2 Corinthians 13:1-14
The Assembly was the subject of the first epistle to the Corinthians. The second has spoken to us about ministry or Christian service. We have found in it the feelings, supplications, weariness, the moral and physical afflictions of the Lord’s servant. Paul was merely the weak instrument but he did not seek on earth a better lot than that of his Master. For Christ had been on earth in humility and crucified in weakness; but He was now alive, raised by the power of God (v. 4).
As he completes his epistle, Paul addresses to God a last prayer for his dear Corinthians. It is summed up in a word: their perfection (v. 9). But at the same time he exhorts them: "be perfect" (v. 11). Asking for the Lord’s help does not excuse us from zealously working hard at making progress in Christian living and service.
He also says to them, "Be of good comfort; be of one mind; live in peace . . ." (v. 11). May all of our readers take these exhortations for themselves and experience the promise attached to them. Yes, may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all (v. 14)!