Sharing Paul’s Concern

In 2Corinthians 11:24ff Paul is moved to recount some of the cost of his own discipleship.  His list includes many physical sufferings.  He had been beaten, whipped, stoned, shipwrecked, robbed, sleepless, cold, and hungry.  But I am most interested in how he concludes his list.  He writes, “Apart from such external things there is the daily pressure on me of concern for all the churches.” (2Cor. 11:28).

I think many spiritually minded people share in Paul’s concern.  Many are constantly evaluating how the church can better fulfill its responsibilities and work.   Such examinations are critical to churches, for they provide the motivation for staying on point. 

This lesson issues a specific challenge to our body to reexamine our purpose for existence and to be careful not to be drawn into becoming spiritual caretakers and maintainers.  The saved have been called to mission!  The church, the collection of the saved, likewise must strive to accomplish their mission.

The AUDIO OF THIS LESSON IS MISSING so the PowerPoint is offered for your reading and consideration.