2 Corinthians 1:6, We Be Afflicted

2 Corinthians 1:6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.

The Apostle Paul endured the sufferings of persecution in Corinth. Because he did not give up and was willing to bear with all that befell him, there were those in Corinth who believed. These form the nucleus of the infant church. His message to the Corinthian church was not about him rather it was about them.

His stay in Corinth at the behest of Christ contributed to the establishment of the infant church in Corinth. He exhorted the Corinthian Christians to thank God their salvation. His sufferings pale when he could witness the glory of God manifested in the salvation of souls.  There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth, much more to see a host of conversions.

Praise the Lord for servants of God who bear shame and suffering for the gospel’s sake. May God’s people encourage and bless the Lord for them. Amen.