2 Corinthians 12:19: Again, do you think that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ. But we do all things, beloved, for your edification.
These are the things Paul expected to find in the church when he would get there. They expected a great deal of Paul. Paul expected a great deal of them. But what would he find? There would be debates and arguing.
I have been in the ministry for many years, and I am now to the place where I am in no mood for debate. Occasionally I get long letters from folk who listen to my radio program and want to debate a doctrine or a statement I’ve made on the radio. Friend, go on with your viewpoint and pray for me so that, if I am wrong, I will be led to the truth by the Spirit of God. You will not convince me with a long letter, because, frankly, I don’t have the patience to read it. Someone may say that I am very bigoted and narrow–minded. Well, maybe I am, but I just don’t believe that arguing and debating accomplish anything. Our business is to get out the Word of God, and I am not attempting to debate anything. I teach the Word as I come to it as I teach through the Bible. 1
Personal Application
- Read Ephesians 4:11-12. How does God build up His church spiritually?
Godly Encouragement
- I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church. – Colossians 1:24
A Biblical Thought to Share with Others
Christians will be Body builders, or Body breakers. There’s no in between. – TWEET IT
A Prayer to Consider
Lord, teach me and train me to build up the Body of Christ for Your glory.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (2 Corinthians) (electronic ed., Vol. 45). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
