This week I had an occasion to dive deeply into the Word of God. I was blessed to spend days pouring over Second Corinthians and discovering some wonderful truths about God, the Apostle Paul, and human nature. Perhaps what struck me the most, though, was Paul’s love for God and His church. When addressing the church in Corinth he wrote, ”I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him.” As Paul opened his heart to them, it was clear that he greatly desired that they live a life of faith and purity before Christ. He wrote to them as a spiritual father, who was willing to do what was necessary to protect his children from predators, or chastise members of the church if need be. Throughout the letter he remained uncompromised as he fought for accurate doctrine, obedience to God, the reputation of worker’s in Christ (himself included), generosity among the saints, and that Christ would receive the glory for all things. To those who were daring to bring harm to the church, Paul lined himself up like a prize-fighter ready to go however many rounds it would take to defeat his opponents.
As I left my time of study, I felt inspired as a believer (and Elder) in Christ to have the same passion for the church that Paul had. Yet I recognized that this was unlikely, since Paul’s level of passion and commitment to the church seems far beyond whatever I would offer. Still, I left the book with a greater desire to strive for accurate doctrine, obedience to God, generosity and kindness among the saints, and the glorification of Christ
Brothers and Sisters, there is much at stake as we live out our lives before the Lord. We are to live with passion and purpose, and not be lukewarm. Christ wants to use us to advance His kingdom and he has given each believer the opportunity to access the same power that was used to raise Christ from the dead. Next time you are in church look around at the saints that surround you. Be ready to give yourself for them in acts of service and sacrifice and with words of exhortation. God has accomplished so much for us. What shall we accomplish for Him?
For Him,
Rob