2 Corinthians 12:20
Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)
Ek is bang dat wanneer ek by julle kom, dan sal julle nie wees soos ek graag wil hê julle moet wees nie. En miskien is ék ook nie soos julle graag wil hê ek moet wees nie. Miskien haat julle ander mense, miskien stry julle met almal, miskien maak julle mense kwaad vir mekaar, miskien maak julle mense vyande van mekaar, miskien beledig julle mekaar, miskien skinder julle van mekaar, miskien dink die een mens hy is beter as die ander mens, of miskien maak julle probleme.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from 2 Corinthians, Paul expresses his worry that when he visits the Corinthian believers, they might not have grown as much spiritually as he hoped, and that there could be conflicts like arguments and gossip among them.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're a teacher who loves your class. Before visiting, you hope everyone will behave well, but you also worry that some kids might still be fighting or saying mean things about each other. Paul is feeling the same way before he visits his friends in Corinth.
Historical Background
This verse was written by Apostle Paul around 53-54 AD. He wrote it to the church at Corinth, which consisted of both Jewish and Gentile converts. The Corinthians were known for their internal disputes over leadership and theological issues.
Living It Out Today
Imagine you're part of a group project where team members are constantly arguing or gossiping about each other. Instead of focusing on your goals, everyone's distracted by negative behaviors. This verse reminds us to keep our focus on positive collaboration rather than divisive actions.
Topics
conflict resolutioncommunityspiritual growthworry and fearchurch leadershipforgiveness
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Paul worried about the Corinthian believers?
Paul fears that when he visits, he might find them not as spiritually mature or united as he hoped, and there could be conflicts such as arguments and gossip among members.
What kind of negative behaviors does this verse mention?
The verse lists several negative behaviors including debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbiting, whisperings, swellings (pride), and tumults (disorder).
How can we avoid the conflicts mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:20?
By fostering an environment of love, forgiveness, and open communication within our communities, we can prevent many of these conflicts from arising.
What was the Corinthian church like at that time?
The Corinthian church was known for its internal disputes over leadership and theological issues. It had a mix of Jewish and Gentile converts who struggled with unity and spiritual maturity.