2 Corinthians 13

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Strength and Weakness in a Believer's Walk of Faith

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. It is not inconsistent for believers to exhibit both power and weakness in their walk of faith.

  2. It is not inconsistent for believers to exhibit both assurance and questions in their walk of faith.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. Put the emphasis on “holy” in holy kiss!

QUESTIONS

  1. When did Paul visit Corinth?

  2. Did Paul have a successful third visit to Corinth?

  3. Why might Paul have to show the “power of God” when he came to Corinth?

  4. Why was Paul telling the Corinthians to examine themselves and their Christian faith?

ANSWERS

  1. On Paul’s first visit to Corinth he founded the Corinthian Church (Acts 18). His second visit was the “painful visit” (2 Corinthians 2:1). Now he proposes a third visit, which he did make, as recorded in Acts 20.

  2. Yes, according to Romans 15 it appears he succeeded in collecting for the poor saints in Jerusalem and dealing with the false teachers in Corinth.

  3. If the Corinthians did not deal with the problem of the false teaching and false apostles, then Paul would have to exercise discipline when he came.

  4. If they passed the test it would not only prove they were saved and doing the right thing, but it would prove that Paul was a true apostle because he had led them to Christ. However, if they failed the test it would prove that they were not walking in the faith and maybe not even saved.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. “It is not inconsistent for believers to exhibit both power and weakness in their walk of faith.” Discuss how the Lord Jesus demonstrated this principle in his life. How did the Apostle Paul demonstrate it? How do you exhibit both power and weakness in your walk of faith?

  2. What is the benefit of asking questions about the Christian faith? What is the benefit of examining yourself and your faith?

CHALLENGE

  1. In Paul’s conclusion to this letter, we see that he was very concerned that the Corinthian believers come to peace and unity and grow in truth and love. The same is true of God’s will for churches today. How will your group of believers grow from this study of 2 Corinthians?

KEY VERSES

  • “For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.” 2 Corinthians 13:4

  • “Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11



2 Corinthians, New Testament, TalksDeb Harms2 Corinthians 13