How can we apply Paul's strategy in 2 Corinthians 12:16 to evangelism today? Text in Focus “Be that as it may, I was not a burden to you. But being crafty, I caught you by trickery, did I?” ‑ 2 Corinthians 12:16 Understanding Paul’s Approach • Refused financial support so no one could say he was preaching for profit (vv. 13-15; cf. 1 Corinthians 9:12). • Used “craftiness” only in the sense of loving strategy—removing obstacles so the gospel landed on willing hearts (cf. Matthew 10:16; 2 Corinthians 4:2). • Loved like a parent who gladly spends and is spent for children (v. 15). • Maintained absolute transparency: “We have conducted ourselves… in the holiness and sincerity that are from God” (2 Corinthians 1:12). Key Principles to Carry Forward 1. Eliminate Stumbling Blocks – Offer the message free of charge (1 Corinthians 9:18). – Avoid anything that smells of self-interest (Acts 20:33-35). 2. Combine Shrewdness with Integrity – “Wise as serpents, innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). – Creative methods, yet no deception—open books, open lives (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). 3. Lead with Sacrificial Love – Invest time, energy, and resources without expecting return (1 Thessalonians 2:9). – Show people they matter more than their money, status, or vote (2 Corinthians 12:14). 4. Adapt for the Sake of Souls – “I have become all things to all people, so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). – Translate the gospel into everyday language, settings, and concerns. 5. Keep Motives Pure – Preach Christ, not ourselves (2 Corinthians 4:5). – Let God, not the crowd, commend the work (2 Corinthians 10:18). Practical Steps for Today • Volunteer-based outreaches: cover costs through other income so seekers aren’t asked for donations. • Transparent finances: publish budgets, use third-party accountability, invite questions. • Contextual creativity: coffee-house Bible studies, social media testimonies, sports camps—always crystal-clear about the gospel message. • Relational evangelism: meals, hospital visits, tutoring—meeting needs first, speaking truth naturally. • Servant leadership: pastors and lay leaders share chores, set up chairs, mentor one-on-one; no “professional distance.” • Intentional follow-up: like Paul returning “a third time” (2 Corinthians 12:14), keep investing after the first conversation. Encouraging Examples from Scripture • Jesus feeds the crowd before preaching (Mark 6:30-44)—removes physical hunger. • Philip starts with the eunuch’s question (Acts 8:30-35)—meets him where he is. • Peter stays at Simon’s house in Joppa (Acts 9:43)—breaks social barriers for gospel opportunity. Closing Thoughts Paul’s “craftiness” was holy ingenuity—anything lawful, loving, and transparent that cleared the path to Christ. Follow his lead: remove distractions, love sacrificially, think creatively, stand on truth, and trust God to draw hearts to Himself. |
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