Paul seems to be on a bit of a rant in this part of his letter. I can’t even begin to fathom the extremes he endured as he lived out his faith and calling. We can all take something away from his experience because the life of a believer can be dangerous if we truly live out loud like Paul did. He didn’t back down from the truth to make it “comfortable” or “welcoming.”
The shocking truth that Paul shares speaks volumes to us, even all years later. “You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed.” How often do we question what we hear preached from the pulpit? How often do we challenge messages on social or mainstream media? Have you ever heard someone trying to explain Jesus to you in a way that sounded wrong or contrary to your beliefs?
Paul was familiar with contrary messaging then, and I’d have to imagine he would be aghast if he could see what exists today. What’s scary is when a false message sounds good or even right. The evil one can use language, too, to confuse us and get us off course. Paul’s counsel here is golden. “Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.” Satan will continue to act in deceptive ways to get our attention and keep us distracted from our devotion to Jesus. Paul feared this for his friends in Corinth and for us.
The Good News that Paul preached, that we should also be sharing, may not always be popular. We don’t follow Christ for the glory of men but for the glory of God. Paul sets such a good example for us to follow. He wanted the message of the Good News to go forward without any hindrance. The evil one has always opposed Jesus’ message, and Paul endured more than most people could ever live to talk about.
Paul seems to almost apologize for his shortcomings and failures. When I look at what he accomplished, I don’t see weakness, I see the strength of the Holy Spirit working through him, sustaining him. From the sounds of Paul’s trials, the Holy Spirit was working overtime to keep Paul alive. The message of Jesus is that important.
So, if you are feeling weak or unsure of your ministry, be confident that God has the perfect mission for you. We don’t all have to be like Paul. Take time today to reflect on how God has gifted you, where you are, and what the needs are around you. Do you feel any nudges to move? Don’t think you have to feel “ready” to move, just move in faith. God will guide you like he did for Paul.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I am ready to move for you. Show me the way. Empower me and protect me like you did Paul. May I be bold like he was, sharing about you and your desires for our lives. Thank you for how you have gifted me. I pray each day for discernment to see the evil one at work. Protect me from the lies that seem to be devouring the world. I want to stay true to you always. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
