Pastor Wes McGarry
Paul knew the church at Corinth well. In 2 Corinthians 12:20 when he says, “perhaps I will find…”and then list several sins. He is fully aware that these are sins they are currently practicing. Paul told the church that he was coming to visit them and when he did, he was fearful of what he might mind. If Paul were to write a letter to WBC would he say the same thing? He did not relish the fact that he was going to have to deal with the gossip, arrogance, slander, selfish…etc. But he knew that it was best for the church. He writes in verse 19 of chapter 12 Have you been thinking all along that we were defending ourselves to you? No, in the sight of God we are speaking in Christ, and everything, dear friends, is for building you up. He was calling them out on their sin because of the love he had for the church not because he enjoyed it. In fact, Paul even said in verse 21 that he was going to grieve for those who did not repent. The church should live as if Paul is going to visit any day. Paul was upset with their sin, but he was more upset with their lack of repentance. So, are we constantly repenting of the sins that we practice?