We have spoken frankly to you Corinthians; our heart is wide open to you. There is no restriction in our affections, but only in yours. In return—I speak as to children—open wide your hearts also.” vss. 11-13
2 Corinthians 6:7-13
Just because Paul had lived in Corinth and had faithfully proclaimed the gospel to the congregation doesn’t mean there were no difficulties between him and the people. We don’t know precisely what the issue was, but we do know that some of the folks in Corinth were not in his camp—and he gets a bit testy about it. While he doesn’t claim to have been of star quality, he does believe that his record was sound. Not only had he endured persecution for the sake of the gospel, he has always acted with integrity and kindness. He had opened his heart to them and now he wants to be treated in the same way. The issue brought up by Paul comes up again and again in our congregations. Pastors often feel that they have given their best in ministry, but sometimes the people can be unappreciative. They may feel the pastor talks down to them and has a superiority complex. There are many reasons why congregants have problems with leaders. The ideal is a kind of mutuality, a situation in which the pastor has obvious affection for the people in the pews, and they are also willing to open wide their hearts to their pastor.
Thought for the Day: Can you open your heart wide to your pastor?
0 Comments