The apostle discloses how he experienced in mysterious manner entry into paradise, to prepare him for all rigours he must endure.  He speaks also of the affliction given him to maintain humility, and to show him and us that every achievement is the Lord's doing. Paul’s Second Letter to the…

Paul's labours and sufferings 1) added to his authentication 2) revealed his love for Christ and souls 3) showed his human limitations 4) preserved his humility 5) equipped him to comfort others 6) exposed human hostility 7) deepened desire for glory 8) set standards for consecration. Paul’s Second Letter to…

Full chapter _____________ Revelation 1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of…

Full chapter _____________ 1 Peter 5 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight…

The harrowing list of pains, pressures and trials, endured by Paul as a continuous authentication of his ministry as an apostle, starts at Damascus, with his ignominious escape. Here is the first of the purposes of Paul's many sufferings and how it applies to us.

Paul speaks reluctantly of his life and work to defend his standing, so attacked by heretics.  Here is his level of commitment, contention for the truth, and faithfulness through labours, privation and persecutions.  Is our commitment diluted by the affluence, comfort and self-care of our age? Paul’s Second Letter to…

How superficial the Corinthians were in letting false teachers get in!  They only had to claim to be Christian preachers and no questions were asked.  When good people lay aside discernment the result is Satanic conquest.  A similar war faces sound churches today. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians is…

Beginning with Paul's apostolic authority, this passage presents his reliance on God's power rather than human schemes, showing how strongholds of human thought void of biblical foundation may be thrown down by the truth.  Here also is the need for true submission to Christ. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians…

The apostle's instructions for giving have often been found surprising, being chiefly spiritual matters.  The priority of the Gospel is emphasised even in relief offerings, and a precious list of aims and attitudes is given, bringing a reward of spiritual not fleshly enrichment. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians is easily the…

Six graces are listed: faith (conviction), witness, knowledge, diligence (earnestness), love for the cause and stewardship.  Then follow seven aspects of such graces that challenge the heart and show the spirit in which they are exercised.  This passage uniquely defines dedicated spiritual living. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians is…