I read about half of 2 Corinthians this morning and found some really challenging material. I'm posting it here the way I wrote it in my journal, as observations and questions to myself that you might find useful as well.
- "...the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life" (2 Cor. 3:6). Strong words from Paul about the old covenant. It's inferior (3:7-18) and does not lead to transformation. But will we let it go? Will I let it go? It is much easier for me to practice my faith by holding myself and others to lists of rules, biblical or otherwise, that can be controlled. Far more dangerous to trust the Spirit and his leading.
- We "are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory" (2 Cor. 3:18). The transformation comes as we contemplate the Lord's glory, which we can only do when the "veil" is lifted from us, that is, when we turn to the Lord. The old covenant is a veil and it hides the freedom that exists in the Lord from us. But the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit is, there is freedom. But will I lock on to this freedom, or do I seek the "comfort" and "control" of the veil?
- Paul's commendation of his ministry in 2 Cor. 6 is powerful. He lists the ways he has suffered and taught and lived as a servant of God. How do I primarily view myself--as a servant of God or as something as else? Do I think that honor is due me, or do I reflect honor back to the Lord? Will I embrace suffering and hardship if it comes, or try to run from it? Will I simply be a simple servant of God?
