What does 2 Corinthians 12:15 teach about sacrificial love in ministry? The Verse in Focus “I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, will you love me less?” (2 Corinthians 12:15) Setting the Scene • Paul writes to a church he planted (Acts 18:1–11), defending his apostleship against critics. • Instead of demanding money or honor, he offers himself—resources, time, energy—for their spiritual good. • His words reveal the heartbeat of true ministry: sacrificial love. The Two-Fold Sacrifice: “Spend and Be Spent” 1. Spend – giving what we possess • Finances, possessions, influence (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:11–12). • Willing to lose earthly comforts so others gain eternal life. 2. Be Spent – giving who we are • Physical strength, emotional energy, health (cf. Philippians 2:17; 2 Timothy 4:6). • A life poured out without reservation, like Christ’s own self-giving (Mark 10:45). Joy, Not Gritted Teeth • “Most gladly” shows enthusiasm, not mere duty (Romans 12:8b). • Sacrifice fueled by joy demonstrates authentic love (Philippians 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:19–20). Love That Expects Nothing Back • “If I love you more, will you love me less?” highlights unconditional commitment. • Ministry shaped by Calvary doesn’t hinge on appreciation (Luke 6:35; Galatians 6:9). • The goal: “your souls,” not personal reputation. Christ—the Pattern and Power • John 15:13: “No one has greater love than this: that he lay down his life for his friends.” • 1 John 3:16: “By this we know love: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.” • The cross both models and empowers our sacrifice (Galatians 2:20). Practical Ways to “Spend and Be Spent” Today • Budget time intentionally for discipling, visitation, and prayer. • Redirect personal resources to meet tangible needs within the body (Acts 4:34–35). • Carry emotional burdens—listening, counseling, interceding (Galatians 6:2). • Remain faithful when service is unnoticed or misunderstood (2 Timothy 2:10). • Maintain joy through daily communion with Christ, the wellspring of love (John 7:38). Encouragement for Weary Servants • God sees every unseen sacrifice (Hebrews 6:10). • Eternal fruit outweighs temporary cost (2 Corinthians 4:17). • “Do not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). Sacrificial love in ministry, according to 2 Corinthians 12:15, means gladly investing both our resources and our very lives so others may thrive in Christ—no strings attached, all for His glory. |
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