The Christian Conduct of Corinthians
As we discussed in the previous devotional, some within the Corinthian Church were raising opposition against and undermining the Apostle Paul’s authority over them.
Hence when we read Paul’s words, we find him having to defend himself and overturn the false claims of the imposters. And though as personal an ordeal this was for them, there are many pieces of wisdom that we too can apply to our lives today.
Read 2 Corinthians 10:13-18.
https://www.bible.com/59/2co.10.13-18.esv
After all of that, the Corinthians were confused on this one question, how do we know who is truly authentic?
For God’s people, this is a very important question, back then, and maybe even more so today.
The reason for this is because Jesus warned us of false teachers and prophets; those who will come in sheep’s clothing yet underneath be ravenous wolves.
Their goal is to infiltrate and undermine the faith of believers, taking advantage of God’s people and the authority they can gain from the unsuspecting Church.
And for that reason, we are warned to be on guard, to be on the lookout for those who aren’t truly of God.
There are many things to look out for, such as is this person anointed with power from the Lord? Did they exalt themselves to this position? Do they show the fruit of the Spirit and walk humbly with the Lord? Do they teach the things of God or of their own design?
These things are crucially important, especially in an age where anyone can teach or say anything over the internet, but for today, there is something very specific that Paul wanted us to know, and this truth can be applied to anyone, even yourself.
Let’s read it again:
“For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.”
-2 Corinthians 10:18
So, the question stands, do you know anyone who openly commends themselves? Who exalts themselves and boasts of their accomplishments?
Be very weary of them, suspicious even, and ponder with the Lord over them.
And then turn that question around on yourself as well; do you commend yourself, or allow others to do the commending?
This is an important question to take with you wherever you go in ministry, work, and life.
And whatever you do, be on the lookout for wolves and allow the Lord to commend those who He commends!
