The Sharp Edge

“For he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God.” -2 Corinthians 13:4

These words come at the close of Paul's second letter to the church in Corinth. He desires to come to them, but they should not for one moment think that he will go easy on those causing division and harming the flock. He will come with a sharp edge. That is what his letters of correction have been, and it actually reflects a wonderful truth of Christ.

He cares for his people, and he will not leave them to wither in sin; he will surgically cut with the sharp edge of the Spirit to refine his people. Jesus' weakest moment, on the cross, brought him to fullness in his power. There is comfort in this power, for he is the One who wields it, and his purpose is perfect. It is a reminder of his love for us. It is working in us his glory.

Here in 2 Corinthians, Paul is calling the church to experience this power of Jesus in community. It is other believers who are our accountability and our Gospel reminder. In community, those weak before the Lord are made strong in him. The power of God is the way of restoration and peace. May the Lord's sharp edge work this into us today.

For Our Sake

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” -2 Corinthians 5:21

Jesus took on the weight and punishment of sin so that in him you would be the righteousness of God. And that means you can stand before a perfect and holy God and not be ruined by the wrath you deserve. In Jesus, you are made right.

In the grand scheme of things, this all works out for God's greatest glory. His redemptive plan throughout all of history is adding to his glory, and we are headed toward a crescendo of glory that we can't even imagine. All of this glory will be God's alone.

It was for your sake that Jesus took on the punishment that he did. Every lash of the whip. Every shameful insult. Every nail pounded through his hands and feet. For your sake. This is really good news, however bloody. Jesus did all of this, became sin, so that you could be justified — once for all.

That is certainly a benefit beyond description. It is also a revelation that God is thinking about you, doing things for your good. You are known better by God than by anyone else you might encounter, and he chooses to act “for our sake.” Because of Jesus and his covering of righteousness for you, God won't stop doing things for your sake. He really is working all things for your good and his glory.

Rest in his kindness and work for your sake.