1. Plans can change; not the gospel (12-20)

Paul had planned to go to Corinth directly from Ephesus, but he had to change his plans because of the problems in Corinth. His travel plans seemed to be full of vacillation, and his opponents criticized him. He made no excuse, but rather reminded them that the gospel of Jesus is unchanging. Paul may not be able to keep promises sometimes, but all God's promises are fulfilled in Jesus. He is God's eternal 'Yes.' No matter how many promises God has made, they are all 'Yes' in Christ. So we who believe in Jesus say 'Amen,' --'so be it,' through Jesus to the glory of God.

2. The Holy Spirit is his guarantee deposit

God is the one who makes us stand firm in Christ. He does this by giving us the Holy Spirit, who dwells in our hearts by faith. This gift is God's seal of ownership--we belong to him. He guarantees what is to come--and makes a deposit to seal his guarantee.

Application: Lord, thank you for keeping your promises. Let your Spirit control our fellowship so that we may live as your people.
One Word: God keeps his promises