BETHEL SUNDAY SCHOOL 31 OCT 2021
Text: 2 Corinthians 12:16 – 21

FURTHER EXPLANATION

1. To clear misunderstanding

2. To clear the air (Toxic)

CONSISTENCY THROUGHOUT

1. The Apostle Paul has spoken consistently

a. With his faith in Christ

b. With his doctrine

c. With how he has lived and ministered throughout!

2. Explanation of the Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 12:16)

a. He did not take from them

b. Nor did any from Paul’s team take from the Corinthians

c. Nor was Paul cunning towards them in any way – Paul said this sarcastically

“Being crafty, I caught you by cunning!”

d. Reason: They did not want the Corinthians to feel burdened to support them

i. Even though they should rightly support their own Pastor / founder!

ii. Paul chose not to take from them less they were associated with the false teachers who took advantage of them! (2 Corinthians 11:7 – 8)

3. Examine for themselves (2 Corinthians 12:17 – 18)

a. Did Paul and his team take advantage of the Corinthian Church?

i. Did Paul take advantage?

ii. Did Titus whom Paul sent take advantage?

Answer: No!

b. How did Paul and his team serve?

i. Was it the same spirit?

ii. Was it the same steps?

Answer: Yes!

c. They can examine this for themselves!

i. They have been blameless in their conduct

ii. They have served in the Spirit of Christ!

4. Excuses (2 Corinthians 12:19)

a. Paul was not making excuses for himself!

b. What Paul was conscious of:

i. What they have said

“We speak before God in Christ”

ii. What they have done

“But we do all things, beloved, for your edification”

DEEP CONCERNS

1. Paul’s fears / concerns (2 Corinthians 12:20a)

a. That he would not find in them as he wished

i. He wish / desire that they would live holy lives for the Lord

ii. He may not see this as they have not dealt with their sins fully

b. That they would not find in him as they wish / desire

i. Paul would prefer his visit to be a happy one!

ii. But if he must rebuke sin, he will!

iii. This would not be pleasant but necessary for the Corinthian Church!



2. A list of sins that needed immediate attention (2 Corinthians 12:20b)

a. Contentions

b. Jealousies

c. Outburst of wrath

d. Selfish ambitions

e. Backbitings

f. Whisperings

g. Conceits

h. Tumults

3. Addressing sin (2 Corinthians 12:21)

a. It is humbling

b. Mourning for the non-repentant

GREAT CHALLENGES

1. To not dismiss ours sin

2. To address sin candidly but humbly

3. To seek the Lord’s grace to help us address the problem of sin