Today we turn from the book of Acts to the second recorded letter from Paul to the church at Corinth. The church at Corinth was one of the churches Paul planted and encouraged. There is believed to have been as many as four letter between Paul and the church, but we only have the preserved record of two. Considerable time was spent by Paul and the crew in Corinth. Paul is well aware of their context and struggle.
In this second letter to the church Paul is already reminding them of similar themes by which he has already taught the church. When read together with 1 Corinthians this second letter continues the theme of a pastor doing his best to stir a church in ways of righteousness, and the church choosing their own way.
It is clear Paul is not happy with the church and the reports he is getting about the church. The tone is stern and corrective. The church in Corinth has lost its way in some areas and correction is needed. It makes me wonder how Paul would treat the church in America today. Many of the things facing the church in Corinth are things our church not only faces, but in some ways is proud of. I wonder if Paul would spare visiting our churches for fear of how he would speak to them?
The letter to the church in Corinth is written to a specific church, but I cannot help bu think it is written to the church of 2009 as well. The question is, will we pay attention?
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