Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. II Corinthians 4:16 (II Corinthians 1-7)
The Corinthian churches have been very critical of Paul. The message he delivered was boldly straight to the point, taking names and pointing fingers. It was met with resistance and often all out rebellion, even among those who first believed. Some teachers from Jerusalem followed Paul, bringing into doubt his authenticity as an apostle because he wasn’t one of the original twelve disciples, reminding Christians of his previous persecutions and generally stirring dissension. In addition, these aggravators wished to force the gentiles to live according to orthodox Jewish tradition. Following news that things have gone badly with these congregations, it is believed that Paul wrote a very harsh letter that is now lost. He agonized over their reaction and began writing the letter we know of as II Corinthians as he awaited word from Timothy and Titus. Good news finally arrived. His is message had the hoped for result and the Corinthians were making straight their way of righteousness.
After leaving Ephesus, Paul went on to Macedonia with the intention of going to Corinth. While in route he penned this very personal correspondence we call Second Corinthians. The objective is staying connected, focused, and encouraged while adding clarity to previous teachings. Understand, this was written over several months as Paul traveled and reflected on the trials and tribulations he knew the church was experiencing. Paul talks much about his sufferings. There were numerous plots to kill him, he was often stoned and beaten, once being left for dead. Putting him in stocks for public humiliation could not silence his praise. His endurance was amazing for he sang as he suffered. He was given a vision of glory there are no words to describe, for how do you explain color to a blind man. Paul saw something of life beyond death that gave him the strength to see far beyond his mortality.
Paul was bold, but there was too much at stake not to be. He saw man in his sinful state, but he had seen the hope and wonder of our eternal home. His passion was for all who would to be with him and His Savior when time ceased to matter any more. As his body grew weaker, his spirit soared stronger and his message reached further and further and is still reaching today. Paul would tell you in your struggle and weakness, don’t lose heart, more than you can ever imagine already has your name on it!
Love,
Gretchen