The Apostle Paul’s friendly tone is particularly conspicuous in his... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you.
1 Corinthians 4:14.

The Apostle Paul's friendly tone is particularly conspicuous in his epistles to the Corinthians, for it was in the church there that much needed to be corrected. We read of divisions, quarrels, envy, fornication, and even of court cases. Some even doubted Paul's calling as an apostle.

How would we have reacted to such behaviour? Possibly with an ultimatum? But the apostle chose another better way, a more spiritual one. He stated their problems explicitly, holding nothing back. Nevertheless the Corinthians should also know that he was concerned about them and loved them dearly. By addressing them as "my beloved children", he reminded them of his untiring ministry among them. He thus generated a warm atmosphere and could hope for acceptance.

Our fathers in the flesh must also occasionally point out our wrongdoings. And children sense at once whether the admonition comes from a loving heart or not. It does no harm for fathers or mothers to mention that their motive is love when they reprimand their children.

The apostle did not write the Corinthians off. He had their spiritual welfare in view and trusted that they would obey him. His second epistle ends with the encouraging words: "Finally, brethren, farewell. Be complete. Be of good comfort." (ch. 13:11).

The apostle had learnt useful lessons from his Master, the "great shepherd of the sheep" (Hebrews 13:20). Shouldn't we then approach our fellow believers equally positively, especially those in need of correction? The Lord can then grant that we reach not only their consciences, but also their hearts. They will be more ready to consider their ways and amend them.

Today's reading: Job 34:16-37 · Acts 16:13-25