This book isn't as chunky and interesting as the first book, but it was a much shorter one. Paul sounds depressed and tired in it, where he was a roaring lion in the first. Apparently everyone has been treating him like crap since he became an apostle. There was even a mentioning of him having to be let down out of a window in a basket just to escape persecution. (This was also mentioned back in "Acts.")
He seems to show a constant distrust of the Corinthians that they will ultimately be good people, but he still lays on them the truth about Christ, and that Jesus' way is better than the alternative. He also warns them that he fears deceptive people that will show up and use the Jesus story to there own ends, possibly even changing Satan to a good character in the process.
The latter fear is not unwarranted. Throughout history, many people have taken the Bible and twisted it to their own ends. The Mormons have even slightly tweaked it to form their own narrative, making certain real encounters to only be visions. But that's not what was actually written originally, so I just can't take them seriously since they were deceptive like that. (The original starters of the religion, not the people who follow it. I don't have any issues with them at all.)
Another interesting mentioning was that, as beaten up as Paul was, he seemed to be glorified in his infirmities. Christ died in weakness, but he rose from the dead in strength no greater. Paul is not so much worried about his problems, because he is fully and even painfully aware of the truth of his existence. All those things will pass away just as it did for Christ.
There isn't much more to talk about, with "Corinthians II." The bulk of it was just a reaffirmation of Christ and Paul's very real and reasonable doubt in them to hold the path. It's a depressing book. It reminded me back when I read "Malachi" with how people are strong for a bit, but ultimately become wishy-washy. Read it if you are interested in hearing what the Holy Spirit thinks about this.
This blog was written on February 17, 2022.
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Jesus himself, the most patient guy... EVER... became tired of the mediocrity. He could see the greatness within the makeup of humans. It saddened him to see them squander it, mostly through neglect. Alas, even the failures must be given their chance. The benefit of the doubt is to leave them without excuse on Judgment Day.
ReplyDeleteMost of it is squandered. It is sad, and we don't really deserve any help as a people. We got it anyways though.
DeleteI can see why Paul was depressed by what became the cult of the lukewarm. People do indeed tweak the Word to fit their own narratives but in the end The Truth prevails. The Way is clear to any with eyes to see and ears to hear.
ReplyDeleteThat cult has never gone away. It's very frustrating.
DeleteIt is easy to get down when difficulties come. The weight of life can be crushing at times. These things being temporary, how we deal with them will reveal who we really are.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, but I almost thought you were making a pun at first because of the basket scene.
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