Passage
2 Corinthians 13:1-14 (ESV)
A New Heaven and a New Earth
Revelation 21:1-8
Key Verse: 21:2
Strive for Full Restoration
Date: Apr. 30, 2016
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 13:11
Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
First, he was crucified in weakness, yet lives by God's power (1-10). Paul warned the Corinthian church because of his great love for them. He would not compromise with sin in his dealing with them. Paul reminded them of Christ, who was crucified in weakness, bearing sin on himself. His power was not overcoming those at enmity with him, but in overcoming death itself. He lives by the power of God. Paul's prayer and hope for the Christians in Corinth was that they would be fully restored in Christ's image. He did not want to exert human authority over them. He wanted to serve God to build them up.
Second, rejoice! (11-14) When we are encumbered with worldly thoughts and worries in this life, when we strive only to get ahead or keep our heads above water, we are robbed of joy. Paul left the church in Corinth with this message, to strive for full restoration. He wrote them to encourage each other and live in peace. Most importantly, he reminded them of the God of love and peace who was with them. He is our single source of joy and full restoration.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be restored in you today.
One Word: Strive for God
