2 Corinthians 11:16-23

2 Corinthians 11:16-23 - Daily Devotion - 27 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

16 I say again, let no one think that I am a fool. But if you do, then at least accept me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little. 17 What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishness. 18 Since many are boasting according to human standards, I too will boast. 19 For since you are so wise, you put up with fools gladly. 20 For you put up with it if someone makes slaves of you, if someone exploits you, if someone takes advantage of you, if someone behaves arrogantly toward you, if someone strikes you in the face. 21 (To my disgrace I must say that we were too weak for that!) But whatever anyone else dares to boast about (I am speaking foolishly), I also dare to boast about the same thing. 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. 23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am talking like I am out of my mind!) I am even more so: with much greater labors, with far more imprisonments, with more severe beatings, facing death many times.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Keith Hengpoonthana

Sometimes you can’t help but roll your eyes at people who boast openly about themselves. Many would regard high self-confidence and a strong self-belief in action or words as a positive character trait. But we also recognise that there’s something very wrong when someone openly boasts about their own superiority. Often they may be seeking to elevate themselves to cover their own inadequacies.

Paul main message here is that boasting for self-gain is foolishness. As Christians we should seek to love God and love others. How we speak and act should reflect the humility, love and grace that Christ has shown us. Paul himself went through many trials and great suffering in the name of Christ, but he doesn’t use that as a means to elevate himself above others.

But that gives Paul a dilemma. How should he address the self-centred teachers in Corinth who were boasting about themselves and raising their own profile in order to mislead the church? In his frustration, Paul states that if anyone should be able to boast about suffering for being a servant of Christ, he should. He also has all the credentials of what one might openly boast about in being a leader. However, as we will see in the following sections, he only boasts of his own weaknesses, because his goal is to encourage others and point them to Christ. The gospel calls us to live selflessly.

Is boasting ever a good thing then? Back in 2 Corinthians 10:17 Paul said: “But the one who boasts must boast in the Lord“ – which is a quote from Jeremiah 9:24. We should be openly boasting in the same manner as Paul – not in self-promotion, but in celebrating and raising up the love that God has for all of us and the grace that we have received through Christ for our salvation.

Perhaps instead of boasting about how much wealth we have, how good we look or how much we have achieved, we should be boasting about God’s great love and mercy – that we once we were dead in our sins, but now by grace we have been saved and made alive in Christ (Ephesians 2:4-5). Now that’s something worth boasting about!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Keith is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 11:7-15

2 Corinthians 11:7-15 - Daily Devotion - 26 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

7 Or did I commit a sin by humbling myself so that you could be exalted, because I proclaimed the gospel of God to you free of charge? 8 I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so that I could serve you! 9 When I was with you and was in need, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia fully supplied my needs. I kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so. 10 As the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be stopped in the regions of Achaia. 11 Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do! 12 And what I am doing I will continue to do, so that I may eliminate any opportunity for those who want a chance to be regarded as our equals in the things they boast about. 13 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is not surprising his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will correspond to their actions.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Adam Davies

It seems so strange that the Corinthians would doubt Paul's authenticity or legitimacy because he didn’t charge them money to receive the gospel message! But that seems to be something of what has happened here. Paul insists on not burdening the Corinthians, even though as a gospel worker, he could legitimately have received financial support from them. Instead, when he needed financial support, it was the churches further north in Macedonia who provided for him. It seems to me that Paul wanted to distinguish himself from certain people in Corinth who were deceitfully preaching a message for their own gain or financial benefit.

The whole passage makes me reflect on the partnership development I do as an AFES University Christian worker. At university, we offer the gospel free of charge to students so that there is no confusion about the free gift of God’s grace in Christ. But to do that I am funded by Christians from other churches partnering in the ministry with me. I guess some might say I’m robbing other churches (v8) – I never thought about it like that!

But it's such a joy to be able to offer salvation to people who don’t know Christ without any other motives in the mix. Simply being able to hold out the message of God’s free gift of mercy and forgiveness, teaching and training students in following Christ, without charging them a cent, is a huge blessing. It is really quite remarkable when nothing else in this world is really free. The passage has made me feel super grateful to the people who partner with me so that students at university can receive Christ and grow in him.

Who held out the gospel to you? How did you feel about the offer of complete forgiveness without having to open your wallet? I’m so thankful that our God is gracious and compassionate, full of love, mercy and forgiveness.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Adam is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 11:1-6

2 Corinthians 11:1-6 - Daily Devotion - 25 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 I wish that you would be patient with me in a little foolishness, but indeed you are being patient with me! 2 For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy, because I promised you in marriage to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ. 3 But I am afraid that just as the serpent deceived Eve by his treachery, your minds may be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus different from the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit than the one you received, or a different gospel than the one you accepted, you put up with it well enough! 5 For I consider myself not at all inferior to those “super-apostles.” 6 And even if I am unskilled in speaking, yet I am certainly not so in knowledge. Indeed, we have made this plain to you in everything in every way.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Annie Davies

Firstly, I would like to wish everyone a happy Christmas!

This passage reminds me of the vows I made on my wedding day. I promised to forsake all others and remain faithful to my husband as long as we both shall live. That I will only have eyes for my husband for the rest of my life. Paul uses this marriage analogy where the Corinthian church is the wife and Christ is the husband. This really makes me feel the importance of our relationship with Christ and the intimacy that should characterise this relationship. Like a wife to her husband, we should be fully devoted and committed to Christ. When our mind wanders to different ideas and teachings, or wanting the most fulfilling experiences, the most successful career, the most likes on social media; that is adultery!

Since having kids, I have struggled with wanting to live an easy, comfortable life. I like to keep the peace and don’t want to offend others. But when I think of Christ, I realise that is not being devoted to him. That is not being serious about defending my relationship with him so that no one and no thing will take that away. I want to be frequently reminded of the gospel, so that I will not put up with different thoughts that seep in from our culture, but instead, I will live boldly for Christ.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Annie is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 10:12-18

2 Corinthians 10:12-18 - Daily Devotion - 24 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

12 For we would not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who recommend themselves. But when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. 13 But we will not boast beyond certain limits, but will confine our boasting according to the limits of the work to which God has appointed us, that reaches even as far as you. 14 For we were not overextending ourselves, as though we did not reach as far as you, because we were the first to reach as far as you with the gospel about Christ. 15 Nor do we boast beyond certain limits in the work done by others, but we hope that as your faith continues to grow, our work may be greatly expanded among you according to our limits, 16 so that we may preach the gospel in the regions that lie beyond you, and not boast of work already done in another person’s area. 17 But the one who boasts must boast in the Lord. 18 For it is not the person who commends himself who is approved, but the person the Lord commends.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Ken Wong

As humans, we are prone to compare ourselves to others. We compare our homes, cars, jobs and even church ministries. In this passage, Paul is responding to boastful teachers who had arrived in the church in Corinth and who were comparing themselves to Paul and commending themselves over him. But what does God say about this, and what can we do about it?

The first thing to see is that any measure of success that doesn't come from God is foolishness. A common problem with commending ourselves according to worldly measures is that it leads to pride. In ministry, pride can lead to both over-estimating our own abilities and not relying on God – and reliance on God is essential for fruitful service.

Paul's concern was not how other people viewed him but how to expand the gospel in the sphere that God had placed him. His focus was not on himself but on how to build others up in Christ. His reward was not in people praising him but in seeing the gospel go out through those he ministered to.

Paul sums this all up by encouraging the Corinthians to boast in the Lord only and to seek his approval. Ultimately God's approval is all that matters.

When we follow God rightly, we free ourselves from the tyranny of human comparisons, because we are all saved by God’s grace in Christ. Willingly accepting this enables us to serve freely without judgement and joyfully proclaim his name as we are called to.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ken is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 10:7-11

2 Corinthians 10:7-11 - Daily Devotion - 23 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

7 You are looking at outward appearances. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should reflect on this again: Just as he himself belongs to Christ, so too do we. 8 For if I boast somewhat more about our authority that the Lord gave us for building you up and not for tearing you down, I will not be ashamed of doing so. 9 I do not want to seem as though I am trying to terrify you with my letters, 10 because some say, “His letters are weighty and forceful, but his physical presence is weak and his speech is of no account.” 11 Let such a person consider this: What we say by letters when we are absent, we also are in actions when we are present.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Paul Bogg

How good are you at judging people based on what you see? One time at Katoomba men's convention, a young gentleman came up to read a Bible passage. He was short and had glasses, spoke with funny lisp, and had a mild and meek voice. But I'll never forget what happened when he started reading the passage. He had this magnificent way of reading the Bible that made the words come alive. Over 2000 men in the auditorium suddenly went dead silent and when the reading was over, it was like everyone wanted to applaud him or something.

In today's passage, Paul has a gentle rebuke towards those in the Corinthian church who, based on Paul's appearance, have decided to ignore Paul's authority in the church. They have seen Paul speak – and what they've seen is enough for them to draw the right conclusion. But Paul reminds them: his authority is from the risen Lord Jesus himself. Jesus was the one who appeared to Paul on the road to Damascus and sent him as his apostle to the Gentiles. And the Lord gave him this authority to build the church up, both through his preaching and his letters, so the Corinthians ought to listen to him.

These letters are equally important to us today. I'm convicted from the passage today that no matter who is bringing this word to me, I would do best to pay close attention, and not let any judgements based on appearances cloud the significance of what is being said. Whether it's a child repeating a memory verse, or some famous preacher – all Scripture is God-breathed, and so rightfully deserves our careful attention.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 10:1-6

2 Corinthians 10:1-6 - Daily Devotion - 21 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 Now I, Paul, appeal to you personally by the meekness and gentleness of Christ (I who am meek when present among you, but am full of courage toward you when away!)— 2 now I ask that when I am present I may not have to be bold with the confidence that (I expect) I will dare to use against some who consider us to be behaving according to human standards. 3 For though we live as human beings, we do not wage war according to human standards, 4 for the weapons of our warfare are not human weapons, but are made powerful by God for tearing down strongholds. We tear down arguments 5 and every arrogant obstacle that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to make it obey Christ. 6 We are also ready to punish every act of disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Paul Bogg

I work in a pretty secular workplace. Sometimes when I’m on my way into the office, I imagine the type of opposition that I might face during the day. Perhaps it’ll just be a secular manager who doesn’t like when I talk about God. Or perhaps I’ll bump into someone who I know used to go to church, and maybe even at one point used to call themselves Christian.

In the next few chapters of 2 Corinthians, Paul tackles a major problem that had arisen in the church in Corinth. It seems some outsiders had come into the church and stirred up opposition against Paul among some of the believers.

In this passage, the apostle Paul lays out two ways that he might respond to this opposition.  The first is to use “human weapons” according to “human standards”. The second is to use spiritual weapons made powerful by God. Paul makes it clear that it is these spiritual weapons that have power enough to tear down strongholds.

I wondered after reading this: why does Paul make this distinction between human weapons and spiritual weapons?  I think it’s probably because behind all human opposition to Christians and the gospel message, there is a spiritual stronghold that opposes God himself.  To contend against that sort of opposition, you need to be equipped with spiritual weapons made powerful by God.

What weapons might Paul have in mind? Ephesians 6:12-13 is helpful here: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. For this reason, take up the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand your ground on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand.”.  So I’m encouraged to fasten my belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, and to wield the Word of God.  But above all, I ought to be regular in prayer, for not only myself, but all the saints. How much bolder and less fearful would I be if, by God’s grace, I took up these spiritual weapons made powerful by God, in his Spirit and through his Son.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 9:10-15

2 Corinthians 9:10-15 - Daily Devotion - 20 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

10 Now God who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your supply of seed and will cause the harvest of your righteousness to grow. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous on every occasion, which is producing through us thanksgiving to God, 12 because the service of this ministry is not only providing for the needs of the saints but is also overflowing with many thanks to God. 13 Through the evidence of this service they will glorify God because of your obedience to your confession in the gospel of Christ and the generosity of your sharing with them and with everyone. 14 And in their prayers on your behalf, they long for you because of the extraordinary grace God has shown to you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

REFLECTIONS

Written by Helen Troung

With Christmas Day just five days away, I hope those reading or listening have their gifts in order! This period can often feel overwhelming, not just from the flurry of social gatherings but also from the pressure of choosing the perfect gift for our loved ones. It's not so much about the time spent shopping; it's the mental energy invested in selecting something thoughtful (and that they don’t have already!), rather than opting for something random.

But in all the fuss of our quest for the perfect gift, it’s important to remember the one gift that exceeds them all – God’s gift of Jesus Christ in whom we are saved by grace through faith! (vs 15)

In this passage, Paul continues to encourage the Corinthians to give generosity, reminding them that all we have comes from God. He is the one who supplies and multiplies seed for the sower and bread for food (vs 10). When we give generously, we mirror God's own generosity, reflecting His love and kindness in tangible ways. These acts go beyond meeting physical needs – they glorify God and strengthen the faith of others (vs 13). This made me think about how I can give generously in ways beyond material gifts, such as taking the time to re-connect and encourage a dear sister in Christ.

As we enter this Christmas season, let us remember the ultimate gift we have already received – the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. As John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (NIV). And just like any true gift, it has been given to us freely, without strings attached.

This Christmas, instead of focusing our energy on finding the perfect present for others, may we be filled with thankfulness for the perfect gift we have already received through Jesus. Let this truth shape how we engage with our friends and family, and if the opportunity arises may we share the good news with them. And may we do ALL of this with hearts full of thankfulness and praise! "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (vs 15)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Helen is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 9:6-9

2 Corinthians 9:6-9 - Daily Devotion - 19 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

6 My point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each one of you should give just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, because God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace overflow to you so that because you have enough of everything in every way at all times, you will overflow in every good work. 9 Just as it is written, “He has scattered widely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness remains forever.”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Rebecca Shead

Recently I read the Barefoot Investor, a popular Australian book about managing your money. The author says you should divide your money into three different “buckets.” The goal is to build your wealth so you can have a comfortable standard of living now, and enough saved for a comfortable retirement. It sounds sensible, and he practically guarantees that you will never have to worry about money again if you follow his formula. The thing I noticed was that his plan didn’t include a “bucket” for giving. He did say that when kids are learning to manage money they should be encouraged to give. But once you’re an adult with bills or a mortgage, giving is not part of the equation.

However, the Bible gives us a completely different perspective. As we’ve seen over the last week, Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously to the poor Christians in Jerusalem. Today, we read that “God loves a cheerful giver”, and that if we sow generously we will also reap generously.

It's easy to be afraid, to listen to the world’s wisdom and feel like we have to cling onto what we have in order to have financial security for our future. But instead, we should remember that God has blessed us with so much! We have everything we need – v8 says “you have enough of everything in every way at all times”.

God himself is our example. He is so generous towards us, and this is why we can be generous towards others. In verse 8, God’s grace to us is overflowing, and this will lead to us overflowing in good works – including giving generously to Christian brothers and sisters who are in need.

So instead of pouring my money into “buckets” for myself, I should be sowing generously and sharing God’s material blessings with others in need. It’s helpful to work out how much money I really need to live on, and then work out how to be generous with the rest. Verse 7 says “each one of you should give just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion”. I find that I’m more generous if I make a plan for giving and stick to it. Otherwise I don’t follow through with my good intentions.

If I sow generously, with joy and thankfulness, I will reap the benefits. Not in my bank balance, but in being a blessing to others and growing in godliness. And as we’ll see tomorrow, this will bring glory to God. This kind of investing gives the best returns!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 9:1-5

2 Corinthians 9:1-5 - Daily Devotion - 18 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 For it is not necessary for me to write you about this service to the saints 2 because I know your eagerness to help. I keep boasting to the Macedonians about this eagerness of yours, that Achaia has been ready to give since last year, and your zeal to participate has stirred up most of them. 3 But I am sending these brothers so that our boasting about you may not be empty in this case, so that you may be ready just as I kept telling them. 4 For if any of the Macedonians should come with me and find that you are not ready to give, we would be humiliated (not to mention you) by this confidence we had in you. 5 Therefore I thought it necessary to urge these brothers to go to you in advance and to arrange ahead of time the generous contribution you had promised, so this may be ready as a generous gift and not as something you feel forced to do.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Dania Mourad

This passage sparked conviction within me as I reflected on our calling to be generous and how I show generosity as a follower of Christ. I am reminded of God and how he generously lavished his love upon us through his only Son’s death on the cross for rebels like you and me. How can I be generous like Christ as I continue my Christian walk? I can carefully consider how God has blessed me and use my strengths to help those in need, be generous in my tithings, serve others with my time and gifts, and ultimately use what I have for God. 

However, Paul says in verse 5 that we should not give grudgingly. Rather, we are called to be generous with how we give and serve, because all good things come from God. I think of times where I have limited my generosity for personal convenience, or even not given at all. That comes from the selfishness that is innate to my flesh. But this passage both encourages and challenges me to truthfully assess my attitude and the condition of my heart when I generously give as a follower of Christ. I strive to be a cheerful giver who does so willingly in light of what Christ has done for me. We see Christ’s generosity on the cross connect his people as the body of Christ and therefore bring about God’s glory. My prayer for myself and the church is that we continue to imitate Christ’s perfect example of generosity on the cross. May he give us the strength and wisdom to carry out this calling to ultimately bring him glory. I pray that God replenishes our giving so we are able to consistently live this out and become increasingly Christlike.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dania is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 8:16-24

2 Corinthians 8:16-24 - Daily Devotion - 17 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

16 But thanks be to God who put in the heart of Titus the same devotion I have for you, 17 because he not only accepted our request, but since he was very eager, he is coming to you of his own accord. 18 And we are sending along with him the brother who is praised by all the churches for his work in spreading the gospel. 19 In addition, this brother has also been chosen by the churches as our traveling companion as we administer this generous gift to the glory of the Lord himself and to show our readiness to help. 20 We did this as a precaution so that no one should blame us in regard to this generous gift we are administering. 21 For we are concerned about what is right not only before the Lord but also before men. 22 And we are sending with them our brother whom we have tested many times and found eager in many matters, but who now is much more eager than ever because of the great confidence he has in you. 23 If there is any question about Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker among you; if there is any question about our brothers, they are messengers of the churches, a glory to Christ. 24 Therefore show them openly before the churches the proof of your love and of our pride in you.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Charis Ould

This year, I have had the privilege of leading the science faculty at the Christian group at my university. I really enjoyed connecting with the members of the faculty, making graphics for events, organising our getaway, etc. However, one thing I was terrible at was budgeting. The budget we made for our science faculty getaway did my head in. There were simply too many boxes and too many expenses to keep track of. Luckily, I had a co-leader, staff worker, and committee treasurer who arranged all of it! I trusted them, and it meant all I had to do was sign my name on the reimbursement forms.

Today’s passage follows on from Paul’s thankfulness for the generous giving of the churches in Macedonia. An offering has been arranged and collected for the poor Christians in Jerusalem, and Paul has urged the Corinthian church to match the generosity of the Macedonians. Now Paul explains that Titus and another brother are going to accompany the offering to guard it on the journey to Jerusalem. Paul wants this effort to be one not only of generosity but also of integrity, that what is right before the Lord is also right before men (v21). If people can’t trust where their giving is going, that is a big problem. But Paul says that this brother has been tested many times, and the Corinthian Christians can have confidence in him. They take these precautions so that they can be above reproach. Paul knows the work of the gospel can’t happen just with him. It is a team effort, and in all his letters he commends and lifts up those who have helped him in this work.

Have you ever been asked to donate to a charity, and they are super vague about where the money is going? I definitely have, especially around Christmas. I am encouraged by the transparency of our church that we get reports and updates, so we can know where the money we give to the work of the gospel is going.

I am thankful that God has provided people who work together for the gospel with integrity! Particularly for the many people in our church who use their different gifts to serve him. Pray that God would help us to be good stewards of these gifts, as we pray that those in authority would similarly be good stewards of people’s money.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Charis is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 8:8-15

2 Corinthians 8:8-15 - Daily Devotion - 16 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

8 I am not saying this as a command, but I am testing the genuineness of your love by comparison with the eagerness of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that although he was rich, he became poor for your sakes, so that you by his poverty could become rich. 10 So here is my opinion on this matter: It is to your advantage, since you made a good start last year both in your giving and your desire to give, 11 to finish what you started, so that just as you wanted to do it eagerly, you can also complete it according to your means. 12 For if the eagerness is present, the gift itself is acceptable according to whatever one has, not according to what he does not have. 13 For I do not say this so there would be relief for others and suffering for you, but as a matter of equality. 14 At the present time, your abundance will meet their need, so that one day their abundance may also meet your need, and thus there may be equality, 15 as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Simon Chow

Whenever I come across passages in the Bible on giving and generosity, my natural inclination is to skim through it and not give it too much thought. After all, the more I dwell on it, the more likely I am to feel as though I need to change, and nobody wants to be told they need to be more generous. Aren’t I generous enough as it is? But here in 2 Corinthians 8, we see what true generosity looks like: It looks like Jesus. Jesus put aside his heavenly glory to become a lowly man and died for us so that we might become rich spiritually and share in his heavenly glory. So if our goal is to be more like Christ, part of this means being generous. We also know that in Christ we have been blessed with an eternal inheritance, and this knowledge should free us up to be more generous with our earthly riches, since we know that these riches are temporary and that there is something far better for us in eternity.

It is reassuring to know that Paul does not command us to give so much that we suffer and are hard pressed (v13). However, that doesn’t take away the challenge to share generously with those in need. That challenge definitely doesn’t come naturally to most of us.

Personally, I have found that generosity is something that grows slowly and with practice. Even though I still have a lot of room to grow in this area, I have found that the more I give and the further I stretch myself to do this, the more I grow not just in generosity, but also in contentment and a reliance on God, who is the giver of all we have. Pray for God to grow you in eager willingness to give, knowing that our eternity is secure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Simon is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

2 Corinthians 8:1-7

2 Corinthians 8:1-7 - Daily Devotion - 14 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 Now we make known to you, brothers and sisters, the grace of God given to the churches of Macedonia, 2 that during a severe ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in the wealth of their generosity. 3 For I testify, they gave according to their means and beyond their means. They did so voluntarily, 4 begging us with great earnestness for the blessing and fellowship of helping the saints. 5 And they did this not just as we had hoped, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and to us by the will of God. 6 Thus we urged Titus that, just as he had previously begun this work, so also he should complete this act of kindness for you. 7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, and in all eagerness and in the love from us that is in you—make sure that you excel in this act of kindness too.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Jess Chow

When I read this passage, I must admit I wasn’t eagerly looking forward to reflecting deeply on it as I knew it would convict me in my giving. Yet the example of the Macedonians didn’t only make me feel guilty about my materialism, but also deeply encouraged by these eager brothers and sisters whose generosity was emboldened by the grace of God.

In our materialistic culture, where money buys happiness, it might seem impossible to imagine extreme poverty existing alongside abundant joy. However, the Macedonian Christians – who had so little to give materially – were begging Paul for the blessing of giving generously to the ‘saints’ (that is, to the poor among the Christian church in Jerusalem: see Romans 15:26). This radical giving makes no worldly sense, but it makes complete sense through the lens of the gospel.

The example of the Macedonians reminds me of John Wesley, a theologian in the 1700s. In one year, he recorded his income as £30, and his living expenses £28, so he had £2 to give away. The next year his income doubled to £60, but his living expenses remained at £28, so he could give the remaining £32 away. He continued this pattern throughout his life; even when his income rose into thousands of pounds, he gave all except his living expenses. He died with no more than a few coins, but he blessed the fellowship of the saints enormously in his lifetime. He knew that no money would go with him when he went to be with the Lord! The world might see it as a waste of wealth, but his reward is rich in heaven.

While I’m certainly not as radical as Wesley, the principle has stuck with me: As Christians, if our income increases, our standard of giving should increase, not our standard of living. If we were honest with ourselves, most of us could live with a lot less. After all, if I’m just giving leftovers after I’ve satisfied all my needs, wants, and some extra for long-term saving goals, it’s not really a sacrifice. It’s worth pausing to consider whether the money we’ve earned this year has served us alone, or if our giving has matched this income.

Ultimately, the real issue isn’t about money at all. It’s about our relationship with the Lord. The Macedonians first gave themselves to the Lord and then to Paul and the church financially. If I give myself to the Lord, entrusting myself to His sacrificial generosity to me in Jesus, then my material giving will be a natural overflow of His work in me.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jess is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

2 Corinthians 7:11-16

2 Corinthians 7:11-16 - Daily Devotion - 13 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

11 For see what this very thing, this sadness as God intended, has produced in you: what eagerness, what defense of yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what deep concern, what punishment! In everything you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter. 12 So then, even though I wrote to you, it was not on account of the one who did wrong or on account of the one who was wronged, but to reveal to you your eagerness on our behalf before God. 13 Therefore we have been encouraged. And in addition to our own encouragement, we rejoiced even more at the joy of Titus because all of you have refreshed his spirit. 14 For if I have boasted to him about anything concerning you, I have not been embarrassed by you, but just as everything we said to you was true, so our boasting to Titus about you has proved true as well. 15 And his affection for you is much greater when he remembers the obedience of you all, how you welcomed him with fear and trembling. 16 I rejoice because in everything I am fully confident in you.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Susan Duc

Whether an apology achieves its purpose in repairing the relationship depends on what it reveals of the speaker’s heart. “I said I was sorry, what more do you want from me?” won’t be effective. “I’m sorry for what I’ve done, how can I make it up to you?” is much better, because it’s clear that the person is truly sorry and eager to change, to make amends for their wrongdoing.

The letter of 2 Corinthians reflects Paul’s rocky relationship with the church in Corinth. Like a parent, Paul has had to discipline the church, and they did not always welcome it. In fact, Paul’s last visit had been so painful that he chose to send Titus with a further letter, to rebuke the Corinthians and to urge them to punish a wrongdoer in their midst (2:1-4). Would the church accept Paul’s correction, and act against the wrongdoer who had been undermining Paul’s authority among them?

Thankfully, Titus was able to report that the Corinthians responded to Paul’s rebuke with ‘sadness as God intended’ (v11). The church expressed its genuine repentance in its eagerness to address the wrong, their indignation at the wrongdoer, and their longing to restore their relationship with Paul.

God had worked powerfully by his Spirit to soften the hard hearts of his people, to the joy and encouragement of his servant Paul (v16). Paul’s bold speech had produced in the church a godly sorrow for its sin, expressed in their obedience to his authority. By obeying Paul’s authority as an apostle, they were obeying Christ’s authority.

What is our posture when we receive a rebuke from a brother or sister in Christ? Do you tend to offer a token apology which lacks any real desire to change and to repair broken relationships? That may be a sign of a hard heart. Let’s commit instead to showing the same godly sorrow and genuine repentance as the Corinthians showed, with a real desire to make amends.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan is our Women and children’s minister.

2 Corinthians 7:5-10

2 Corinthians 7:5-10 - Daily Devotion - 12 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

5 For even when we came into Macedonia, our body had no rest at all, but we were troubled in every way—struggles from the outside, fears from within. 6 But God, who encourages the downhearted, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus. 7 We were encouraged not only by his arrival, but also by the encouragement you gave him, as he reported to us your longing, your mourning, your deep concern for me, so that I rejoiced more than ever. 8 For even if I made you sad by my letter, I do not regret having written it (even though I did regret it, for I see that my letter made you sad, though only for a short time). 9 Now I rejoice, not because you were made sad, but because you were made sad to the point of repentance. For you were made sad as God intended, so that you were not harmed in any way by us. 10 For sadness as intended by God produces a repentance that leads to salvation, leaving no regret, but worldly sadness brings about death.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Jennie Vu

⬅️ Looking back at this passage, I see that Paul must have rebuked the Corinthians in a way that led them to repentance. I also notice Paul's deep concern for the people there, as he was troubled in every way. His rebuke highlights that caring for the people we love sometimes requires speaking hard truths. Personally, I am not confrontational, and perhaps I am not as convicted as Paul to challenge another brother or sister for the sake of the gospel. Paul was deeply hurt by their initial response to him but still found joy in the fact that it led to their repentance. In turn, the Macedonian believers encouraged Paul, reassuring him that his rebuke was not in vain. This interaction between Paul and the Macedonian church paints a beautiful picture of how sadness, concern, and joy all come together as I walk this Christian life with my St Barnabas family.

⬆️ Where I see God in this passage is in how His word brings us together. The way God softened the hearts of the Macedonians and led them to repentance shows me that God uses us – human vessels – to carry His word to encourage, challenge, and edify His people. I am thankful for the power of the Bible, though I am sometimes saddened that I do not always fully embrace its power. I pray that we can all use biblical truths to challenge and spur each other on, especially when times are tough and we don't want to hear the hard truths. Even when these truths make us sad, we should be moved to come to Him in repentance.

⬇️ Reflecting on how this passage impacts us today, I am grateful that God has placed us in a church with sound teaching, faithful teachers, and ministers who are dedicated to God's word. Just as God encouraged Paul through the people of Macedonia, we too experience encouragement within our church community. I pray that I can be like the Macedonians – able to accept rebuke with an open heart, ride through the waves of sadness, and ultimately overcome them with waves of joy, knowing that God has placed me in a church with people who genuinely care about my Christian walk.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jennie is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

2 Corinthians 7:1-4

2 Corinthians 7:1-4 - Daily Devotion - 11 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that could defile the body and the spirit, and thus accomplish holiness out of reverence for God. 2 Make room for us in your hearts; we have wronged no one; we have ruined no one; we have exploited no one. 3 I do not say this to condemn you, for I told you before that you are in our hearts so that we die together and live together with you.

4 I have great confidence in you; I take great pride on your behalf. I am filled with encouragement; I am overflowing with joy in the midst of all our suffering.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Rebecca Lin

When I first read verse 1, where Paul urges us to “cleanse ourselves” in order to “accomplish holiness”, my gut instinct was that it seems contradictory to what I know about the Bible’s teachings about our salvation. But as I read deeper, this passage became a wonderful reminder of some truths that we learned about in our church’s holiness series from earlier this year.

Firstly, before even getting to this command, Paul tells us the reason for the command with the words “since we have these promises”. This refers to the promises at the end of chapter 6 – the precious promises of closeness with God and being made to be his children. It confirms that we have already been delivered from our sin and brought close to God.

Since the particular context of Paul bringing up these promises was in relation to the Corinthians’ struggle with idols, Paul’s command to “cleanse ourselves” is a reminder to run from idols and things that take our attention away from God, and instead devote ourselves fully to God. That means we can “accomplish holiness” by devoting ourselves to God, because Christ has already brought us near to him.

I also love how in verses 2-4, Paul reminds us of how Christians strive to do this in community and are concerned for the holiness of the whole church, with encouragement to the Corinthians of unity, joy and love.

As I reflect on how I can continue to devote myself to God each day, some things that come to mind are making sure I listen to daily devotions before anything else on my way to work, looking for opportunities to encourage brothers and sisters in Christ and being more intentional with prayer.

How might you continue to devote yourself to God today?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 6:11-18

2 Corinthians 6:11-18 - Daily Devotion - 10 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart has been opened wide to you. 12 Our affection for you is not restricted, but you are restricted in your affections for us. 13 Now as a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts to us also.

14 Do not become partners with those who do not believe, for what partnership is there between righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship does light have with darkness? 15 And what agreement does Christ have with Beliar? Or what does a believer share in common with an unbeliever? 16 And what mutual agreement does the temple of God have with idols? For we are the temple of the living God, just as God said, “I will live in them and will walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” 17 Therefore “come out from their midst, and be separate,” says the Lord, “and touch no unclean thing, and I will welcome you, 18 and I will be a father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters,” says the All-Powerful Lord.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Mercy Saw

This passage reminds me of our focus on holiness throughout this year. Before Paul cautions the Corinthians, he reminds them that he cares deeply for them. His exhortation to holiness flows out of his love for them, and holiness is always a response to God’s grace shown to us.

Verse 14 is often used to discourage intimate relationships like marriage between Christians and non-Christians. But reading the verse in context, it is a broader call for Christians to be holy. In verses 16-18, Paul draws on the Old Testament image of God’s people in exile in Babylon being called to leave – not just to come out from Babylon physically, but to leave behind the ungodly, worldly life of Babylon, to be God’s distinct people. Christian believers have the same high calling. We have been made the ‘temple of the living God’ (v16), so God calls us to separate from any unclean thing. It's humbling that the 'All-Powerful Lord' himself would choose us to be his sons and daughters. Paul reminds the Corinthians to live out that reality of who they now are – people of righteousness, of light, and belonging to Christ.

I find it hard to be ‘in the world but not of the world’ – to find the balance between being distinct and separate from sin, and still engaging with non-Christian friends and colleagues. As much as I’d wish otherwise, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ rule with such relationships. It requires ongoing prayer and discernment, including inviting wisdom from other Christians. One helpful guide may be to consider the NIV’s translation of ‘partners’ in verse 14 as ‘yoked together with unbelievers.’ It’s the image of two oxen joined together at the neck and moving in the same direction. A question I’ve often asked myself is whether the relationships I’ve formed are ones where I am leading them towards Christ, or whether I’m being pulled the other way towards sin. There have been moments where I’ve chosen to pull back from friendships when I’ve noticed myself being overly influenced by worldly values or desensitised and drawn towards sin. Sometimes making that decision may even have financial consequences, if we realise a business partnership will make us compromise our obedience to Christ.

Finally, holiness is a team effort. As God’s people, let’s keep reminding each other to grow to be who we are – the holy temple of the living God.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mercy is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 6:3-10

2 Corinthians 6:3-10 - Daily Devotion - 9 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

3 We do not give anyone an occasion for taking an offense in anything, so that no fault may be found with our ministry. 4 But as God’s servants, we have commended ourselves in every way, with great endurance, in persecutions, in difficulties, in distresses, 5 in beatings, in imprisonments, in riots, in troubles, in sleepless nights, in hunger, 6 by purity, by knowledge, by patience, by benevolence, by the Holy Spirit, by genuine love, 7 by truthful teaching, by the power of God, with weapons of righteousness both for the right hand and for the left, 8 through glory and dishonor, through slander and praise; regarded as impostors, and yet true; 9 as unknown, and yet well-known; as dying and yet—see!—we continue to live; as those who are scourged and yet not executed; 10 as sorrowful, but always rejoicing; as poor, but making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing everything.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Paul Bogg

The ministry of Paul and Timothy was remarkable, as were the ministries of others like Barnabas and Silas. They travelled through many countries as they preached the gospel. They started and grew churches in many cities. They were imprisoned, beaten, endured hardships, sleepless nights, and much more, all in the pursuit of having Jesus be made known to all. And yet, despite all of this, there were people who doubted them and tried to discredit their ministry. Their response was to press on undeterred, through both slander and praise – “as sorrowful, but always rejoicing … as having nothing, and yet possessing everything” (v10).

This passage makes me reflect on those who have made a commitment to full or part-time ministry, particularly those in our church’s ministry team: Stephen, Gus, James, Vinno, and Susan. It makes me wonder how many times they have had to endure hardships in the pursuit of making Jesus be made known to all. I wonder how many times they’ve had to work through someone trying to discredit their ministry. I find it hard enough living faithfully as a Christian in this world. Taking on the responsibility to preach the gospel and shepherd a congregation full-time must be harder still.

So my response to today’s passage is to pray. Pray for our church ministry team. Praise God for their commitment to faithfulness to the Lord Jesus. Pray for wisdom and endurance as they seek to press on in preaching the gospel to all. Pray for protection from the evil one. Ask God how you can be loving our ministry team practically as they shepherd us as a congregation. And finally, pray in thankfulness to God, for His great provision to us, that we may all be united as one in the Lord Jesus Christ.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 6:1-2

2 Corinthians 6:1-2 - Daily Devotion - 7 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 Now because we are fellow workers, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For he says, “I heard you at the acceptable time, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” Look, now is the acceptable time; look, now is the day of salvation!

REFLECTIONS

Written by Tina Bogg

This passage follows on from 2 Corinthians 5:20 where Paul talks about himself, and other believers, as ambassadors for Christ; representatives for our King. Here he also calls us fellow workers with God – doing His work alongside Him. Part of that work is telling people who haven’t heard about Jesus the good news of salvation by God’s grace. Part of it is also speaking to those who might say they are Christians, but who are trusting in their own good works – that would be receiving the grace of God in vain (v1).

As Christmas draws near and there are events to invite friends and family to, this passage reminds me both of the urgency of inviting – “now is the acceptable time, now is the day of salvation” (v2, quoting from Isaiah 49:8) – and also the privilege of inviting – we are invited to work with God in His work. We’re not just bothering people with another social obligation or trying to prove that we have friends by getting people to come along. We’re offering them a chance to come and hear about Jesus – about how their lives can be transformed and they can receive forgiveness and eternal life!

I have to admit, I often see Christmas as a joyful but stressful and somewhat exhausting time: extra social activities and gatherings, big meals to plan and cook, so many presents to think of and buy, and chaos at the shops. All good things, but just so busy.

As we remember Jesus’ first coming and look forward to his second coming this Christmas, this passage reminds me that God calls us to work with him. That might include the work of loving others through hospitality, thoughtful gifts and intentional conversations. Whatever the particular way, he calls us to be a part of the work of nudging and encouraging others in a journey towards faith in Jesus. He has a plan for his world and for people he has put in your life, so pray with me that you can have salty, Christ-filled conversations this busy season as you meet, invite and love whoever God has put before you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tina is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 5:19-21

2 Corinthians 5:19-21 - Daily Devotion - 6 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

19 In other words, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting people’s trespasses against them, and he has given us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making his plea through us. We plead with you on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God!” 21 God made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we would become the righteousness of God.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Ken Ip

Because I grew up in a Catholic school, for me the word “reconciliation” always brings back memories of the confession booth. I would confess my sins to the priest and then rattle off some Hail Marys to be forgiven by God … or at least, that’s what I thought. But today’s passage reminds me that reconciliation is much deeper and more personal than that. Paul talks about God taking all the initiative to fix our broken relationship with Him. By sending Christ to suffer and die for us, He no longer holds our sins against us. This reminds me that forgiveness isn’t something I can “earn”; it’s all about Christ’s righteousness covering me completely.

It's humbling and a bit intimidating to think of myself as an “ambassador for Christ” (v.20). That’s a big title to live up to! But God knew what he was doing when he called us to represent this message of reconciliation. How am I showing God’s love in my daily interactions? Am I really living out forgiveness and grace, especially in how I treat others? Paul’s words remind me that it’s both a privilege and a responsibility to live in a way that reflects the forgiveness I've received.

Today, let’s take a moment to reflect on what it means to be reconciled with God and live as ambassadors of that message. Is there anyone we need to make things right with? Where do we need God’s grace to help us show kindness or forgive others? Let’s pray that we would live out His grace, remembering that we’re made righteous not by what we do, but through Christ alone.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ken is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

2 Corinthians 5:16-18

2 Corinthians 5:16-18 - Daily Devotion - 5 December 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

16 So then from now on we acknowledge no one from an outward human point of view. Even though we have known Christ from such a human point of view, now we do not know him in that way any longer. 17 So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away —look, what is new has come! 18 And all these things are from God who reconciled us to himself through Christ and who has given us the ministry of reconciliation.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Sam Wee

Even though I've been a Christian for more than half of my life now, there are still so many times that I don't feel like I have truly “died to myself.” I struggle daily with sin and selfishness; I do what I want to do and don't do what God wants me to do. I suspect that many of you also might feel like this at times.

However, this feeling does not reflect God's truth about His saved people at all. Yes, we will always be in a lifelong battle with sin, but thanks be to God that He, through Christ, reconciled us to Himself and made us new creations! Notice how there are no caveats or exclusions here from Paul. If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation. If you have put your faith in God and believe that Christ died and rose again, you are a new creation – the old has gone and the new has come. Even when you don’t feel like it’s true, God’s word guarantees that it really is.

Brothers and sisters, take heart in this truth when Satan lies to you and tells you that you are not truly God's because you are not without sin. Know that God has indeed reconciled you through Christ and then do your best, with His Spirit’s help, to die to yourself every day and live for Him.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sam is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.