How can we "make room for us in your hearts" today? Setting Paul’s Plea in Context 2 Corinthians 7:2: “Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.” • Paul is continuing the appeal begun in 6:11-13—his heart is wide open to the Corinthian believers, and he longs for the same openness in return. • Because Scripture is literally true and trustworthy, the Spirit now applies Paul’s words to every generation of believers. Why “Room in Your Hearts” Matters Today • Authentic fellowship springs from hearts that are open, honest, and hospitable. • A closed heart stifles growth, hinders reconciliation, and contradicts Christ’s command to love (John 13:34). • The Church’s witness flourishes when believers welcome one another as Christ welcomed them (Romans 15:7). Practical Ways to Open Wide Our Hearts 1. Examine motives daily – Ask the Spirit to expose any grudges, prejudices, or hidden agendas (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. Practice prompt confession – Sin erects walls; confession pulls them down (1 John 1:9). 3. Extend intentional hospitality – Open homes, schedules, and resources (Hebrews 13:1-2). 4. Cultivate active listening – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19). 5. Honor fellow believers above self – “Outdo yourselves in honoring one another” (Romans 12:10). Living with Integrity, Like Paul • Paul could say, “We have wronged no one.” Integrity keeps relationships clear of suspicion. • Choose transparent dealings—financially, morally, relationally—so others feel safe drawing near. • Ephesians 4:32 calls for kindness, tenderheartedness, and ready forgiveness when wrongs occur. Love in Action, Not Just Words • 1 John 3:18: “Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” • Keep love tangible: – Share burdens (Galatians 6:2). – Serve unnoticed needs (Matthew 6:3-4). – Encourage routinely (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Guarding the Space We’ve Made • Remain humble: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition… in humility consider others more important” (Philippians 2:3-4). • Resist divisive talk (Proverbs 16:28). • Pray for those who irritate or oppose you (Matthew 5:44), keeping the heart soft. Result: A Community That Reflects Christ • Openness gives the world a living picture of the gospel’s reconciling power (John 17:23). • Hearts enlarged by grace become vessels through which God pours comfort, courage, and joy into others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). |
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