2 Corinthians 12:21
French (Zoque, Francisco León)
Na'tzpøjtzi que cuando nu'cpøjtzi mitzcø'mda'm, ø Janda Diosis maṉba yaj cotza'aje porque mitz ji'n mi ndzøctam vøjø. Y øtz ma'ṉbø ṉgøvo'yaje vøti pøn oyupø'am cojapa'tyaje, y ja qui'psvitu'yaja'am ji'n vyøjpø tiyø va'cø jana chøcyaj; o'ca ja qui'psvitu'yajø va'cø chacyaj møtzi yomo nø'itcuy y møsyaṉda'm tiyø nø chøcyajupø.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from 2 Corinthians, Paul expresses his concern that when he returns to the community in Corinth, he might have to discipline some members who haven't repented of their sinful behaviors like sexual immorality and excess.
Explained for Children
Think about a teacher who really cares for her students. She knows she has to go back to class soon and is worried because some kids didn’t listen when they were told not to do something wrong. When the teacher comes back, she might have to give those children a time-out if they don't say sorry for their bad behavior.
Historical Background
The letter was written by Paul around 53-56 AD while he was in Ephesus. He is addressing the Corinthian church, which he had established earlier but faced ongoing issues with disorder and immorality.
Living It Out Today
Imagine a leader in an organization who discovers that some team members have repeatedly violated company policies despite previous warnings. The leader might feel concerned about how to address this when they return to work, emphasizing the importance of accountability and repentance in any community or group setting.
Topics
repentancesindisciplinecommunityleadershipforgiveness
Related Verses
Romans 6:1-2Ephesians 5:3-41 Corinthians 6:9-10Isaiah 1:16-18James 5:16
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Paul worried about coming back to Corinth?
Paul was concerned because he expected to find members who had not repented of their sins, which could necessitate disciplinary action and cause him personal distress.
How can leaders apply this in modern settings?
Leaders today can use this as a reminder of the importance of setting clear expectations and taking action to address ongoing issues within their communities or organizations.
What does this teach us about repentance?
This verse highlights that true repentance involves acknowledging one's sins, turning away from them, and making a commitment to change. Without these steps, the consequences of sin continue to affect both individuals and communities.