"But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ" (2 Cor. 11:3).
Today we return to our study of 2 Corinthians, picking up in chapter 11, which shows us the great love Paul had for the Corinthians and the deep sense of responsibility he possessed regarding their spiritual welfare. Paul recognized the intimate relationship between Christ and His people—that it can be compared to the relationship between a husband and wife. Just as one woman is to love one man, so our love for Christ is to remain pure and holy. Paul wanted to guard the Corinthians against any infidelity. But they were in danger because false teachers had come in among them to lead them astray, to tempt them to love another. By exposing the Corinthians to false teaching and to the doctrines of another gospel, the deceivers were putting the church in danger of committing adultery against its beloved husband and Lord, Jesus Christ.
Paul was realistic, as always, about the seriousness of the temptation. If Eve, who had been holy and pure, fell to the temptation of Satan, the church at Corinth was in no less danger. Even the most faithful spouse, the most righteous, the most knowledgeable, the most respectable is in danger of being unfaithful. Given the right circumstance, anyone can forsake their first love. Paul realized this and was jealous, with a godly jealousy, that the Corinthians not fall into the same trap that had consumed Eve.
We, too, must be on our guard lest we allow errors of doctrine and practice to lead us away from our beloved Lord. We must not have too high an opinion of ourselves, as if we are beyond temptation, as if we know so much that we could not possibly be deceived by false teaching. The ways of Satan are subtle, and we must always remain watchful and do everything we can to keep ourselves pure.
Likewise, ministers of the Gospel must govern the church with the wisdom and jealousy of Paul. Too often, ministers care very little that members of their flock have fallen into error. Either because they are fearful of conflict or because they do not really love their people, they allow error to go unchallenged. This is a violation of the trust God has given them to watch over His people. May every man of God, and every Christian, take their responsibilities seriously, be on guard against temptation, and remain faithful to Christ.
What steps do you take to make sure you remain faithful to Christ in practice and in doctrine? Do you study the Scriptures regularly? Do you pray that God keep you from error? Do you faithfully attend worship and hear the preaching of God’s Word? If not, begin implementing these things into your life, that you might be found faithful.
