2 Corinthians 13. We come now to the end of 2 Corinthians and the Apostle Paul’s final warnings to this congregation. This church has struggled with division, conflict, and sin in its midst. Paul has been straightforward with them, reminding them that he warned those who sinned before and all the others and I warn them now (13:2).

What is Paul’s warning? He says examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves (13:5). What I hear in Paul’s warning is a reminder that all of us are vulnerable. We are vulnerable to deception. We are potentially blind to our own failings and issues. We might think that we know what is right, but we can be too proud or deceived to see otherwise. We might even look around and think that our community is a hot mess, without realizing that we are part of the problem.

Paul prays for this community. He says that we pray to God that you may not do wrong… that you may do what is right (13:7). He longs for this congregation to be full of humble people with integrity, who examine themselves and choose to do right, even if it is difficult.

Twice in this short chapter Paul reminds them of the importance of restoration within the community. This can be finding peace with one another where there once was division and anger. It can also be restoring those who have been estranged from the community because of their sin. When they repent, they are to be welcomed back. Paul says your restoration is what we pray for… aim for restoration (13:9,11).

Paul’s hope for the community is that it would be built up and not torn down (13:10). To this end his last words are short, clear instructions: Rejoice. Aim for restoration. Comfort one another. Agree with one another. Live in peace (13:11).

How self-aware are you? When there is a conflict, are you willing to ask “What have I potentially done wrong here? What is my part in this conflict? And what can I do to make it right?” Let’s examine ourselves daily – and work towards community unity, restoration, and peace.

We start reading the Gospel of Mark tomorrow!