Paul prayed and waited with much patience for his first epistle to take effect on the Corinthians. He had love for them that was not easily provoked; he hoped all things and endured all things. Although he wrote with many tears, he really loved these dear Christians, for he was their spiritual father. Now he is happy to see real repentance and encourages them to show their affection again to the erring one. If they did not comfort him, there was the danger that he would be overcome with sorrow. Satan can use an unforgiving spirit to discourage sorrowing Christians. This is one of Satan’s many devices that he uses to take advantage of us. As much as Paul enjoyed preaching the gospel when the Lord opened the door, he had no rest in his spirit until he found Titus and heard good news from him about the Corinthians. He had a heart of love for his children in the faith. However, even in his day, there were many who used the Word of God in a wrong way. They were using religion as a business. The gospel is free, and all spiritual blessings are freely given to us of God.
1. Although Paul shed many tears as he wrote his first epistle, what did he want them to know through his letter? __________ 2 Corinthians 2:___
2. What may happen to a Christian who repents if we do not forgive and comfort him? __________ 2 Corinthians 2:___
3. Who would like to take advantage of us with his many devices? __________ 2 Corinthians 2:___
4. At Troas, who opened the door to preach the gospel? __________ 2 Corinthians 2:___
5. Many use the Word of God wrongly and corrupt it. How are we to use and speak of it? __________ 2 Corinthians 2:___