2 Coríntios 1
Charles Spurgeon · Citado em PreceptAustin
2 Coríntios 1
Spurgeon - My Sermon Notes - THE TENSES (see full sermon - 2 Corinthians 1:10 The Tenses) - Grammarians have here a lesson in the tenses; and Christians may profitably join in the exercise. We may consider the past, present, and future, each one by itself. We may also view them in their relation to each other. Our text points out the delivering mercy of God as at all times working out the safety of his people. The case of Paul did not stand alone: hence he uses the plural: “who delivered us”; “we trust.” We shall take the words out of the apostle’s mouth and apply them to our own cases. I. THE TEXT SUGGESTS THREE TRAINS OF THOUGHT. 1. Memory tells of deliverances in the past— From violent death. In Paul’s case, “so great a death” may mean death by fierce mobs, or by the emperor. From our death in sin: “So great a death” indeed. From fierce despair when under conviction. From total overthrow when tempted by Satan. From faintness under daily tribulation. From destruction by slander and the like. The Lord has most graciously delivered us hitherto. Let us express our gratitude. 2. Observation calls attention to present deliverance. By the good hand of the Lord, we are at this time preserved— From unseen dangers to life. From the subtle assaults of Satan. From the rampant errors of the times. From inbred sin and natural corruption. From the sentence of death within, and from the greater danger of self-trust. See the preceding verse. Our present standing is wholly due to the grace of God, and, trusting in that grace, we may indulge a happy confidence. 3. Expectation (hope) looks out of the window upon the future. Faith rests alone in God, “in whom we trust,” and through Him looks for future deliverance— From all future common trials. From coming losses and afflictions, and from sicknesses, which may be coming upon us. From the infirmities and wants of age. From the peculiar glooms of death. This expectation makes us march on with cheerfulness. II. THE TEXT SUPPLIES THREE LINES OF ARGUMENT. That the Lord will preserve us to the end is most sure. We can say of him, “In whom we trust that he will yet deliver us.” 1. From the Lord’s beginning to deliver we argue that he will yet deliver, for There was no reason in us for his beginning to love us. If his love arises out of his own nature it will continue. He has obtained no fresh knowledge. He foreknew all our misbehaviours: hence there is no reason for casting us off. The reason which moved him at first is operating now, and none better can be required. 2. From the Lord’s continuing to deliver we argue that he will yet deliver; for His deliverances have been so many; They have displayed such wisdom and power; They have come to us when we have been so unworthy; They have continued in such an unbroken line; That we feel sure he will never leave nor forsake us. 3. From the Lord himself—“In whom we trust”: we argue that he will yet deliver; for He is as loving and strong now as aforetime. He will be the same in the future. His purpose never changes, and it is to his glory to complete what he has begun (Php 1:6). Verily, “he will yet deliver us.” III. THE TEXT IS OPEN TO THREE INFERENCES. 1. We infer that we shall always be so in danger as to need to be delivered: wherefore we are not high-minded, but fear. 2. We infer our constant need of God’s own interposition. He alone has met our case in the past, and he only can meet it in the future: wherefore we would ever abide near our Lord. 3. We infer that our whole life should be filled with the praise of God, who, for past, present, and future, is our Deliverer. FOR THE TIMES First, God hath a time, as for all things, so for our deliverance. Secondly, God’s time is the best time. He is the best discerner of opportunities. Thirdly, this shall be when he hath wrought his work upon our souls, specially when he hath made us to trust in him. As here, when Paul had learned to trust in God, then he delivered him. Richard Sibbes. The Roman noblemen could give no greater proof of their confidence in their city and army, than when they bought the land on which their Carthaginian enemies were encamped around the city. And we can give no greater proof of our confidence in God, than by trusting him in the land which our enemies, darkness and sickness and trouble, seem to possess, and acting as if God were their master, and mightier than they all. This is but to act upon the truth. There is an ante-war incident which illustrates the power for despair which lies in forgetfulness of God, and the hope which leaps up when God is fully believed in. A dark cloud hung over the interests of the African race in our land. There seemed no way of deliverance. Frederick Douglas, at a crowded meeting, depicted the terrible condition. Everything was against his people. One political party had gone down on its knees to slavery; the other proposed not to abolish it anywhere, but only to restrict it. The Supreme Court had given judgment against black men as such. He drew a picture of his race writhing under the lash of the overseer, and trampled upon by brutal and lascivious men. As he went on with his despairing words, a great horror of darkness seemed to settle down upon the audience. The orator even uttered the cry for blood. There was no other relief. And then he showed that there was no relief even in that. Everything, every influence, every event was gathering, not for good, but for evil, about the doomed race. It seemed as if they were fated to destruction. Just at the instant when the cloud was most heavy over the audience, there slowly rose, in the front seat, an old black woman. Her name, “Sojourner Truth.” She had given it to herself. Far and wide she was known as an African prophetess. Every eye was on her. The orator paused. Reaching out towards him her long bony finger, as every eye followed her pointing, she cried out, “Frederick, is God dead?” It was a lightning-flash upon that darkness. The cloud began to break, and faith and hope and patience returned with the idea of a personal and ever-living God. Sword and Trowel, 1887. Who murmurs that in these dark days His lot is cast? God’s hand within the shadow lays The stones whereon his gates of praise Shall rise at last.—J. G. Whittier. What God Can Do [God] delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us. —2 Corinthians 1:10 Today's Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 They were called the “lost boys” of Sudan. Thousands of them fled the civil war in that country and sought refuge from the chaos and killing. Many had been taught the gospel in churches founded by missionaries, but they knew little of the world beyond their villages. A National Geographic article profiled one of these “lost boys” who is now resettled in the United States. He told a church congregation that he is grateful for the comforts of the US, but also for the faith he learned through hardship. “Americans believe in God,” he told them, “but they don’t know what God can do.” In the crucible of testing, we move from theory to reality as we experience God’s power. When there seems to be no hope, we may share Paul’s feeling of being “burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we [despair] even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8). But we can also learn, as Paul did, that in the darkest times “we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead” (2Co 1:9). Though weak and helpless in life's fray, God's mighty power shall be my stay; Without, within, He gives to me The strength to gain the victory. —D. De Haan God is the only ally we can always count on. 2 Corinthians 1:11 you also joining in helping us through your prayers, so that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the favor bestowed on us through the prayers of many. KJV 2 Corinthians 1:11 Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf. NET 2 Corinthians 1:11 as you also join in helping us by prayer, so that many people may give thanks to God on our behalf for the gracious gift given to us through the help of many. BGT 2 Corinthians 1:11 συνυπουργούντων καὶ ὑμῶν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν τῇ δεήσει, ἵνα ἐκ πολλῶν προσώπων τὸ εἰς ἡμᾶς χάρισμα διὰ πολλῶν εὐχαριστηθῇ ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν. NLT 2 Corinthians 1:11 And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety. ESV 2 Corinthians 1:11 You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many. NIV 2 Corinthians 1:11 as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. GNT 2 Corinthians 1:11 συνυπουργούντων καὶ ὑμῶν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν τῇ δεήσει, ἵνα ἐκ πολλῶν προσώπων τὸ εἰς ἡμᾶς χάρισμα διὰ πολλῶν εὐχαριστηθῇ ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν. YLT 2 Corinthians 1:11 ye working together also for us by your supplication, that the gift through many persons to us, through many may be thankfully acknowledged for us. ASV 2 Corinthians 1:11 ye also helping together on our behalf by your supplication; that, for the gift bestowed upon us by means of many, thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf. CSB 2 Corinthians 1:11 while you join in helping us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gift that came to us through the prayers of many. MIT 2 Corinthians 1:11 as you work together with us by praying for us. As prayer arises from many people in our behalf, the gracious answer will eventuate in thanksgiving by many people in our behalf as well. helping: 2Co 9:14 Isa 37:4 62:6,7 Ac 12:5 Ro 15:30-32 Eph 6:18-19 Php 1:19 Col 4:3 1Th 5:25 2Th 3:1 Phm 1:22 Heb 13:18 Jas 5:16-18 that: 2Co 4:15 9:11,12 2 Corinthians 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Ephesians 6:18-19+ With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, 19 and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. THE HELPING HAND OF HARD WORK OF PRAYER You also joining in helping us through your prayers - MIT (MacDonald Idiomatic Translation) has "as you work together with us by praying for us." Joining in helping is in the present tense indicating that the saints at Corinth were "praying without ceasing" (1 Th 5:17+) for Paul and his companions. In Ro 15:30-31+ Paul asks the saints to strive together (sunagonizomai - sun/syn = intimately associated + agonizomai = agonizing, struggling with great effort!) in their prayers for his rescue! Woe! Have you ever prayed like that? This somewhat "dysfunctional" church at Corinth was actively, aggressively, agonizingly interceding, and God was heeding (despite their manifold spiritual problems! We call that G-R-A-C-E!) and was carrying out "operation rescue" in 2Co 1:10! This is an absolutely amazing verse regarding intercessory prayer!!! Why don't we do this more often? ("Note to self!") THOUGHT - Here Paul affirms the incredible power of intercessory prayer. Do we really comprehend the priceless worth of praying in the Spirit for our brothers and sisters in Christ? I for one think I fall far short on my comprehension of this great truth and as a result fall far short in the quantity and quality of my prayers for the saints! As a corollary thought, do you ever find it difficult to admit to others that you need help, thinking such an admission belies weakness on your part. God is not looking for SELF-sufficient Christians, but for SPIRIT/SAVIOR-dependent saints! Here is the greatest apostle in the Bible, admitting his need for help. We do well to imitate his example (1 Cor 11:1+). See other times Paul asked for prayer - 1Th 5:25+, 2Th 3:1-2+, Ro 15:30-32+, Eph 6:19-20+, Col 4:3+, cf Heb 13:18-19+) and recognized the power of intercessory prayer in his deliverance (Php 1:19, Philemon 1:22). This rare verb indicates that prayer is not a picnic but calls for persistence and effort (see the derivation below from "ergo" to work). This reminds me of the great saint Epaphras in Colossians 4:12+ Paul writing Epaphras, who is one of your number, a bondslave of Jesus Christ, sends you his greetings, always laboring earnestly (agonizomai in the present tense - continually) for you in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God.
2 Coríntios 1
Spurgeon - “Here was a man, who never knew but what he might be dead the next day, for his enemies were many, and cruel, and mighty; and yet he spent a great part of his time in praising and blessing God.” Kent on Father of mercies: This concept was rooted in Old Testament revelation, and found frequent expression among those who trusted God (II Sam. 24:14; I Chr 21:13; Neh. 9:31; Ps. 51:1; Ps 103:4; Isa. 54:7; Da. 9:9).
2 Coríntios 1
Spurgeon - Give me the comforts of God, and I can well bear the taunts of men. Let me lay my head on the bosom of Jesus, and I fear not the distraction of care and trouble. If my God will give me ever the light of His smile and glance His benediction—it is enough. Come on, foes, persecutors, friends, ay, Apollyon himself, for “the Lord God is my sun and shield.” Gather, ye clouds, and environ me, I carry a sun within; blow, wind of the frozen north, I have a fire of living coal within; yea, death, slay me, but I have another life, a life in the light of God’s countenance. F B Meyer Our Daily Homily Who comforteth us in all our affliction, that we may be able to comfort. (r.v.) Child of God, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which tries thee, as though some strange thing had happened. Rejoice, inasmuch as it is a sure sign that thou art on the right track. All the saints have gone by this road, notably the writer of this Epistle. Its keyword is affliction, because written amid afflictions so great that the apostle despaired of life. It is steeped in affliction, as a handkerchief with the flowing blood of a fresh wound. But in this passage the apostle has built himself a little chamber of comfort, the stones of which were quarried from the pit of his own sorrow. He blesses God, who had led him into affliction to teach him the art of comfort, that by observing how God comforted, he might become proficient in the art. The world is full of comfortless hearts — orphan. children crying in the night. Our God pities them, and would comfort them through thee. But ere thou undertake this lofty ministry thou must be trained, and thou must therefore pass through the very trials that they are exposed to. Now watch how God comforts thee. Keep a diary, if thou wilt, of his procedure. Ponder in thine heart the length of each splint, the folds of each bandage, the ministration of each opiate, cordial, or drug. This will have a twofold effect, in turning thy thoughts from thy miseries to thy mercies, and in taking away the sense of useless and aimless existence. There is evidently scope for comfort even in heaven, for it is said that God will wipe away tears from all faces. Oh thou that art sorrowful even unto death, be sure that some day the Comforter will get the victory over thy sorest griefs. Helping Each Other [God] comforts us . . . so that we can comfort those in any trouble. 2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture & Insight: 2 Corinthians 1:3–7 “The body of Christ” is a mysterious phrase used more than 30 times in the New Testament. The apostle Paul especially settled on that phrase as an image of the church. After Jesus ascended to heaven, He turned over His mission to flawed and bumbling men and women. He assumed the role of head of the church, leaving the tasks of arms, legs, ears, eyes, and voice to the erratic disciples—and to you and me. Jesus’s decision to operate as the invisible head of a large body with many parts means that He often relies on us to help one another cope during times of suffering. The apostle Paul must have had something like that in mind when he wrote these words: “[God] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ” (2 Cor. 1:4–5). And all through his ministry Paul put that principle into practice, taking up collections for famine victims, dispatching assistants to go to troubled areas, acknowledging believers’ gifts as gifts from God Himself. Dear Lord, thank You for always being faithful to comfort me when I’m hurting. Show me who needs my encouragement today. God’s presence brings us comfort; our presence brings others comfort. 2Cor 1:3, 4 A mother who lost her son asked an elderly Chinese philosopher how to overcome her deep grief. "I can help you, but you must first bring me some mustard seed," said the old wise man. "But you must get it at a home where there has never been any loss or sorrow." Eagerly the woman started her search, but in every home she visited was someone who had lost a loved one or had known some heartbreaking loss. Returning without any mustard seed, she exclaimed, "How selfish I have been! Sorrow is common to all." "Ah," said the philosopher, "you have learned a valuable lesson. Because you know sorrow, you can sympathize with others and comfort them. And when you do, your own sorrow will be lessened." GOD COMFORTS US TO MAKE US COMFORTERS The English artist Joseph Turner once invited the clergyman and novelist Charles Kingsley to his studio to see a picture he had just completed of a storm at sea. Filled with admiration, Kingsley inquired, "How did you make it so realistic?" The artist replied, "When I decided to paint this scene, I thought it would be best to go to the coast of Holland and hire a fisherman to take me out in his boat during an actual storm. I knew this was the only way I could get a feel for my subject. The boatman bound me to the mast so I could watch the squall in safety. I not only observed it and sensed its power, but the tempest blew itself into me until I seemed to become a part of it. When it was over, I was able to depict on canvas all the fury I had felt at sea." GOD COMFORTS US NOT TO MAKE US COMFORTABLE, BUT TO MAKE US COMFORTERS. A Purpose in Pain? [God] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture & Insight: 2 Corinthians 1:3–7 When Siu Fen discovered she had kidney failure and would need dialysis for the rest of her life, she wanted to give up. Retired and single, the longtime believer in Jesus saw no point in prolonging her life. But friends convinced her to persevere and go for dialysis and trust in God to help her. Two years later, she found her experience coming into play when she visited a friend from church with a debilitating disease. The woman felt alone, as few could truly understand what she was going through. But Siu Fen was able to identify with her physical and emotional pain and could connect with her in a personal way. Her own journey enabled her to walk alongside the woman, giving her a special measure of comfort others couldn’t. “Now I see how God can still use me,” she said. How has God used you to bring comfort to another? How has your faith helped you to persevere? Lord, help me to keep trusting in You in the midst of trouble, knowing that I can tap Your unlimited comfort and share it with others. Finding the Way Home [God] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture & Insight: 2 Corinthians 1:3–11 Sometimes this journey through life can be so difficult that we’re simply overwhelmed, and it seems there’s no end to the darkness. During such a time in our own family’s life, my wife emerged one morning from her quiet time with a new lesson learned. “I think God wants us not to forget in the light what we’re learning in this darkness.” Paul writes this same thought to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1), after describing the terrible difficulties he and his team endured in Asia. Paul wants the Corinthians to understand how God can redeem even our darkest moments. We’re comforted, he says, so we may learn how to comfort others (v. 4). Paul and his team were learning things from God during their trials that they could use to comfort and advise the Corinthians when they faced similar difficulties. And God does that for us as well, if we’re willing to listen. He will redeem our trials by teaching us how to use what we’ve learned in them to minister to others. Father, help those who are hurting today so they may see and know Your loving presence in their darkest hours. Never forget in the light what you learn in the darkness. John
2 Coríntios 1
Spurgeon - My Sermon Notes - 2 Cor. 1:3, 4 The apostle began with invoking the blessing of God. Verse 1. He then went on to bless God. He was much tried, but he was in a grateful and cheerful humour, for he wrote of most comfortable things. Here we have— I. THE COMFORTABLE OCCUPATION. Blessing God. “Blessed be God.” If a man under affliction blesses the Lord— 1. It argues that his heart is not vanquished, So as to gratify Satan by murmuring, or So as to kill his own soul with despair. 2. It prophesies that God will send to him speedy deliverances to call forth new praises. It is natural to lend more to a man when the interest on what he has is duly paid. Never did man bless God but sooner or later God blessed him. 3. It profits the believer above measure. It takes the mind off from present trouble. It lifts the heart to heavenly thoughts and considerations. It gives a taste of heaven, for heaven largely consists in adoring and blessing God. It destroys distress by bringing God upon the scene. 4. It is the Lord’s due in whatsoever state we may be. II. THE COMFORTABLE TITLES. 1. A name of affinity, “The Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2. A name of gratitude, “The Father of mercies.” 3. A name of hope, “The God of all comfort.” 4. A name of discrimination, “Who comforteth us.” The Lord has a special care for those who trust in him. III. THE COMFORTABLE FACT. “The God of all comfort comforteth us in all our tribulation.” 1. God personally condescends to comfort the saints. 2. God habitually does this. He has always been near to comfort us in all past time, never once leaving us alone. 3. God effectually does this. He has always been able to comfort us in all tribulation. No trial has baffled his skill. 4. God everlastingly does this, he will comfort us to the end, for he is “the God of all comfort,” and he cannot change. Should we not be always happy since God always comforts us? IV. THE COMFORTABLE DESIGN. “That we may be able to comfort.” 1. To make us comforters of others. The Lord aims at this: the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, trains us up to be comforters. There is great need for this holy service in this sin-smitten world. 2. To make us comforters on a large scale. “To comfort them which are in any trouble.” We are to be conversant with all kinds of grief, and ready to sympathize with all sufferers. 3. To make us experts in consolation—“able to comfort”; because of our own experience of divine comfort. 4. To make us willing and sympathetic, so that we may through personal experience instinctively care for the state of others. Let us now unite in special thanksgiving to the God of all comfort. Let us drink in comfort from the word of the Lord, and be ourselves happy in Christ Jesus. Let us be on the watch to minister consolation to all tried ones. COMFORTABLE WORDS Music is sweetest near or over rivers, where the echo thereof is best rebounded by the water. Praise for pensiveness, thanks for tears, and blessing God over the floods of affliction, make the most melodious music in the ear of heaven.—Thomas Fuller. Many an Alleluia That rings through the Father’s home, Sobbed out its first rehearsal In the shades of a darkened room. When we try to comfort one another, let it be God’s comfort that we give.—T. T. Lynch. We have no more religion than what we have in times of trial. Andrew Fuller. Away over in India a poor native woman—like Naomi—“was left of her two sons.” She did not, perhaps, know enough to think about God at all in her grief; but she would take no comfort. To everything that could be said she had one answer: “I had but two, and they are both gone.” Day after day she pined and fretted, going listlessly about, her life “empty” of all but a blank despair. One morning, as she wandered here and there among the people of the mission, one of them again remonstrated; but the poor thing gave her old reply: “I had but two, and they are both gone.” “Look,” said the worker, turning, and pointing towards a group near by, where a white lady of the mission stood directing some dusky natives; “Do you see her?” The woman looked, and saw a sweet, pale face; patient, gentle, glad, as clear as a sky washed blue with storms, but wearing that unmistakable look which tells that storms have been. “Yes,” she said, “I see her.” “Well,” said the other, “she has lost her sons, too!” The poor native mother gazed for a minute, spell-bound; then she sprang towards her. “Oh, lady”! she cried, “did you have two sons? and are they both gone?” And now the white mother on her part turned and looked. “Yes,” she said, “I had two.” “And are they both gone?” “Both.” “But they were all I had,” cried the other, “and they are both gone!” “And mine are both gone,” said the white lady, clasping the hands of her poor sister in sorrow. “But Jesus took them; and they are with Jesus, and Jesus is with me. And by-and-by I shall have them again.” From that hour the native woman sat at her white sister’s feet, followed her about, hung on her words, and from her would take comfort—“the comfort wherewith she herself was comforted of God.”—From “What Aileth Thee?” He would put off a meditated journey, rather than leave a poor parishioner who required his services; and from his knowledge of human nature, he was able, and in a remarkable manner, to throw himself into the circumstances of those who needed his help. No sympathy was like his.—Chambers, on George Crabbe. Comforted To Comfort [God] comforts us . . . that we may be able to comfort [others] with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. — 2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 While speaking to a group of Christian athletes, I asked them how they normally responded to hardships. Their responses included fear, anger, self-pity, aggression, despair, abusive behavior, apathy, and turning to God. I encouraged them to trust that God would comfort them and then use them to comfort others. Just as I encouraged those athletes, Paul encouraged a group of believers in a town called Corinth. He reminded them that afflictions were inevitable for the follower of Jesus. Many were being persecuted, imprisoned, and oppressed—all because of their relationship with Jesus. Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that in the midst of their trouble God was their source of help. He would come to their side and help them to have godly responses. Then Paul gave one of the reasons God allowed suffering and brought divine comfort—so that the Corinthians might have the empathy to enter into other people’s sorrow and comfort them (2 Cor. 1:4). When you receive God’s comfort, Be sure to pass it on, Then give to God the glory From whom the comfort’s drawn. —Hess When God permits trials, He also provides comfort. Just What I Need We can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture & Insight: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 As I stood in the back of the room at a senior citizens’ center in Palmer, Alaska, listening to my daughter’s high school choir sing “It Is Well with My Soul,” I wondered why she, the choir director, had chosen that song. It had been played at her sister Melissa’s funeral, and Lisa knew it was always tough for me to hear it without having an emotional response. My musings were interrupted when a man sidled up next to me and said, “This is just what I need to hear.” I introduced myself and then asked why he needed this song. “I lost my son Cameron last week in a motorcycle accident,” he said. Wow! I was so focused on myself that I never considered the needs of others, and God was busy using that song exactly where He wanted it to be used. I took my new friend Mac, who worked at the center, aside, and we talked about God’s care in this toughest time in his life. Lord, help me to see where help is needed, and help me to provide that help. Thank You for the comfort You give; help me to share it. Comfort received should be comfort shared. A Life Remembered That we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. —2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture: Psalm 139:1-16 Daddy, help me.” Those were the last words Dianne and Gary Cronin heard their daughter say as she struggled to breathe. Kristin, 14 years old, died suddenly—just 2 days after saying she didn’t feel well. A strep infection attacked her body on Thursday. By Saturday, she was pleading with her daddy to help her. Before Kristin died, I was scheduled to speak at her family’s church in Soldotna, Alaska. In God’s timing, I stood before the congregation the day after her funeral. Kristin was one of those vivacious teens who loved Jesus and lived for Him—and whose sudden death leaves us with a million questions. Because I went through a similar loss of my own teenage daughter a few years ago, I was able to offer some advice to this stunned and grieving church. First, I said, we must recognize God’s sovereignty. Psalm 139:16 reminds us that Kristin’s life was the exact length God intended. Second, I asked the church never to forget her family. Whether it’s 2 months or 5 years later, the family will never “get over” losing Kristin. They will never stop needing Christians who care and remember. When we sustain a heartbreaking loss, When grief overwhelms our soul, The Savior who gave Himself on the cross Reminds us that He’s in control. —D. De Haan In every desert of despair God has an oasis of comfort. They Understood [God] comforts us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble. —2 Corinthians 1:4 Today's Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 A few days before Christmas, we received a beautiful floral arrangement with a card that said, “Remembering your loss and wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year. Love and prayers, Dave and Betty.” Seven months earlier, my sister Marti and her husband Jim had been killed in a traffic accident. This was our first Christmas without them, so it was a great encouragement to have friends acknowledge our loss and express their love in a tangible way. Dave and Betty understood our need to grieve and find God’s healing because two decades earlier their daughter had taken her own life. They had experienced the Lord’s comfort over the years, so they were able to come alongside us in a sensitive and caring way. That loving act came as a striking example of Paul’s words: “The Father of mercies and God of all comfort . . . comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). The comfort God has given us He wants us now to share With others who are suffering And caught in life's despair. —Sper God does not comfort us to make us comfortable, but to make us comforters. DAN Munro was a plastic surgeon at the University of Toronto. At one time, he was one of the few doctors in the world who could take apart and then rebuild the skulls of infants who had Crouzon's disease. The head of a child who suffers from this condition becomes so misshapen that the extreme pressure put on the brain can cause mental retardation. Dr. Munro devised an operation in which as much as 90 percent of the skull and facial bones are broken in order to reshape the skull. The motivation behind Dr. Munro's pioneering efforts in this highly specialized field was his own child, who suffered brain damage as a result of Crouzon's disease. A child's suffering created in the father's heart a deep sympathy for others with the same condition. Dr. Munro's experience calls attention to the principle of 2 Corinthians 1:4. God in His grace uses the pain and suffering we experience to make it possible for us to empathize with and help others. 2 Corinthians 1:5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. Amplified For just as Christ’s [own] sufferings fall to our lot [as they overflow upon His disciples, and we share and experience them] abundantly, so through Christ comfort (consolation and encouragement) is also [shared and experienced] abundantly by us. KJV 2 Corinthians 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. NET 2 Corinthians 1:5 For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow toward us, so also our comfort through Christ overflows to you. BGT 2 Corinthians 1:5 ὅτι καθὼς περισσεύει τὰ παθήματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ εἰς ἡμᾶς, οὕτως διὰ τοῦ Χριστοῦ περισσεύει καὶ ἡ παράκλησις ἡμῶν. NLT 2 Corinthians 1:5 For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. ESV 2 Corinthians 1:5 For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. NIV 2 Corinthians 1:5 For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. GNT 2 Corinthians 1:5 ὅτι καθὼς περισσεύει τὰ παθήματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ εἰς ἡμᾶς, οὕτως διὰ τοῦ Χριστοῦ περισσεύει καὶ ἡ παράκλησις ἡμῶν. YLT 2 Corinthians 1:5 because, as the sufferings of the Christ do abound to us, so through the Christ doth abound also our comfort; ASV 2 Corinthians 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound unto us, even so our comfort also aboundeth through Christ. CSB 2 Corinthians 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so through Christ our comfort also overflows. MIT 2 Corinthians 1:5 In proportion as the sufferings of Christ multiply in us, our encouragement through Christ comparably increases. NEB As Christ’s cup of suffering overflows, and we suffer with him, so also through Christ our consolation overflows. The Living Bible You can be sure that the more we undergo sufferings for Christ, the more he will shower us with his comfort and encouragement. For just as the sufferings of Christ : 2Co 4:10-11 2 Cor 11:23-30 Ac 9:4 1Co 4:10-13 Php 1:20 Php 3:10 Col 1:24 so: Lu 2:25 Php 2:1 2Th 2:16-17 2 Corinthians 5 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Colossians 1:24+ Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church, in filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions. Criswell - The redemptive suffering of Christ has no deficiency, but He does not exhaust all the suffering to be endured in the redemptive purpose of God. The sufferings of Paul do not add to the finished work of redemption but are incurred in making known the redeeming work of Christ to the Gentiles (ED: COMPARE CHRIST'S PROMISE REGARDING PAUL - Acts 9:16+). The afflictions of every believer supplement those of Christ and lead to maturity (Heb. 2:10+; 1 Pe 1:6-7+), patience (James 1:3+), and eschatological privilege (2 Ti 2:12+). (Believer's Study Bible) 1 Thessalonians 3:3-4+ ("AFFLICTION WAS ON PAUL'S APPOINTMENT CALENDAR!" AND IS ON OURS ALSO!) so that no one would be disturbed (SHAKEN) by these afflictions (thlipsis); for you yourselves know that we have been destined (Greeks used keimai to describe a soldier being placed on duty) for this. 4 For indeed when we were with you, we kept telling you in advance that we were going to suffer affliction (thlibo); and so it came to pass, as you know. 2 Thessalonians 1:4-7+ (AFFLICTION OF BELIEVERS WILL BE AVENGED AND WILL END) therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. 5 This is a plain indication of God’s righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering. 6 For after all it is only just for God to repay with affliction (thlipsis) those who afflict (thlibo) you, 7 and to give relief to you who are afflicted (thlibo) and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire, Romans 8:16-18+ The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if (first class conditional - ASSUMED TRUE) children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if (first class conditional - ASSUMED TRUE) indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.18 For I consider that the sufferings (pathema) of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Philippians 1:27-30 Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28 in no way alarmed by your opponents–which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God. 29 For to you it has been granted (A GIFT OF GRACE) for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30 experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me. Philippians 3:10+ that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings (pathema), being conformed to His death; Note - Our capacity for strong feeling goes with being created in God's image so blessed is the person who desires the Lord (His will) which means "sharing the deep-feelings (páthēma) of Christ" (Phil 3:10). 2 Corinthians 9:8+ And God is able to make all grace abound (perisseuo) to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed; Romans 15:5+ Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement (paraklesis) grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus 2 Thessalonians 2:16+ Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, Who has loved us and given us eternal comfort (paraklesis) and good hope by grace, Philippians 3:10+ (PAUL'S DESIRE WAS) that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 2 Timothy 1:8-12+ (DIVINE PROVISION OF POWER & PROMISE [v12] FOR SUFFERING) Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering (aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) for the Gospel (SO THIS IS NOT SUFFERING IN GENERAL WHICH IS COMMON TO ALL HUMANS) according to the power of God, 9 Who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, 10 but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher. 12 For this reason (WHAT REASON?) I also (present tense - continually) suffer (pascho) these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know Whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. 2 Timothy 3:12+ Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. Acts 9:31+ So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort (paraklesis) of the Holy Spirit (THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST DISPENSES THE COMFORT FROM CHRIST), it continued to increase. 1 Peter 1:11+ seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. OVERFLOWING SUFFERING YIELDS OVERFLOWING COMFORT Paul now describes divine mathematics as taught and demonstrated in the "classroom of sufferings." For just as the sufferings (pathema) of Christ (lit - "the Christ" ~ the Messiah) are ours in abundance (perisseuo in present tense - continually) - The best commentary on this Scripture is Scripture - specifically read Paul's "in abundance" sufferings in 2Co 11:23-28+! In the previous verse Paul said God comforts believers and here says Christ comforts believers. Luke describes the sufferings of (the) Christ. NEB - "As Christ’s cup of suffering overflows, and we suffer with Him." Paul saw all his sufferings as really the sufferings of Christ! Henry Alford said it this way = "we suffer, because we are His members: we are consoled, because He is our Head." Luke describes the sufferings of Christ, sufferings that speak of His atonement, sufferings we can neither experience or add to... Lk 24:26, 46+ “Was it not necessary for the Christ to suffer these things and to enter into His glory?”...46 and He said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, Homer Kent adds that "By this expression (the sufferings of Christ are ours) he refers not to Christ’s agony on the cross as the substitute for our sin (those sufferings could not be shared with others), but to the various afflictions which Christ endured from a sinful world and which His followers also incur. Our Lord Himself predicted such suffering for those who would follow Him (Luke 14:27; John 15:18–20; 16:2–3, 33), and Paul accepts this fact as a part of his duty (Col. 1:24) NET on the sufferings of Christ - suffering incurred by Paul as a consequence of his relationship to Christ. (ED: Jn 15:19, 20, 21, 16:33, 17:14, Mt 10:24-25, Lk 6:22-23+) Charles Hodge makes the critical distinction we need to remember - “It is not of suffering as suffering that the apostle here speaks. There is no tendency in pain to produce holiness. It is only of Christian suffering and of that sufferings of Christians, that is, of suffering endured for Christ and in a Christian manner, that the apostle says it is connected with salvation, or that it tends to work out for those who suffer an eternal weight of glory.” Brian Bell - The law of flow and overflow! When a cup is filled to overflowing, whatever spills over the edge is the same as what's being poured in. If suffering is poured into a Christian, the Christian will overflow. But what spills over is different from what is poured in. Suffering goes in but comfort comes out. When we experience tribulation for being a Christian, and suffering is poured into our lives, God will transform it by His supernatural grace and power. Another translation reads, "Just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows" (2 Co 1:5NET) Ray
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Spurgeon wrote that "The Ruler of Providence bears a pair of scales; in this side He puts His people's trials, and in that He puts their consolations. When the scale of trial is nearly empty you will always find the scale of consolation in nearly the same condition; and when the scale of trial is full you will find the scale of consolation just as heavy." (See full devotional below) THOUGHT - If we don't "feel" comforted, what might be the source of the feeling? Cp 2Co 5:7+. Sufferings (3804) pathema [-ma suffix, emphasizes end-result experiencing strong feeling] from pascho - capacity to feel strong emotion, like suffering) capacity and privilege to experience strong feeling; felt, deep emotion – like agony, passion (ardent desire), suffering, etc. Pathema describes what happens to a person and must be endured. Pathema is talking about the actual suffering itself (not suffering in general) - it refers to the pain that we are experiencing now - those things that we can "see, touch & feel" - those things that are causing us anguish and emotional trauma. The sufferings of this life are the lot of all believers but keep in mind that for believers suffering takes on a different meaning and purpose then suffering in general - as believers we suffer for our faith in Christ (and Christ in us Who the world hates) and we suffer that we might be conformed to His image. Furthermore, any suffering and shame we experience in this life for the sake of the Christ "are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us" Sufferings are the universal mark of all true Christians. Realizing that other Christians suffer in other places of the world, encourages us to move on in the faith. This also unites us in the same experiences. We can handle anything that life may bring us if we know the principles of the Word. Pathema yields precious, eternal results when it works in conjunction with faith Pathema - 16v - Rom. 7:5; Rom. 8:18; 2 Co. 1:5; 2 Co. 1:6; 2 Co. 1:7; Gal. 5:24; Phil. 3:10; Col. 1:24; 2 Tim. 3:11; Heb. 2:9; Heb. 2:10; Heb. 10:32; 1 Pet. 1:11; 1 Pet. 4:13; 1 Pet. 5:1; 1 Pet. 5:9 Abound (surpass, overflow, lavish, excel, exceed) (4052) perisseuo from perissos = abundant, exceeding some number, measure, rank or need, over and above) is a verb which in classical Greek with the -euō ending denotes the possession of quality and is used to indicate the abundant presence of something,. It means to cause to superabound, to be superfluous, to overflow, to be in affluence, to excel or to be in abundance with the implication of being considerably more than what would be expected. Perisseuo is used 7x in 2 Corinthians - 2Co 1:5 2Co 3:9 = "ministry of righteousness abound in glory" 2Co 4:15 = "cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God" 2Co 8:2 = "their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality" 2Co 8:7 = "just as you abound in everything...see that you abound in this gracious work also" 2Co 9:8 = "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;" 2Co 9:12 = "is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God." Comfort (3874) paraklesis from parakaléo = beseech <> pará = side of + kaléo = call) refers to calling to one's side or one's aid for the purpose of providing solace, comfort, consolation, exhortation, encouragement. Comfort is from Latin com = with + fortis = strong, and means to invigorate, to enliven, to cheer, to strengthen one's mind when depressed, to give new vigor to one's spirits, to give strength or hope to another, to ease their grief or trouble. A Greek paraclete was like a lawyer today, so the sense of this word for believers is delivering "evidence that stands up in God's court!" Spurgeon's Morning and Evening —2 Corinthians 1:5 There is a blessed proportion. The Ruler of Providence bears a pair of scales—in this side he puts his people’s trials, and in that he puts their consolations. When the scale of trial is nearly empty, you will always find the scale of consolation in nearly the same condition; and when the scale of trials is full, you will find the scale of consolation just as heavy. When the black clouds gather most, the light is the more brightly revealed to us. When the night lowers and the tempest is coming on, the Heavenly Captain is always closest to his crew. It is a blessed thing, that when we are most cast down, then it is that we are most lifted up by the consolations of the Spirit. One reason is, because trials make more room for consolation. Great hearts can only be made by great troubles. The spade of trouble digs the reservoir of comfort deeper, and makes more room for consolation. God comes into our heart—he finds it full—he begins to break our comforts and to make it empty; then there is more room for grace. The humbler a man lies, the more comfort he will always have, because he will be more fitted to receive it. Another reason why we are often most happy in our troubles, is this—then we have the closest dealings with God. When the barn is full, man can live without God: when the purse is bursting with gold, we try to do without so much prayer. But once take our gourds away, and we want our God; once cleanse the idols out of the house, then we are compelled to honour Jehovah. “Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Lord.” There is no cry so good as that which comes from the bottom of the mountains; no prayer half so hearty as that which comes up from the depths of the soul, through deep trials and afflictions. Hence they bring us to God, and we are happier; for nearness to God is happiness. Come, troubled believer, fret not over your heavy troubles, for they are the heralds of weighty mercies. James Smith - SUFFERINGS AND CONSOLATION (2 Cor. 1:5). The sufferings of Christ were peculiar. He suffered on account of His holiness. He was so like the Father—being “the image of the invisible God”—that all who loved not the Father hated Him. He suffered also because of His faithfulness. He spoke the truth, and because the world loved not the truth He was despised and rejected of men. If we, as Christians, have consecrated ourselves to God to do His will and to manifest His truth, as Christ did, we shall understand something of the sufferings of Christ. But it is here where we are misunderstood and hated by the world, that the “consolation also aboundeth by Christ.” To drink deeply of the heavenly comfort, we must enter fully into the spirit and sympathies of Christ. Flow And Overflow As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. —2 Corinthians 1:5 Today's Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 When a cup is filled to overflowing, whatever spills over the edge is the same as what’s being poured in. That is a natural process that I can understand. But here is a supernatural process beyond my understanding: If suffering is poured into a Christian, the Christian will overflow. But what spills over is different from what is poured in. Suffering goes in but comfort comes out. This law of flow and overflow is expressed in 2 Corinthians 1:5, “As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.” The word abound means “to exist in abundance, to exceed a certain measure, to remain.” It is the same word used of the 12 baskets of food “left over” after Jesus miraculously fed thousands of people with 5 loaves and 2 fish (Jn. 6:12-13). When we experience tribulation for being a Christian, and suffering is poured into our lives, God will transform it by His supernatural grace and power. Another translation reads, “Just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows” (2 Cor. 1:5). When we experience suffering, God's comfort will abound; For tribulations teach us where True comfort can be found. —Sper God does not comfort us to make us comfortable, but to make us comforters. 2 Corinthians 1:6 But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; AMP But if we are troubled (afflicted and distressed), it is for your comfort (consolation and encouragement) and [for your] salvation; and if we are comforted (consoled and encouraged), it is for your comfort (consolation and encouragement), which works [in you] when you patiently endure the same evils (misfortunes and calamities) that we also suffer and undergo. KJV 2 Corinthians 1:6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. NET 2 Corinthians 1:6 But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort that you experience in your patient endurance of the same sufferings that we also suffer. BGT 2 Corinthians 1:6 εἴτε δὲ θλιβόμεθα, ὑπὲρ τῆς ὑμῶν παρακλήσεως καὶ σωτηρίας· εἴτε παρακαλούμεθα, ὑπὲρ τῆς ὑμῶν παρακλήσεως τῆς ἐνεργουμένης ἐν ὑπομονῇ τῶν αὐτῶν παθημάτων ὧν καὶ ἡμεῖς πάσχομεν. NLT 2 Corinthians 1:6 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. ESV 2 Corinthians 1:6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. NIV 2 Corinthians 1:6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. GNT 2 Corinthians 1:6 εἴτε δὲ θλιβόμεθα, ὑπὲρ τῆς ὑμῶν παρακλήσεως καὶ σωτηρίας· εἴτε παρακαλούμεθα, ὑπὲρ τῆς ὑμῶν παρακλήσεως τῆς ἐνεργουμένης ἐν ὑπομονῇ τῶν αὐτῶν παθημάτων ὧν καὶ ἡμεῖς πάσχομεν. YLT 2 Corinthians 1:6 and whether we be in tribulation, it is for your comfort and salvation, that is wrought in the enduring of the same sufferings that we also suffer; whether we are comforted, it is for your comfort and salvation; ASV 2 Corinthians 1:6 But whether we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or whether we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which worketh in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: CSB 2 Corinthians 1:6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation. If we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is experienced in your endurance of the same sufferings that we suffer. MIT 2 Corinthians 1:6 If we are hard-pressed by trouble, it is in behalf of your reassurance and salvation. If we are consoled, it is for your encouragement that produces endurance as you participate in the same sufferings we also experience. NRS 2 Corinthians 1:6 If we are being afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation; if we are being consoled, it is for your consolation, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we are also suffering. NEB 2 Corinthians 1:6 If distress be our lot, it is the price we pay for your consolation, for your salvation; if our lot be consolation, it is to help us to bring you comfort, and strength to face with fortitude the same sufferings we now endure. whether: 2Co 1:4 4:15-18 1Co 3:21-23 2Ti 2:10 it is: Ac 21:5 effective, 2Co 4:17 5:5 Ro 5:3-5 8:28 Php 1:19 Heb 12:10,11 2 Corinthians 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries But if - Contrast. IF is first class conditional (assumes following is true) meaning "since we are afflicted." The second "IF" (if we are comforted) is also first class conditional. We are (present tense - continually, passive voice) afflicted, it is for your comfort (paraklesis) and salvation - The comfort and salvation of the Corinthians is the great end of Paul's affliction and troubles which continually weigh him down and cause distress. Alford in turn sees salvation as "the great end of comfort." One way Paul's afflictions would be for other's comfort is that they would see that God deliver him through the afflict and could be confident that God could also deliver them. Few believers have suffered the variegated afflictions that Paul suffered and yet God delivered him, so He could surely deliver saints from their lesser afflictions. Utley suggests that "Because comfort is linked to salvation, it seems that this follows the OT sense of the term sosō which means physical deliverance (cf. Matt. 9:22+ = "made you well [sozo root of soteria]"; Mark 6:56+ ["were being cured" [sozo]).
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Spurgeon - As sure as God puts His children in the furnace of affliction, He will be with them in it.... Most of the grand truths of God have to be learned by trouble; they must be burned into us with the hot iron of affliction, otherwise we shall not truly receive them....The furnace of affliction is a good place for you, Christian; it benefits you; it helps you to become more like Christ, and it is fitting you for heaven.....Those who dive in the sea of affliction bring up rare pearls....The Lord gets his best soldiers out of the highlands of affliction. Andrew
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Spurgeon - I call to your notice the strong expressions which he uses in the eighth verse: “We were pressed” he says. The word is such as you would use if you were speaking of a cart loaded with sheaves, till it could not bear up under the weight: it is over-loaded, and threatens to break down and fall by the way. Or the word might be used if you spoke of a man who was weighted with too great a burden, under which he was ready to fall: or perhaps, better still, if you were speaking of a ship which had taken too much cargo, and sank nearly to the water’s edge, looking as if it must sink altogether through excessive pressure. Paul says that this was his condition of mind when he was in Asia,—“We were pressed.” To strengthen the language he adds, “out of measure.” He was pressed out of measure; he could convey no idea of the degree of pressure put upon him—it seemed to be beyond the measure of his strength. All trials, we are taught in the Scripture, are sent to us in measure, and so were Paul’s, but for the time being he himself could see no limit to them, and he seemed to be quite crushed. Paul could not tell how much he was tried; he could not calculate the pressure; it was more severe than he could estimate. So great, so heavy was the burden upon his mind, that he gave up calculating its weight. Then he adds another word, “above strength,” because a man may be pressed out of measure, and yet he may have such remarkable strength that he may bear up under all. The posts, and bars, and gates of Gaza must have pressed Samson, and they must have pressed him out of measure, but still not beyond his strength, because gigantic force was given to those mighty limbs of his, so that he carried readily what would have crushed another man. Paul says that the pressure put upon him was beyond his strength, he was quite unable to cope with it, and his spirits so failed him that he adds, “insomuch that we despaired even of life.” He gave himself up for a dead man, for no way of escape was visible to him. Into whatsoever town he entered he was followed by the Jews; the fickle mob soon turned against him; even the converts were not always faithful. He had been stoned and beaten with rods, and men had sworn to take his life. Perils of robbers beset him in lonely places, while tumult and assault befell him in the cities. Meanwhile, the thorn in his flesh worried him, afflictions and cares of all kinds weighed upon him, and altogether his mind was bowed down under the pressure which had come upon him. What a deep bass there is in this note, “We were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life”! May we be spared so grievous a condition, or if that cannot be, may we be profited by it. (Excerpt from 2 Corinthians 1:9 Sentence of Death, the Death of Self-Trust) Gromacki on burdened excessively, beyond our strength - Like a beast of burden he was crushed beneath a load too heavy to bear. Physically and psychologically, he could not humanly cope with the situation. (2 Corinthians - Stand Firm in the Faith) THOUGHT - You have heard the saying "Man's extremity is God's opportunity." When we are the end of our rope that we learn we never have a solution in ourselves! It is then that we come to the realization that Christ is all we need. The Lord is never without a solution because He is able to orchestrate the circumstances of life to work in time for our eternal good (cf Ro 8:28). Despaired (1820)(exaporeo from ek = from, out + aporeo = to be at a loss) means to be without a way out and thus to be in utter despair. To be in great difficulty, to despair of living (2 Cor 1:8), to be in utmost despair, to be greatly perplexed, to be at a loss psychologically, to be in great difficulty, doubt. embarrassment. Brian Bell has a poem related to verse 8 Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length; Pressed so intensely, it seems beyond strength; Pressed in the body, and pressed in the soul; Pressed in the mind till the dark surges roll. Pressure by foes, and pressure from friends, Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends. Pressed into knowing no helper but God; Pressed into loving the staff and the rod; Pressed into living a life in the Lord; Pressed into living a Christ-life outpoured. Are you under pressure? Sure. We all are. But we can be victorious if we let that pressure teach us to live in the power of the Spirit of Christ! Related Resources: Afflictions-Suffering-Quotes, Devotionals, Illustrations The Refiner's Fire 1 Peter 1:6 Comments related to suffering 1 Peter 1:7 Comments related to suffering Jon Courson on 2Co 1:8-9 - Demetrius the silversmith was angry with Paul. So many people were getting saved in Ephesus that his business was being affected by loss of revenue from the sale of idols. Following his instigation of a riot, soon the entire city was in an uproar (Acts 19). Yet the dark days at Ephesus had a purpose indeed: they caused Paul to rely solely on God. Like Paul, the tendency of most of us is to try to solve our problems with our own strength. Therefore, as He did with Paul, the Lord brings us to the end of ourselves from time to time—to the point where we feel pressed beyond measure, despairing even of life—in order that we will have no other choice but to call upon Him and find in Him greater strength than we could ever find in our own ability. He was a go-getter from the very beginning, as evidenced by his grabbing his older twin brother’s heel in a failed attempt to be first-born. Throughout his life, Heel-Snatcher, or Jacob, was one who drew from his own cunning and acumen to get ahead, until the day he heard that his brother, from whom he had cheated his birthright and blessing, was headed his way, accompanied by 400 men. So desperate was Jacob that when the angel appeared to him, he said, ‘I have no other heel to snatch; I’m at the end of my resources; I won’t let You go until You bless me.’ So they wrestled all night. And although Jacob ended up with a blessing when his name was changed from Jacob to Israel, from ‘Heel-Snatcher’ to ‘Governed By God,’ he also limped away with a dislocated hip, as though God said, ‘With every step you take, you will be reminded that you—who once walked so proudly, who once stood so confidently—came to the end of yourself. And it was the best thing that ever happened to you, for now, in your brokenness and weakness, you’ll be stronger and more useful than you could have ever been in your own energy and cleverness’ (see Genesis 32:24–32). It’s a great day when a man finally comes to the end of himself and realizes, ‘I don’t need to go to another seminar or call another counselor; I don’t need to enroll in another program or come up with another creative idea. All I need is You, Lord. I’m going to wrestle with You. I’m going to cling to You. I’m going to depend on You because I need to be governed by You.’ (A Day's Journey Paperback) Streams in the Desert - “Pressed out of measure.” (2 Cor. 1:8.) “That the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Cor. 12:9.) GOD allowed the crisis to close around Jacob on the night when he bowed at Peniel in supplication, to bring him to the place where he could take hold of God as he never would have done; and from that narrow pass of peril, Jacob became enlarged in his faith and knowledge of God, and in the power of a new and victorious life. God had to compel David, by a long and painful discipline of years, to learn the almighty power and faithfulness of his God, and grow up into the established principles of faith and godliness, which were indispensable for his glorious career as the king of Israel. Nothing but the extremities in which Paul was constantly placed could ever have taught him, and taught the Church through him, the full meaning of the great promise he so learned to claim, “My grace is sufficient for thee.” And nothing but our trials and perils would ever have led some of us to know Him as we do, to trust Him as we have, and to draw from Him the measures of grace which our very extremities made indispensable. Difficulties and obstacles are God’s challenges to faith. When hindrances confront us in the path of duty, we are to recognize them as vessels for faith to fill with the fullness and all-sufficiency of Jesus; and as we go forward, simply and fully trusting Him, we may be tested, we may have to wait and let patience have her perfect work; but we shall surely find at last the stone rolled away, and the Lord waiting to render unto us double for our time of testing.—A. B. Simpson. Streams in the Desert - “I was crushed … so much so that I despaired even of life, but that was to make me rely not on myself, but on the God who raises the dead.” (2 Cor. 1:8, 9) “Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length; Pressed so intensely it seems, beyond strength; Pressed in the body and pressed in the soul, Pressed in the mind till the dark surges roll. Pressure by foes, and a pressure from friends. Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends. “Pressed into knowing no helper but God; Pressed into loving the staff and the rod. Pressed into liberty where nothing clings; Pressed into faith for impossible things. Pressed into living a life in the Lord, Pressed into living a Christ-life outpoured.” THE pressure of hard places makes us value life. Every time our life is given back to us from such a trial, it is like a new beginning, and we learn better how much it is worth, and make more of it for God and man. The pressure helps us to understand the trials of others, and fits us to help and sympathize with them. There is a shallow, superficial nature, that gets hold of a theory or a promise lightly, and talks very glibly about the distrust of those who shrink from every trial; but the man or woman who has suffered much never does this, but is very tender and gentle, and knows what suffering really means. This is what Paul meant when he said, “Death worketh in you.” Trials and hard places are needed to press us forward, even as the furnace fires in the hold of that mighty ship give force that moves the piston, drives the engine, and propels that great vessel across the sea in the face of the winds and waves. —A. B. Simpson. “Out of the presses of pain, Cometh the soul’s best wine; And the eyes that have shed no rain, Can shed but little shine.” To Be Or Not To Be We were burdened beyond measure, . . . so that we despaired even of life. —2 Corinthians 1:8 Today's Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 When I was a child, kids on the playground jokingly quoted Shakespeare’s famous line: “To be or not to be—that is the question!” But we really didn’t understand what it meant. Later I learned that Shakespeare’s character Hamlet, who speaks these lines, is a melancholy prince who learns that his uncle has killed his father and married his mother. The horror of this realization is so disturbing that he contemplates suicide. The question for him was: “to be” (to go on living) or “not to be” (to take his own life). At times, life’s pain can become so overwhelming that we are tempted to despair. The apostle Paul told the church at Corinth that his persecution in Asia was so intense he “despaired even of life” (2 Cor. 1:8). Yet by shifting his focus to his life-sustaining God, he became resilient instead of overwhelmed, and learned “that we should not trust in ourselves but in God” (v.9). Lord, give us grace to trust You when Life’s burdens seem too much to bear; Dispel the darkness with new hope And help us rise above despair. —Sper Trials make us think; thinking makes us wise; wisdom makes life profitable. 2 Corinthians 1:9 indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; KJV 2 Corinthians 1:9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: NET 2 Corinthians 1:9 Indeed we felt as if the sentence of death had been passed against us, so that we would not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead. BGT 2 Corinthians 1:9 ἀλλὰ αὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς τὸ ἀπόκριμα τοῦ θανάτου ἐσχήκαμεν, ἵνα μὴ πεποιθότες ὦμεν ἐφ᾽ ἑαυτοῖς ἀλλ᾽ ἐπὶ τῷ θεῷ τῷ ἐγείροντι τοὺς νεκρούς· NLT 2 Corinthians 1:9 In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. ESV 2 Corinthians 1:9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. NIV 2 Corinthians 1:9 Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. GNT 2 Corinthians 1:9 ἀλλὰ αὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς τὸ ἀπόκριμα τοῦ θανάτου ἐσχήκαμεν, ἵνα μὴ πεποιθότες ὦμεν ἐφ᾽ ἑαυτοῖς ἀλλ᾽ ἐπὶ τῷ θεῷ τῷ ἐγείροντι τοὺς νεκρούς· YLT 2 Corinthians 1:9 but we ourselves in ourselves the sentence of the death have had, that we may not be trusting on ourselves, but on God, who is raising the dead, ASV 2 Corinthians 1:9 yea, we ourselves have had the sentence of death within ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who raiseth the dead: CSB 2 Corinthians 1:9 Indeed, we personally had a death sentence within ourselves, so that we would not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead. MIT 2 Corinthians 1:9 But as far as we ourselves were concerned, we had received the verdict of death, lest we should be relying on ourselves rather than on the God who raises the dead. that: 2Co 3:5 4:7 12:7-10 Job 40:14 Ps 22:29 44:5-7 Pr 28:26 Jer 9:23,24 Jer 17:5-7 Eze 33:13 Lu 18:9 in God: 2Co 4:13,14 Eze 37:1-14 Ro 4:17-25 Heb 11:19 2 Corinthians 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries "DEATH SENTENCE" STIMULATES DIVINE RELIANCE AND ASSURANCE Indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves - Continues his statement "we despaired even of life" The word sentence ("verdict" or "decision") is apokrima used only here in the Bible and literally was a legal technical term referring to an official decision or sentence from a court. It is the official resolution that decides a particular matter. Here is is used figuratively to describe Paul's feeling that death was sure to take place. From a human point of view Paul is like a murderer who had just received a death sentence. He is condemned to death, not by death. Of course (as best we can discern from Scripture) there was no actual official verdict rendered, but intensity of this affliction functioned as if it were like an official verdict that had been rendered against him! This is an "intense" description and he wanted the saints at Corinth to understand what he had gone through. Remember in 2 Cor 1:4 Paul explained one purpose of his suffering = "that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." When the Corinthians would understand that his affliction was like a death sentence, it would surely stir their hearts as to how much he loved them. A second purpose of the affliction is found in the present passage - to jettison self-trust for divine trust! As
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Spurgeon - When many pray, after the blessings is received, many will give thanks. (ED: WHAT IS A PRACTICAL APPLICATION? BE SURE TO TELL THOSE WHO PRAYED FOR YOU OF THE DELIVERANCE THAT THEY MIGHT PRAISE THE DELIVERER) Paul rejoices to have been the object of interest to a large number of Christians everywhere in the time of his great peril; and when he escaped, he believed he would still be the object of their interest, and that there would be more prayer in the world, and more praise, too, because of the dangers from which God had delivered him. It is worth while for any of us to be in sore sickness, or in great straits, if thereby the quantity of prayer and praise in the world shall be increased to God’s glory. So that (hina - term of purpose) thanks may be given by many persons (prosopon - literally faces) on our behalf for the favor (charisma) bestowed on us through the prayers of many - This is a somewhat cumbersome sentence and the MIT helps grasp Paul's thought - "As prayer arises from many people in our behalf, the gracious answer will eventuate in thanksgiving by many people in our behalf as well." CSB has "Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gift that came to us through the prayers of many." NLT has "Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety." Amplified = "Thus [the lips of] many persons [turned toward God will eventually] give thanks on our behalf for the grace (the blessing of deliverance) granted us at the request of the many who have prayed." What is the favor (charisma) or gift? This probably refers to God's grace gift (so to speak) which in context would be His delivering Paul from the possibility of death. Notice the word translated persons (prosopon) is in the plural and so literally describes many faces or countenances (it could have been a group prayer together or could have been many individuals praying). As Bernard says the idea "is that of faces upturned in prayer, the early Christian (and Jewish) attitude of prayer being one of standing with uplifted eyes and outstretched arms (cf Mt 6:5 , 1Ti 2:8).” (2 Corinthians 1)
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Spurgeon - We might never have had this precious verse if Paul had not been so ill-treated by these men of Corinth. They did him great wrong, and caused him much sorrow of heart … yet you see how the evil was overruled by God for good, and through their unsavoury gossip and slander this sweet sentence was pressed out of Paul.” Ray
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Spurgeon - The promises of God are to the believer an inexhaustible mine of wealth. Happy is it for him if he knows how to search out their secret veins, and enrich himself with their hid treasures! They are an armory, containing all manner of offensive and defensive weapons. Blessed is he who has learned to enter into the sacred arsenal, to put on the breast-plate and the helmet, and to lay his hand to the spear and to the sword! They are a surgery in which the believer will find all manner of restoratives and blessed elixirs; nor lacks there an ointment for every wound, a cordial for every faintness, a remedy for every disease. Blessed is he who is well skilled in heavenly pharmacy, and knoweth how to lay hold on the healing virtues of the promises of God! The promises are to the Christian a storehouse of food. They are as the granaries which Joseph built in Egypt, or as the golden pot wherein the manna was preserved. Blessed is he who can take the five barley-loaves and fishes of promise, and break them till his five thousand necessities shall all be supplied, and he is able to gather up baskets full of fragments! Luther - Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in spring-time. Beaumont - All the promises in the Bible are so many bills of exchange drawn by God the Father in heaven upon His son Jesus Christ, and payable to every pious bearer,—to every one that comes to the mercy-seat, and offers the promise or bill for acceptance, and pleads in the way of obedient faith and prayer. Jesus, the High Treasurer of heaven, knows every letter of His Father’s handwriting, and can never be imposed upon by any forged note. He will ever honor His Father’s bills: He accepts them all. It is for His Father’s honor that His bills never fail of acceptance and payment. Can a Saint Falsely Accuse God? By Oswald Chambers All the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen… —2 Corinthians 1:20 Jesus’ parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25:14-30 was a warning that it is possible for us to misjudge our capacities. This parable has nothing to do with natural gifts and abilities, but relates to the gift of the Holy Spirit as He was first given at Pentecost. We must never measure our spiritual capacity on the basis of our education or our intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured on the basis of the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, we will falsely accuse Him as the servant falsely accused his master when he said, “You expect more of me than you gave me the power to do. You demand too much of me, and I cannot stand true to you here where you have placed me.” When it is a question of God’s Almighty Spirit, never say, “I can’t.” Never allow the limitation of your own natural ability to enter into the matter. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be exhibited in us. The servant justified himself, while condemning his lord on every point, as if to say, “Your demand on me is way out of proportion to what you gave to me.” Have we been falsely accusing God by daring to worry after He has said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you”? (Matthew 6:33). Worrying means exactly what this servant implied— “I know your intent is to leave me unprotected and vulnerable.” A person who is lazy in the natural realm is always critical, saying, “I haven’t had a decent chance,” and someone who is lazy in the spiritual realm is critical of God. Lazy people always strike out at others in an independent way. Never forget that our capacity and capability in spiritual matters is measured by, and based on, the promises of God. Is God able to fulfill His promises? Our answer depends on whether or not we have received the Holy Spirit. Promises You Can Bank On Read: 2 Chronicles 6:1-11 For all the promises of God in [Christ] are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. —2 Corinthians 1:20 After a global financial crisis, the US government enacted stricter laws to protect people from questionable banking practices. Banks had to change some of their policies to comply. To notify me of such changes, my bank sent me a letter. But when I got to the end I had more questions than answers. The use of phrases like “we may” and “at our discretion” certainly didn’t sound like anything I could depend on! In contrast, the Old Testament quotes God as saying “I will” numerous times. God promises David: “I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever” (2 Sam. 7:12-13). No uncertainty in those words. Recognizing God’s faithfulness to His promises, King Solomon says in his prayer of dedication for the temple: “You have kept what You promised Your servant David my father; You have both spoken with Your mouth and fulfilled it with Your hand” (2 Chron. 6:15). Centuries later, the apostle Paul said that all of God’s promises are “yes” in Christ (2 Cor. 1:20). Whatever trouble may assail, Of this we can be sure: God’s promises can never fail, They always will endure. —Hess Faith knows that God always performs what He promises. 2 Corinthians 1:21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, KJV 2 Corinthians 1:21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; NET 2 Corinthians 1:21 But it is God who establishes us together with you in Christ and who anointed us, BGT 2 Corinthians 1:21 ὁ δὲ βεβαιῶν ἡμᾶς σὺν ὑμῖν εἰς Χριστὸν καὶ χρίσας ἡμᾶς θεός, NLT 2 Corinthians 1:21 It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, ESV 2 Corinthians 1:21 And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, NIV 2 Corinthians 1:21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, GNT 2 Corinthians 1:21 ὁ δὲ βεβαιῶν ἡμᾶς σὺν ὑμῖν εἰς Χριστὸν καὶ χρίσας ἡμᾶς θεός, YLT 2 Corinthians 1:21 and He who is confirming you with us into Christ, and did anoint us, is God, ASV 2 Corinthians 1:21 Now he that establisheth us with you in Christ, and anointed us, is God; CSB 2 Corinthians 1:21 Now it is God who strengthens us, with you, in Christ and has anointed us. MIT 2 Corinthians 1:21 God is the one who affirms us with you in Christ; and he anointed us. CJB 2 Corinthians 1:21 Moreover, it is God who sets both us and you in firm union with the Messiah; he has anointed us, TEV 2 Corinthians 1:21 It is God himself who makes us, together with you, sure of our life in union with Christ; it is God himself who has set us apart, TLB 2 Corinthians 1:21 It is this God who has made you and me into faithful Christians and commissioned us apostles to preach the Good News. BBE 2 Corinthians 1:21 Now he who makes our faith strong together with you, in Christ, and has given us of his grace, is God; AMP 2 Corinthians 1:21 But it is God Who confirms and makes us steadfast and establishes us [in joint fellowship] with you in Christ, and has consecrated and anointed us [enduing us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit]; establishes: 2Co 5:5 Ps 37:23-24 Ps 87:5 Ps 89:4 Isa 9:7 49:8 62:7 Ro 16:25 Col 2:7 1Th 3:13 2Th 2:8,17 3:3 1Pe 5:10 anointed: Ps 45:7 Isa 59:21 Isa 61:1 Joh 3:34 Ac 10:38 Ro 8:9 1Jn 2:20,27 Rev 1:6 3:18 2 Corinthians 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Psalms 37:23-24 The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. 24 When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand. Romans 16:25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, Colossians 2:7+ having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith (IN FAITH, IN CHRIST - A DOUBLE DEFENSE FROM FALLING), just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude. Isaiah 61:1+ The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed (Lxx - chrio) me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives And freedom to prisoners; Acts 10:38+ “You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed (chrio) Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. 2 Corinthians 5:5 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, Who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge. Ephesians 1:13-14 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation–having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 Who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. 1 John 2:20,27+ but you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you all know. (2:27+) As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him. AUTHENTICATION OF PAUL'S MINISTRY In these next 2 verses Paul describes spiritual truths about Paul and the saints at Corinth which should have served to demonstrate how the accusation of vacillation was incompatible with Paul's character and personal integrity. MacArthur on vv 21-22 - The authenticity of Paul’s spiritual life and that of every genuine believer is verified by these 4 divine works (“establishes us,” “anointed us,” “sealed us,” “gave us the Spirit”) accomplished in their lives. For the critics to attack Paul’s authenticity was equal to tearing down God’s work as well as the church’s unity. (MacArthur Study Bible) Ray Stedman feels that this next section on the Holy Spirit is related to Paul's mentioning the promises of God in 2Cor 1:20 - Paul further adds that God has given provision for understanding that promise, and for obeying it by the presence of the Spirit in our lives. As you meditate on the promises of God, the Spirit of God is given to you to teach you what that means, and how it applies to you. That is the work of the Spirit. He is not given to us to give us a good feeling now and then, or to take us to heaven when we die, though he does all those things. He is given to us to open our minds to understand how the promises of God affect us, and what God is saying to us in them. And it is always in line with grammatical rules and interpretative principles. The Spirit never denies that; he understands the rules of language, grammar, etc., and it is helpful to us to know them. But, nevertheless, ultimately it is the Spirit of God who brings a promise home to us and makes it alive to us, and who then offers to empower us to obey it. Many times when we are faced with a promise of God, because we are sinful creatures, we do not want to obey. I have many times had this experience of knowing that there was something God wanted me to do (or perhaps not to do), and I did not want to obey him. I knew there would be a promise of relief, or help, or blessing if I would do it, but every fiber of my rebellious being cried out against doing it; and I found it difficult to make myself do it. Well, that is where the Spirit comes in. A non-Christian would simply not do it. Non-Christians live by their feelings: "Whatever feels good, I give myself to. Whatever does not feel good, I do not want any part of." That is the way of the world, but a Christian is not to do that; he is to obey God. If he has difficulty doing so he is to rely upon the fact that the Spirit of God is in him to give him ability to act when he wills to act (ED: SEE THIS WONDERFUL TRUTH ABOUT THE CONTINUAL SUPERNATURAL ENERGIZING EFFECT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN Php 2:13NLT+). When you choose to obey, the power to do so is always given by the Spirit of God (ED: "Paradoxical Principle of 100% Dependent and 100% Responsible"). You can do what God wants. This is what Paul is bringing out here. Let us now link this with the context. Why did Paul change his plan? That is what the Corinthians wanted to know. Why did he say he was going to come directly to Corinth, and would come twice to the city, but instead did not come directly -- he went by way of Macedonia -- and he came only once? Well, Paul has been saying because the Spirit of God opened his eyes to see factors in the situation that made him change his mind. He could see that the great promises of blessing that God had for this church at Corinth would only be fulfilled if he did not come directly to Corinth, but instead went to Macedonia and waited for Titus there. So, convinced of the Spirit, and in obedience to what he saw of the Spirit's teaching in this regard, with a clear conscience, Paul changed his original plan and went instead to Macedonia instead of Corinth. (When You Are Misunderstood) Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God - Note Paul's use of US which suggests that Paul is linking himself with the YOU as the saints at Corinthians. Both he and they were placed by God's grace in (eis = into) Christ, in a firm union with Christ and thus they were fellow members of each other, members of His Body with Christ as the Head. (See notes on in Christ) To attack Paul's authenticity would be tantamount to destroying the unity of the Body of Christ. Note that anointed applies to Paul and the Corinthians and is not a special enduement for a select few but is the gift of God for every believer. In the NT, anointing in context speaks of the anointing by the Holy Spirit, the idea being that every saint is supernaturally prepared and empowered for supernatural service for God. The OT describes the anointing to prophets, priests and kings, and so in a very real sense every believer shares in each of these aspects - prophets - in sense of speaking forth God's Word something all saints can do independent of the gift of prophecy) , priests (1Pe 2:9) and kings (Rev 5:10)