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“"A Stern Warning"”

Thoughts for Today:

Our grandsons Conner and Christian spent their last summer vacation with us at our lake house. In general, they are very cooperative children; however, on occasion a dispute will arise associated with whatever they happen to be doing. My response is usually the same, "You had better stop arguing right now and do the right thing, because whoever is in the wrong is not going to like my solution to the problem."

In our passage today, Paul reiterates to the Corinthians that he would not tolerate anyone who was spreading division within the body of the church. He places them on notice that there will be no second chances. Paul is basically saying, "You know what I expect of you, and you know the correct way to behave - now do it - or whoever is causing the problem won't like the consequences!" It's not too much different than the warning I issued to my grandsons.

The opponents of Paul must have shuddered a little when they heard these words. The people who are the most involved in sowing seeds of discord, like to do so behind the scenes, among the people, not in direct opposition to authority. They like subtlety not confrontation. However, if they were not dealt with before he arrived, then Paul would take care of the situation personally. What that would involve - we aren't quite certain. But I certainly wouldn't want to test him.

Questions to Ponder:

Acts 20:2-3 tells us that Paul spent three months in Greece (where Corinth is located). As a result, the disputes were resolved and the church flourished. Is there discord in your church? Who seems to be at the center? Is it time to encourage those in disagreement to resolve their conflicts? God will not tolerate disruptive behavior indefinitely. Is anyone willing to risk His wrath?

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About the author

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.