Key Verse:
For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.
(2 Corinthians 11:4)
Central Truth:
What are we putting up with?
FALSE PROPHET
Chapter 11 is an interesting read. Read the whole book to really understand what Paul is doing.
Paul is writing to defend himself. Apparently, the people of Corinth did not appreciate his earlier letter. In that letter, Paul did not hold back. He calls the people of Corinth to the carpet for the sinful habits they have fallen into. I always love Paul's boldness. When he persecuted the Christians he did it 100%, when he preaches the gospel he holds nothing back.
How would you respond today if 'Paul' wrote you (us as the church) and called us on the carpet for the way we live. Are we bad people? No, are we living to God's standards and expectations? I will let you answer that.
In short, I think Paul’s letter would surprise a lot people just as it did the people of Corinth. I think I would be the poster boy of his wrath:
"Did you spend your money wisely?" No.
"Did you act compassionately when it was not comfortable or convenient?" No.
"Do you need that big of a house, new car, newest smartphone, new computer etc?" No.
"Have you ever shied away from sharing Christ or standing up for His way?" Hmmm.
"Are your energies in following Christ or man? Really? Can I see your checkbook and day planner?"
Now that your ego is stinging a little, you know what the people of Corinth might have felt. Paul being Paul, stands up for himself, and lets the people of Corinth know he has authority under God to tell them like it is. Too bad if they are offended; get over it. He has suffered physically and mentally far more than any of them.
Today there are few Paul’s out there. Our life comes with a coat of sugar; our mirrors are enhanced to show us what we want to see. Our televisions, politicians, community leaders all tell us its O.K.
It everything really O.K.? It is something to think about . . . .
No comments:
Post a Comment