First Baptist Church of Diana, Texas

2 Corinthians 1:12-24

Memory Verse: Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  1 Corinthians 3:17 

In his concluding remarks in a commentary on this passage of Scripture Warren Weirsbe writes, “If you live to please people, misunderstandings will depress you; but if you live to please god, you can face misunderstandings with faith and courage.” Paul had evidently expressed an intention to the Corinthians of a couple of visits. As his schedule played out, he was inadvertently unable to keep with his stated intentions. Perhaps this is a situation similar to Will Rogers’ experience that caused him to write, “Plans get you into things but you have to work your way out.” This passage is Paul’s attempt to work his way out. 

Paul’s rebuke and encounter with the Corinthians had shattered his heart. He had started this church as a planter and it grieved him deeply to have to render harsh words for the purpose of giving correction in their error. Because of his love for the Lord and this church he had delivered the necessary rebuke.  Some had not responded well to Paul’s exhortations and were apparently liberal with their criticism. Because of his integrity, Paul was in a position to work his way out.

In verse 12 Paul calls attention to the holiness and sincerity of his conscience. They had misunderstood his statement of intentions to be a statement of promise. He takes this opportunity to offer a correction. Later works indicate to us that Paul was reconciled to the church after a visit from Titus. Paul did not have to retreat due to his actions because he had maintained integrity between his conscience and his speech. Two primary movers in this situation facilitated the reconciliation. First Paul had been genuine in his intentions and second, he loved them dearly. He saw himself as working with them and not against them.  May we follow suit and always see ourselves as partners in the Gospel even and especially when we have misunderstandings and disagreements.

Reflection

What did God say to me from this Scripture reading, devotional, and or prayer time?

What did I say to God?