The Blog

When Paul arrived the third time in Corinth, he would not be lenient toward unrepentant sinners.

His actions included:

(1) confronting and publicly denouncing their behavior,

(2) exercising church discipline by calling them before the church leaders, and

(3) excommunicating them from the church.

The Corinthians were called to examine and test themselves to see if they really were Christians. Just like physical checkups, Paul urges us to give ourselves spiritual checkups. We should look for a growing awareness of Christ’s presence and power in our lives. Only then will we know if we are true Christians or merely imposters. If we are not taking active steps to grow closer to God, we are drawing further away from him.

2 Corinthians 13:1-5
This will be my third visit to you. “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”[a] 2 I already gave you a warning when I was with you the second time. I now repeat it while absent: On my return I will not spare those who sinned earlier or any of the others, 3 since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you. 4 For to be sure, he was crucified in weakness, yet he lives by God’s power. Likewise, we are weak in him, yet by God’s power we will live with him in our dealing with you.
5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?