2 Corinthians: Boasting in Jesus

Sermon Outline for April 30, 2023
2 Corinthians 10:12-18 || Boasting in Jesus

Description of passage
With deep sarcasm, Paul contrasts his ministry to “some” (i.e., the false apostles) who are seeking to undermine
his influence and increase their own. Paul’s goal is that the Corinthians’ faith would grow and that he would
then be able to take the gospel to areas without any gospel witness (i.e., “unreached peoples”).
Introduction. God’s purpose in this world: Genesis 11:1-9; 12:1-3; Matthew 28:16-20; and Revelation 7:9-10
Background to our passage. 2 Corinthians 2:17-31; 5:11-13; 11:12-15
2 Cor 2:17-31,
17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before
God with sincerity, as those sent from God. Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need,
like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you?
2 Cor 5:11-13,
11 Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God,
and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but
are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is
seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are
in our right mind, it is for you.
Explanation of 2 Corinthians 10:12-18
Jeremiah 9:23-24,
23 This is what the LORD says:
“Let not the wise boast of their wisdom
or the strong boast of their strength
or the rich boast of their riches,
24 but let the one who boasts boast about this:
that they know and understand me,
that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness,
justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight,”
declares the LORD.
Sending Word: Psalm 67
1 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us—
2
so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. ...
7 May God bless us still, so that all the ends of the earth will fear him.
Questions for Discussion
• Read Genesis 11:1-9; 12:1-3; Matthew 28:16-20; and Revelation 7:9-10. How would you connect and
explain God’s actions and desire for this world?
• How important is it that each Christian be involved in taking the gospel to unreached people? How might
that look differently for different Christians?
• How open are you to the prospect of taking the gospel to an unreached people?
• Read Psalm 67. What is the reason God’s people desire to be blessed by God? Is this true for you as well?