Devotional 2 Corinthians 13: How to Correct Without Pushing Others Away Discover in 2 Corinthians 13 how to address others' sin with humility, avoid hypocrisy in faith, and reflect the fruits of the Spirit when giving testimony. Topics: Devotional, New Testament.

Devotional 2 Corinthians 13: How to Correct Without Pushing Others Away

Today’s devotional is found in the book of 2 Corinthians, chapter 13, and this is what took place.

Synopsis: In this chapter, Paul concludes his second letter, addressed to the church of Corinth, explaining that he will no longer be lenient with those who sinned nor with anyone when he visits them for the third time. Since during his second visit (the previous one) he warned them and was severe with them, and this led them to demand proof that Christ speaks through him. Finally, Paul bids them farewell with closing greetings.

Observations

These were my observations.

1. The care of not being too severe when warning other believers and non-believers so as not to push them away from God. This is a very important and personal point in my life. But I also believe it is for many people who have already had contact with Christians. I particularly did not like the religiosity of Christians and their judgmentalism. Because they frequently approached conversations as if they were accusations. Furthermore, many times they got involved with secondary or tertiary matters that have nothing to do with salvation in Christ—many times these were matters of Christian liberty. That is, they do not impact your relationship with God on a personal level nor your salvation as long as you have the wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual maturity to discern it. However, the worst part is that many Christians tend to talk and preach about things one should and should not do, yet they themselves do those very things. In other words, their message, although important, is not well received because of their hypocrisy (Romans 2:24). Not to mention that by doing this they are also becoming stumbling blocks for those of little faith and spiritual maturity (Matthew 18:6). As Christians we must lead our warnings with love without judgment. Furthermore, we must be humble, respectful, patient, kind, gentle, and consistent with our beliefs. That is, we must be vulnerable with others and be good examples of Christians who are trying their best to follow the example of Jesus. Only then do we open the door for others to feel comfortable opening up to us, respect our conduct, and admire our fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). When this happens, then yes, we can address these topics carefully and be well received.