2 Corinthians 13 - Paul’s Final Appeal

 

2 Corinthians 13 is Paul’s final appeal to the Corinthian church.
It is a chapter of loving correction, self-examination, spiritual maturity, and grace-filled blessing. Paul does not end with rebuke, but with a call to growth, unity, and restoration.

I. Examine

 “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.” — v:5

Paul calls believers not to examine others first, but to examine their own hearts.

·       Christianity is not only about profession, but transformation.

·       Faith must be lived, not merely claimed.

·       Christ living in us is the true evidence of faith.

Ø  Ask: Is Christ evident in my character, obedience, and love?

Ø  Spiritual maturity begins with honest self-examination.

 A tested faith becomes a strengthened faith.

II. Restore

“Aim for restoration… be of one mind, live in peace.” — 2 v:11

Correction in the church is not meant to condemn, but to restore.

·       God’s discipline is an expression of His love.

·       Unity is preserved when truth is spoken with grace.

·       Restoration reflects the heart of Christ.

Ø  Seek peace, not pride.

Ø  Correct with humility, receive correction with teachability.

The goal of godly correction is healing, not harm.

III. Live

 “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”— v:14

Paul ends with one of the clearest blessings of the Trinity in Scripture.

·       We live by grace (Jesus),

·       We are sustained by love (the Father),

·       We are guided by fellowship (the Holy Spirit).

Ø  Depend daily on God’s grace.

Ø  Walk in the Spirit.

Ø  Live as people loved by God.

 A healthy church is rooted in grace, love, and fellowship.

 

Let us:

• Examine our faith honestly
• Restore relationships lovingly
• Live daily in God’s grace