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Much of the letter of Paul's that we call 2 Corinthians is an emotional response to sniping by his detractors. He acknowledges that his actions may appear to be out on the edge—even a bit crazy. But he explains what drives him to his extreme behavior. The primary thrust of this section is about evangelism; but a strong secondary emphasis concerns a lifestyle that zeroes in on God.

2 Corinthians 5:10-11,2 Corinthians 5:14-15

1. What is the reason for our "solemn fear of the Lord" (v. 11)?
2. Have you absorbed the teaching of Scripture that God's gracious gift of eternal life doesn't exempt you from standing personally before God's judgment seat?
3. What motivation is stronger than fear for Paul (v. 14)?
4. What evidence is there that you have died with Christ to the old life you used to live?
5. What indicators can you cite that demonstrate you are no longer living to please yourself, but to please Christ?

Thank Jesus Christ for dying for you. Ask for His power to live the new resurrection life that will please Him.

10 For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in our bodies. 11 It is because we know this solemn fear of the Lord that we work so hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too.

14 Whatever we do, it is because Christ's love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for everyone, we also believe that we have all died to the old life we used to live. 15 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live to please themselves. Instead, they will live to please Christ, who died and was raised for them.

Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord make me as holy as a pardoned sinner can be.

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