The Power of Testing

2 Corinthians 13:1-10

By Pastor Stewart McCarter, August 04, 2024

2 Corinthians 13:1-10

The unexamined salvation is dangerous.

  1. FINAL WARNING FOR THOSE STILL IN SIN 2 Corinthians 13:1-4

    1. Paul sets the parameters of judgement
    2. Paul warns those who have not repented
    3. They seek proof that Christ is working in Paul (3)
    4. Christ is the ultimate example of God’s Power in Weakness (4)
      1. Christ was crucified in WEAKNESS
      2. Christ was raised in POWER
      3. This is our two-fold identity in Christ
        1. Death
        2. Life

  2. FRUITFUL WARNING FOR THOSE IN THE FAITH 2 Corinthians 13:5-10

    1. They have falsely examined Paul, now it is their turn to examine themselves (5)
      1. Paul says we must examine our selves Galatians 6:4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor.
      2. Paul’s desire is that they will pass the test. Paul knew that all will be judged so he disciplined himself 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control,[a] lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
      3. No one escaped judgment 1 Corinthians 3:13. each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done.
      4. Steps to test
        1. Test for evidence of THE HOLY SPIRIT (Galatians 5:22-23) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
        2. Have you counted yourself dead to your flesh and alive to Jesus? Galatians 5:24 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Galatians 6:14. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which[b] the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
        3. What is my Spiritual Condition? Lamentations 3:40 Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the Lord!
        4. Test, Reject, Hold Fast 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil
        5. Pray like David Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts![a]24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting![b]
    2. Paul wants them to do right (vs.6-7)
    3. Paul is speaking the truth so they can be made strong in Christ (vs 8-9)
    4. Paul will use his authority if he has to (10)

Conclusion:

  1. Is there still sin in your life you have not surrendered to the will of God?
  2. Are you dead to sin and alive to God?
  3. Put yourself to the test this week.