Let Me Add This

Today we conclude the series “Strength in Weakness” as we conclude the book of 2 Corinthians.

In typical Pauline fashion, he concludes his letter with a final word of both caution but exhortation and blessing

Today’s message - Let Me Add This

2 Corinthians 13:11–13 CSB

11 Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice. Become mature, be encouraged, be of the same mind, be at peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you. 12 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints send you greetings. 13 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

What better way to conclude 2 Corinthians than to encourage us with the same exhortations Paul leaves the church at Corinth with.

Remember to rejoice in life.

We have to keep in mind the many times in scripture we are reminded to rejoice at various times…

Rejoice in times of trouble.

Rejoice when being persecuted.

Rejoice in the good times.

Rejoice in all things.

Mature in your faith.

Salvation is only the first step - we are supposed to continue to grow.

Literally Paul is telling the church to “aim for perfection” which will only be attained when we reach heaven but that doesn’t mean we aren’t to strive for it now.

Be encouraged by what God is saying.

And by extension what God is saying through the man of God delivering the Word.

We need to be of one mind.

One of the best ways to accomplish this… see previous point.

When you have too many voices trying to lead it is hard to be one - but when you follow one it becomes easier.

Of course we have to be willing to yield our desires to follow.

Live in peace.

If we will yield and follow the struggles that separate diminish.

A constant reminder - if you are at odds with a fellow brother or sister, make amends, do not let the issue go unchecked.

Paul implies that as we do these things we will find God’s blessings on us and our church.

The proof is our greeting of one anther with a “Holy Kiss” - now what may have been socially acceptable in Jesus’ time and the early church may not work now - but if you think about when your family gets together, especially after some time apart, how often do we greet them with a kiss.

The bigger implication is that our joy and love for being with one another will be visibly evident when we come together.