devotional post # 2172

2 Corinthians 5:12-15

2Co 5:12 We are not seeking endorsement of ourselves from you again but giving you cause to brag about us, so that you may be able to answer those who brag about outward appearance and not about what is in the heart.
2Co 5:13 Because if we seem crazy, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.
2Co 5:14 Since the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died;
2Co 5:15 and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.

crazy for God

Paul is saying that the reputation of his team is being questioned, but that does not matter. What matters is Christ’s reputation. The difficulties that the mission team has faced are well worth it, because Christ died for all. So, our reputations do not matter. Our sufferings do not matter. Only getting the gospel out to those who need Christ — only that matters. If the Corinthians understood that, they would not be criticizing Paul’s team. They would be bragging about their efforts.

LORD, give us the awareness to see the hearts of those who minister among us, and to be thankful for their commitment to you.