2 Corinthians 6:1-18

 2 Corinthians 6:1-18

This chapter has a single theme but weaves that theme with many threads and warnings. To summarize that theme in a single sentence is challenging, but it would sound something like this: “Don't lose what you have going by forming an alliance or binding your soul to those who hate Christ.”

Paul begins by warning the Corinthians about the danger of backsliding into apostasy and emphasizing that now is the time for action. If we are in a gradual pattern of sin, the enemy of our soul will lead us by two deadly tools: first, slow and gradual ongoing compromise, and second, procrastination. He will allow us to think, “I'm not on the right path; I know I'm not in the right place, but I will deal with that later.” The time for repentance and seeking after God is now, not later.

Beginning with the call to return now, Paul will move to ‘do nothing to bind yourself to unbelievers,’ but along the way he will offer evidence of his authority to issue this call for repentance and departure from unholy unions. Verses 4-13 is that parenthetical argument. In these verses Paul gives us a glimpse of his ministry and heart. It is a fitting example for anyone who would be a disciple. Paul is concerned about his reputation, not for the sake of the reputation, but so his reputation will not hinder the gospel. He gives us a brief look into the hardship of his ministry (vs. 4-5), the inner quality of his life (vs. 6), and next (vs. 7) the proclamation of the Gospel. We see his treatment or response to his audiences (vs. 8-9). Finally we see the expression of his life (vs. 10). Anyone who would serve the Lord would do well to count the cost of his or her service based on this passage.

Even with this life of faithful service, the Corinthians have not reciprocated Paul's affection for them. What follows is not the command of a spiritual tyrant or an ecclesiastical overlord. It is the intense, loving direction of a deeply concerned father.

We have under applied verse 14, often breaking the verse up and using only the first half, often in a legalistic way, to forbid marriage between believers and nonbelievers. That is too narrow of an understanding of this verse. This needs to include, along with marriage, any place or relationship where we join with unbelievers in a union of purpose, soul, or effort by which we are shaped, influenced, or changed to be like those who hate Christ. One example that comes to mind is the union between Christians and political power. Verses 17 and 18 must be taken seriously as we consider our relationships and our commitments.

“Lord, grant that I will be loyal to You and You alone. AMEN”