2 Corinthians 13:5
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your
own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you,
except ye be reprobates?”
These are very strong words from the Apostle Paul. The church
in Corinth had many problems. They had followed false doctrine. They had failed
to enact church discipline when it was needed. The members had personal issues
they had not addressed. And if we knew the whole story I am sure the list could
go on and on.
The truth is the church in Corinth was very much like many
of the Lord's churches today. When false doctrine enters the teachings of the
local church there are always those who will defend that false doctrine to the
“death”. While those who will defend the truth are ridiculed and scorned. In
some cases we see whole churches alienated by other churches because of their
standing on God's truth.
Paul challenges the Corinthian church to examine themselves.
As God's children, we must examine ourselves first. Before casting judgement on
another for something we don't agree. We must examine and prove ourselves to
see if what we say and believe is according to God's Word or if it is our own
thoughts or the teachings of another we have trusted. Are we trusting God's
Word by faith or are we trusting in something or someone else because it is
easier to believe or because what they say is more pleasant than the words of
God?
Before we accuse one of being legalistic or to harsh on a
matter, examine yourself and see if what you believe on the matter is what
God's Word says. We can become legalistic to false doctrine ourselves if we
refuse to listen to truth.
O child of God, examine yourselves. Seek to follow Christ.
Are you living by faith in Christ or by faith in self and the world? Before
opening your mouth to try and disprove someone else, prove yourself with God's
Word first. Prove you are the child of God you claim to be.
Praise ye the Lord!!!
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