Broken Glory

The Bible (2 Co 4) describes Christians as common pottery holding a greater treasure. As Christians, we would do well to remember that in our weaknesses, or cracks, the glory placed within us has a way to shine out. Which of your failures allows others a better glimpse of Christ?

Paul's Credentials

In his second letter to the Corinthian Church, Paul asks if they need him to re-certify his credentials with them (2 Co 3). While Paul is clearly correcting the church, he also explores the idea that the church itself was his greatest set of credentials. As Christians, we are flesh and blood letters of recommendation and resumes for Christ himself. When our neighbors "read us" how does it reflect on the one who is writing our story? 

The thread of eternity

The apostle Paul suffered extreme physical torture for most of his life, yet he described it as "light affliction." How could Paul seem so at peace with this? He knew that our lives are very short compared to eternity.

The apostle Paul encouraged the church at Corinth to forgive and receive a man who had slandered him. Paul's willingness to forgive undid the divisive work that had been done in the church. Paul attributes these works to the ultimate evil force, the devil himself. What devices divide us from our fellow believers? Are we willing to attribute our fears and suspicions to the work of the devil?

Speaking Truth to Powerful Men

When the people we trust to protect us use their power to hide their own corruption, the courageous will speak the truth. Nathan the prophet demonstrated unusual courage when confronting David, the beloved king of Israel. David had broken the law and tried to cover it up, but he couldn't hide his sins from God, or from God's prophet. What secret sins do we try to cover-up?

Ouch - You're really only hurting yourself

The Apostle Paul warns Christians not to hurt each other, because all Christians are part of the same body. Therefore, hurting our fellow-believers is like hurting part of ourselves (Rom 12:4-6). Paul demonstrates this when he asks the Church at Corinth to restore a member who had slandered Paul but later repented (2 Co 2). How willing are we to accept others who claim Chris but seem different?

In the depths of despair

There are times in each of our lives when experience great sadness and hope is hard to find. The apostle Paul provides a formula to help us find that elusive hope: Remember all of the times God did come through for you and Believe in the all of the things God promises he will do. We can also seek the consoling hope that others who have lived our pain can provide. 2 Co 1:3-11