It is hard to believe that
this week is almost over! The time seems to have flown by and we find ourselves
with only a half-day of classes left for tomorrow. Each day seems to have been
more fruitful than the day before. I remain grateful beyond words that I have
been given this great opportunity by the sacrifices made by so many of you!
We covered 2 Corinthians 8-10
today. Chapters 8 and 9 dealing with this collection for the poor saints
occupied our morning studies. We noted that the whole context deals with a
“ministry” or “fellowship” that took place due to a spiritual connection
between the givers and the receivers. We dealt with the arguments made by those
in institutional churches who claim the responsibility of giving benevolent aid
from the treasury of the church to both saints and alien sinners. Instead, we
noted that such a view is not supported by this context, nor is it even
consistent with it. We also examined Romans 15:25-27.
After the lunch break, we
examined Paul’s defense of his conduct and apostolic authority whish he
received of the Lord. Though the Judaizing teachers sought to attack Paul and deny
that he was a real apostle, Paul clearly shows his own conduct exemplified his
claim and promised to demonstrate such upon his return to Corinth if his
detractors remain there at his next coming.
We also gave much attention
to 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 and the requirement of “bringing
every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” It is, indeed, a great task, but we must strive to
master both body and mind by bringing them to the full service of our Lord.
At the end of the class today,
I had told them that I viewed “Tell Me The Story Of Jesus” as my favorite song.
When class ended and I was packing up my things to go, C.B. Balbin led the
class in that song and I was touched. Even though I love being at home with my
family and my home congregation, I miss these brethren so much when we part!
