In the background of today’s text is a Corinthian church that disrespected Paul. This forces him to have to defend his apostleship, because false apostles, “angels of light,” in chapter 11, were claiming authority over the church. They claimed Paul’s suffering proves he’s not an apostle, God must be punishing him for his sin. 

Today’s text offers great comfort for all who believe. Paul is comforted by the embodiment of all comfort, the Father who sent Christ crucified, to teach him to face terrorism. His suffering is an example to the church, to take up their cross too and follow Christ. Today’s message teaches us that our sufferings are an opportunity for us to be an example, a comfort, a help to our brothers & sisters who will inevitably face affliction.

Take courage my brothers & sisters in your affliction, the God of all comfort will offset your pain with His comfort. When trouble comes, I hope you will be found: “casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Pet 5:7)

-Pastor John

Other Scripture Referenced:

1 Corinthians 2:13
Galatians 1:15
James 1
1 Peter 1:3
Ephesians 1:3
Matthew 27:46
2 Corinthians 1:8-9
Romans 8:28
Revelation 1:11
1 Corinthians 11:1
Matthew 16:24
John 16:33
John 14:6
Philipians 3:10