2 Corinthians 6

V. 3-10, we offend not, at all cost

What would you do to ensure that you never stood between someone and their relationship with God? Before you answer the question listen to what the Apostle Paul said he was not only willing to endure but was enduring to make certain that he was not a stumbling block to anyone. In verses, 3-10 He gives us quite the list. He says that he is will to show patience in the face of persecution and troubles. He is willing to be beaten and thrown in prison. He is willing to work hard, go without sleep and food. He is willing to live in purity, show kindness, and sincere love to all He encounters. He is willing to always speak the truth no matter who is listening and is committed to live a life of righteousness. When he deserves to be honored, he will accept dishonor. He will live with the false accusations delivered against him and the other labels that society will place on him for his faithfulness to God. He will possess nothing physically so that he can obtain everything spiritually. Paul was willing to do whatever it took to ensure the ministry of Jesus Christ was received by all.

Now let’s get back to me and you. Are what are we willing to do ensure that we never are the reason that someone doesn’t have a relationship with Jesus Christ? Are we willing to inconvenience ourselves for our friends? Would we do it for our neighbors? How about the homeless guy that lives under the bridge in the next county over? Are we willing to interrupt our lives so any of these individuals can have eternal life? I feel like the answer for most of us is no, and the reason I say this is because the way we live our lives reflects the answer. We are self-absorbed individuals who won’t inconvenience ourselves for our own relationship with God much less for someone else’s relationship with God. I don’t say this with arrogance or a judgmental heart; I say it because we need to get back to having concern for the lost around us. We need to be like the Apostle Paul willing to do whatever it takes to see others to come and know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.