2 Corinthians 13: Examine Yourselves
IMAGINE LIFE WITHOUT a final examination. At first it strikes us as a wonderful vacation, like school without tests and report cards. But without accountability life quickly loses its meaning. The whole Bible looks towards the final Day with vibrant hope. Those genuinely in Christ have nothing to fear and everything to anticipate. But what of those who are not sure, or who like the Corinthians might have false confidence about the outcome of the final exam? Paul deals with this matter in his final passionate plea.
Warming Up to God
When is God's power real to you?
Read 2 Corinthians 13. »
Discovering the Word
- What can the Corinthians expect from Paul's third visit (vv. 1-3, 10)?
- Verse 4 sums up the whole book. Why does the cross represent the heart of what Paul has been saying to the Corinthians?
- Paul asks them to examine themselves not so much in their doctrine as in their experience (vv. 5-6). How could the Corinthians know experientially that they truly belonged to Christ?
- In what ways does Paul show that he cares more for their passing the test than for his seeming to pass the test in the yes of others (vv. 7-9)?
- In what specific ways does Paul pray they will be built up (v. 11-14)?
Applying the Word
- In what ways do you shrink from your daily cross and find your power elsewhere?
- If you are unsure of your position in Christ, what can you do about it in light of this chapter?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for courage to take up your cross and follow Christ.
For Further Study
Extreme Forgiver by Bill Donahue & Keri Wyatt Kent