Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Text: 2 Corinthians 1:12-24
1. Live differently than anyone else (v. 12-14)
Vss 12-14 For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you. 13 For we are not writing any other things to you than what you read or understand. Now I trust you will understand, even to the end 14 (as also you have understood us in part), that we are your boast as you also are ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus.
- Live in such a way that the world sees you as different but “better”
Martin Luther said, “The testimony of a good conscience is worth more than a dozen character witnesses.”[1]
- Live with no regrets
- Live your life based on the grace of God
AW Tozer said, “the Christian church seems to have a variety of concerns, but in reality it has only one reason for being—and that is to show forth the life and mercy and grace of Jesus Christ”[2]
- The point of our lives should not be about what it does for us but rather what it does for HIM
2. Be ready to change (v. 15-18)
Vss 15-18 And in this confidence I intended to come to you before, that you might have a second benefit—16 to pass by way of you to Macedonia, to come again from Macedonia to you, and be helped by you on my way to Judea. 17 Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly? Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No? 18 But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No.
- Paul intended to make his way to Corinth to minister to them but God had a different plan
- Always be ready to pivot when God changes your course
Proverbs 16:9 (CSB) A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps
- KEY: You will not be able to pivot if you are not paying close attention to God’s Word and way in your life
3. God’s ways are best for you (v. 19-20)
Vss 19-20 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. 20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.
- Regardless of what others may say, following the plans God has for you is always the best possible decision
- God has guaranteed the presence of His Spirit and the hope of Heaven to every believer
- You can always count on the promises of God
4. God’s plan includes God’s presence (v. 21-24)
Vss 21-24 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22 who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. 23 Moreover I call God as witness against my soul, that to spare you I came no more to Corinth. 24 Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand.
- We have the presence of the Holy Spirit with us no matter what, no matter when
John Piper said, “What could God give us to enjoy that would prove Him most loving? There is only one possible answer: Himself! If He withholds Himself from our contemplation and companionship, no matter what else He gives us, He is not loving.”[3]
- The Holy Spirit is the constant assurance that God can be trusted
- God gives us a clear promise there is nothing we will ever face alone; He is always there.
John 14:15-16 If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever
Heb. 13:5 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 6So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
Action Points:
- Spend more time being influenced by Him rather than the world
- Hold your plans loosely
- Listen to the Spirit’s voice
[1] McLellan, V. K. (2000). Wise words and quotes. Tyndale House Publishers, Inc
[2] Verploegh, Harry (2000). The Quotable Tozer I. Wingspread Publishers.
[3] Piper, J. (2003). Desiring God. Multnomah Books.