Footsteps #157

2Corinthians can be divided into three sections. Firstly, read Chapters 1-7. Paul praises God with an opening prayer for His comfort in troubles (1:3-4) and reflects on the “painful visit” (2:1) he made to them. Why did many Corinthians reject Paul when he visited? He tells the story in this biographical passage over 7 chapters. He was poor,  suffered a lot, and was an unimpressive public speaker compared to those other more impressive and successful speakers. If this represents the distorted value system of the Corinthian church, then it is certainly relevant in today’s religious climate! Paul’s job was not to be impressive but to point people to the one who is – Jesus! 

The paradox of the cross turns the Corinthian idea of success & glory upside down! Jesus glory and exultation took place through His suffering, execution & death.  On the cross, God reveals His salvation. Jesus died for our sins. But the cross does more – it reveals God’s character. He is a being of utter self-giving. His is a love that seeks the well-being of others.  

The cross also reveals a new way of life. Paul’s way of life & ministry imitates the cross. His life of humility, suffering & poverty was to serve the Corinthians. He is saying, that if they disapprove of his poverty and suffering, then they disapprove of Jesus too! Paul’s life was to prove that he authentically represents the crucified & risen Jesus. This is the upside-down paradox of the cross. 

In Chapters 8-9 Paul introduces the relief gift for the Christians in Jerusalem. However, this passage is not really about money, but it is about how the Corinthians have not been transformed by the gospel, which in fact is a story about generosity.  Read 2Cor.8:9. He is telling the story of the gospel through metaphors. Jesus lowered himself to the level of a slave so we who are impoverished through sin could enjoy the riches of God’s grace. To be a Christian is to let this story sink deep into your mind & heart, letting it transform you into someone who is more generous, and more willing to use your life and resources to help others.