Sermon Central
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Rejoicing
Contributed by Lou Nicholes on May 25, 2005 (message contributor)
Summary: In this passage Paul resumed the story that he left in 2:13, where he said he went to Macedonia to look for Titus. Though Paul still had many problems and hardships to face, he found comfort and joy in the ministry God had given to him.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE PASSAGE:
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., was a member of the U.S. Supreme Court for 30 years. His mind, wit and work earned him the unofficial title of “the greatest justice since John Marshall.” At one point in his life, Justice Holmes explained his choice of a career by saying: “I might have entered the ministry if certain clergymen I knew had not looked and acted so much like undertakers.” (Moody Bible Institute’s Today In The Word, June, 1988, p. 13.).
In this passage Paul resumed the story that he left in 2:13, where he said he went to Macedonia to look for Titus. Though Paul still had many problems and hardships to face, he found comfort and joy in the ministry God had given to him. Titus had visited the Corinthian church and now he rejoins Paul in Macedonia (vv. 5 6). His report brings rejoicing to the apostle’s heart. The church had received Titus and now they were ready to receive Paul (v. 13). He asks them to trust him, for he had never done anything to wrong them.
Paul’s frame of mind, before Titus’ arrival was far from being at peace. It says that "he had no rest" (v. 5). The great apostle Paul was not always on a spiritual high and he was not afraid to admit it. His conflicts, fears and depression were brought on by opposition and persecution in Macedonia. He also was not sure how Titus was being treated by the Corinthians and how they had responded to his letter.
Did you ever wonder why it is often so difficult to assure people of your love? What more could Paul do to convince them? He was willing to die for them if necessary and at every opportunity that he had he was bragging about them to others and yet they had been criticizing him (v. 4). Now, the Corinthians had evidenced to Titus a repentant spirit and a desire to be reconciled to Paul, for this he was rejoicing (v. 7).
APPLICATION:
There is joy in seeing someone we love being welcomed and well-treated. What is true of us is true of God. That is why I can best show my love for God by loving other people. The thing that delights the heart of God is to see one of his children kindly treated.
