What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 5:11? Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord Paul begins with “Therefore,” linking back to the previous verse where he spoke of appearing before the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). • “Fear of the Lord” is a healthy, reverent awe toward God’s holiness and justice (Proverbs 1:7; Hebrews 10:31). • Because judgment is real and personal, believers live with a sober awareness that their thoughts, words, and actions matter eternally (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14; 1 Peter 1:17). • This fear is not paralyzing terror but motivating reverence that fuels obedience and witness (Philippians 2:12–13). Paul’s point: knowing the gravity of standing before Christ compels him to act with urgency in ministry. we try to persuade men The awe of the Lord moves Paul from private devotion to public proclamation. • “Persuade” shows intentional, reasoned appeal—Paul used Scripture, testimony, and logic to lead people to repentance (Acts 17:2–4; 18:4; 26:28–29). • His aim was not mere intellectual agreement but heartfelt submission to Christ (1 Corinthians 2:1–5; 9:19–23). • This approach models evangelism rooted in love and truth, pressing hearers toward decision while trusting the Spirit to convict (John 16:8). What we are is clear to God God sees Paul’s motives with perfect clarity (1 Samuel 16:7; Psalm 139:1–4; Hebrews 4:13). • Paul rests in God’s full knowledge, refusing to be driven by human misunderstanding or opposition (Galatians 1:10). • Integrity before God sustains servants of Christ when their work is questioned or maligned (2 Corinthians 4:1–2). and I hope it is clear to your conscience as well While God alone judges flawlessly, Paul desires the Corinthian believers to recognize his sincerity. • “Conscience” is the inner witness that discerns right and wrong; Paul repeatedly appeals to it (2 Corinthians 1:12; Romans 9:1). • Transparency builds trust: open lives and truthful words allow others to see gospel authenticity (1 Thessalonians 2:3–8). • When a church’s conscience aligns with God’s assessment, unity and effective witness flourish (Philippians 1:9–11). summary Because the coming judgment is certain, awe of the Lord energizes believers to persuade others about Christ. God already knows the genuineness of His servants; believers seek to live so transparently that fellow Christians can affirm the same. Reverent fear, persuasive mission, divine approval, and communal integrity—these four strands weave together Paul’s heart in 2 Corinthians 5:11 and call us to the same wholehearted, accountable service today. |
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