2 Corinthians 6:11-13 (WEL) O Corinthians, let us speak freely. We have opened our hearts to you. 12 Our affections towards you are not less, but yours for us are lessened. 13 Now in return—I speak as I would to my children—increase your love for us.
V11 O Corinthians, let us speak freely. We have opened our hearts to you.
Paul and his team opened their hearts to them in at least 2 ways: 1) showing love and kindness and 2) speaking the truth.
V12 Our affections towards you are not less, but yours for us are lessened.
We still love you as much as ever, but your feelings towards us are not the same. They have been influenced by 3 things: 1) their own desires, 2) their approach to Christianity by their false notions of what is a priority and seeking the spectacular, and 3) false teachers. Times have not changed, and these 3 things still plague the church.
The only source of 100% truth is the Bible and interpreted in its plain, normal sense. We must not interpret it by our theological framework, a particular teacher, allegorical when it is obvious not allegorical, personal opinions and desires.
V13 Now in return—I speak as I would to my children—increase your love for us.
(Alford Commentary) “ὡς τέκνοις λ. explains ἀντιμισθίαν,—it being naturally expected of children that they should requite the love and care of their parents, by corresponding love and regard.”
See 2 Corinthians 12:14 and 1 Timothy 5:4.
We learn:
- The practical application of forgiveness in the church.
- The need for mutual life for each other in the family of God.
Questions:
- Have you forgiven those who sinned against you?
- If you have, are you showing love and kindness to them?