Monday, January 11, 2016

2 Corinthians, Day 1 Readings

Mending Relationships  

Today's reading offers Paul's attempt to mend his broken relationship with some in the Corinthian church.  Paul is reluctant to apologize -- feeling that he has nothing to apologize for.  In fact, he believes that he took the painful step of backing away from the argument -- and not visiting the congregation in person -- so that a reconciliation would be possible.

Now that day has come.  And Paul hopes -- and frankly, expects -- that the Christians in Corinth will forgive the people who raised trouble and will follow Paul's teaching.  Instead of focusing on the lingering controversy on whether Christians need to follow Jewish law, they should embrace Paul's teaching of spirituality -- guided and filled by the Holy Spirit.  In some ways, true forgiveness is only possible, in Paul's eyes, through such an open faith.

Read 2 Corinthians 1:23-3:18  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]

Reading the Bible in Its Entirety

If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read 2 Corinthians 1-3 today.