The Burden and Boasting of Paul

Last week, we began studying the second epistle of Paul to the Corinthians. As we began our study, we considered Paul's "thesis statement" regarding the purpose of affliction in the life of the believer. Through afflictions, we have the opportunity to receive the encouragement of God and, subsequently, to dispense that same encouragement to others who are experiencing afflictions. Hence, rather than seeing trials as the world sees them - as hindrances and enemies to our happiness - we must come to embrace them knowing that our Sovereign God allowed them into our lives in order that we might grow in our knowledge of Christ and glorify He who redeemed us by His blood! During that message, we mentioned that throughout his letter to the church of Corinth, Paul would refer to his own afflictions and the various trials and tribulations which the believers in Corinth had already experienced, or were currently experiencing. Today, we begin to consider the example that God allowed Paul to be to the church and, Paul's desire for the church. This message was presented on January 19, 2020 by Bob Corbin.