This is why I write these things while absent, so that when I am present I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down. This is why I write these things while I am absentThe Apostle Paul often wrote letters to the early churches to address issues and provide guidance. The phrase "while I am absent" indicates his physical separation from the Corinthian church. In the Greek, "absent" (ἀπών, apōn) underscores the challenges of communication in the ancient world, where letters were the primary means of long-distance interaction. Paul's absence necessitated written communication to maintain his apostolic influence and pastoral care. Historically, this reflects the early church's reliance on apostolic letters for doctrine and correction, emphasizing the importance of written Scripture in guiding the faith community. so that when I come I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of the letter, addressing the church in Corinth. He is emphasizing his role and authority given by God to build up the church. 2. Corinth A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse culture and significant Christian community. The church in Corinth faced various challenges, including moral and doctrinal issues. 3. The Corinthian Church The recipients of Paul's letter, a community of believers struggling with internal conflicts and needing guidance and correction. 4. Paul's Authority The divine authority given to Paul by the Lord to guide, correct, and build up the church. 5. Paul's Absence and Presence Paul writes from a distance, intending to visit the Corinthians and hoping to avoid severe disciplinary actions. Teaching Points The Purpose of AuthorityAuthority in the church is meant for edification, not destruction. Leaders should use their God-given authority to nurture and strengthen the faith of believers. Constructive Correction Correction should aim to build up rather than tear down. When addressing issues within the church, the goal should be restoration and growth. The Role of Absence and Presence Paul's strategy of writing before visiting shows the importance of preparing hearts and minds for constructive change. Addressing issues from a distance can sometimes prevent immediate conflict and allow for reflection. Balancing Discipline and Encouragement Church leaders must balance discipline with encouragement, ensuring that their actions reflect Christ's love and purpose for His church. The Responsibility of the Church The church community should be receptive to correction and guidance, understanding that it is for their spiritual growth and maturity. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Paul's approach to authority in 2 Corinthians 13:10 reflect the character of Christ?2. In what ways can church leaders today apply Paul's method of addressing issues from a distance before a personal visit? 3. How can we, as members of a church community, ensure that we are open to constructive correction and guidance? 4. What are some practical ways to balance discipline and encouragement in our interactions with fellow believers? 5. How can the principles in 2 Corinthians 13:10 be applied to personal relationships outside of the church context? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Corinthians 4:21Paul discusses the choice between coming with a rod of discipline or in love and a spirit of gentleness, highlighting his preference for building up rather than tearing down. 2 Corinthians 10:8 Paul speaks about the authority given to him for building up the church, reinforcing the purpose of his apostolic authority. Ephesians 4:12 The purpose of church leadership is to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. Hebrews 12:5-11 Discusses God's discipline as a form of love and correction, which is intended for our growth and benefit.
People Corinthians, PaulPlaces Achaia, CorinthTopics Absent, Accordance, Account, Act, Authority, Building, Casting, Cause, Deal, Destruction, Edification, Exercise, Harsh, Lest, Measures, Order, Overthrowing, Power, Present, Pulling, Reason, Severe, Severely, Severity, Sharp, Sharply, Sharpness, Tearing, Thus, Treat, WritingDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Corinthians 13:10 5216 authority, nature of 5904 maturity, spiritual Library Self-ExaminationThe Corinthians were the critics of the apostles' age. They took to themselves great credit for skill in learning and in language, and as most men do who are wise in their own esteem, they made a wrong use of their wisdom and learning--they began to criticise the apostle Paul. They criticised his style. "His letters," say they, "are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak and his speech contemptible." Nay, not content with that, they went so far as to deny his apostleship, and for once … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858 How to Use the Prayer-Book "And if Christ be in You, the Body is Dead Because Sin," Sermon. Reprobation. On Being Filled with the Spirit The Clergyman and the Prayer Book. The Greatest of These is Love. Of the Character of the Unregenerate. The Third Wall. Concerning the Scriptures. Assurance of Salvation. Testimonies. The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency Concerning the Ministry. Concerning Perfection. Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and Reprobation Promiscuously Handled, in Eleven Chapters. Links 2 Corinthians 13:10 NIV2 Corinthians 13:10 NLT 2 Corinthians 13:10 ESV 2 Corinthians 13:10 NASB 2 Corinthians 13:10 KJV 2 Corinthians 13:10 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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