So I made up my mind
This phrase indicates a deliberate decision by Paul, reflecting his leadership and pastoral care. It shows his intention to act thoughtfully and with purpose. In the context of his relationship with the Corinthian church, it highlights his role as an apostle who must sometimes make difficult decisions for the spiritual well-being of the community. This decision-making process is consistent with other instances in Paul's letters where he seeks divine guidance and wisdom, as seen in Acts 16:6-10, where he is directed by the Holy Spirit.

not to make another painful visit to you
Paul refers to a previous visit that was marked by distress and confrontation, likely due to issues within the Corinthian church such as immorality and division (1 Corinthians 5:1-13, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13). The "painful visit" suggests a time of correction and rebuke, which was necessary but difficult. By choosing not to make another such visit, Paul demonstrates his desire to avoid further sorrow and to promote healing and reconciliation. This decision aligns with his teachings on love and forgiveness, as seen in 2 Corinthians 2:5-11, where he encourages the church to forgive and comfort a repentant sinner. The cultural context of honor and shame in the Greco-Roman world also plays a role, as Paul seeks to maintain his relationship with the Corinthians without causing further public embarrassment or discord.

For if I grieve you
Paul is addressing the Corinthian church, expressing his concern about causing them sorrow. This reflects his pastoral heart and the delicate balance he seeks between correction and encouragement. The context is his previous letter, which was stern and corrective (1 Corinthians). Paul’s intention was not to cause unnecessary pain but to lead them to repentance and spiritual growth. This phrase highlights the relational dynamics between a spiritual leader and their congregation, emphasizing the importance of love and sensitivity in leadership.

who is left to cheer me
Paul acknowledges his emotional connection to the Corinthian believers. His joy is intertwined with their spiritual well-being. This reflects the mutual dependency within the body of Christ, where leaders and followers support and uplift each other. The phrase underscores the principle found in Romans 12:15, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn," illustrating the interconnectedness of believers.

but those whom I have grieved?
Paul points out the irony that those he has caused sorrow are also his source of comfort. This highlights the transformative power of Christian relationships, where even difficult interactions can lead to deeper bonds and mutual encouragement. It also reflects the redemptive nature of God’s work in the church, where conflict and correction can lead to growth and unity. This is reminiscent of Proverbs 27:6, "Wounds from a friend can be trusted," emphasizing the value of honest and loving correction.

I wrote as I did
Paul's writing reflects his apostolic authority and pastoral concern. His previous letter, often identified as the "severe letter," was written to address issues within the Corinthian church, such as immorality and division. This phrase highlights the importance of written communication in the early church, where letters served as a primary means of instruction and correction.

so that on my arrival
Paul's intention to visit Corinth underscores the itinerant nature of his ministry. The phrase indicates his desire for a personal presence, which was crucial for resolving conflicts and strengthening relationships. This reflects the cultural context of the time, where face-to-face interaction was valued for resolving disputes and building community.

I would not be grieved
Paul's emotional investment in the Corinthian church is evident. His grief would stem from unresolved issues or continued disobedience. This reflects the pastoral heart of Paul, who deeply cared for the spiritual well-being of the churches he founded. The emotional language also connects to other instances in Scripture where leaders express sorrow over the spiritual state of their people, such as Moses with the Israelites.

by those who ought to make me rejoice
The expectation of joy from the Corinthians indicates their potential for positive change and growth. Paul sees them as capable of bringing him joy through their repentance and obedience. This phrase connects to the broader biblical theme of joy in the fellowship of believers, as seen in Philippians 4:1, where Paul refers to the Philippians as his "joy and crown."

I had confidence in all of you
Paul's confidence reflects his faith in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit working within the believers. Despite previous issues, he trusts in their ability to respond positively to his correction. This confidence is rooted in the biblical principle of hope and redemption, as seen in Romans 15:13, where Paul speaks of the God of hope filling believers with joy and peace.

that you would share my joy
The mutual sharing of joy emphasizes the communal aspect of the Christian faith. Paul envisions a restored relationship where both he and the Corinthians experience joy. This reflects the biblical theme of unity and fellowship, as seen in Psalm 133:1, which speaks of the goodness and pleasantness of brethren dwelling together in unity.

For through many tears
Paul's emotional state is evident here, reflecting the deep pastoral concern he had for the Corinthian church. His tears signify genuine sorrow and empathy, reminiscent of Jesus weeping over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41). This emotional expression underscores the seriousness of the issues he addressed in his previous letter, likely 1 Corinthians, where he dealt with moral and doctrinal problems within the church.

I wrote you
Paul's reference to writing indicates the importance of his epistolary ministry. Letters were a primary means of communication in the ancient world, especially for someone like Paul who was often traveling. This highlights the apostolic authority and the personal nature of his correspondence, as he sought to guide and correct the church from afar.

out of great distress and anguish of heart
The terms "distress" and "anguish" suggest intense emotional turmoil. This reflects the gravity of the situation in Corinth, where divisions, immorality, and false teachings were prevalent. Paul's heartache is akin to the prophets of the Old Testament, who often lamented over Israel's unfaithfulness (e.g., Jeremiah 9:1).

not to grieve you
Paul clarifies that his intention was not to cause sorrow but to bring about repentance and restoration. This aligns with the biblical principle of speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). His approach mirrors that of a loving father disciplining his children, aiming for their ultimate good (Hebrews 12:6-11).

but to let you know how much I love you
Paul's love for the Corinthians is the driving force behind his actions. This love is sacrificial and Christ-like, reflecting the love of Jesus for His church (John 13:34-35). Paul's relationship with the Corinthians serves as a model for pastoral care, emphasizing the importance of love in leadership and correction.

Now if anyone has caused grief
This phrase addresses a specific situation within the Corinthian church where an individual has caused distress. The context suggests a disciplinary issue, possibly related to the man mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5 who was involved in immorality. The grief caused is not just personal but affects the entire community, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:26).

he has not grieved me
Paul emphasizes that the offense is not primarily against him, even though he is an apostle and spiritual leader. This reflects a Christ-like attitude, as seen in Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and reconciliation (Matthew 18:15-17). It underscores the principle that sin within the church is a communal concern, not just a personal affront.

but all of you
The grief extends to the whole church, indicating the corporate nature of sin and its consequences. This aligns with the biblical understanding that the church is one body, and when one member suffers, all suffer (1 Corinthians 12:26). It also reflects the communal responsibility to address sin and maintain purity within the church (Galatians 6:1).

to some degree
Paul acknowledges the extent of the grief without exaggerating it. This balanced approach is important in church discipline, ensuring that responses are measured and appropriate. It reflects wisdom in leadership, avoiding both minimization and overreaction, as seen in Proverbs 15:1.

not to overstate it
Paul is careful not to amplify the situation beyond its reality, which could lead to unnecessary division or harshness. This restraint is consistent with biblical teachings on truthfulness and love (Ephesians 4:15). It also serves as a model for handling conflict within the church, emphasizing restoration over punishment (2 Corinthians 2:7-8).

The punishment imposed on him
This phrase refers to a disciplinary action taken by the Corinthian church against a member who had sinned. In the context of 1 Corinthians 5, Paul had previously instructed the church to expel a man involved in sexual immorality. The punishment here likely refers to that corrective measure. The concept of church discipline is rooted in the desire for repentance and restoration, as seen in Matthew 18:15-17, where Jesus outlines steps for addressing sin within the community. The goal is not merely punitive but redemptive, aiming to bring the individual back into right relationship with God and the church.

by the majority
This indicates that the decision to impose punishment was made collectively by the church body, emphasizing the communal nature of church discipline. In the early church, decisions were often made by consensus or majority, reflecting a democratic process within the ecclesiastical structure. This communal approach is seen in Acts 15 during the Jerusalem Council, where the apostles and elders, along with the whole church, participated in decision-making. The involvement of the majority underscores the importance of unity and collective responsibility in maintaining the purity and integrity of the church.

is sufficient for him
Paul acknowledges that the punishment already administered is adequate, suggesting that it has achieved its intended purpose. This reflects the principle of proportionality in discipline, where the punishment should fit the offense and not be excessive. The sufficiency of the punishment implies that the individual has likely shown signs of repentance, aligning with the ultimate goal of restoration. This aligns with the biblical theme of mercy triumphing over judgment, as seen in James 2:13, and the call to forgive and comfort the repentant sinner, which Paul elaborates on in the following verses.

So instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him
This phrase emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and comfort within the Christian community. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the issue of a member of the church who has sinned and faced disciplinary action. The call to forgive reflects the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized forgiveness in passages like Matthew 6:14-15. Comforting the individual aligns with the role of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter (John 14:26), suggesting that believers should emulate this aspect of God's character. The cultural context of the early church involved a strong sense of community, where reconciliation was vital for maintaining unity and witness to the surrounding society.

so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow
This phrase highlights the potential consequences of failing to forgive and comfort. Excessive sorrow can lead to despair, which is contrary to the hope offered in Christ. The historical context of the Corinthian church involved dealing with issues of immorality and division, as seen in 1 Corinthians. Paul’s concern is pastoral, aiming to restore the individual to fellowship and prevent spiritual harm. This reflects the broader biblical theme of restoration, as seen in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), where the father's forgiveness leads to the son's restoration. Theologically, it underscores the balance between justice and mercy, a theme central to the character of God throughout Scripture.

Therefore
The word "therefore" indicates a conclusion or a result based on previous statements. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth regarding a situation involving church discipline. This connects back to the earlier verses where Paul discusses forgiveness and the importance of restoring a repentant sinner. The use of "therefore" suggests that the action Paul is about to recommend is a necessary step following the repentance and forgiveness process.

I urge you
Paul's use of "I urge you" reflects his pastoral concern and authority. It is a strong appeal rather than a command, showing his deep care for the spiritual well-being of the Corinthian church. This phrase indicates the importance of the action he is recommending and reflects Paul's role as an apostle who guides and nurtures the early Christian communities. It also highlights the relational aspect of his leadership, as he appeals to the Corinthians' sense of love and responsibility.

to reaffirm
The term "reaffirm" suggests a renewal or confirmation of something previously established. In this context, it implies that the Corinthians had once shown love and acceptance to the individual in question, and now, after his repentance, they are to renew that commitment. This reflects the biblical principle of restoration and reconciliation, which is a recurring theme in both the Old and New Testaments. It aligns with Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and the parable of the prodigal son, where the father reaffirms his love for the returning son.

your love
"Your love" emphasizes the personal responsibility of the Corinthian believers to demonstrate genuine Christian love. This love is agape, a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the best for others. It is the same love that Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 13, which is patient, kind, and keeps no record of wrongs. The call to love is central to Christian ethics and is rooted in the love of Christ, who loved us and gave Himself for us (Ephesians 5:2).

for him
The phrase "for him" refers to the individual who had been disciplined by the church. This person is likely the same one mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5, who had been involved in serious sin. The call to reaffirm love for him underscores the goal of church discipline, which is not punishment but restoration. It reflects the heart of the gospel, which is about reconciliation and the restoration of relationships. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive work through Christ, who came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10).

My purpose in writing you
Paul's intention in writing to the Corinthians was to address issues within the church and to guide them towards spiritual maturity. This reflects his role as an apostle and spiritual father to the church. His letters often served as a means of correction and encouragement, as seen in other epistles like Galatians and Thessalonians. The act of writing was a common method of communication and instruction in the early church, as personal visits were not always possible.

was to see if you would stand the test
Paul is referring to a test of obedience and faithfulness. The "test" likely involves the Corinthians' response to his previous instructions, particularly regarding church discipline and reconciliation. This concept of testing is echoed in other scriptures, such as James 1:2-4, where trials are seen as a means to develop perseverance and maturity. The idea of testing is also present in the Old Testament, where God tests His people to reveal their hearts, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:2.

and be obedient in everything
Obedience is a central theme in Paul's teachings, emphasizing the importance of following Christ's commands and apostolic instruction. This obedience is not just in specific matters but encompasses all aspects of Christian life. The call to complete obedience is consistent with Jesus' teachings in John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commands." The early church faced many challenges, including false teachings and moral issues, making obedience crucial for maintaining unity and purity within the body of Christ.

If you forgive anyone,
Forgiveness is a central theme in Christian teaching, reflecting the forgiveness believers receive from God. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul addresses the need for the Corinthian church to forgive a member who had previously caused distress, likely referring to the individual mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5. Forgiveness within the community is essential for maintaining unity and reflects the teachings of Jesus, such as in Matthew 6:14-15, where forgiveness is tied to receiving forgiveness from God.

I also forgive him.
Paul emphasizes his authority and willingness to forgive, aligning himself with the actions of the church. This reflects the apostolic authority he holds and his role in guiding the church's spiritual health. It also demonstrates the importance of leaders modeling forgiveness, as seen in the example of Jesus, who forgave those who wronged Him (Luke 23:34).

And if I have forgiven anything,
Paul's statement here is somewhat hypothetical, suggesting that if there were any other offenses, he is ready to forgive them. This reflects the comprehensive nature of Christian forgiveness, which is not limited or conditional. It echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 18:21-22, where forgiveness is to be extended repeatedly.

I have forgiven it in the presence of Christ
Paul's forgiveness is not merely a personal decision but is done with an awareness of Christ's presence. This indicates that forgiveness is a spiritual act, done with the consciousness of being before Christ, who is the ultimate judge and source of forgiveness. It underscores the belief that all actions, especially those involving reconciliation, are done with Christ's oversight and approval.

for your sake,
Paul's forgiveness is motivated by his concern for the Corinthian church's well-being. It highlights the communal aspect of forgiveness, where the act is not just for the individual offender but for the health and unity of the entire body of believers. This reflects the teaching in Ephesians 4:32, where believers are encouraged to forgive one another as God in Christ forgave them, promoting peace and unity within the church.

in order that Satan should not outwit us.
This phrase highlights the apostle Paul's awareness of spiritual warfare and the need for vigilance against the devil's tactics. In the broader context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the issue of forgiveness and reconciliation within the church. By forgiving and restoring a repentant sinner, the church prevents Satan from exploiting the situation to sow discord and division. The concept of Satan as a deceiver is consistent throughout Scripture, as seen in Genesis 3:1-5, where he deceives Eve, and in 1 Peter 5:8, where believers are warned to be sober-minded and watchful because the devil prowls like a roaring lion. The term "outwit" suggests a strategic battle, emphasizing the need for spiritual discernment and unity in the body of Christ to resist the devil's schemes.

For we are not unaware of his schemes.
Paul asserts the importance of being knowledgeable about the enemy's strategies. The Greek word for "schemes" (noemata) implies cunning plans or thoughts, indicating that Satan's methods are often subtle and deceptive. This awareness is crucial for the church to stand firm against spiritual attacks. Ephesians 6:11-12 further elaborates on this by urging believers to put on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes, highlighting the spiritual nature of the battle. Historically, the early church faced numerous challenges, both internal and external, and Paul's letters often addressed these issues to strengthen and guide the believers. Understanding Satan's schemes involves recognizing his attempts to undermine faith, promote false teachings, and create disunity. This knowledge equips Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to support one another in love and truth.

Now when I went to Troas
Troas, an ancient city located in what is now modern-day Turkey, was a significant port city in the Roman province of Asia. It served as a strategic location for travel and trade, making it an ideal place for the spread of the gospel. The Apostle Paul visited Troas multiple times during his missionary journeys (Acts 16:8, 20:5-12). This visit to Troas is part of Paul's second missionary journey, highlighting his commitment to spreading the message of Christ across diverse regions.

to preach the gospel of Christ
Paul's primary mission was to preach the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection for the salvation of humanity. This phrase underscores the centrality of Christ in Paul's message and mission. The gospel of Christ is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, emphasizing salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9) and the transformative power of the gospel (Romans 1:16). Paul's dedication to this mission reflects the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

and a door stood open for me in the Lord
The imagery of an "open door" is often used in the New Testament to signify opportunities for ministry and the advancement of the gospel (1 Corinthians 16:9, Colossians 4:3). This phrase suggests that God had providentially prepared the way for Paul's ministry in Troas, indicating divine approval and support. The concept of an open door also implies that Paul was sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, recognizing and seizing opportunities to fulfill his calling. This aligns with the biblical principle that God directs the paths of those who trust in Him (Proverbs 3:5-6).

I had no peace in my spirit
Paul expresses a deep emotional and spiritual unrest. This phrase highlights the apostle's sensitivity to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and his concern for the well-being of the churches. The lack of peace can be seen as a divine prompting, similar to how the Spirit led Paul in Acts 16:6-7, where he was prevented from preaching in certain regions. This reflects the biblical principle that God often guides His people through inner peace or unrest.

because I did not find my brother Titus there
Titus was a trusted companion and fellow worker in the ministry. His absence was significant to Paul, indicating the importance of fellowship and accountability among believers. Titus's role in the early church is further emphasized in other passages, such as 2 Corinthians 7:6-7, where he brings comfort to Paul. This highlights the relational aspect of ministry and the importance of reliable partners in the work of the Gospel.

So I said goodbye to them
Paul's decision to leave reflects his responsiveness to the Spirit's leading and his commitment to the mission. The act of saying goodbye suggests a respectful and intentional departure, acknowledging the relationships he had formed. This mirrors other instances in Paul's ministry where he had to make difficult decisions for the sake of the Gospel, as seen in Acts 20:1, where he departs after encouraging the disciples.

and went on to Macedonia
Macedonia was a significant region for Paul's missionary journeys, including cities like Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. This area was crucial for the spread of Christianity in Europe. Paul's movement to Macedonia aligns with his strategic approach to evangelism, as seen in Acts 16:9-10, where he receives a vision calling him to preach there. This journey underscores the fulfillment of the Great Commission, as Paul continues to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles.

But thanks be to God
This phrase begins with an expression of gratitude, a common theme in Paul's letters. It reflects the apostle's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and grace. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is expressing gratitude for the triumphs and victories that God provides, even amidst trials and challenges. This gratitude is rooted in the understanding that all good things come from God (James 1:17).

who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ
The imagery here is of a Roman triumphal procession, where a victorious general would lead captives through the streets as a display of conquest. Paul uses this metaphor to describe believers as being led by Christ in a victory parade. This suggests that Christians, though once captives to sin, are now captives to Christ, sharing in His victory over sin and death. This aligns with the theme of victory found in Romans 8:37, where believers are described as "more than conquerors" through Christ.

and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him
The metaphor of fragrance is significant in biblical literature, often associated with sacrifices pleasing to God (Exodus 29:18). Here, Paul uses it to describe the spread of the Gospel. The "fragrance" represents the knowledge of Christ, which is spread through the lives and testimonies of believers. This imagery is also found in Ephesians 5:2, where Christ's sacrificial love is described as a "fragrant offering." The idea is that the presence and message of Christ are pervasive and influential, impacting all who encounter it.

For we are to God
This phrase emphasizes the believer's relationship with God, highlighting that their actions and lives are primarily directed towards Him. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth, reminding them of their role as representatives of Christ. This aligns with the biblical theme of living for God's glory, as seen in 1 Corinthians 10:31, where believers are encouraged to do everything for the glory of God.

the sweet aroma of Christ
The imagery of a "sweet aroma" is reminiscent of Old Testament sacrificial offerings, such as those described in Leviticus 1:9, where sacrifices were a pleasing aroma to the Lord. This metaphor suggests that believers' lives, when lived in accordance with Christ's teachings, are pleasing to God. It also reflects the sacrificial nature of Christ's own life and death, which was the ultimate offering to God.

among those who are being saved
This phrase indicates the presence and influence of believers within the community of the saved. It suggests an ongoing process of salvation, as seen in Philippians 2:12, where believers are encouraged to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. The community of the saved is not static but dynamic, growing in faith and understanding.

and those who are perishing
Here, Paul acknowledges the dual response to the gospel message. The concept of "perishing" is a common theme in the New Testament, referring to those who reject the message of Christ, as seen in John 3:16-18. This phrase underscores the reality of spiritual death for those outside of Christ, contrasting with the life offered to those who believe. The presence of believers serves as a testimony to both groups, highlighting the stark difference in their eternal destinies.

To the one we are an odor that brings death
This phrase highlights the dual nature of the Gospel's impact. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the mixed reactions to the message of Christ. The "odor that brings death" refers to those who reject the Gospel. In biblical times, incense was used in both religious ceremonies and funerals, symbolizing both life and death. The imagery here suggests that the same message can lead to spiritual death for those who refuse it, echoing the idea found in Isaiah 8:14-15, where the Lord is a sanctuary for some and a stone of stumbling for others. This concept is also seen in 1 Peter 2:7-8, where Christ is a cornerstone for believers but a rock of offense for unbelievers.

to the other a fragrance that brings life
Conversely, for those who accept the Gospel, it is a "fragrance that brings life." This reflects the transformative power of the message of Christ, which leads to eternal life. The metaphor of fragrance is significant in the ancient world, where pleasant aromas were associated with joy, celebration, and divine presence. In Ephesians 5:2, Christ's sacrificial love is described as a "fragrant offering," indicating that believers, through their acceptance of the Gospel, partake in the life-giving aroma of Christ's sacrifice. This duality underscores the personal responsibility in responding to the Gospel message.

And who is qualified for such a task?
This rhetorical question emphasizes the gravity and responsibility of spreading the Gospel. Paul acknowledges the weight of the task, suggesting that human ability alone is insufficient. The question points to the need for divine empowerment and guidance, as seen in 2 Corinthians 3:5-6, where Paul states that our competence comes from God. This humility is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, where he often contrasts human weakness with God's strength (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). The task of being a messenger of the Gospel requires reliance on the Holy Spirit, aligning with the broader biblical narrative of God equipping those He calls.

For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit.
Paul contrasts his ministry with those who exploit the gospel for personal gain. In the first-century Greco-Roman world, itinerant teachers and philosophers often charged fees for their teachings. Paul, however, emphasizes his integrity and the purity of his motives. This echoes his earlier statements in 1 Corinthians 9:18, where he insists on preaching the gospel free of charge. The term "peddle" suggests a corrupting influence, akin to a merchant diluting wine to increase profit. This warning against false teachers is consistent with other New Testament passages, such as 2 Peter 2:1-3, which caution against those who exploit believers with deceptive words.

On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity,
Paul asserts that his message is delivered with genuine intent, rooted in his relationship with Christ. The phrase "in Christ" signifies the source of his authority and the transformative power of his message. Speaking "before God" implies accountability and transparency, as God is the ultimate judge of motives and actions. This sincerity is a hallmark of true apostleship, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 2:4, where Paul states that he speaks not to please man, but God. The emphasis on sincerity aligns with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6:1-4, where He warns against performing religious acts for human approval.

as men sent from God.
Paul identifies himself and his companions as divinely commissioned messengers. This apostolic authority is rooted in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) and the specific calling Paul received on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:15-16). The concept of being "sent" echoes the Old Testament prophets, who were chosen by God to deliver His message, as seen in Isaiah 6:8. This divine sending underscores the legitimacy and urgency of their mission, distinguishing them from false teachers who lack such a mandate. The phrase also reflects the broader biblical theme of God using chosen individuals to accomplish His purposes, as seen in the lives of Moses, Jeremiah, and ultimately, Jesus Christ, the ultimate "sent one" (John 3:17).