Tuesday, 2 June 2015
But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. 2 Corinthians 1:18
Paul’s words here have been construed in various ways. The two predominant views are 1) that this is an oath. “As God is faithful, so are my words to you,” or 2) that God will vindicate him in his words to them. Either way, his words contain and relay the sense that what he has spoken and continues to speak to those at Corinth is in accord with the words of the Lord.
His “Yes” has meant “Yes” and his “No” has meant “No.” They were not fickle or faltering, but firm and fixed. This note of God’s faithfulness is not unique to this letter. It is a theme which he has transmitted often. Not only does he speak of God’s faithfulness to the Corinthians on several occasions, but also to those in other areas. One example is in his first letter to the Thessalonians –
“He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24
He also conveys this in his second letter to them as well –
“But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Paul wants those in Corinth to know that just as God is faithful, the words he has spoken are faithful. God is his witness to the integrity of his words.
Life application: Integrity is a dying attribute of people in the world today. But when one possesses it, they are remembered for it. As Christians, we are called to speak openly and honestly so that others may see in us truthful disciples of the Lord. We bear His name and therefore others will make value judgments concerning Him based on how we present ourselves.
Lord God, it is my hope and desire that when others interact with me, they will see someone who is truthful and willing to place his integrity above the temporary and fleeting passions of the world. I know that my every action may be evaluated by someone else, and that this will in turn reflect upon You. May I never conduct myself in a way which would diminish You in their eyes. May it be so. Amen.