Knowing The Word in 2 Corinthians 6:8b-10, Possessing Everything

We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; 9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as punished, and yet not killed; 10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.

Paul gives us a list of an equipped sage, armed by God against the ups and downs of ministry and mission. The point is not only that Paul has endured, but he has kept his character intact with integrity. He is an authentic apostle. Go back over the list and notice its Christological character. Paul redefines what it means to be a wise leader and servant of Christ in light of the Passion of Jesus.

Thou whose eternal love for our weak and struggling race was most perfectly shown forth in the blessed life and death of Jesus Christ our Lord, enable me now so to meditate upon my Lord’s passion that, having fellowship with him in his sorrow, I may also learn the secret of his strength and peace.

John Baillie, 1886-1960