Paul’s Pillars

“Finally, brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.”—2 Corinthians 13:11

Closing this letter to the Corinthians, Paul focused on important, fundamental truths. He urged believers to become “complete” and “grow to maturity” (NLT). They weren’t just to gain experiences or accumulate resources, but they were to use the gifts God gave them to grow, learn, and study.

Second, Paul encouraged them to be of “good comfort.” This theme was particularly important to Paul, who used the Greek word 18 times in this letter. He knew everyone needed comfort and recognized the importance of showing care for others. Third, Paul reminded them of the importance of unity in the Spirit. No one was to feel superior. Every believer had an important part to play (1 Corinthians 12:12).

Paul’s final admonition was for believers to live in peace with each other. This is the peace of God that is present as believers are unified, their lives are surrendered to Jesus, everyone has a servant attitude, they all realize each of them is a member of the same body, and they need each other.

Seek to apply these principles. Seek to be complete, putting into practice the gifts God has given you. Look for opportunities to provide comfort to people weighed down with burdens. Seek to live in peace with other believers, committed to the unity of the Spirit. If you do these things, the Bible promises that God will be with you.

Reflection Question: What can you do today to ensure you are at peace with other believers?