2 Corinthians 6:1
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We then, as workers together with him - Συνεργουντες δε και παρακαλουμεν. The two last words, with him, are not in the text, and some supply the place thus: we then, as workers together With You, and the Armenian version seems to have read it so; but no MS. has this reading, and no other version. For my own part I see nothing wanting in the text if we only suppose the term apostles; we, (i.e. apostles), being fellow workers, also entreat you not to receive the grace of God in vain. By the grace of God, την χαριν του Θεου, this grace or benefit of God, the apostle certainly means the grand sacrificial offering of Christ for the sin of the world, which he had just before mentioned in speaking of the ministry of reconciliation. We learn, therefore, that it was possible to receive the grace of God and not ultimately benefit by it; or, in other words, to begin in the Spirit and end in the flesh. Should any one say that it is the ministry of reconciliation, that is, the benefit of apostolic preaching, that they might receive in vain; I answer, that the apostolic preaching, and the whole ministry of reconciliation, could be no benefit to any man farther than it might have been a means of conveying to him the salvation of God. And it is most evident that the apostle has in view that grace or benefit that reconciles us to God, and makes us Divinely righteous. And this, and all other benefits of the death of Christ, may be received in vain.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses we have an account of the apostle's general errand and exhortation to all to whom he preached in every place where he came, with the several arguments and methods he used. Observe, I. The errand or exhortation itself, namely, to comply with the gospel offers of reconciliation - that, being favoured with the gospel, they would not receive this grace of God in vain, Co2 6:1. The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears; but it will be in vain for us to hear it, unless we believe it, and comply with the end and design of it. And as it is the duty of the ministers of the gospel to exhort and persuade their hearers to accept of grace and mercy which are offered to them, so they are honoured with this high title of co-workers with God. Note, 1. They must work; and must work for God and his glory, for souls and their good: and they are workers with God, yet under him, as instruments only; however, if they be faithful, they may hope to find God working with them, and their labour will be effectual. 2. Observe the language and way of the spirit of the gospel: it is not with roughness and severity, but with all mildness and gentleness, to beseech and entreat, to use exhortations and arguments, in order to prevail with sinners and overcome their natural unwillingness to be reconciled to God and to be happy for ever. II. The arguments and method which the apostle used. And here he tells them, 1. The present time is the only proper season to accept of the grace that is offered, and improve that grace which is afforded: NOW is the accepted time, NOW is the day of salvation, Co2 6:2. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the only proper time to accept of these offers: Today, while it is called today. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be; and we should remember that present seasons of grace are short and uncertain, and cannot be recalled when they are past. It is therefore our duty and interest to improve them while we have them, and no less than our salvation depends upon our so doing. 2. What caution they used not to give offence that might hinder the success of their preaching: Giving no offence in any thing, Co2 6:3. The apostle had great difficulty to behave prudently and inoffensively towards the Jews and Gentiles, for many of both sorts watched for his halting, and sought occasion to blame him and his ministry, or his conversation; therefore he was very cautious not to give offence to those who were so apt to take offence, that he might not offend the Jews by unnecessary zeal against the law, nor the Gentiles by unnecessary compliances with such as were zealous for the law. He was careful, in all his words and actions, not to give offence, or occasion of guilt or grief. Note, When others are too apt to take offence, we should be cautious lest we give offence; and ministers especially should be careful lest they do any thing that may bring blame on their ministry or render that unsuccessful. 3. Their constant aim and endeavor in all things to approve themselves faithful, as became the ministers of God, Co2 6:4. We see how much stress the apostle upon all occasions lays on fidelity in our work, because much of our success depends upon that. His eye was single, and his heart upright, in all his ministrations; and his great desire was to be the servant of God, and to approve himself so. Note, Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants or ministers, and act in every thing suitably to that character. So did the apostle, (1.) By much patience in afflictions. He was a great sufferer, and met with many afflictions, was often in necessities, and wanted the conveniences, if not the necessaries, of life; in distresses, being straitened on every side, hardly knowing what to do; in stripes often (Co2 11:24); in imprisonments; in tumults raised by the Jews and Gentiles against him; in labours, not only in preaching the gospel, but in travelling from place to place for that end, and working with his hands to supply his necessities; in watchings and in fastings, either voluntary or upon a religious account, or involuntary for the sake of religion: but he exercised much patience in all, Co2 6:4, Co2 6:5. Note, [1.] It is the lot of faithful ministers often to be reduced to great difficulties, and to stand in need of much patience. [2.] Those who would approve themselves to God must approve themselves faithful in trouble as well as in peace, not only in doing the work of God diligently, but also in bearing the will of God patiently. (2.) By acting from good principles. The apostle went by a good principle in all he did, and tells them what his principles were (Co2 6:6, Co2 6:7); namely, pureness; and there is no piety without purity. A care to keep ourselves unspotted from the world is necessary in order to our acceptance with God. Knowledge was another principle; and zeal without this is but madness. He also acted with long-suffering and kindness, being not easily provoked, but bearing with the hardness of men's hearts, and hard treatment from their hands, to whom he kindly endeavoured to do good. He acted under the influence of the Holy Ghost, from the noble principle of unfeigned love, according to the rule of the word of truth, under the supports and assistances of the power of God, having on the armour of righteousness (a consciousness of universal righteousness and holiness), which is the best defence against the temptations of prosperity on the right hand, and of adversity on the left. (3.) By a due temper and behaviour under all the variety of conditions in this world, Co2 6:8-10. We must expect to meet with many alterations of our circumstances and conditions in this world; and it will be a great evidence of our integrity if we preserve a right temper of mind, and duly behave ourselves, under them all. The apostles met with honour and dishonour, good report and evil report: good men in this world must expect to meet with some dishonour and reproaches, to balance their honour and esteem; and we stand in need of the grace of God to arm us against the temptations of honour on the one hand, so as to bear good report without pride, and of dishonour on the other hand, so as to bear reproaches without impatience or recrimination. It should seem that persons differently represented the apostles in their reports; that some represented them as the best, and others as the worst, of men: by some they were counted deceivers, and run down as such; by others as true, preaching the gospel of truth, and men who were true to the trust reposed in them. They were slighted by the men of the world as unknown, men of no figure or account, not worth taking notice of; yet in all the churches of Christ they were well known, and of great account: they were looked upon as dying, being killed all the day long, and their interest was thought to be a dying interest; "and yet behold," says the apostle, "we live, and live comfortably, and bear up cheerfully under all our hardships, and go on conquering and to conquer." They were chastened, and often fell under the lash of the law, yet not killed: and though it was thought that they were sorrowful, a company of mopish and melancholy men, always sighing and mourning, yet they were always rejoicing in God, and had the greatest reason to rejoice always. They were despised as poor, upon the account of their poverty in this world; and yet they made many rich, by preaching the unsearchable riches of Christ. They were thought to have nothing, and silver and gold they had none, houses and lands they had none; yet they possessed all things: they had nothing in this world, but they had a treasure in heaven. Their effects lay in another country, in another world. They had nothing in themselves, but possessed all things in Christ. Such a paradox is a Christian's life, and through such a variety of conditions and reports lies our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all these things to approve ourselves to God.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:1-2 To win over the disaffected believers at Corinth, Paul appeals to them to listen to him and Timothy as God’s servants and messengers. • As God’s partners: Literally As we work together, which leaves open the question whether Paul meant that they were working together in a team effort, or that they were working together with God.
2 Corinthians 6:1
Paul’s Hardships and God’s Grace
1As God’s fellow workers, then, we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2For He says: “In the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” Behold, now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation!
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(2 Corinthians) ch.5:10-6:2
By Zac Poonen2.0K44:332CO 5:102CO 5:172CO 6:12CO 6:32CO 6:14In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of appearing before the judgment seat of Christ and being rewarded for our deeds. He emphasizes the importance of realizing this truth and living in the fear of the Lord. The speaker uses the example of the apostle Paul to illustrate the qualities of a true servant of God, such as patience and endurance in difficult circumstances. The sermon also highlights the possibility of experiencing personal revival in our lives right now, through faith and confession of our beliefs.
The Ministry of the Church - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K38:04ChurchMAT 5:14ACT 13:491CO 12:42CO 4:12CO 6:1EPH 4:111PE 4:10In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a personal experience of intense suffering in Asia. He emphasizes that suffering is a crucial aspect of ministry and testimony, as it is through suffering that we can truly understand and participate in the sufferings of Christ. The speaker uses the analogy of vine dressing to illustrate how suffering involves being cut back and stripped, leading to a greater yield of fruit. He concludes by highlighting the purpose of suffering, which is to teach us not to trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead.
The Harvest Is Past
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:23:12UnregenerateLUK 10:2ROM 10:142CO 6:12TI 4:2HEB 3:12HEB 4:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not just making a mental decision to follow God, but actually taking action and responding to the gospel. He uses the analogy of being in a plane that is about to crash, and how simply deciding to put on a parachute is not enough - one must actually jump out of the plane. The speaker then discusses four different times of harvest, with the current time being the end of the summer season. He compares himself to a boy on the end of a train, signaling that the train is leaving and urging the audience to respond to the message. The speaker also mentions the importance of not just hearing the word of God, but actually responding to it, and highlights the grace and harvest of God that has come to the audience.
This Calling and Its Cost - a Cross
By Dennis Kinlaw1.4K53:24Cross of Christ2CO 4:52CO 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching Christ Jesus the Lord and not oneself. He refers to 2 Corinthians chapter 4, verse 5, where it is stated that the preaching should focus on the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. The preacher highlights the challenges and hardships faced by those who preach the word of God, including being hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down. However, despite these difficulties, they continue to carry the message of Jesus and manifest His life in their mortal bodies. The sermon also includes a personal story shared by Helen Rosevear, where she encounters a girl who has been traumatized and finds solace in the presence of Jesus. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the importance of experiencing death in order to bring life to others.
Audio Sermon: Ichabod, the Glory Departed
By Bakht Singh1.3K1:00:271SA 4:22PSA 55:17PRO 3:5ISA 55:11MAT 9:37ACT 8:26ACT 16:141CO 3:92CO 6:1EPH 6:18JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of prayer, perseverance, and understanding God's need for partnership in fulfilling His work. It discusses the consequences of spiritual deafness, selfish prayers, and the need for revival in the church. The message highlights the examples of Hannah, Samuel, David, and Solomon in bringing back God's glory and the significance of being co-workers with God in prayer and service.
Godly Sorrow
By George Verwer1.1K1:00:08Godly Sorrow2CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude to God for the ability to be genuine and authentic in preaching and in personal interactions. They acknowledge the existence of both sorrow and joy in life, citing examples of tragic events that have occurred recently. The speaker emphasizes the importance of patience and how it is a crucial aspect of leadership in the work of God. They also highlight the significance of studying and understanding Romans chapter 9, particularly verse 10, which describes a faithful minister of the Lord as being sorrowful. The sermon encourages listeners to delve deeper into this scripture and its profound message.
Working With God
By Bob Hoekstra1.1K52:23JHN 5:19JHN 14:101CO 3:91CO 15:102CO 6:12CO 9:8GAL 2:8EPH 2:10EPH 3:7EPH 3:202TI 2:21TIT 2:14TIT 3:81PE 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of working with God in our lives, focusing on being vessels for honor, sanctified and prepared for every good work by God's grace. It highlights the need to cleanse ourselves, seek God's power at work in us, and be zealous for good works, all while acknowledging our dependency on God for effective service. The sermon draws parallels to Jesus' dependency on the Father and encourages a life of faith, humility, and prayer in working with God.
Anatomy of Betrayal
By William Shishko1.1K57:04Betrayal1KI 18:21PSA 41:1JHN 13:272CO 6:1HEB 6:4REV 22:17In this sermon, Pastor Shishko discusses the theme of outward appearances and how they can be deceiving. He uses examples from the Bible, such as Jesus' interaction with Judas during the Last Supper, to illustrate this point. The sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning the true intentions and character of individuals, even when their outward actions may seem righteous. The sermon also highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit's work in guiding believers to see beyond outward appearances and discern the truth.
The Leaders Survival
By George Verwer1.0K56:58Leadership2CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges and crises that leaders often face as they pursue their goals. He shares his personal experience of facing a crisis in his mid-years and how he turned to golf as a way to cope. The speaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining a disciplined and balanced life, and encourages young people to embrace self-discipline as a path to freedom. He also highlights the need for a positive attitude and references Philippians 4:8 as a guide for cultivating positivity.
(Revelations of the Gospel) 3. a Revelation of My Responsibility and God's Grace
By Jason Robinson9551:10:32The True GospelGrace and ResponsibilityDEU 30:19JER 6:16LUK 13:34ROM 5:2ROM 11:61CO 15:102CO 6:1TIT 2:12HEB 4:16REV 22:17Jason Robinson emphasizes the importance of understanding the complete Gospel amidst the confusion of various interpretations in a post-Christian society. He outlines sixteen essential revelations that form the foundation of the true Gospel, including the responsibility of man to respond to God's grace and the necessity of repentance and faith. Robinson stresses that while God's grace is freely given, individuals must actively choose to accept it and live in accordance with it, highlighting the balance between divine grace and human responsibility. He warns against the dangers of a diluted Gospel that neglects these critical elements, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with Christ that transforms their lives.
Life Abundant
By George Verwer94427:48Life2CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on verse 10 of the Bible, which talks about being sorrowful yet always rejoicing, poor yet making many rich, and having nothing yet possessing all things. The speaker shares their personal testimony of their family immigrating to America in search of a better life, but finding disappointment and sorrow instead. They also mention a recent experience of witnessing women visiting a cemetery to remember a loved one, which leads them to reflect on the encouraging message of the verse. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding reasons to rejoice, even in the midst of struggles and challenges, and shares their own determination to maintain motivation and joy in life.
Life Abundant Rising Above Failure
By George Verwer61829:32Failure2CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on verse 10 of the Scripture, which talks about being sorrowful yet always rejoicing, poor yet making many rich, and having nothing yet possessing all things. The speaker shares their personal testimony of immigrating to Great Britain from the United States and the struggles their family faced. They also discuss the importance of remembering Sunday and the significance of historical events like the fall of the Berlin Wall. The sermon emphasizes the need for humility, acknowledging our flaws and failures, and finding joy in the work that God is doing in the world.
The Challenge of Logos's Final Days (Jan 88)
By George Verwer6061:07:422CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a recent event that took place in the Beagle Channel. Despite the event causing some distress, there were no injuries, leading the speaker to feel joy rather than sorrow. The speaker shares their tendency to easily weep in moments of unexpected happiness. They also discuss the challenges and crises they have faced over the past 17 years in their ministry, emphasizing the importance of understanding the reality of hardship in the Christian life. The speaker urges listeners to look beyond their own struggles and be aware of the crises happening around the world, such as the plight of Afghan refugees and the war in Iran and Iraq.
The Riches of the New Covenant
By Zac Poonen4971:01:02MAT 11:12JHN 1:17ROM 6:142CO 6:1EPH 6:12PHP 4:4PHP 4:6This sermon emphasizes the transition from living under the old covenant to embracing the riches of the new covenant in Christ. It challenges believers to move beyond mere forgiveness and material blessings to possess the full inheritance of grace, including perpetual joy, freedom from anxiety, victory over sin giants, and authority over demonic forces. The speaker highlights the importance of not fighting with human beings to gain strength in spiritual battles and to establish the kingdom of God on earth.
Singapore Ilm 23.1.1996
By George Verwer48545:41Missions2CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of commitment and avoiding imbalance in various areas of life. He specifically mentions the challenge of avoiding misunderstanding with women and shares his personal experience of being impacted by a book on esteeming one's mate. The speaker also addresses the challenges and complexities of implementing a strategic plan, cautioning against blindly following worldly models. He acknowledges the financial difficulties faced in the previous year but also highlights the growth and progress achieved. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges faced by ministers of God.
Leader's Survival
By George Verwer47855:26Leadership2CO 6:1In this sermon, the speaker, George Wermer, shares about his personal journey and struggles as a Christian leader. He acknowledges his natural temperament and the challenges it brings, particularly in the area of sexual temptation. He emphasizes the importance of having accountability and support from others in order to overcome these challenges. Wermer also encourages listeners to press on in their faith, reminding them of God's forgiveness, restoration, and multiple plans for their lives. He concludes by highlighting the need for individualized spiritual growth and cautioning against expecting a one-size-fits-all training program for discipleship.
Loving Righteousness: Making a Covenant of Purity With Our Eyes
By Mike Bickle1749:05PurityRighteousness2CO 6:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of loving righteousness and making a covenant of purity with our eyes, urging believers to actively choose righteousness as a form of spiritual armor against temptation. He explains that while God's grace is available, it requires our cooperation through sincere decisions to resist sin, particularly in the realm of sexual immorality. Bickle warns against false teachings that downplay the necessity of personal responsibility in overcoming lust and emphasizes the need for believers to endure temptation as an expression of love for Jesus. He encourages making radical commitments to purity, such as Job's covenant with his eyes, and highlights the significance of obedience in the believer's relationship with God.
Be Ye Reconciled to God
By Jerry Mawhorr02CO 6:1Jerry Mawhorr preaches on the importance of reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need to lay down our enmity and accept the offer of salvation. He highlights the urgency of immediate reconciliation, as life is uncertain and death can come unexpectedly, leading to irreconcilability. Mawhorr urges listeners to heed the call to be reconciled to God, as He has already taken the first step through Christ's sacrifice, offering mercy and pardon to all who believe.
Workers Together With God
By Smith Wigglesworth0Unity in the ChurchFaith and Action2CO 6:1Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the importance of being ready to receive God's higher calling and the transformative power of His Word. He encourages believers to move forward in faith, avoiding the pitfalls of looking back or receiving God's grace in vain. The preacher highlights the necessity of collective effort as 'workers together with God' and the significance of living in harmony within the church. He calls for a deep spiritual awakening and a commitment to holiness, urging the congregation to embrace their role in God's plan and to be vessels of His grace and power.
What Will You Do With Grace? Grace - 3
By Anton Bosch01CO 10:122CO 6:1GAL 2:21GAL 5:4EPH 2:5HEB 4:1HEB 12:15HEB 12:28Anton Bosch emphasizes that while God's grace is limitless and unfailing, it requires acceptance and reception from the recipient to be effective. He warns against living in sin or returning to legalism under the assumption that grace will cover all actions. Bosch highlights the danger of receiving grace in vain, setting aside His grace, falling from grace, and falling short of God's grace, as outlined in various Bible verses.
Grace
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0PSA 84:11LUK 1:30JHN 1:16ACT 20:24ROM 5:17ROM 14:92CO 6:1EPH 2:8COL 4:61PE 1:13W.H. Griffith Thomas delves into the profound concept of 'Grace' in the Bible, emphasizing that it is the epitome of God's character and attitude towards humanity. Grace is defined as God's unmerited favor, freely given without conditions, generously bestowed, and continuously abiding. It encompasses forgiveness, joy, thanksgiving, and graciousness, ultimately leading to salvation and sanctification through Jesus Christ. The sermon explores the multifaceted nature of grace in God, in Christ, and in believers, highlighting its sovereign, satisfying, and sanctifying aspects, calling for a life that reflects God's grace and serves as a testimony to His love and mercy.
The Lost Sheep Restored
By J.C. Philpot0DEU 32:47JDG 9:4RUT 1:21MRK 12:31CO 15:102CO 6:1JAS 2:20Greek Word Studies delves into the meaning of 'kenos,' which signifies emptiness, futility, and lack of effectiveness, whether in material, intellectual, moral, or spiritual aspects. The term is used figuratively in the Bible to describe vain endeavors, labors, and actions that result in nothing. Paul, in his concern for the Thessalonians, sent Timothy to prevent them from falling into affliction, emphasizing the importance of godly support during trials. The concept of 'kenos' is further explored in various biblical contexts, highlighting the consequences of being devoid of spiritual value and the need for a firm root in God's Word to withstand afflictions.
2 Corinthians 6
By John Nelson Darby0Co-Working in ChristGrace2CO 6:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of working together as co-workers in Christ, urging the Corinthians not to receive God's grace in vain. He expresses concern for their spiritual state, highlighting that true reception of grace leads to genuine transformation and fruitfulness. Darby draws parallels from Isaiah, illustrating the call to recognize the significance of Christ's ministry and the urgency of the present time for believers. He stresses the need for believers to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects their ministry and relationship with God, while also warning against the dangers of worldly influences. Ultimately, he reassures that God desires a personal relationship with His people, calling them His sons and daughters.
What's Wrong With Grace?
By Mike Bickle0MAT 5:3JHN 14:152CO 5:172CO 6:1TIT 2:11JAS 4:6REV 19:7Mike Bickle preaches on the powerful and liberating message of the gospel of grace, emphasizing the transformation believers experience in Christ and the implications of becoming new creations in Him. He addresses the crisis of distorting the grace message, as seen in Jude's warning about turning God's grace into a license for sin. Bickle highlights the importance of contending for the true grace message, rooted in wholehearted love for Jesus and obedience to His Word, amidst the rise of distorted teachings in the church today.
The Man God Uses
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Usability in God's ServiceFaithfulness Amid TrialsJOS 1:82CH 16:9JOB 13:15PSA 32:8JHN 7:382CO 6:12TI 2:92TI 2:21Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that while many desire to be used by God, they must first ensure they are humble, teachable, and sanctified for His service. He compares God's search for usable individuals to a merchant seeking qualified employees, highlighting that God looks for those whose hearts are perfect toward Him rather than those with great abilities. Brengle encourages believers to examine their own hearts and to trust in God's process of preparation, using the example of Paul, whose faithfulness led to immense impact despite his trials. Ultimately, he reassures the troubled that their perceived uselessness may not reflect their true value in God's eyes, urging them to be filled with the Spirit to flow rivers of holy influence. The message concludes with a promise of reward for those who faithfully serve God.
- Adam Clarke
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We then, as workers together with him - Συνεργουντες δε και παρακαλουμεν. The two last words, with him, are not in the text, and some supply the place thus: we then, as workers together With You, and the Armenian version seems to have read it so; but no MS. has this reading, and no other version. For my own part I see nothing wanting in the text if we only suppose the term apostles; we, (i.e. apostles), being fellow workers, also entreat you not to receive the grace of God in vain. By the grace of God, την χαριν του Θεου, this grace or benefit of God, the apostle certainly means the grand sacrificial offering of Christ for the sin of the world, which he had just before mentioned in speaking of the ministry of reconciliation. We learn, therefore, that it was possible to receive the grace of God and not ultimately benefit by it; or, in other words, to begin in the Spirit and end in the flesh. Should any one say that it is the ministry of reconciliation, that is, the benefit of apostolic preaching, that they might receive in vain; I answer, that the apostolic preaching, and the whole ministry of reconciliation, could be no benefit to any man farther than it might have been a means of conveying to him the salvation of God. And it is most evident that the apostle has in view that grace or benefit that reconciles us to God, and makes us Divinely righteous. And this, and all other benefits of the death of Christ, may be received in vain.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses we have an account of the apostle's general errand and exhortation to all to whom he preached in every place where he came, with the several arguments and methods he used. Observe, I. The errand or exhortation itself, namely, to comply with the gospel offers of reconciliation - that, being favoured with the gospel, they would not receive this grace of God in vain, Co2 6:1. The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears; but it will be in vain for us to hear it, unless we believe it, and comply with the end and design of it. And as it is the duty of the ministers of the gospel to exhort and persuade their hearers to accept of grace and mercy which are offered to them, so they are honoured with this high title of co-workers with God. Note, 1. They must work; and must work for God and his glory, for souls and their good: and they are workers with God, yet under him, as instruments only; however, if they be faithful, they may hope to find God working with them, and their labour will be effectual. 2. Observe the language and way of the spirit of the gospel: it is not with roughness and severity, but with all mildness and gentleness, to beseech and entreat, to use exhortations and arguments, in order to prevail with sinners and overcome their natural unwillingness to be reconciled to God and to be happy for ever. II. The arguments and method which the apostle used. And here he tells them, 1. The present time is the only proper season to accept of the grace that is offered, and improve that grace which is afforded: NOW is the accepted time, NOW is the day of salvation, Co2 6:2. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the only proper time to accept of these offers: Today, while it is called today. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be; and we should remember that present seasons of grace are short and uncertain, and cannot be recalled when they are past. It is therefore our duty and interest to improve them while we have them, and no less than our salvation depends upon our so doing. 2. What caution they used not to give offence that might hinder the success of their preaching: Giving no offence in any thing, Co2 6:3. The apostle had great difficulty to behave prudently and inoffensively towards the Jews and Gentiles, for many of both sorts watched for his halting, and sought occasion to blame him and his ministry, or his conversation; therefore he was very cautious not to give offence to those who were so apt to take offence, that he might not offend the Jews by unnecessary zeal against the law, nor the Gentiles by unnecessary compliances with such as were zealous for the law. He was careful, in all his words and actions, not to give offence, or occasion of guilt or grief. Note, When others are too apt to take offence, we should be cautious lest we give offence; and ministers especially should be careful lest they do any thing that may bring blame on their ministry or render that unsuccessful. 3. Their constant aim and endeavor in all things to approve themselves faithful, as became the ministers of God, Co2 6:4. We see how much stress the apostle upon all occasions lays on fidelity in our work, because much of our success depends upon that. His eye was single, and his heart upright, in all his ministrations; and his great desire was to be the servant of God, and to approve himself so. Note, Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants or ministers, and act in every thing suitably to that character. So did the apostle, (1.) By much patience in afflictions. He was a great sufferer, and met with many afflictions, was often in necessities, and wanted the conveniences, if not the necessaries, of life; in distresses, being straitened on every side, hardly knowing what to do; in stripes often (Co2 11:24); in imprisonments; in tumults raised by the Jews and Gentiles against him; in labours, not only in preaching the gospel, but in travelling from place to place for that end, and working with his hands to supply his necessities; in watchings and in fastings, either voluntary or upon a religious account, or involuntary for the sake of religion: but he exercised much patience in all, Co2 6:4, Co2 6:5. Note, [1.] It is the lot of faithful ministers often to be reduced to great difficulties, and to stand in need of much patience. [2.] Those who would approve themselves to God must approve themselves faithful in trouble as well as in peace, not only in doing the work of God diligently, but also in bearing the will of God patiently. (2.) By acting from good principles. The apostle went by a good principle in all he did, and tells them what his principles were (Co2 6:6, Co2 6:7); namely, pureness; and there is no piety without purity. A care to keep ourselves unspotted from the world is necessary in order to our acceptance with God. Knowledge was another principle; and zeal without this is but madness. He also acted with long-suffering and kindness, being not easily provoked, but bearing with the hardness of men's hearts, and hard treatment from their hands, to whom he kindly endeavoured to do good. He acted under the influence of the Holy Ghost, from the noble principle of unfeigned love, according to the rule of the word of truth, under the supports and assistances of the power of God, having on the armour of righteousness (a consciousness of universal righteousness and holiness), which is the best defence against the temptations of prosperity on the right hand, and of adversity on the left. (3.) By a due temper and behaviour under all the variety of conditions in this world, Co2 6:8-10. We must expect to meet with many alterations of our circumstances and conditions in this world; and it will be a great evidence of our integrity if we preserve a right temper of mind, and duly behave ourselves, under them all. The apostles met with honour and dishonour, good report and evil report: good men in this world must expect to meet with some dishonour and reproaches, to balance their honour and esteem; and we stand in need of the grace of God to arm us against the temptations of honour on the one hand, so as to bear good report without pride, and of dishonour on the other hand, so as to bear reproaches without impatience or recrimination. It should seem that persons differently represented the apostles in their reports; that some represented them as the best, and others as the worst, of men: by some they were counted deceivers, and run down as such; by others as true, preaching the gospel of truth, and men who were true to the trust reposed in them. They were slighted by the men of the world as unknown, men of no figure or account, not worth taking notice of; yet in all the churches of Christ they were well known, and of great account: they were looked upon as dying, being killed all the day long, and their interest was thought to be a dying interest; "and yet behold," says the apostle, "we live, and live comfortably, and bear up cheerfully under all our hardships, and go on conquering and to conquer." They were chastened, and often fell under the lash of the law, yet not killed: and though it was thought that they were sorrowful, a company of mopish and melancholy men, always sighing and mourning, yet they were always rejoicing in God, and had the greatest reason to rejoice always. They were despised as poor, upon the account of their poverty in this world; and yet they made many rich, by preaching the unsearchable riches of Christ. They were thought to have nothing, and silver and gold they had none, houses and lands they had none; yet they possessed all things: they had nothing in this world, but they had a treasure in heaven. Their effects lay in another country, in another world. They had nothing in themselves, but possessed all things in Christ. Such a paradox is a Christian's life, and through such a variety of conditions and reports lies our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all these things to approve ourselves to God.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:1-2 To win over the disaffected believers at Corinth, Paul appeals to them to listen to him and Timothy as God’s servants and messengers. • As God’s partners: Literally As we work together, which leaves open the question whether Paul meant that they were working together in a team effort, or that they were working together with God.