To what does Paul’s conscience bear witness regarding his relations: a) with the world, and b) with fellow believers? Can you say the same? Answer: Paul’s conscience is clear of the world because he lives his life under the wisdom of God. That is not to say Paul is perfect and did not make mistakes. Paul is simply trying to explain to the Corinthians that he had to change his plans for the glory of God!
Paul makes the remarkable claim that his reliability is to be compared with the eternal faithfulness of God. What does he tell us here about God’s faithfulness? What three special functions of the Holy Spirit are referred to in verse 21, 22? Answer: Stand firm, sets His seal upon us, and anoints us. It says that God is a promise keeper. God always upholds His end of the deal. We as part of the world do not always keep up our end, but God does.
Notes:
Verse 12 ‘not according to worldly wisdom: cf. 1 Cor 2:6; Jas 3:13-18.
V13. ‘It is simply untrue that I send any private communications. The only letters which I write are those which you read out to the congregation – ay, and which you do recognize as the expression of my mind, and will never cease, I hope, to recognize as such, (way).
V20. ‘He, who has God’s son, Jesus Christ, has all God has promised’ (Denny). When we believe this and utter with thankful hearts as appropriating ‘Amen’, we glorify God.
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