What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 12:20? For I am afraid Paul has invested deeply in this church and feels the weight of shepherding them well (2 Corinthians 2:1–4; 11:28). His fear is not rooted in unbelief but in a pastor’s loving concern that sin might damage the flock (Acts 20:29–31; Galatians 4:11). That when I come A third visit is imminent (2 Corinthians 13:1; Acts 18:1, 11). Paul’s physical presence will bring accountability, reminding the Corinthians that Christian life is not just profession but practice (Philippians 1:27; 1 Thessalonians 2:17). I may not find you as I wish He longs to see evidence of repentance, unity, and growth (2 Corinthians 7:9–11; 1 Corinthians 1:10). Anything less would grieve him and dishonor Christ (Ephesians 4:1–3; 3 John 4). And you may not find me as you wish If unrepentant attitudes persist, Paul will exercise firm apostolic discipline (2 Corinthians 13:2, 10; 1 Corinthians 4:21). The tenderness of earlier letters could shift to stern correction, reflecting both love and responsibility (Titus 1:13; Revelation 3:19). I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalry, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder These eight sins threaten church health: • Quarreling—habitual strife that fractures fellowship (James 4:1; Proverbs 17:14) • Jealousy—resenting another’s blessings, breeding division (1 Corinthians 3:3; Galatians 5:26) • Rage—outbursts that silence grace (Ephesians 4:31; Colossians 3:8) • Rivalry—self-seeking ambition that dethrones Christ (Philippians 2:3; James 3:16) • Slander—tearing down reputations and unity (1 Peter 2:1; Titus 3:2) • Gossip—whispered tales that corrupt hearts (Proverbs 16:28; 26:20) • Arrogance—pride that resists correction (1 Corinthians 4:6, 18; James 4:6) • Disorder—chaos replacing godly peace (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40; Colossians 2:5) summary Paul’s words reveal a shepherd’s heart: eager for spiritual maturity, yet ready to confront persistent sin. 2 Corinthians 12:20 calls every church to examine itself, reject relational sins, and pursue the Christ-like harmony that makes any visit—from an apostle, a pastor, or the Lord Himself—a joyous occasion rather than a painful reckoning. |
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