Daniel 1:8 says, But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.  Instead of counting himself fortunate to be given the portion of the king's food and drink, Daniel knew that they would defile his relationship with God and even with the other children of Judah.  We cannot feast on the riches of the world if it will defile our relationship with God or our identity as His followers.  Verse nine states, Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. I believe that God was still at work in Daniel's life because Daniel was remaining true to God.  Had Daniel simply felt that he was fortunate and gone along with the king's plan, I don't believe that God would have been at work in his life.  We cannot follow the world and follow God as well.  Verse ten says, And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.  Though the prince of the eunuchs liked Daniel, he feared the king more.  He was worried about what would happen to him if Daniel and his friends didn't eat and drink and looked bad when presented to the king.  There may be people today who like us, but if our beliefs as followers of Christ somehow threaten them or their position, they will quickly cast us aside to preserve their status.  Verse eleven says, Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,  Daniel did not simply refuse to eat no matter what, but he was willing to talk to Melzar, the prince of the eunuchs about a compromise.  Daniel was not compromising his beliefs, but was simply proposing a way for his friends and himself to remain true to God without causing harm to Melzar.  Though we cannot compromise our faith, we do not need to go out of our way to bring harm to those who are not followers of Christ.   Verse twelve says, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.  Daniel proposed a test.  He and his friends were to be given pulse and water for then days.  Today we might say bread and water.  I wonder how many people, if taken captive and called to live in the king's palace and eat his food would decline the food for fear of poluting themselves spiritually.  Verse thirteen states, Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.  Daniel told Melzar to examine them after ten days compared to those who did eat and drink the the king's food and drink.  Daniel had to have faith that God would keep them strong if they remained faithful to Him.  We cannot compromise our faith for our own benefit, but must decide before temptation comes to remain true to God with the knowledge that He will provide for us.  Verse fourteen says, So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. Melzar consented, which took some faith on his part.  Verse fifteen declares, And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat.  God rewarded their faith, and indirectly that of Melzar also.  When we stand firm for God, those around us will notice and be impacted by our faith, whether they acknowledge it or not.  We might say that still Daniel and the others doomed themselves to a lifetime of bread and water, but that was unimportant.  Remaining true to their faith in God was what mattered.

Daniel 1:1 says, In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it.  Once more, God's chosen people were under attack because they refused to follow God.  We cannot be God's people, followers of Christ, and live in disobedience to His will and expect that there will be no consequences.  When God's chosen people began to live for themselves and not for God, He often removed His protective hand from them.  Verse two states, And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god.  When God removed His protection from Judah, they were defeated by Nebuchadnezzar, who then took the vessels from the house of God and carried them to the treasure house of his god.  We might question why God would allow this to happen, but I believe that when His people did not follow His will that the vessels of the temple had no meaning.  We cannot claim that something is God's if we do not follow Him.  Verse three says, And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king’s seed, and of the princes;  Since Asphenaz was tasked with bringing certain children of the king's seed to him, we can assume that Daniel must have been of the royal family.  Now, he found himself enslaved.  As followers of Christ, we are part of His royal family and must never allow ourselves to be enslaved by sin once more.  Verse four states, Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.  The king didn't want just any children, but he wanted the best so that they might stand, or serve, in the king's palace.  I guess if a person were enslaved by another, then serving in the palace would not be the worst thing that could happen. Verse five states, And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king’s meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.  We are not told how the rest of those captured were being treated, but the others chosen with him and Daniel himself were to be treated to the finest food and drink.  We may be offered the finest that the world has, but if we have to stop identifying as followers of Christ, we cannot accept it.  Daniel and those with him were basically going to be removed from his identity as a Judean.  Verse six states, Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah:   We are given the names of four of the children of Judah who were chosen.  Again, they might have felt fortunate to be in such a position and have even credited God with placing them there, but they were really being put in a position of having to praise, or at least thank, the king.  Verse seven says, Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.  I believe that this is further evidence that they were to be assimilated into Babylonian culture.  Even the names that they had were going to be changed.  If we begin to try to fit into the world, taking on all the habits of the world, we may soon lose our identity as a follower of Christ.  No matter how tempting things may look, if the lead us away from the will of God, they are wrong.  We must stand firm in our identity as God's followers, no matter what it costs us in this world.

2 Corinthians Review concluded

We will spend one more day looking at some of the things that Paul taught in 2nd Corinthians.  I think that he taught us that we will not always get to do everything we decide to do to spread the gospel.  Paul often had his plans changed as far where he was going, but that never stopped him from doing what he was called to do.  He was under the leadership of the Holy Spirit in all his ministry.  We may have plans for what we are going to do to witness for Christ, but something may happen to change our plans.  This does not relieve us of the responsibility of witnessing.  Paul said that he had prayed about being relieved of a thorn in his flesh and that it didn't happen.  That did not mean that God did not hear and answer, but simply that the answer was no.  Paul did not allow this to cause him to question God, and if God says no to our prayers, we cannot allow that to cause us to rebel against God.  We can sometimes become almost bitter at God when we don't get what we pray for, but if we are following the leadership of the Holy Spirit, we never should be that way.  Paul also said that he was caught up in the third heaven several years before, but he was not sure if it was physically or just spiritually.  He had not mentioned it previously, I believe in order to keep the emphasis on the gospel.  He said he saw great things and heard unspeakable things but did not elaborate on them.  I personally believe that he was given a vision of heaven, but don't believe that he was physically there.  We cannot become a follower of Christ simply to gain access to heaven.  We can only become a follower of Christ by accepting His gift of salvation, and then we must live for His glory, and not for our own benefit.  The truth of the gospel is a restored relationship with God and not heavenly rewards.  

2 Corinthians Review continued

In 2 Corinthians Paul spent some time defending his apostleship.  He did not do this to bring honor or glory to himself, but to prove that what he was saying and doing was under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.  Paul did not do this to bring honor to himself, and in fact even apologized for having to do so.  If we find it necessary to defend our relationship to God, it should be done so that God will be glorified.  Paul said that he should not have had to defend himself, because his work for the gospel was itself a witness to his calling.  As stated earlier, Satan is at work to stop the spread of the gospel, and if he can discredit those who are being most effective in spreading the gospel then he is being successful.  What we as followers of Christ need to be careful of is that he is not doing it through us.  When some of those in the church at Corinth began to question Paul's calling, they were helping Satan in his work.  When we begin to put down the work of those who are spreading the gospel today, for whatever reason, then we are doing the same thing.  We are not called to support only those preachers who are most liked, but to support all preachers, or even fellow believers, who present the truth of the gospel.  Paul said that even though they might not have liked the way that he looked or sounded, that he was not what was important, but that the message was all that mattered.  Paul also said that he supported himself in his ministry so that people could not claim that he was just in the ministry for the money.  This was not to teach that no one in the ministry should be paid.  It was Paul's choice.  He also said that he hoped that he wasn't looked down on because he did not accept support.  We today should not look down on those ministers who work to support, or help support, themselves.  If someone serves in a church that cannot fully support them, then if anything they should be held in higher esteem.  Yet, we often look at those ministers who are at larger churches as somehow being more worthy of being heard.

2 Corinthians Review

We will now review some of the things we learned from 2nd Corinthians.  I believe the first thing that Paul teaches us is that we are to have a concern for all Christians.  Paul made it abundantly clear that he wasn't just trying to get people to say that they accepted Christ and then forget them.  Paul's concern was not about making himself look good, but about reaching others with the gospel and then helping them grow in faith.  We as followers of Christ today need to have that same desire.  The second thing is that Paul wanted to ensure that the gospel remained pure.  There were those in the church at Corinth who were trying to add to the requirements of the gospel.  There are people today who claim to be Christians who add requirements to the gospel.  The gospel is and always will be simply the acceptance of Christ as Savior and Lord and then living under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.  We cannot work for salvation nor become good enough to claim a right relationship with God, but can only accept the gift of salvation made available by the grace of God.  The next thing is that we need to realize that Satan is real and will do anything he can to destroy the gospel.  If Satan can get Christians to fighting or even arguing among themselves, then he will, if not stop, then at least hinder the gospel.  The time that followers of Christ spend arguing among themselves is not only time spent not spreading the gospel, but it also makes those who have not accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord question why they would want to do so.  If the people of the church are no different than other people, then what is the reason for following Christ.  We are to be led by the Holy Spirit and are to be set apart from the world in our thoughts and actions.  I think that too often we want a Santa Claus more than a Savior and Lord.  We want to be good enough, at least at certain times, for God to give us material gifts, but we don't want to be concerned about our actions most of the time.  As followers of Christ, we are to be nice all the time, not for gifts of the things of this world, but for the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 13:11

2 Corinthians 13:11 says, Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.  Paul closed with a farewell.   He had said all that he had to say, except for the things he now asked of them.  They were asked to be perfect, by which I believe he meant be perfect in faith.  We will never attain true perfection in this life, but we are to strive for it.  We should never expect that once we become followers of Christ that we become perfect in all our actions automatically.  Still, we are to strive daily to live in perfect faith.  Paul asked that they be of good comfort.  They were not to let the troubles of life to keep them from being comforted by their relationship with Christ.   When we are living under the leadership of Christ, we are secure forevermore, no matter what happens in the world, and this should bring us great comfort.  He asked that they be of one mind.  By this, I believe that he meant that as they each sought God's will in their lives that He would lead them to unity.  When there is discord in the church, God is never behind it, and if each Christian is truly committed to following Christ, then there will be no dissension.  To be of one mind does not mean that every thought and action of every person will be the same, but that the Holy Spirit will guide all our thoughts.  Paul then asked them to live in peace.  I believe that he meant with each other and with the world.  We are to be at peace through Christ, no matter what happens in the world.  Paul said if they did these things that the God of love and peace would be with them.  As followers of Christ, the Holy Spirit is always with us, but if we are at war with our neighbors then God's peace is not with us.  Verse twelve Paul adds, Greet one another with an holy kiss.  We might find this strange today, but it was the customary greeting in their day.  I believe the meaning is to meet each other with real affection.  Verse thirteen continues, All the saints salute you.  Paul was not alone in his care for and concern for the church at Corinth.  All those saints, or believers, with him greeted them as well.  Verse fourteen concludes, The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.  This is all we can ask for any church or individual.  If we live under the grace of Christ and the love of God in communion with the Holy Spirit, everything else will be all right, no matter what happens in life.

2 Corinthians 13:7

2 Corinthians 13:7 says, Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.  Paul was still showing his concern for the church at Corinth.  He was praying that they would live by faith so that they could prove themselves to be true followers of Christ.  He prayed this not so that he should be approved, or for his own glory, but so that they might do what was right in the eyes of God.  We should always pray that other Christians, and we ourselves should live lives that are honest in the eyes of the world, but especially in the eyes of God.  Verse eight adds, For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.  I believe that Paul was saying that we can do nothing to change the truth of God.  We may deny it or we may even attempt to change what the truth of God says, but God's truth is eternal.  It always was and always will be the truth.  Some things that people once thought were the truth, such as the world is flat, have been proven wrong, but God's truth never will be.  God is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.  He is the Creator and Redeemer of mankind.  We can either accept this truth or reject it, but we can never change it.  Verse nine continues, For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.  I believe that Paul was saying that he was not upset if he was weaker than another Christian, or at least was viewed that way.  We are never called to feel that we are superior to other Christians, and if their faith appears stronger, we should rejoice for them.  Paul said that he wished for their perfection.  They would never achieve it, and neither will we, but perfection in faith should always be our goal.  It should also be our prayer for others.  Verse ten concludes, Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.  Paul wanted to help edify or build up the church at Corinth.  He said God gave him the power to deal harshly with heresy in the church, but that he hoped that his words, written out of love for them, would lead them to correct the problems in the church there.  We have to point out heresies in the church, but we should always do so under the leadership of the Holy Spirit and out of an attitude of love.

2 Corinthians 13:1

2 Corinthians 13:1 says, This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.  Paul said that he was coming to them a third time.  He had already been there when he proclaimed the gospel to them and had sent them another letter.  He had not reached them with the gospel and forgotten them.  He said that by the witnessing of two or three that every word would be established.  He was not asking them to only take his word for it.  When we are at work for Christ, there should be one or two other believers who can attest to our work.  In verse two adds, I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:  Paul said that he was speaking to them as if he were present with them.  He said he was writing to those who as believers were guilty of sinning in the church still.  Though we are all sinners who are saved by grace, we can no longer claim that it is okay to sin.  Paul was not writing to them with a holier than thou attitude, but with an attitude of love and compassion.  Verse three continues, Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.  Paul said they wanted proof that Christ was speaking through him, which they thought meant he would be strong and not weak as many of them viewed him.   Once more, we cannot judge a person's faith by their physical strength.  Verse four states, For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.  Paul said that Christ Himself was crucified in physical weakness, but that He lived by the power of God.  Paul then said that he was weak, but that he would live with Christ by the power of God.  We are weak in the flesh, no matter how strong we may be, but can be strong by living through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Verse five adds, Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?  We are to examine ourselves first to prove our faith.  Paul tells the Corinthians that as followers of Christ that Jesus lives in them, through the Holy Spirit.  If Christ is not in us, then Paul says we are a reprobate, simply claiming to be Christians when we are not.  Verse six continues, But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.  Paul made this statement because he knew that Christ was in him.  He lived under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.  We should be able to make the same declaration about our lives.

2 Corinthians 12:16

2 Corinthians 12:16 says, But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.  Paul said that they might somehow claim that he had cleverly made it appear that he did not receive any financial support from them while doing so through cleverness, or guile.  I believe he was saying they might claim this because he sent others to collect claiming it was for themselves or some other purpose and then giving it to Paul.  Verse seventeen Paul adds, Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you?  Paul wanted to end this claim quickly.  He asked if he had received anything from the church by anyone he had sent to them.  If Paul had so much trouble defending his ministry, even having to defend himself because the church wasn't, then we should not be surprised if we have what we do for Christ questioned.  Once more, I do not believe that Paul was saying that the church should not support a minister financially, but that more importantly they should support him spiritually.  Paying a minister should never be seen as giving a church control of what he does or says.  Verse eighteen continues, I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?  Paul asked if Titus and the one sent with him asked for financial support from the church.  This would have been a clever way for Paul to benefit, allowing them to collect and then giving some or all to Paul.  Paul then said they walked in the same spirit and steps.  In other words, they like Paul paid their own way.  They walked by the leadership of the Holy Spirit following the footsteps of Jesus, as should we.  Verse nineteen states, Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.  Paul said he wasn't speaking to excuse himself, since he was following God's will and was doing what he did to edify them.  Just as Paul, if we see a problem in the church, we need to address it, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit and to edify the church.  If we do so, we need never apologize, even if people speak badly about us.  Verse twenty adds, For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults:  Paul told them that he was writing to clear up any misunderstandings between them.  He wanted to eliminate all the negative things that were happening in the church.  Paul wanted them to be true to their faith in Christ, in words and actions.  Verse twenty-one continues, And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.  Paul did not want to have to speak out against sinful actions in the church at Corinth when he came.  He wanted the believers in the church there to correct their own problems.  I believe that Paul saying that God would humble him referred to the fact that he had spoken well of the church at Corinth, and they were not living up to the faith he proclaimed of them.  When we see problems in the church, we need to act quickly to correct them under God's leadership.

2 Corinthians 12:11

2 Corinthians 12:11 says, I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.  Paul said that the reason he had become a fool in glorifying himself was because the members of the church at Corinth had forced him to.  He was not doing it for his own benefit, but to answer those who were questioning or even denying his right to be an apostle.  Whenever Satan can get Christians to put down other Christians, he is delighted.  Verse twelve adds, Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.  Paul was basically declaring that his works should prove his apostleship without his having to defend himself.  He had done the work of an apostle with all patience, through signs, wonders, and mighty deeds.  As followers of Christ today, our work for Christ should show us to be His followers.  Verse thirteen continues, For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.  I believe that Paul was asking if the church at Corinth felt that they were inferior to other churches, which they would have been had they been established by an inferior apostle, one who didn't really have a true relationship with Christ.  We need to realize that if a church, or fellowship of believers, is truly established on salvation through Christ alone, that none is inferior to another, no matter the size of the congregation.  Paul then asked if they felt inferior because he didn't ask them to support him.  Again, not being able to fully support a preacher, or minister, does not make a church inferior to one that can.  God is the One that empowers both.  Paul then said that if his not looking to them for support made them feel that they, or Paul himself, were someone inferior, that he asked their forgiveness.  Material wealth should never determine how a church is viewed, but I am afraid that it often is.  Sometimes people seem to put more pride in the church they attend than they do in their own commitment to Christ.  Verse fourteen states, Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.  Paul said that he was ready for the third time to come to them, but we have no evidence that he made it.  He also said he would still not ask them for support, because the were still young in their faith.  Our plans may not always be God's plans, but that does not mean we should not make plans, only that we should acknowledge God's right to change them.  Verse fifteen adds, And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.  Paul said he would provide for himself and even give his life gladly for the church at Corinth.  He then said that it seemed the more abundantly he loved them, the less they loved Him.  We cannot guarantee that the things we do for other Christians will always be appreciated, but we should not let that stop us from doing them if we know that is what God wants.

2 Corinthians 12:6

2 Corinthians 12:6 says, For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.  Though from here through verse ten is a continuation of Paul's writing about his being caught up into heaven, the emphasis is now somewhat different.  Paul said that even if he might desire for glory that he would not be foolish enough to attempt to glorify himself.  We can be certain that when we begin to attempt to use the gospel for our own glory, no matter what we may see or hear, that we are acting foolishly.  Paul said that he would forebear from doing anything that would glorify himself instead of Christ.  Had he emphasized his being caught up into heaven and what he saw and heard there, people would have viewed him differently.  I believe Paul felt that they would have come to hear him because he would have been viewed as a person above normal people.  Paul only wanted to be viewed as what he was, and that was a servant of Christ, no better nor any worse than any other Christian.  Verse seven adds, And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.  Paul said he was given a thorn in the flesh to keep him from being too exalted.  We are not told what this thorn in the flesh was, but that it came from Satan in an attempt to limit Paul's effectiveness.  Verse eight continues, For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.  Paul said he had asked God, or prayed, about this thorn in the flesh three times.  We can be certain that God heard Paul the first time, but Paul either didn't feel that God had answered him or did not want to accept God's answer.  We can also be certain that just as surely as Satan will attack us when we are working for God, and that God will just as surely hear and answer our prayers.  We just have to understand that the answer may sometimes be no.  Verse nine declares, And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  Paul said that God's answer, whether he understood it after every prayer or only after the third, was that God's grace was sufficient for him and that God's strength was made perfect in weakness.  Paul said he then would rather glory in his infirmities that the power of Christ might rest on him.  If we are able to do everything by our own power, then we are not living by God's power.  We must accept our own weakness in order to prove the power of God.  Verse ten adds, Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.  Paul said that he took pleasure in the bad things in his life, because through them he knew the strength of Christ.  Paul did not seek out these things, but he still had a joy in life because he knew that God was working through Him.  We cannot allow bad things that happen to us in life keep us from witnessing for Christ with a joy in our hearts.

2 Corinthians 12:1

2 Corinthians 12:1 says, It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.  Paul said that it was not expedient for him to glory in himself.  He only related his own experiences to prove his calling as an apostle.  I believe that Paul was saying that when a person follows God for personal glory that such a person will never have a vision for Christ nor receive revelations from God.  Verse two adds, I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.  Paul begins to speak of himself in the third person.  Fourteen years had passed before Paul shared this experience, because he did not want the focus to be on himself.  He said he was caught up in the third heaven, above the one of the birds and the one of the stars and into the one that God dwells in.  Paul was not saying that after our resurrection that there will be three different heavens, but that he was above the ones that we can see.  He said he didn't know if he was physically there or only spiritually, but either way it was a real experience.  Verse three continues, And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;)  Paul was once more attempting to keep the emphasis off himself.  He once more stated that God knew for sure what happened.  If something miraculous happens to us today, we should do all that we can to keep the emphasis on God.  Verse four states, How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.  Paul did not speak about what he saw there or even what he heard.  It took him fourteen years, years of proclaiming the gospel, to even mention it.  Even then, he related the story in the third person.  Had Paul begun to speak of what he heard and saw there, the emphasis would not have been on Christ and His sacrifice on the cross.  Salvation should never be about the riches of heaven but should be about a relationship with God.  Verse five add, Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.  I believe that Paul meant that he would not glory in himself but would only glory in Christ.  He recognized that of his own ability that he only had infirmities.  When we witness, we do so out of our own weakness and through the power of Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:28

2 Corinthians 11:28 says, Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.  Though a part of Paul's speaking about his physical suffering for the gospel, I separated this because the shift should be noted.  Paul said that all his physical sufferings were not the only burden he had.  His real burden was for the churches.  Their care was always in his thoughts.  I don't believe that Paul viewed this as a burden that he unfairly had placed on him, but instead was one that he willingly accepted.  No matter what is going on in our lives, we must always have the care of the church first.  We can suffer all the persecution and abuse possible from the world, but if we are not doing so for the sake of the gospel, it doesn't matter.   Verse twenty-nine adds, Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?  I believe that Paul was speaking about his having the care of the churches in mind more than he was of the physical things he had suffered.  He had empathy for all the believers.  When they were weak, his thoughts and prayers were with them in their weakness.  Paul said when they were offended, he burned with righteousness anger.  We should always feel empathy for other believers.  When Christians anywhere are persecuted, we should have a deep sorrow that it happened or is happening.  Being a follower of Christ is never just something that is for the benefit of the one who is following alone, but calls for witnessing to the lost and edifying other believers.  Verse thirty continues, If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.  I believe that Paul was saying that instead of glorifying his strengths, he would instead be glorifying his weaknesses, so that God, and not Paul himself, would be glorified.  Verse thirty-one states, The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.  Paul was giving the glory to Christ and he said that God knew he was not lying.  We may fool the world boasting about ourselves, but we will never fool God.  Verse thirty-two adds, In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me:  Paul again relates some of his suffering for the gospel, but how even a garrison of soldiers could not find him because of God's protection.  Verse thirty-three continues, And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands.  Paul said that God arranged his escape through a widow and a basket.  When we think that we are weak and insignificant, remember the widow.  She was unafraid to help Paul, even though she would have been punished if caught.  We should never allow fear and weakness to keep us from serving God.

2 Corinthians 11:21

2 Corinthians 11:21 says, I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.  Paul was addressing the reproach that people were treating him with.  He said he was going to be bold in defending his qualifications, though he knew he was speaking foolishly to do so.  Though Paul had been accused of being weak, he knew that his real power did not come from his own abilities.  Still, for the sake of the gospel he would present his qualifications.  Verse twenty-two adds, Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I.  Paul said that even though he was an apostle to the Gentiles, he was a part of the nation of Israel by birth, just as much or more so than those who were attempting to discredit him.  When someone questions us about our faith today, we can stand boldly as a part of God's people if we have accepted Christ as Savior and Lord.  Verse twenty-three continues, Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.  Paul asked if they were ministers of Christ.  I believe that he was asking what they might have done to feel superior to him.  Then he answers that he had worked harder and suffered more physically for the gospel than nearly anyone else.  He had been beaten, imprisoned, and threatened with death many times.  Again, Paul called it foolish to speak of these things, if they focused the glory on himself and not Christ.  Whatever we do for the gospel should always keep the focus on Christ.  Verse twenty-four states, Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one.  Paul said he had received thirty-nine stripes from the Jews five times.  Verse twenty-five adds, Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;  Paul continues to speak about some of the things he had suffered for the gospel.  Three times he was beaten with rods, once he was stoned and three times he was shipwrecked, spending on night in the water.  These are not the acts of a weak man, but Paul still said it was foolish to speak about them.  We might ask why God allowed this to happen to Paul, but we must realize that there will always be great opposition to the gospel.  God doesn't call us to prosperity but to faithfulness.  Verse twenty-six continues,  In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;  Paul said he was continually on the move for the gospel and this often put him in great peril wherever he went, from both the Jews and the Gentiles.  Hopefully we today will never be threatened by those who call themselves God's people, but we can be assured that we will be at odds with the world, or those who don't believe in Christ as their Savior and Lord.  Verse twenty-seven concludes, In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.  Paul was not telling these things for his own glory, but to show his faithfulness to the gospel no matter what.

2 Corinthians 11:13

2 Corinthians 11:13 says, For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.  Paul begins to give a warning against false prophets.  He said they were deceitful, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.  We cannot transform ourselves into apostles, or even followers of Christ, but must be transformed by Christ Himself.  We know that the Bible tells us that not all who claim to know Christ as Savior and Lord really do.  Some make the claim for personal reasons and not because they have really accepted Christ.  Paul said some who called themselves apostles were the same.  Verse fourteen adds, And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.  We need to remember that Satan does not come to us with horns, a tail, a pitchfork and totally in red.  It would be easy to avoid him if he did.  Satan comes in the most appealing form to the person that he is attempting to deceive.  Verse fifteen continues, Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.  Paul warns us that it should come as no surprise that Satan uses false ministers to do his work.  We need to look at who Satan really is, and that is the great deceiver, and be aware that he works by appealing to people's vanity.  Verse sixteen states, I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.  Paul said that no one should think him a fool, but if they received him as such that he would boast a little about himself.  I don't believe this was to bring glory to himself, but to prove his faithfulness to the gospel.  Paul was not fooled by the actions of Satan through Satan's false ministers, and we should not be either.  Verse seventeen adds, That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.  Paul said that when he boasted of himself it was not a commandment of the Lord to do so.  Paul was not boasting to bring credit to himself, but to prove his worthiness to proclaim the gospel.  As a general rule, we as followers of Christ are to be humble, but at times we may need to boldly defend our work for Christ that He might be glorified.  Paul never defended himself for his glory, but always for the sake of the gospel.  Verse eighteen continues, Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.  As just stated, Paul was not speaking of self-glory, but of glorying in the gospel.  Verse nineteen says, For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise.  Paul may have meant that for all their wisdom they were easily deceived by those who preached foolishness.  There are many worldly-wise people today who will follow the foolishness of a false gospel while claiming the true gospel of Christ is just too simple.  Verse twenty adds, For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.  Paul said that they suffered for believing the fool, the one who declared salvation by any means other than faith in Christ.  They placed themselves back in bondage.  If we add any requirement to salvation other than faith in Christ alone, we are placing ourselves back under the bondage of sin.

2 Corinthians 11:5

2 Corinthians 11:5 says, For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.  Paul was not bragging on himself but was simply stating a fact.  In all honesty, Paul could have placed himself ahead of nearly all, if not all, of the apostles.  His successful spreading of the gospel proved this.  If someone comes to us today putting the emphasis on themself instead of Christ, then we need to be suspect of what they are saying.  Verse six adds, But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been thoroughly made manifest among you in all things.  Paul said that he might not be the most eloquent speaker, but that he lacked nothing in the knowledge of God.  This is not to say that he knew everything about God, but that he did know the truth of the gospel from his own conversion experience and reliance on the Holy Spirit when he witnessed.  Though Paul was well educated, I don't believe he was referring to this knowledge, but the knowledge that came from his relationship with God through Christ.  We may be well educated today, but unless we know Christ as our personal Savior and Lord, all that education or knowledge is useless.  Verse seven continues, Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?  Paul was asking the church at Corinth if he had been wrong, or made himself look less important, because he preached the gospel freely.  I believe he was asking if they would have thought more of him had he profited from the gospel.  There are those today who judge a preacher by the size of the congregation or by how much he makes, but the real judgment should be how effectively a preacher presents the gospel.  Paul was not saying that preachers should not be supported materially, but only that he chose not to be.  Verse eight states, I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.  We might question the phrase  "robbed other churches," but Paul was simply saying that he asked for money from other churches to help the church at Corinth.  Verse nine Paul adds, And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.  Paul said he had asked for no financial support from the church at Corinth, and he wouldn't when he came again.  Paul supported himself, though he does say that the brethren who came from Macedonia helped.  Though a preacher should never be a preacher for material gain, they likewise should never have to rely totally on themselves for support unless they choose to.  Though Paul chose to support himself, he was not saying that all preachers should.  Verse ten continues, As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.  Paul said no one would stop him from boasting of, or boldly proclaiming the gospel.  When we have the truth of Christ in us, nothing should stop us from proclaiming it boldly.   Verse eleven asks, Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.  Paul asked if they thought he took the actions he did concerning the church at Corinth because he didn't love them.  He then answered that God knew he did.  Everything we do for God, whether witnessing to the lost or teaching in the church should be done out of a Christ like love for them.  As God loves us, we are to love others.  Verse twelve adds, But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.  I believe that Paul was saying that he lived as he did so no one could have any occasion, or reason, to claim that he proclaimed the gospel for any reason other than the love God and his fellow men and women.  We need to live the same way.

2 Corinthians 11:1

2 Corinthians 11:1 says, Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me.  Paul apologizes for seemingly speaking about what he had done for the gospel if it were viewed as being done to bring glory to himself.  This would indeed be folly, but Paul did not talk about what he had done to bring himself glory.  He spoke to show how God had worked through him to spread the gospel.  There were many false teachers or preachers who were attempting to discredit Paul, and he was simply talking about his success, and giving the glory to Christ, to establish the fact that what he preached was the truth of God.  We may at times come under attack by those who would deny or pervert the gospel, and if we do we should be able to defend what we have done for God's glory and never for our own.  Verse two adds, For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.  Paul said that he had a Godly jealousy over the church at Corinth.  They had come to Christ under his preaching, and he did not want them to be led astray by false teachings.  He had presented to them one husband, Jesus Christ, and wanted them to remain a pure bride for Him.  We know that the church is referred to as the bride of Christ, and as such we should do all that we can, under the leadership and power of the Holy Spirit, to remain pure for Him.  Verse three continues, But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.  Paul said that he feared that by any means the Corinthians might have their minds corrupted to the simplicity that is in Christ.  He feared that they would be beguiled by the serpent, which is Satan.  There are those today who would have us believe that the gospel is just too simple and that we must do something on our own to prove ourselves worthy of salvation.  When anyone begins to claim that there is any requirement for salvation other than faith in Christ, they are attempting to lead us astray.   Verse four declares, For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.  There are those today who preach another Jesus and gospel.  They preach a Jesus who is no different than we are, or at least no different than what we will become.  We will never be able to live the sinless life that Jesus lived because we at some point will give in to self-will.  They set up certain requirements to prove our worthiness, but we will never be worthy of salvation because of our own goodness.  They have to preach a different spirit, because the Holy Spirit will never lead us to any way to salvation but Jesus Christ, crucified, resurrected, and Lord.  Paul said he feared that some might hear and believe such a one that preached these things, which is why it is important to know what the Bible really says about salvation.

2 Corinthians 10:14

2 Corinthians 10:14 says, For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ:  In verse thirteen Paul had said that he did not boast of himself, but of the work that God was doing through Him.  In this verse, he says that they didn't stretch themselves beyond measure.  Paul had a commission from God to preach the gospel to the Gentiles.  He had been doing this in Corinth when those who were the church there had come to salvation through faith in Christ.  Paul was being attacked by many because of his preaching, but he said that the Corinthians should know that he was faithful to his ministry for Christ because he had come to them with the gospel.  We should be able to point to the things that God accomplishes through us as proof of our faithfulness and of the power of God.  Verse fifteen adds, Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,  Paul said that he did not build on another person's work in order to glorify himself.  Paul said that he hoped when the Corinthians grew in faith that they would recognize what Paul had done in bringing the gospel to them.  I don't believe that he said this so he would be glorified, but so that his work for Christ would be acknowledged so that Christ might be glorified.  Though it might be nice to have what we do for spreading the gospel of Christ acknowledged, it should only be so if it points to the power and glory of Christ.  Verse sixteen continues, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s line of things made ready to our hand.  Paul said that he went to preach the gospel where it had not been proclaimed before.  He did not want to just build on another person's work.  Since the gospel was still new, it was easy and important to go to those who had not heard it.  We today might find it more difficult to find a place where the gospel has not been proclaimed at some point, but there are still many people today who have not heard the gospel and it is our responsibility as followers of Christ to present it to them.  Verse seventeen stats, But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.  Just as Paul said in this verse, if we are to glory, it should only be in Christ.  We should never attempt to bring glory to ourselves as we do what God has called us to do.  Verse eighteen Paul adds, For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.  Paul said that we cannot be approved by pointing out what we have done, but can only be approved by the Lord, or Christ, commending us.  We are to work for the glory of God and not for self-glory.

2 Corinthians 10:7

2 Corinthians 10:7 says, Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ’s, even so are we Christ’s.  Paul asked those Christians at Corinth a question then gave a response of his own.  The question was did they just look at the outward appearance to determine one's faith in God.  There have been many people through the years that have outwardly appeared to be great men of God who really were only putting on a show.  Paul then said that even if those who outwardly showed themselves to be Christians could not judge others by the same outward actions.  Paul said that even if they didn't look nor act the same way that those with him and he himself did that they still belonged to Christ if they were sincere in their faith.  We cannot judge other Christians by their outward way of worshipping, and neither should they judge us.  Verse eight adds, For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:  Paul said that the Lord had given him authority for their edification and not for their destruction.  We are not called to destroy those Christians that do not worship as we do, but to edify them instead.  Likewise, they are called to edify us.  We cannot judge other Christians based on outward signs but must judge them based on their relationship to Christ.  Verse nine continues, That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.  Paul said that even though he had been given authority by Christ to edify and correct those that had come to follow Christ that he did not want them terrified of him.  He only wrote to make them aware of problems that needed correcting and to edify them.  Verse ten states, For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.  Paul said people thought more of his letters than they did of his physical appearance and speech.  People thought his letters were full of good advice and powerful, but that his actual speaking ability was not good at all.  Sometimes we just have to do what God empowers us to do best.  Verse eleven Paul adds, Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.  Paul said that what he wrote when he was absent from the Corinthians was exactly what he would say if he were present with them.  We need to make sure that our actions are consistent with our words of witness about God, whether written or spoken.  Verse twelve continues, For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.  Paul said that he did not measure himself by others.  He measured himself by his faith in God.  Our standard will never be how we compare to anyone else but will always be how we compare to Christ through faith.  Paul said that to compare ourselves to others as a standard of faith was not wise.  Verse thirteen concludes, But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even also in deed when we are present.  Paul said that he would not boast of the things he had done, but only of what God had done through Him.  There is nothing that we can do through our own power to spread the gospel, but all must be done through relying on God through faith.  Then, the Holy Spirit will enable us, not that we may be glorified, but that God will.

2 Corinthians 10:1

2 Corinthians 10:1 says, Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:  Paul was now speaking only for himself and not for those with him.  We may identify with a particular congregation, but ultimately, we can only speak for ourselves in matters of faith.  Matthew Henry points out that Paul likely met more opposition at Corinth than he did anywhere else.  Since he was being attacked personally about his faith, Paul wanted to speak personally about his relationship to Christ.  He did not do so with boasting, but with meekness.  We don't need to brag about our faith, but we need to meekly live it for others to see.  Verse two adds, But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.  Paul said that even though he was meek in speaking about himself, that he hoped he could be bold in proclaiming the gospel when he was with them.  He particularly wanted to be bold in defending himself against those who accused him of preaching the gospel for his own benefit.  There were those who claimed that Paul really just walked according to the flesh, or the desires of the world.  There are those today who make the same claim about all preachers or even Christians, but we should live our lives so that we can boldly deny this claim.  Verse three continues, For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  Paul said that there was no way in this world to not walk in the flesh.  When we become followers of Christ, we still have the same human body as before, but our spirit has been changed.  We now live for Christ and the Holy Spirit lives in us.  Paul said that they did not war after the flesh.  The war that Paul was fighting was spiritual.  Verse four declares, (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  Paul said that his weapons were not carnal, or man-made things of the flesh, but were spirit powered through his faith in and obedience to God.  We might live totally at ease in the world today, but if we are not living for the glory of God, we are failing as His followers.  Verse five adds, Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;  Paul tells us that we are not to live by the things that we might imagine are true, nor by those things that exalt themselves against the knowledge of God.  There are many people today who exalt certain theories, such as the Big Bang theory, more than the creation of the world by God.  Paul warned early in the life of the church to not allow any belief to come between God and us.  Paul said that we are to bring every thought into obedience to Christ.  This implies a deliberate action.  We are not to just let our thoughts occasionally drift to Christ, but we are to keep Him foremost in our thoughts.  Verse six continues, And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.  I don't believe that Paul was telling us that we are to be out to punish those who are disobedient, but that we must correct them if they are not presenting the gospel accurately.  We cannot allow anyone to pervert the gospel, especially those who call themselves followers of Christ.

2 Corinthians 9:6

2 Corinthians 9:6 says, But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.  Paul was making the comparison of giving to God to a farmer sowing seed.  If the farmer doesn't sow many seed, he is not going to reap a large crop.  If we don't give a lot to God in faith we cannot expect to reap a large crop for Him.  If a farmer hoards his seed, they do him no good.  It is only when he sows them that they are useful.  The same is true with the things God blesses us with.  If we hoard it all for ourselves, it is useless to God.  We must use, or sow, what God gives us for His glory.  Verse seven adds, Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.  Paul did not say that everyone was to give a specified amount, but that they were to give what they knew in their heart was right for them to give.  Paul also said that they were not to give grudgingly or out of necessity.  If we give to the church, or even to a fellow Christian, feeling that we must but don't want to, then we cannot expect our gift to be honored by God.  As Paul then concluded, God loves a cheerful giver.  For example, if we are writing out a tithe check and mentally complaining with every stroke of the pen, I don't believe that we are pleasing God.  Verse eight continues, And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:  Paul said that when we give willingly and cheerfully that God will provide us with a sufficiency in all things.  We do not need to read this to mean that God will give us everything we want, but that He will sufficiently supply all our needs.   Verse nine states, (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.  The verse ten adds, Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)  Since Paul did not divide the verses, then these two verses in parentheses should be considered together.  Paul said that just as God had dispersed the gospel abroad to the poor, He would likewise provide for the needs of those who gave to His work.  We don't work for a reward from God, but we work or give with faith that He will meet our every need.  Verse eleven continues, Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.  Paul stated this in conjunction with giving by faith to help others.  I do not believe that this means that when we give to others that we will become materially rich, but that God will always be bountiful in meeting our needs.  Then, because God does meet our every need, we should always give thanks to Him.  Verse twelve declares, For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;  Paul said that giving to others not only helped them, but it resulted in many thanksgivings to God.  This is only possible when those giving do so with a cheerful heart.  If we give, but hate doing so, there can be no thanksgiving to God on our part.  Verse thirteen adds, Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;  Paul said that the giving to others for the spreading of the gospel proved to others that they were subjected to the gospel themselves.  The way that we use what God has blessed us with shows how much we are subjected to the gospel.  Verse fourteen continues, And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.  Paul said that those who were being helped prayed for the grace of God to be exceedingly great with the church at Corinth.  We should always be in prayer for other believers, but especially for those who are giving freely to those less fortunate so that the gospel might be preached to all.  Verse fifteen concludes, Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.  This should always be our declaration, whether we are the giver or the receiver of help.  Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift, which is not material things, but salvation through Christ.

2 Corinthians 9:1

2 Corinthians 9:1 says, For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:  Paul said that the work of the church at Corinth in ministering to the saints, the believers in Christ, spoke for itself.  He said it would be superfluous for him to write about it.  Our work in ministering to the needs of our fellow believers should be the same.  It should be unnecessary for anyone to write about it because the whole world should be able to see our faith in action.  Verse two adds, For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.  Paul said that they had started a good work and that they needed to continue to follow through with it.  I don't believe that Paul was commanding them to continue but was simply stating that what they had done in the past, or started doing in the past, did not mean that they now did not need to continue.  The same is true for us today.  Paul had boasted to other churches about the Corinthians, and he did not want them to disappoint those who looked to them as faithful followers.  I believe that by boasting Paul meant he spoke highly of them and held them up as an example for other churches.  I don't believe that he was boasting to make other churches feel less important.  Verse three continues, Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:  Paul said he sent the brethren to tell them that someone would be coming to collect the donation they were collecting to help other churches.  He did this so they would be ready and not let down his faith in them.  We today need to be prepared to deliver on our promises to God.  Verse four states, Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.  Paul said that if the representatives from Macedonia came with him and the church at Corinth was unprepared that the church at Corinth should be ashamed that Paul had boasted of their faith.  Again, if we make promises to God, we should be ready to follow through on them.  If we don't, others may be disappointed in us, but the shame will be ours.  Verse five adds, Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.  Paul said he wanted them to be ready to give freely without coveting what was given.  I don't believe that Paul demanded that they give and was sending someone to see if they were doing so.  I believe that they had freely promised to give, and Paul just wanted to see if they were following through.  We cannot demand that others give, but we can pray that if they do that they do so with a willing heart, as we must do likewise.

2 Corinthians 8:16

2 Corinthians 8:16 says, But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.  Paul thanked God for Titus, who had an earnest caring for the Corinthians as did Paul.  We should always thank God that we are not alone in our working for Him.  Verse seventeen adds, For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.  Titus was not sent by anyone else but went to the Corinthians because he felt called to do so.  We today do not have to wait for some person or group to send us to minister to others but should do so as God directs us.  Verse eighteen continues, And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;  Paul said that even though Titus began on his own that now Paul was sending him with a brother to spread the gospel.  Even if we begin a work on our own under God's leadership, we still should be open to others helping us and even working through us to accomplish God's will.  Verse nineteen states, And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:  Here, Paul said that Titus was chosen by the churches to travel with them by God's grace.  Paul and Titus were working for the glory of the same Lord.  We should work together with all other followers of Christ for the glory of God.  Verse twenty adds, Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:  I don't believe that Paul was saying that Titus and he and those with him had an abundance of material things themselves.  They did have an abundance of faith, and any material abundance they had was passed on to the less fortunate believers.  Verse twenty-one continues, Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.  Paul said the church at Corinth, which is a group of people and not a building, were honest, not only with God, but with those they had dealings with.  We cannot claim to be honest with God and cheat anyone.  Verse twenty-two says, And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.  Paul was possibly referring to Apollos, though he doesn't identify him by name.  Whoever he was, he was a fellow worker for Christ.  Even if we are not named, we need to be known as faithful workers for Christ by our fellow believers.  Verse twenty-three adds, Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.  Paul was basically vouching for Titus and those that were at work for Christ with him.  Paul did not place himself above these others, because the were all messengers of the churches for the glory of God.  No one Christian today is above any other if we are living up to our particular calling.  Verse twenty-four concludes, Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.  Paul asked the Corinthian church to show to those being sent to them the proof of their love that Paul had boasted about.  We need to be the type congregation today that other Christians can boast about, or hold up as, a great example of a faithful church.

2 Corinthians 8:7

2 Corinthians 8:7 says, Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.  Paul now begins to speak of the abundance of the church at Corinth.  He said they abounded in everything.  Paul was speaking of spiritual things, faith, utterance, knowledge, diligence, and love for Paul and those with him.  He said that since they abounded in these things, he hoped that they would abound in grace as well.  I believe that Paul was asking that they would show their love for God by helping those that were less fortunate.  Verse eight adds, I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.  Paul said he could not command the church at Corinth to give to help others, but that he could ask based on the example of others and so that they might prove their faith.  When we allow conditions to determine our giving to God, in time or resources, we are failing to act in faith.  Though no one person, nor one church, can command that another person or church give to the ministry of any other person or church, we can ask that they give by faith.  To state it more simply, we cannot command anyone else to give, but their faith should lead them to give.  Verse nine continues, For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.  Paul then cites the example of our Lord Jesus Christ.  If He is not our Lord Jesus Christ, then what Paul is saying has no meaning to us.  Christ gave up the riches of heaven to become a poor human being so that through His poverty we might become rich in our spiritual relationship with God.  Christ did not come to make us rich materially.  Verse ten states, And herein I give advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.  Paul said that he could not command them, but he could advise them.  Paul also said that beginning a good work was not enough, but we must follow through as well.  Verse eleven adds, Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.  Paul instructed the Corinthians to carry through with their promises, especially to God.  This still applies today.  Paul said they were to do this out of what they had.  When we are blessed materially, we need to use all that we have for the glory of God.  Verse twelve continues, For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.  I believe that Paul was saying that the things we propose to do should be consistent with what we have.  We cannot give more than we have, nor should we allow what we don't have to keep us from doing anything.  We are to work with what God has blessed us with.  Verse thirteen says, For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:  Paul also tells us that we are not to sacrifice so that others may live at ease.  We are to help others as much as we are able, but we are not to do so in order for them to simply live without attempting to provide for themselves, or that they might become rich at our expense.  Verse fourteen adds, But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:  Paul said that our giving should be a equitable thing.  When we can we are to help others in need.  When we are in need, they should help us.  Verse fifteen concludes, As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.  Paul said that God's plan had never been for one to be rich and another destitute, but that all should have their needs met.  God will supply, but He expects His followers to be obedient in using what He blesses them with for the good of all His children.

2 Corinthians 8:1

2 Corinthians 8:1 says, Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;  Paul said that even though he had great faith in the church at Corinth, he wanted to share with them what was going on in the church at Macedonia.  I don't believe he was attempting to make the Corinthians feel obligated to outdo those at Macedonia but was simply sharing what they were doing for spreading the gospel of Christ.  Verse two adds, How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.  Paul said that the church at Macedonia was suffering affliction and poverty, but that they were looking to help others.  We may feel that we are members of a small congregation with troubles of our own, but we should never stop looking for ways to help those Christians who are suffering even more than we are.  Verse three continues, For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;  Paul said they were willing to do more than was in their power to do.  When we act in faith, and not on what we see going on in the world around us, God will always provide for us in our liberality toward those less fortunate.  Paul did not say that God would make us materially rich if we helped those less fortunate.  I believe that as God enriches us He expects us to help others and not just ourselves.  Verse four states, Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.  Paul said that the church at Macedonia, though poor themselves, prayed that Paul would receive their gift so that they could be a part of the ministry to the saints.  Paul was pretty independent, but he allowed them to help other Christians.  Verse five adds, And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.  Paul said the Macedonians exceeded his expectations, and this was due to the fact that they first gave themselves completely to the will of God.  When we purpose to give to God, we should do so based on the power of God, not our own limited ability.  Verse six continues, Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.  Paul said that he hoped that Titus would be able to complete the work that he had started, I believe due to the generosity of the church at Macedonia.  This wasn't to enrich Titus but was to help in the ministry of Christ.  We should never ask churches to give to us, even if we are witnessing for Christ, so that we might be made richer.

2 Corinthians 7:10

2 Corinthians 7:10 says, For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.  Paul said that there is a difference between Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow.  Worldly sorrow does not work repentance to salvation.  Worldly repentance, directed toward people and not God still leads to spiritual death.  Verse eleven adds, For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.  Paul said that the actions of the church at Corinth in the matter that needed correction brought them a clear conscience, as it were.  There were several stages to their restoration.  They had a Godly sorrow.  It is not enough to just be sorry for our actions in worldly terms, but our sorrow must be directed toward God.  They were careful in clearing themselves, again in their relationship to God.  They had a vehement desire to correct the problem.  Then Paul said they approved themselves clear in this matter.  When we allow sin into our lives, we must have a zeal to deal with it so we can be restored to complete fellowship with God.   Verse twelve continues, Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.  Paul said when he wrote to them that he was doing it for no other reason but that they might be restored to a right relationship with God.  Paul was not just condemning the one who had done wrong, nor was he uplifting the one who had been wronged.  Paul wanted both to have the right attitude toward God and themselves.  Verse thirteen states, Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.  Paul said that those with him and he were comforted by the fact that the church at Corinth was comforted, or at peace. He was even more comforted by the fact that the church there had refreshed Titus.  We as followers of Christ should uplift one another and should especially offer comfort to those who are going to other places to witness.  If they come to us, they should leave refreshed.  Verse fourteen Paul adds, For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.  Paul said he was not ashamed of boasting, or speaking highly of the congregation at Corinth, because what he said was the truth.  I believe that Paul was boasting of their faith that had endured through the problems they had.  Verse fifteen continues, And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.  Paul said Titus remembered them with affection because of the way they had received him.  Titus remembered their obedience, not to him, but to their faith in Christ.  Even if we have certain fears about the world around us, we need to still openly receive and spiritually support our fellow believers that they might be refreshed in their faith.  Verse sixteen concludes, I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.  Paul may have had concerns about the church at Corinth at one time, but he now had complete confidence in them.  If a congregation, or an individual, has a problem in their faith and repent and follow God in faith, we cannot allow their past failure to prevent us from having faith in them again.

2 Corinthians 7 :6

2 Corinthians 7:6 says, Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;  After writing about all their trials and tribulations, Paul says, Nevertheless God.  When we are suffering from trials and tribulations today, we need to be ready for the Nevertheless God.  God will be with us through it all.  Paul said God comforted those who are His who are cast down.  I believe that he was referring to the who put their faith in God.  In Paul's case, God comforted him by sending Titus to him.  Paul traveled constantly to proclaim the Gospel, and often was persecuted because of it.  Having someone come with good news about other Christians had to be a real blessing.  Verse seven adds, And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.  Paul said that what Titus had to say about the church at Corinth caused him to rejoice the more.  Knowing that they were fervently praying for him and mourning for his sufferings let him know that he had been effective in his work in Corinth.  Sometimes, just having a fellow believer come to us when we are down or even being persecuted and let us know that others are fervently praying for us can uplift us and give up us the strength to go on.  Verse eight continues, For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.  Paul said his former letter which contained words of correction had made them sorry, but only for a season.  At times, we may have to offer words of correction to a fellow believer, but we should always make sure we are doing so under the leadership of the Holy Spirit and out of an attitude of love.  Paul only repented, or felt bad, that his letter had made them sorry.  He did not take pleasure in having to write to them about the problem.  We cannot rejoice in having to speak words of correction to others.  Notice that Paul, nor we, could really correct anyone.  The correction must come from the person by that person's actions.  Verse nine concludes, Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.  Paul said that he rejoiced, not because they were made sorry, but that they sorrowed to repentance.  Anytime someone repents we should rejoice in their repentance and not remind them that they had needed to repent.

2 Corinthians 7:1

2 Corinthians 7:1 says, Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.  I believe that the promises that Paul referred to were that by our faith in Christ we would have the Holy Spirit living in us and that we would be the sons and daughters of God.  Paul said this should lead us to remove all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, which I believe would be our thoughts or motives, from our lives.  We need to remember that Paul did not divide his letter in to chapters and verses, and that this verse follows God's saying we would be His sons and daughters.  Verse two adds, Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.  Paul asked that they be accepted by the church at Corinth because they had neither wronged, corrupted, nor defrauded anyone.  Hopefully, as followers of Christ, we can have the same testimony today.  Verse three continues, I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.  Paul was not writing to them with an attitude of condemnation, but with an attitude of love and concern.  If we today feel the need to point out something that is wrong in the life of another believer, or even in a congregation of believers, we must be certain that God is directing us and that we do so out of love.  Verse four states, Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.  Paul said he had a great boldness in what he said to them, because he was writing what God directed him to write.  Paul said he was full of comfort, not because of his physical state, but because of his relationship to God.  He was joyful in all their tribulations.  We need to be bold in our witnessing today, even being joyful in our tribulations, because they are but temporary.  Verse five adds, For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.  Once more, Paul spoke of the trouble they had in Macedonia, which left them with no rest.  There were fightings without and fears within.  Still, he was grateful.  Too often when we have fears and doubts, we grumble and complain or live in fear, but we need to rejoice in our salvation instead.

2 Corinthians 6:11

2 Corinthians 6:11 says, O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.  Paul said that they were speaking the truth of God to the Corinthians, and they were doing it out of love for them.  Verse twelve adds, Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.  I believe that Paul was stating that even though those with him and he himself witnessed to the Corinthians out of a great love for them, that they could not make the Corinthians right with God.  The Corinthians had to do it themselves though faith in Christ.  Verse thirteen continues, Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged. Paul asked that the Corinthians share that same love for others.  He said he spoke to them as little children, because they should have already know these things and that they might grow in faith.  Verse fourteen states, Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?  Paul said that a believer in Christ should not marry an unbeliever.  I know that sometimes the believer may reach the unbeliever, but more often the believer is pulled away from an active faith.  Paul said that righteous and unrighteousness had no fellowship and light and darkness had no communion.  I believe this means that the believer and unbeliever cannot truly become one.  Verse fifteen adds, And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?  I believe Paul was continuing to point out that the believer represents Christ, and the unbeliever represents the devil.  We either belong to Christ through faith or we belong to the devil.  Verse sixteen continues, And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  Paul said that believers, followers of Christ, were the temple of God.  The Holy Spirit lives in us, and since we are His temple, we are to do nothing that would bring dishonor to Him.  Verse seventeen says, Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,  I believe that this is a command that we live by a different standard than the world and that we are to be set aside to live for God.  I don't believe that this means that we are to avoid all contact with sinners.  We cannot reach people if we do not go into the world.  As believers though, we are to be separated from sin, but not from sinners as we witness to them.  Verse eighteen adds, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.  As followers of Christ, we are the sons and daughters of Christ.  This is what separates us from the rest of the world.

2 Corinthians 6:1

2 Corinthians 6:1 says, We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.  Paul said that all believers were workers together in Christ.  We are called by grace to the free gift of salvation, but we then are called to be laborers for Christ.  I believe that the only way to receive the grace of God in vain is to not truly accept the gospel.  A person might claim to believe for their own benefit, but Paul said that those who really believe will be at work for Christ, reaching out to others with the gospel. Verse two adds, For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)  Paul said that God heard those who had cried out to Him for salvation, and when the time was right, He sent Christ to redeem mankind.  Since the death of Christ, every day is the day of salvation for the lost, if they only accept Christ as their Savior and Lord.  We do not have to wait until we think everything is right, because Christ made all things right between God and us.  Now is the day.  Verse three continues, Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:  Paul said that he would live in such a way as to give no offense to others, that his ministry might not be blamed.  Do we live the same way, or do we allow our own self will to get in the way of our witnessing?  Verse four states, But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,  Verse five adds, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;  Paul listed many bad things that were happening to them but said that they lived in patience to approve themselves as ministers of God.  We often hear people today say that God wants us happy, but He really wants us to approve ourselves in the gospel, no matter what.  Verse six continues, By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,  Then verse seven adds, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,  Paul stated how they were able to live for Christ.  They did it by all the things that are good about belonging to God, pureness, knowledge of God, longsuffering, kindness, by the power of the Holy Ghost, and by love that did not fail.  Paul continued adding that they relied on the word of truth, the power of God, and by being surrounded by the armor of righteousness.  In the next three verses Paul states how much differently they were viewed by people.  Verse eight says, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;  Verse nine adds, As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; Then verse ten concludes, As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. Paul declared that no matter what happened to them in this world, nor how they were viewed, that they would do everything to approve themselves as ministers of God.  So must we today.