2 Cor 10
Scripture
12 Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.
Vs 15 … But our hope is that as your faith increases, our area of influence among you may be greatly enlarged, 16 so that we may preach the gospel in lands beyond you, without boasting of work already done in another’s area of influence
Observation
Paul is speaking to the Corinthians about those who are diminishing or speaking against Paul’s ministry.
Paul lets them know that they are doing this without understanding what’s really going on.
The battle is not against each other.
The greater war is the spiritual war.
And to undermine Paul is to undermine the greater authority of Jesus Himself.
Paul’s great hope is that the Corinthians faith would increase.
Not so that his influence with them would grow, but so that his influence for the gospel would grow beyond them.
Paul’s greater concern was the gospel, not his influence or authority.
Application
There is a lot of talk today about building your platform and gaining influence.
This is clearly not a new phenomenon.
Even the first century church dealt with these problems of sinful human nature … to grow the self!
The primary way this happens is through comparison.
It’s easier to make myself look bigger by making someone else look small.
If I can diminish them, then by comparison I look bigger, better, greater.
To destroy is easier then to build.
But Paul says influence with them was given by Jesus to build them up.
And even if others try to diminish him, he will continue to try to build their faith.
Why? Not to make himself look good.
But to get the message of the gospel beyond them!
To expand the influence if the gospel, not himself.
Prayer
God thank you for you word
Help me see the example of Paul and follow it
Help me be motivated by the gospel
Not myself
Help me not to compare myself against other
But just against the man in the mirror
In Jesus name
Amen