2 Corinthians 13:6–7: But I trust that you will know that we are not disqualified. Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that you should do what is honorable, though we may seem disqualified.
No doubt many of the problems in the church at Corinth were caused by people who professed to be saved, but who had never repented and trusted Jesus Christ. Our churches are filled with such people today. Paul called such people reprobate, which means “counterfeit, discredited after a test.” In 2 Corinthians 13:7, Paul made it clear that he did not want the Corinthians to fail the test just to prove that he was right. Nor did he want them to live godly lives just so he could boast about them. He did not mind being despised and criticized for their sakes, so long as they were obeying the Lord. He was not concerned about his own reputation, for the Lord knew his heart; but he was concerned about their Christian character. 1
Personal Application
- Read 1 Corinthians 9:27. Why is personal discipline so important?
Godly Encouragement
- All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
A Biblical Thought to Share with Others
Your character is who you are, your reputation is who people think you are. – TWEET IT
A Prayer to Consider
Lord, keep me from temptation and disqualification.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.