Prior to his visit to the Corinthians, Paul warned not to spare those who refused to repent of their sins after being already warned. Paul seemed weak, but he was strong enough in the power of the risen Christ to bring stern discipline to deal with their sins. Paul used his authority to build them up, not to tear them down. Then Paul challenged them to examine themselves to see if they were in the faith. When we abide in Jesus and he in us, we are in the faith. When we repent of our sins and accept God's forgiveness, we are in the faith. When we love truth and live by it, we are in the faith. The word of God is a mirror to reflect our true self. Daily bread and Bible study should be a time of self-examination in light of God's word.

Paul prayed for them not to do evil and to be mature, strong, and robust in their faith. Paul urges them to be of one mind with no division among them. Paul blessed them with the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.


Application: Lord, thank you for revealing the desire and life of a mature servant through apostle Paul. Help me to examine myself honestly in light of your word and live according to the truth of God and grow in the beautiful image of Christ.
One Word: Examine yourself before God's word