  If this is the case, how can we keep from being deceived?
5.     Paul loves to talk about and honor Jesus; he does not like to talk about himself.  However, in order to point out the differences between himself and the false teachers that were preying upon the Corinthian church, he takes some time to “boast” about his resume’ of service to God through the rest of the chapter.  James 3:13 states a principle concerning being a teacher in the church of God.  Write this principle in your own words as you consider the following:
a. In verse 22 and 23, how is Paul equal to the false teachers?  In what ways is he greater than them?
b. Read verses 24-27.  Make a list of all the things that Paul went through for the sake of the gospel
c. Read verse 28. Besides all of the outward things that he went through, Paul crowns the list with the inward weight that he carries of concern for the churches. He loves the churches he has planted like they are his children. Is there anyone that you feel a responsibility for spiritually speaking?

Old Testament:
Job 39- Bible For $100
Job 40- Bad Things. Good People

2 Corinthians 10:3
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.”

The word ‘walk’ is a common idiom in the New Testament used to illustrate the way we live. Paul is reminding us that whether we are believers or not, we live in the natural world. Believer and unbeliever alike, breathe the same air, eat the same food, and need the same rest. Having said that, Paul goes on to remind us that, although we live in the natural world, we fight a spiritual battle. He does not use the word WAR, as a hook for his sermon, instead he is describing the everyday life of the Christian. From the moment we rise each and every day, we are in the midst of spiritual battle. One of the factors making this battle so difficult, is that it takes place on two fronts. We all battle against our own flesh. We must fight to resist temptation, overcome sin, and live as godly ambassadors of Christ. At the same time, we are battling to see our friends, family, neighbors co-workers, and acquaintances come to Christ. These battles are not won by natural means, but with spiritual weapons.

2 Corinthians 10:4 “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds . . .”

Often, when we are stirred to share Christ with others, we immediately think we are not a good communicator, don’t have all the answers, or that we are too shy. While all those things may be true, Paul reminds us that the weapons useful in seeing others won to Christ, are not natural, but spiritual. That means our weaknesses do not weaken the message, or limit God’s ability to use us. Paul refers to three effects our spiritual weapons will have on those who have yet to surrender to Christ. First, he states they are mighty to “pull down strongholds.” A person who has not responded to Christ, is in bondage to sin. That sin is like a chain or a prison cell keeping them from Christ. The sin might be substance abuse, partying, fear of man, wanting to fit in, sexual misconduct, pride, or a series of other sins. Whatever sin it may be, we have been equipped with weapons to break down those strongholds and set the prisoner free.

Second, Paul instructs us, our weapons will “cast down arguments.” Upon hearing the Gospel message, many immediately respond with arguments against surrender to Christ. Some of those arguments are based on what they have been taught about science, religion and philosophy. Others, based on personal experiences, that cast doubt on the promises of God. While still others, are based on a misunderstanding of Christ and Christianity. Whatever the source of the argument that exalts itself above the Word of God, we have weapons that cast down those arguments, so they can honestly consider Christ.

Finally, Paul speaks of our weapons “bringing every thought into the captivity of Christ.” I cannot speak to every case, but I know before coming to Christ, I spent a lot of energy thinking, but none of that energy was spent thinking about eternity. My thoughts were consumed with what I was going to do that day to enjoy life. It was only after hearing the Gospel, that my thoughts were captivated by Christ. Suddenly, I began to consider things that I had never thought of before. Will I go to heaven? Am I living right in God’s eyes? For what purpose was I created, and am I living out that purpose? The Christian has been equipped with weapons that will captivate the thinking of the lost.

Paul does not go on to list those weapons here, but when we travel to Ephesians 6, we learn the weapons he is describing are the Word of God and prayer. If we want to see others set free from sin and open to the Gospel of God, we need to pray for them and share with them. Take time today to pray for those in your life who do not know Christ, or are backslidden. Then step out and invite them to come to church with you.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 10

1. Look at verses 1-2, 8-11.  Paul was an apostle, and had great authority and power from the Lord.  We see the Lord giving power to another apostle (Peter) to bring judgment down upon sin in the early church (Acts 5).  The Corinthians had always known Paul as meek in person, yet in his letters he has been bold to them.  He warns them that when he sees them in person, they will see another side of him if necessary, and he begs them to respond to his written correction.  It seems that Paul is taking every opportunity to be gracious with others, and give them opportunity to repent.  If you see someone you care about doing something wrong, are you quick to jump into conflict?  Do you control your emotions and deal deliberately, thoughtfully, and prayerfully with others before you act or speak?
2. Paul’s opponents said that he was just like them (he walked in the flesh).  However how was he different from them? (verse 3)
3. Read verse 4-6. Paul fought spiritual battles with spiritual weapons.  As Christians we are in a warfare (Read Ephesians 6:10-20).  Yet we cannot fight this war with earthly weapons, or by earthly resources.  What are the weapons and armor that we are outfitted with when we engage in spiritual warfare?  Fleshly human resources are not only useless for this battle, but they are the opponent’s tools!  Read Galatians 5:19-21 to see what the flesh produces.
4. In verse 7, Paul cautions the Corinthians on making judgment based on outward appearance.  Read 1 Samuel 16:7.  What does the Lord look at?  Although we cannot see a man’s heart, what are some good ways to gauge a man’s heart?  Read Matthew 7:15-27.
5. In verse 12 we see that the people who were criticizing Paul compared and measured themselves by one another.  Read John 21:15-22.  How did Jesus handle Peter comparing himself to John?  Read Ephesians 4:13.  According to this verse who should we compare ourselves to?  What effect does making this comparison have on you?
6. Look at verses 13-16.  Paul’s hope is to “not boast in other men’s labors”, but to “preach the gospel in the regions beyond you”.   Read Romans 15:20-21.  Do you have a heart to see the gospel of God’s grace run?
7. In verse 17, Paul quotes Jeremiah 9:23-24.  What should we not glory in?  What should we glory in?
8. Look at verse 18.  Ultimately, our opinion of ourselves does not matter; only what God thinks counts.  Read Matt 25:14-30.  What do you want to hear the Lord say to you when you stand before Him?

Old Testament:
Job 37- His Thundering Voice

2 Corinthians 9:7
“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”

As Paul was writing this letter, conditions in Jerusalem were very difficult. Persecution, famine, and perhaps a bit of mismanagement, had left the church in Jerusalem financially destitute. In order to help those in need, Paul assisted in organizing a financial gift from the gentile churches. This passage lays out the guidelines for the giving and receiving of that gift. The principles Paul presents should help to govern our giving, which we often refer to giving as tithing. The word “tithe” means tenth and refers to the Old Testament Law where the children of Israel were required to give a tenth back to the Lord. The New Testament, while not requiring a tenth, does clearly teach the need to “give back” to the Lord.

“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart . . .”

Notice Paul writes, “each one give”. Regardless of our financial condition, we all must consider that God wants us to trust Him; part of that trust is to give from what He has provided for us. He adds, we should each give as we purpose in our own hearts. Rather than giving being a requirement of the law, Paul wants us to see it as an act of worship. Each Christian should sit down before the Lord, lay out his finances and determine what part will be given back. That can often be very difficult. For some, we fear giving because we are not sure how we will manage our budget if we give some of our income away. For others, it is complicated by the fact that we have been so touched by Jesus, we want to give it all away. We may even feel guilty about the portion we keep for ourselves. To help us in our decision, Paul gives a serious of principles that should govern our giving.

“. . . not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”

If, when you give, you do it bitterly, then the best thing to do is go back to sitting before the Lord and determining why you are unwilling to give back to Him. Our giving should be joyous, as we celebrate all that God has done for us.

“He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” 2 Corinthians 9:6

Paul compares giving to planting. At the end of the season, the farmer does not want to have a pocket full of seeds, but a basket full of fruit. When we determine what to give, we must consider that great spiritual benefits are derived when we give back to the Lord. In the previous chapter, Paul gives a few more principles. He writes,

“For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have.” 2 Corinthians 8:12

While it is important that we trust the Lord and give in faith, believing He is able to meet our needs with less than 100% of our income, Paul warns us not to give what we do not have. If you don’t have the money to give, it would be foolish to give on credit. The value of giving is not in the amount, as much as it is in the willingness to trust the Lord. Perhaps we need to reevaluate the way we are spending, if we have nothing left to give.

“And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.” 2 Corinthians 8:5

Finally, those who gave to the church, first gave themselves to the Lord. When we give, we are giving to the Lord. We are trusting He will take the little we offer, and use it in a big way to accomplish His purposes. One of the great things about the church is, we are part of a much larger body. When I was in High School, I rarely had much cash.. I can remember going with friends to get pizza. We all pitched in and we all ate till we were full, but we did not all pitch in the same amount. I think I threw down fifty cents. Giving is a little like that. I take from what the Lord has provided for me, and give it back to Him; you do the same, and the Lord accomplishes His purposes with it. Perhaps today would be a good time to sit before the Lord, reevaluate your finances, and determine what He would have you give.

Pastor Jim

Questions for 2 Corinthians 9

1. Paul continues the idea of Christians giving to others, and the Corinthians had a great willingness to do so.  What affect did their passion have on the Macedonian believers?
2. In verses 3-5, an interesting principle is brought up.  Although the Corinthians had a heart for giving, there was also a discipline involved in doing so.  Budgeting for giving is important to help us give with the right heart.  Note the end of verse 5.  What is the right way to give?  What is the wrong way?
3. Read verse 6, and read Matt 6:19-21 for commentary.  Now rewrite verse 6 in your own words.
4. Verse 7 is the definitive New Testament rule when it comes to giving.  What two ways does this verse tell us to give to God?  What two ways does it tell us to not give to God?
5. Look at verse 8.  What is God able to do? 
6. Consider that in verse 8 we are told God can give us an abundance (or over and above what we need) for “every good work”.  God equips us by his grace.  Read 2Tim 3:16-17.  Notice the same phrase “every good work”.  How does God equip us with His grace?
7. Read verses 9-11.  Ultimately, all provision comes from God.  Take time to thank Him for all He has provided for you.
8. Sometimes when we give, we think of the sacrifice that we are making, and we forget all of the ways that God will use that sacrifice.  In verses 12-14 we read of the effects of the Corinthian generosity.  What did their giving accomplish?
9. Paul gets excited at the end of the chapter and thanks God for a gift that words can’t explain.  Look up John 3:16.  What is this gift?

Old Testament:
Job 36- God Is Great

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:
Job 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?