2 Corinthians 1:3-11

Steve McKenzie February 9, 2020

February 9, 2020

Cultural Comfort vs. Biblical Comfort
“The comfort that Paul has in mind has nothing to do with a languorous feelings of contentment. It is not some tranquilizing dose of grace that only dulls pains but a stiffening agent that fortifies one in heart, mind, and soul. Comfort relates to encouragement, help, exhortation. God’s comfort strengthens weak knees and sustains sagging spirits so that one faces the troubles of life with unbending resolve and unending assurance.” David Garland
“When Paul says that God is the ‘Father OF mercies’ and ‘God of ALL comfort,’ he means more than simply that mercy and comfort come from God. yes, God most assuredly dispenses these wonderful blessings, but Paul is more concerned to tell us something about God’s character, his personality, the disposition and inclination of his heart… This is his personality, not just his performance.” Sam Storms

“in all our affliction…” (2 Corinthians 1:4a)
“That was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.” (2 Corinthians 1:9)

“so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any afflication” (2 Corinthians 1:4b)
Reframing the questions:
- “Why me?” (self- focused) to “Who else?” (others-focused)
- “Doesn’t anyone care?” (Self-Pity) to “What for?” (Spiritual Perspective)

BEHOLD: How have you personally experienced God’s comfort through suffering and affliction? What did this show you of God’s character in the end?
REFLECT: Who else do you know that is currently suffering? How can you comfort them with Gpd’s comfort that you have received?
MEMORIZE: 2 Corinthians 1:20