LESSON 685: EXHORTATION TO GODLY LIVING MEMORY VERSE: “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you” (2 Corinthians 13:11) TEXT: 2 Corinthians 13:1-14

SUMMARY (1) From our last study, we learnt the following lessons: Paul clarified that the gospel he preached was by divine revelation. He did not glory in his gifts or achievements but rather in the Lord. He was afflicted with a “thorn in the flesh”. It was painful but God gave him victory. The study of today touches on three points: Paul’s timely warnings to erring believers Edifying exhortation to steadfast godly living Pastoral benedictions and saintly salutations

SUMMARY (2) Paul’s timely warnings to erring believers (2 Corinthians 13:1-4): To minister effectively to members, the minister should be close to, and know them. Due pastoral care includes warnings, exhortations, prayers and love for the members. Believers are called to godly living (1 Corinthians 1:2). To achieve this, self-discipline and church discipline are indispensable (Mathew 5:29, Hebrews 12:5-8). Edifying exhortation to steadfast godly living (2 Corinthians 13:5-10): Paul called the Corinthian church to self-examination, which every believer must do. It is to check our motives and regulate our actions by the scriptures (James 1:22-25). For believers to be honest, ministers must uphold the truth personally and ministerially. Pastoral benedictions and saintly salutations (Corinthians 13:11-14): In his parting words, the apostle maintained the warmth of care and affection. In a living Church, fervent love is expressed in the beauty of transparent purity. The grace expressed in the benediction transforms, sustains and makes us fruitful.

DISCUSSION

QUESTION 1 What are the major ingredients of pastoral care? 1 Timothy 4:6,13 Ephesians 3:14-19 1 Corinthians 4:14 2 Corinthians 12:15

QUESTION 2 Mention some scriptural principles of church discipline. 2 Corinthians 13:1 Hebrews 12:5-8  1 Timothy 5:20 2 Corinthians 13:2 2 Corinthians 2:6-11

QUESTION 3 What is the advantage of being a member of a Bible believing church? Psalm 119:7,8,11 Matthew 7:24-27 Acts 20:20 I Timothy 4:6-8,13-16 Titus 2:1

QUESTION 4 Summarize the areas in which the grace from the Lord impacted Paul´s life: 1 Timothy 1:11-15 2 Corinthians 12:8,9

CONCLUSION Believers are called to godly living, which demands Christian discipline. Ministers should know their flock so they can influence them positively. Honesty in members demands ministers that uphold the whole truth. Leaders and members should be aware of scriptural principles that guide church discipline and uphold them. We should examine our lives regularly to ensure we follow the Bible. We should be warm-hearted towards one another and live in purity.