“2 Corinthians 6”

Thursday, April 06, 2017

As he further defends his reputation among the Corinthians, Paul describes himself and the Christians in Corinth, as workers together with God. Surely such language would stir up in their memories some of the highlights of Paul's work in their midst. 

He reminds us all that “now” is the only time we have and that we must, therefore, serve Him while we can. This is the accepted time and the day of salvation that He extends to us. We have no assurance of anything else. We cannot save up any of yesterday to use today and we have no promise of tomorrow (James 4:14 and Proverbs 27:1).

Paul's next appeal is to their understanding of his personal character. When Paul left the comforts of his Jewish upbringing behind in order to follow Christ, he did so, not because of what he would gain, but in spite of what he would have to pay.

Their awareness of the many sacrifices Paul had endured for the cause would show them again about his trustworthiness.  He speaks of His patience, tribulations, needs, distresses, stripes, imprisonments, tumults, labors, sleeplessness, fasting, purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, sincere love, etc.

If they would only recall the open love that he showed them and received from them in return (verses 11-13).

The chapter concludes with a reminder not to get caught up in the sinful activities of the world. As Christians, we must live in the world (1 Corinthians 5:10), but we are not to live like the rest of the world.

In verses 16-18, Paul quotes numerous Old Testament passages referring to a close, personal relationship with God, as His sons and daughters. “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God and they shall be My people.”

--Roger Hillis

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