A Crucified Life - - Is Its Own Defense

 

2 Corinthians 5:12

We are not commending ourselves to you again. Instead, we are giving you and occasion to be proud of us, so that you can answer those who take pride in appearances rather than in the heart.

*Strong's Ex. Conc. No. 874

Occasion: opportunity

From the Greek word 'aphormé' (pronounced af-or-may'): pretext. 

    In other words, we are neither bragging, nor boasting about what we do and who we are. We are giving you an opportunity to boast about the work which the Lord has done in us and through us. You will be come against on our behalf; but this will be your opportunity to stand up for the Lord's work. 

    The majority of the time this word 'occasion' is used is in a negative way, but here in 2 Corinthians 5:12 it is a positive reinforcement reminder. We can say now, 'Look What The Lord Has Done'. 

    When there is division in the body of Christ, it's as if a disease has infiltrated the body, causing destruction and death as it goes. Pride enters, followed closely by greed and self-righteousness. These need to be excised from the body and rebuked in Jesus' Name with the Authority which He has extended to us. 

    We do not all look the same. We do not all speak the same earthly language. We do not all dress the same. We are not the same at any point in time but we are one in Name. We are one in The One, in Christ. Therefore, we are not to come against one who is truly our brother or sister in Christ, for then we would be attacking ourselves and Christ. Not good.

    Lord, give me discernment in the body, that the Spirit would direct me to know who is Yours and who is not. Give me words to speak in love that we may love the body of Christ, the body of believers, in You. Lord, fill Your people, Your body, with Your Holy Spirit, that we would rise up in Your strength and Your power to live the lives You have called us to live. 

    In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

DEFENSE    

In Jesus' Name - Katy Nichole

Create In Me A Clean Heart - Eric & Tanja Lagerström

Soul On Fire - Third Day

Nothing But The Blood - Matt Redman

Thank You Jesus For The Blood - Charity Gayle

Spirit Of The Sovereign Lord - Lindell Cooley

We Will Stand - Russ Taff

They Will Know We Are Christians - Justin Unger