Chapter 31—The Message Heeded
This chapter is based on the
Second Epistle to the Corinthians
.
From Ephesus Paul set forth on another missionary tour, during
which he hoped to visit once more the scenes of his former labors in
Europe. Tarrying for a time at Troas, “to preach Christ’s gospel,” he
found some who were ready to listen to his message. “A door was
opened unto me of the Lord,” he afterward declared of his labors in this
place. But successful as were his efforts at Troas, he could not remain
there long. “The care of all the churches,” and particularly of the
church at Corinth, rested heavily on his heart. He had hoped to meet
Titus at Troas and to learn from him how the words of counsel and
reproof sent to the Corinthian brethren had been received, but in this
he was disappointed. “I had no rest in my spirit,” he wrote concerning
this experience, “because I found not Titus my brother.” He therefore
left Troas and crossed over to Macedonia, where, at Philippi he met
Timothy.
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During this time of anxiety concerning the church at Corinth, Paul
hoped for the best; yet at times feelings of deep sadness would sweep
over his soul, lest his counsels and admonitions might be misunder-
stood. “Our flesh had no rest,” he afterward wrote, “but we were
troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nev-
ertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us
by the coming of Titus.”
This faithful messenger brought the cheering news that a wonderful
change had taken place among the Corinthian believers. Many had
accepted the instruction contained in Paul’s letter and had repented of
their sins. Their lives were no longer a reproach to Christianity, but
exerted a powerful influence in favor of practical godliness.
Filled with joy, the apostle sent another letter to the Corinthian
believers, expressing his gladness of heart because of the good work
wrought in them: “Though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not
repent, though I did repent.” When tortured by the fear that his words
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