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Be Reconciled (2 Corinthians 5:20-6:13)

Scott Kercheville
10/12/14 - Sun AM

“Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain.” Now that the crisis over Paul’s integrity has been momentarily settled, Paul turns to address the sin of the Corinthians. Paul sharply corrected them in a previous letter and they responded with sorrow. They have been forgiven by Paul and by God. They have received grace. What remains to be seen is whether or not the Corinthians will receive God’s grace in vain. 

We have all probably been in a similar situation. We are faithful for some time, but sin rears its ugly head and we find ourselves stuck in unholiness. We are robbed of joy and motivation because we feel powerless over sin. Our momentum is lost. We are over-whelmed and depressed. We have begged for forgiveness. But the question is seared on our brains. Can we overcome this sin, or are we doomed for failure? Chapters 6-9 teach us the decision is truly up to us. Paul exhorts the Corinthians in a way that gives us tools when we desire repentance and grace to not be vain. In our text today Paul urges the Corinthians to be reconciled to God and man so they will not receive grace vainly. 

• Be reconciled to God by trusting that Christ’s sacrifice and God’s grace are working for you today (5:20-6:2)
• Widen your heart to God’s people by seeing their desire to help and by deepening spiritual relationships (6:3-13)
  • Open your home, schedule, and meals
  • Open your Bible in studies with your spiritual family
  • Open your heart in trusting honesty