Menu
If you wish to receive these free devotionals every weekday by E-mail, click the button below. Note: you'll have to log in or create your membership account first. Membership in the League is free. Join now!
Sign up to receive the Daily Devotional
2 Corinthians 11:7-8
Was it a sin for me to lower myself in order to elevate you by preaching the gospel of God to you free of charge? I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so as to serve you.
Biblical scholars and historians tell us the self-described "super apostles" were very wealthy men. By today's standards, they would probably be considered multi-millionaires (think: Tony Robbins or Denis Waitley). Due to their popularity, they commanded exorbitantly high speaking fees. Yet, Paul charged nothing. I think the Corinthians' perspective regarding value is an interesting commentary on humanity in general. Even today, we assume something has greater or lesser worth based on its price tag. In our passage today, Paul challenges this line of reasoning when he asks, "Have I lowered the value of my message by preaching the Gospel for free? Should I have charged you? Would you have held it in higher esteem?"
These issues Paul is dealing with have an ironic twist built into each. For example: How could the Corinthians believe evil words about him when he had served them so selflessly? Didn't his actions speak more convincingly than rumors? How could religious teachers and philosophers charge outrageous fees for their services, and then criticize Paul's message simply on the basis of its price? Didn't Paul give everything he had freely? Wasn't his message of great value regardless of the price?
Have we also become susceptible to the belief that quality teaching requires a high price tag? How much does it cost to read and study the Word each day? Will you allow God's Word to minister to your needs today? It's free of charge and of much greater value than the latest and greatest self-help seminar.
Sign up to receive the Daily Devotional
There's nothing like God's Word to create purpose in your life that lasts the entire day and beyond. We encourage you to Read, Carry and Share the Word of God. Pocket Devotions are sent by E-mail every weekday (Monday to Friday). On weekends we encourage you to be creative and study on your own in any area of Scripture where God leads you.
You can start from Day 1 at any time. Messages are sent automatically. Subscribe now! You may unsubscribe at any time.
Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.
Español
Português
polszczyzna
Svenska
suomi