Before we dive into this letter, read this introduction by Eugene Peterson:

“They bucked his authority–accused him of inconsistencies, impugned his motives, questioned his credentials. They didn’t argue with what he had written; they simply denied his right to tell them what to do.”

“And so Paul was forced to defend his leadership. After mopping up a few details left over from the first letter, he confronted the challenge, and in the process probed the very nature of leadership in a community of believer.

“Because leadership is necessarily an exercise of authority, it easily shifts into a an exercise of power. but the minute it does that, it begins to inflict damage on both the leader and the led. Paul, studying Jesus, had learned a king of leadership in which he managed to stay out of the way so that the others could deal with God without having to go through him. All who are called to exercise leadership in whatever capacity–parent or coach, pastor or president, teacher or manager–can be grateful to Paul for this letter, and to the Corinthians for provoking it.”

As leaders, coaches, teachers, and parents, let’s see what each of us can learn from this journey through 2 Corinthians! I have played “wack a mole” many times as I try to resolve one problem before another pops up. I am sure I am not the only one! Agreed?

Dear Heavenly Father, This study of Your Word as a leader, teacher, parent and grandparent comes at just the right time in my life. I’m ready to learn! Bring it on. Transform my heart…but do it gently. I am weak, but You are my strength. Help us all to be and become more like You, dear Jesus.
In Jesus Name, Amen