2Cor047 False ministry exposed, true ministry commended

The headlines tell the story of gross pastoral abuse with details that are quite shocking. In some of the most high profile churches in America, we read testimony of all kinds of abuse ranging from sexual, to financial, and even to physical abuse. As Paul shames the Corinthians for accepting the false teachers who commend themselves through boasting, he exposes the gross forms of abuse the saints have had to endure at the hands of these false shepherds. Not only does Paul demonstrate the worldly character of false teachers, he also uncovers the sinful motives of believers which sometimes enables false teachers by allowing them access to positions of power in the church and permits them to exercise a harsh form of dominance over God's people. Instead of enabling false ministry, Paul calls upon believers to recognize and embrace true ministry which is characterized by grace, not worldliness.