Daily Devotions
2 Corinthians
INTRODUCTION TO 2 CORINTHIANS
Text: 2 Corinthians
The First Letter to the Corinthian Church
Paul wrote to address the many problems that threatened the very survival of the Church. His approach was typically Pauline.
1. There was strong and clear Scriptural emphasis.
2. Reference to all three Persons in the Godhead was consistent.
3. Problems were spelt out clearly.
4. These were addressed with candidness and skill.
5. Paul’s love for the Church was obvious and moving to note.
6. His challenge was to be an ambassador for Christ, seeking always to bring about a reconciliation to the Lord.
7. There was no greater joy for Paul than to faithfully serve the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Second Letter to the Corinthian Church
Paul felt that he had to write other letters to the Corinthian Church. There was one that he wrote but we do not have that letter. What we read as 2 Corinthians would have been 3 Corinthians if the second one had been preserved.
Nevertheless, 2 Corinthians as we know it, contains typically deep and insightful instruction and inspiration. Paul opens his heart in a very personal way to the Church. The Corinthians had repented of their sinful ways and had returned to the Lord. Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians now exuded great warmth and tenderness.
As may be expected, Paul would share deep spiritual insights. The mind is enlightened, the heart is encouraged and the spirit is refreshed!
READING 2 CORINTHIANS MEANINGFULLY
An effective way to read 2 Corinthians must include the following features.
1. Prayerfully
Let us always seek the illumination that comes from the Spirit of God.
2. Discerningly
It is vital that we seek to deepen and sharpen our understanding of the Scriptures. Let us read for more than information. Let us seek spiritual maturity as we read 2 Corinthians.
3. Diligence
It is good for us spiritually, if we cultivate a strong spirit of diligence through the daily reading of God’s word. Diligence will stand us in good stead.
4. With a view of practising the Word of God
Let us read with the desire and determination to apply the profound truths we read from the Lord’s word. Knowledge of the Lord’s word without application results in futility.
May the Lord open our eyes to behold wondrous things in the Scriptures!
Prayerfully,
Charles Tan