Firmness and Gentleness
Introduction
Firmness and Gentleness
Paul being severe at times – examples
Paul being gentle at times – examples
Parents need both firmness and gentleness (love and tenderness)
Examples of what it is not
Spiritual parenting is similar
(Paul was Spiritual father to the Corinthians)
2 Cor 1:23-24 – to spare them
2 Cor 10:1-2 – pleading
2 Cor 13:2 – discipline
2 Cor 13:5 – test yourself
2 Cor 13:11-14 – gentleness
Some of the most challenging and comforting words in Scripture
Behold the severity and goodness of God (Romans 11:22)
Overview:
A Challenge (v5)
A Comfort (v11-14)
A Challenge (v5)
Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith
It is easy to be deceived – examples
1 Cor 6:9-10
We must not give such false peace or the right hand of fellowship
Gal 5:19-21
Such will not inherit the kingdom of God
1 John 3:7-8
The Corinthians are too look at their lives
Not that we struggle with sin – but are these things in my life?
Test yourselves
Do I love the brethren?
Do I love to practice righteousness?
The Psalmist was not afraid to test Himself – nor to ask God to test him
The Church in Laodicea was deceived (Rev 3)
Do I judge my brother?
Lam 3:40
We examine ourselves at the Lord’s table – we should also do this intermittently
Are we growing in God?
Do I listen to God’s word for myself?
Do I stand when my faith is tested?
Does my faith stand in trials?
Not to lead to an unhealthly introspection
Quote from CH Spurgeon
Quote from Robert Murray M’Cheyne
A Comfort (v11-14)
Signing off his letter with words of comfort
He started this letter with words of comfort
12:20-21 – fears for the Church
v11-14 – his hope for the Church
Be complete
This should be our desire for every Christian
1 Thess 5:23
Be of good comfort
Be of one mind
Be united – though you can differ over non-essentials
Live in peace
Then the God of love and peace will be with you
Paul’s fear in 12:20 vs v11
God’s power is able to accomplish this
John 14:27; 16:12,33 – Jesus disciples can overcome the world through Him
1 Kings 6:11-13
Greet one another with a holy kiss
Unadvisable in a carnal society?
There is such a thing as a holy kiss
What is our way of embracing/showing affection – maybe a handshake
The Trinitarian blessing
Grace from Jesus Christ
The desire and ability to do what God wants you to do
Love from God
Fellowship from the Holy Spirit
Closing Remarks
A balance of firmness and gentleness
Both in earthly and spiritual parenting
The Church to examine themselves but also to be encouraged