For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God. For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit.Paul contrasts his ministry with those who exploit the gospel for personal gain. In the first-century Greco-Roman world, itinerant teachers and philosophers often charged fees for their teachings. Paul, however, emphasizes his integrity and the purity of his motives. This echoes his earlier statements in 1 Corinthians 9:18, where he insists on preaching the gospel free of charge. The term "peddle" suggests a corrupting influence, akin to a merchant diluting wine to increase profit. This warning against false teachers is consistent with other New Testament passages, such as 2 Peter 2:1-3, which caution against those who exploit believers with deceptive words. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God. Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of 2 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth. He contrasts his ministry with those who exploit the gospel for personal gain. 2. Corinth A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and moral challenges. The church in Corinth faced various issues, including false teachings and divisions. 3. False Teachers Individuals who were distorting the gospel message for personal profit, a concern Paul addresses in his letters. 4. The Church in Corinth The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with internal and external challenges, including the influence of false teachers. 5. Christ Central to Paul's message, emphasizing sincerity and accountability in ministry as followers of Christ. Teaching Points Sincerity in MinistryTrue ministry is marked by sincerity and integrity, not by personal gain. Believers are called to serve with pure motives, reflecting Christ's example. Accountability to God As those sent by God, Christians must remember their ultimate accountability is to Him. This perspective should guide their actions and words. Discernment Against False Teachings Believers must be vigilant against those who distort the gospel for profit. Knowing Scripture and the character of Christ helps in discerning truth from falsehood. The Role of Christ in Ministry Christ is the foundation of all genuine ministry. Our words and actions should align with His teachings and character. The Danger of Materialism in Ministry The pursuit of wealth can corrupt the message of the gospel. Christians are called to prioritize spiritual riches over material gain. Bible Study Questions 1. How can we ensure that our motives in sharing the gospel are sincere and not influenced by personal gain?2. In what ways can we hold ourselves accountable to God in our daily lives and ministries? 3. How can we discern between true and false teachings in today's context, and what role does Scripture play in this process? 4. Reflect on a time when you faced a challenge in maintaining sincerity in your faith. How did you overcome it? 5. How can the example of Paul's ministry inspire us to prioritize spiritual over material wealth in our own lives? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Timothy 6:5Discusses those who view godliness as a means to financial gain, similar to the "peddlers" Paul mentions. Philippians 1:15-18 Paul acknowledges that some preach Christ out of selfish ambition, yet he rejoices that Christ is preached. Acts 20:33-35 Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of his example of not coveting wealth, highlighting his sincerity in ministry. 1 Thessalonians 2:3-6 Paul emphasizes that his message did not come from error or impure motives, nor was it a pretext for greed.
People Corinthians, Paul, TitusPlaces Achaia, Corinth, Macedonia, TroasTopics TRUE, Christ, Commissioned, Communion, Contrary, Corrupt, Corrupting, Fraudulent, God's, Hucksters, Message, Motives, Peddle, Peddlers, Peddling, Presence, Profit, Sight, Sincerity, Speak, Teachers, Trade, Transparent, UnlikeDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Corinthians 2:17 1690 word of God Library The Triumphal Procession'Thanks be unto God, which always leadeth us in triumph in Christ and maketh manifest through us the savour of His knowledge in every place.'--2 COR. ii. 14 (R.V.) I suppose most of us have some knowledge of what a Roman Triumph was, and can picture to ourselves the long procession, the victorious general in his chariot with its white horses, the laurelled soldiers, the sullen captives, with suppressed hate flashing in their sunken eyes, the wreathing clouds of incense that went up into the blue … Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V) The Two Effects of the Gospel Since These Things are So, Because it were Too Long to Treat Thoroughly Of... "But if Ye have Bitter Envying," &C. There Resulteth Then from all These this Sentence... On the Study of the Evidences of Christianity. Of the Matters to be Considered in the Councils. Epistle xxxv. To Leontius, Ex-Consul. How the Rude in Sacred Learning, and those who are Learned but not Humble, are to be Admonished. The Preparatory Service; Sometimes Called the Confessional Service. The Comforts Belonging to Mourners Letter Xlv (Circa A. D. 1120) to a Youth Named Fulk, who Afterwards was Archdeacon of Langres A Book for Boys and Girls Or, Temporal Things Spritualized. Things Pertaining to the Kingdom. Elucidations. Letter cxx. To Hedibia. And for Your Fearlessness against them Hold this Sure Sign -- Whenever There Is... Links 2 Corinthians 2:17 NIV2 Corinthians 2:17 NLT 2 Corinthians 2:17 ESV 2 Corinthians 2:17 NASB 2 Corinthians 2:17 KJV 2 Corinthians 2:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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