2 Corinthians 12:18; Walked We Not In the Spirit

2 Corinthians 12:18 I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?

The Apostle Paul has co-labourers who were men of integrity. These he commended to the church. The sense of these words were well-explained in 1 Thessalonians 2:2-9 But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention. For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God iswitness: Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yetof others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

In the write-up entitled “Best Motive for Christian Service”, Hudson Taylor was interviewing some young people who had volunteered for the Lord’s service. He asked several practical questions to find out how well qualified they were for the life they were anticipating. “And why do you wish to go as a foreign missionary?”

“I want to reach others across the sea because Christ has commanded us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature,” one replied.

Another said, “I want to go because millions are dying without ever having heard of Jesus, the only One who can save them.” Others have similar answers.

Hudson Taylor looked at them thoughtfully for a moment and then said. “All of your motives are good, but I fear they will fail you in times of severe testing and tribulation—especially if you are confronted with the possibility of having to face death for your testimony. The only motive that will enable you to remain true is stated in 2 Corinthians 5:14 Christ’s love constraining you will keep you faithful in every situation.”¹

Lord Crucified

Lord crucified, give me a heart like Thine;
Teach me to love the dying souls of men;
And keep my heart in closest touch with Thee,
And give me love, pure Calv’ry’s love,
To bring the lost to Thee.

Amen.

¹Encyclopedia of 15,000 Illustrations: Signs of the Times.