2 Corinthians 5:21; 6:1-10 (Part 37b) The Method of Reconciliation

The method of reconciliation, 2 Corinthians 5:21

• The action of God

• The benefit of the sinner

The implications of reconciliation, Chapter 6 (this is how Chapter 6 relates to Chapter 5)

• Reconciliation is to be effective in our lives, 6:1-2

• Reconciliation is a truth that is to be protected by right living, 6:3

• Reconciliation is to be adorned by those who are its servants, 6:4-10

Items of hardship, 2 Corinthians 6:4-10

• Paul is not timid about enumerating hardships, I Corinthians 4:9-13; 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, 6:4-10; 11:23-29.

• These are not complaints nor appeals for sympathy

Organization of 6:4-10

• Endurance heads the list (the other items come out of this), v. 4. Endured in—afflictions, necessities, and distresses

• Hardships imposed by man, v. 5a

• Imposed on himself, v. 5b

• The inner qualities he faced this with, vv. 6-7a

• The weapon he fought with, v. 7b

• Series of antithesis, vv. 8-10 (this is how he lived his life)

Principle--good men are loved and hated but never liked