2 Corinthians 13 + Book Summary

Paul lets the Corinthians know that he'll be visiting them again in fellowship, but he'll also be dealing seriously to those who've remained unrepentant and those dividing the congregation. He proves his authority by reminding them that it was because of Gods work through him that they had been transformed into the Christ pursuing people they were today. Because they, like all of us are weak people who fall short the glory of God we must make sure we rely on him. Paul writes that we must examine ourselves in the faith, making sure that it is Him who we run toward in times of spiritual prosperity and poverty. He empathises on this because he wants to make sure the congregation he started will prosper in the faith without him. Paul finishes the Second Epistle to the Corinthians by wishing them joy, asking them to labour and mourn with one another. This letter was written in the hope that from now onwards they would repent and continue to repent. They were warned to live according to the gospel as Pauls job was to build them up, leading them towards holiness and righteous living. And through this they would enjoy God's peace and love. 


BOOK SUMMARY
Paul reassures the Church that they shouldn't expect another painful visit as the purpose of him seeing them was to reassure them the love he has for them. They were repentant and Paul is glad, however there were still a minority in the congregation that were sceptical of Paul and the message he preached. He was criticised for the way he speaks and compared to more popular speakers and so he validates his authenticity and authority as an apostle of Christ. Now convinced that Paul is legit, the Corinthians finally decide to contribute money to help out other Churches who aren't as financially healthy. Paul ends the Book with how God has changed his life. 

The cross challenges our values as it leads us to view our wealth and momentary success as secondary. God values humility and weakness because those qualities show a not just a proper view of oneself but also the necessity for God in our lives. We are weak and cannot fight spiritual battles by our own merit. The Corinthians didn't realise that when they criticised Paul for imitating this behaviour and mentality, they were actually criticising the character of Jesus himself.