Paul plans for another visit. He quotes Deuteronomy 19:15. Paul has visited a second time at some point during the writing of this letter, and is planning a third visit. He hopes to tie up some unfinished business with some of the members.
Paul knows the Corinthians have some issues that need to be dealt with, so he reminds them that any charges they would bring over sinful behavior can't be based on hearsay, but must be backed up by two or three witnesses. He plans to confront the sin by allowing Christ Jesus to lead the way. The Corinthians are still expressing doubt or at least confusion if Paul is really speaking the truth from God. Paul doesn't plead his case on his own merit, but on the fact that they've seen the power of God themselves. Jesus was crucified as fully human, but the power of being fully God did not allow Him to stay dead. The Corinthians seem to be caught up more in the crucified Christ than in the risen Christ. This has led them to believe, or at least live as though they believe, that Jesus is less than the all-powerful God that Paul introduced them to. Paul reminds them that while he and his fellow ministers are weak and human, Jesus is not and it's His power that will be on display! Paul points out that if they aren't sure about the power of Jesus, then they may need to test themselves to see what they really believe about salvation--maybe they haven't even made the connection that if they are making less of Jesus, then they are making less of their own conversion! He prays that they finally connect the dots that the power Jesus showed by raising Himself from the grave is the same power that lives in them. Paul struggles again with the idea that they think he's failed, but he assures them that he has not worked one single day against the truth. The word for "restoration" in verse 9 means "a type of adjustment, overcoming mental dislocations brought on by refusal to repent". (This is the only time this form of the word for equip is used in the whole Bible.) So Paul is praying specifically that the Corinthians will repent and prepare themselves for building up and not tearing down the Gospel of Christ Jesus.
Paul is wrapping up this very, very emotional letter to his beloved Corinthian believers. We've read as Paul has lived and relived horrifying conditions and persecutions. We've watched as he's wrestled with what the church thinks of him, and as he's second guessed decisions. Paul has been at times broken, and others times confident. He's been full of the glory of God and zeal for the ministry, but sometimes full of anguish of heart and tearful. He's had hurt feelings as the Corinthians welcomed messengers of a false gospel, and he's been bolstered to hear of their faithfulness. He's called himself a fool for being made to feel like he owes everyone an explanation; and he's been an open book, pouring out his heart. After all of this, Paul's words in verses 11-14 change me. He is able to wrap up all of the hurt, disappointment, high hopes, disagreement, and fear in some very powerful and mature final greetings. He directs his brothers, his fellow believers, to be glad; to deliberately strengthen themselves and each other for the point of being what they were meant to be; to comfort, agree, and live in peace. We all need a brother (or sister) who will point us to our duty as followers of Christ. It wasn't easy then and it's not easy now. I feel like there is so much sparring between us all. I'm guilty as much and more as anyone else. But the God who authors love and peace is writing our story. All we have to do is obediently live it. I pray that the kindness of Christ Jesus, the goodwill of God, and the partnership of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓
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