Our study this Reformation weekend is in 2 Corinthians 1:12 thru 2:11. Paul’s Change of Plans and Forgiveness.
Live in the Narthex, Sunday at 9:00 am
Our normal cadence is:
- Brief discussion previous week, with thought questions that will tie into the lesson.
- Open with prayer
- Read the section of scripture. Try to let everyone read a few verses, but will modify as needed.
- Work through the prepared questions … at our own pace.
- Close with prayer after ~ 45 minutes.
Hope you can join us live and participate in the study. We always enjoy interaction. Or you can use the guide to study on your own. Feel free to share with others.
Step1: Opening and Introduction to the lesson – Personal Testimonies and or any Reflections? What was one accomplishment as a teenager of which you felt proud? If you were permitted to brag a little about your kids or grandkids (if any) what would you boast about? From which parent could you bank on a no reply? A yes reply? Which one waffled? Why was that?
Step 2: Hear – Read: 2 Cor 1:12 thru 2: 11. Paul’s Change of Plans and Forgiveness
Step 3: Explore – Discover the Passage
- In what does Paul boast (v. 12). What is the basis of hie integrity? How does a leader who uses his authority according to worldly wisdom differ from one who does so by God’s grace (1:12)?
- From 1:15-17, of what may Paul have been accused? How does he account for his change of plans (1:23-2:2)? What does it mean that Jesus is the yes of God’s promise to us? How does this relate to Paul’s argument?
- Corinth was the commercial center of the region: What do the three trading metaphors in 1:22 indicate that Jesus has done for us? What are the causes of joy and grief for Paul and the Corinthians (1:23-25)?
- What must Paul’s grievous letter have been about (see 2:3-9: 7:8-12? What has happened since the letter was received (2:6-8)? How might their continuation of punishment be a scheme of Satan (vv. 9-11)?
Step 4: Connect – Apply the Passage:
- What does Paul’s example mean for you in terms of how you relate to others?
- Paraphrase the business deal of 1:22 in modern terms. How have you experienced this spiritual new deal?
- How does this passage apply to church discipline and restoration of fallen leaders today? Is there someone you need to forgive and comfort (no names please)? Why not now?
Step 5: Reflect: For no matter how many promises God has made, they are Yes in Christ..
