In Search Of Truth, 2nd Corinthians 1:12-22

Paul’s delay in coming to visit Corinth provided ammunition for those who were calling into question his authority as an Apostle. So Paul uses verses 12-14 to affirm his proud confidence in the Corinthians and their good reason to have confidence in him.

 

Paul was convinced that in his interactions with people in general, and especially with the Corinthian church, he had acted in a way consistent with holiness (meaning Paul was set apart from other purposes to specifically carry out the purposes of God) and godly sincerity. He was not motivated by “fleshly wisdom” (wisdom that come out of the natural instinct and tendency of human thinking) but acted in unison with the grace (undeserved favor) of God. His motives were not to look good or benefit himself. He handled his relationships with the kind of honesty and integrity modeled by God in the life of Jesus. (v.12)

 

Paul wrote to the Corinthians using words they could understand. He wasn’t trying to cleverly manipulate the truth to make himself look good or to persuade the Corinthians to favor him in some way. He hopes that, as their understanding in what Paul has said and written grows, they will understand that they can be proud and confident in Paul when Jesus eventually comes to judge the world, just as Paul will be proud and confident in them. (v.13-14)

 

As Paul talks about “confidence” and “boasting”, it’s important to understand that his ultimate purpose is not to boast or be boasted about to gain favor with people. His desire is to do what will honor God, which is why he mentions “the day of our Lord Jesus”, when Jesus will evaluate the deeds of every person.

 

Because of his confidence in their growth and receptivity to his teaching, Paul planned to visit the Corinthians twice. First while on his way to Macedonia, and again on his way back. Paul counters the idea that he made his plans lightly or behaved with a fickle attitude. He affirms his point strongly by saying that “as God is faithful our word to you is not yes and no”. Paul meant what he said and wanted them to understand that. (v.15-17)

 

Since he placed his own integrity on the faithfulness and integrity of God, Paul takes a minute to emphasize God’s integrity and the integrity of Paul’s message about Christ. Jesus does not go back on his words. If he affirms something, we can count on it. The word “Amen” is an affirmation that can also be translated, “truly”. So Paul is saying in verse 20 that when he affirms something, it is through Christ (whom he represents as an Apostle) and for God’s glory. (v.18-20)

 

Paul identifies God as the common bond between him and the Corinthians (and all believers for that matter). Being “anointed” was a symbol in the Old Testament that signified a person being set aside for a special ministry or God-purposed role. Believers are also given God’s “seal of ownership”, meaning that we are his prized and protected possessions. The Holy Spirit is placed in all believers and represents a sort of down payment for the incredible life to come. (v.21-22)

 

Next Week- So why DID Paul change his travel plans and avoid visiting the Corinthian church?

 

Coffee House Question

 

If you’re a Christian, have you ever thought of yourself as “anointed”(as defined above)? How do you think an “anointed” person might look at their everyday lives differently than someone else?

 

Superman/Batman: Public Enemies (DVD Review)

Although the DC animated movies were hit or miss at the start, it seems they’ve finally hit their stride. Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, and now “Superman/Batman: Public Enemies”.

With Kevin Conroy as Batman, Tim Daly as Superman and Clancy Brown as Lex Luthor, the voices that made these characters jump out from animated tv have brought the goods again in this flick. And the animation has jumped forward to keep pace.

If you read and enjoyed the original comic book story by Loeb and McGuiness, you’ll see some of your favorite moments repeated here. But you’re also in for some surprises as the story has been trimmed of its continuity heavy elements and streamlined into a self-contained but broad story.

Lex Luthor has become the President of the United States and a kryptonite meteor the size of Australia is headed for earth. But Luthor wants to get all the credit for saving the earth and uses his position to place a billion dollar bounty on Superman. Super-villains and a few heroes come out of the woodwork to bring Superman in, while Batman faithfully stands at his side.

The action and animation is great, it sounds sweet in 5.1, and these actors are unquestionably the best for their roles.

It’s a little odd that Levar Burton was brought on to voice Back Lightning and only say one line. (I’m not kidding. I don’t remember a second.) And the run-time is a little too short. (69 minutes) But if you spend just a few more dollars to get the two disc DVD set, the second disc makes up for it with some great special features. One is a feature on the differences between Batman and Superman, psychologically. Another is a GREAT dinner conversation between the movie producers and Kevin Conroy, in which they discuss highlights of his entire career voicing Batman. Some great insight and anecdotes. SO worth the extra few bucks. Also included is a first look at the next DC animated movie, “Justice League: Crisis On Two Earths”, which looks awesome, but will hopefully be longer than this movie.

Regarding Relevance, there's not much to talk about aside from an imperfect metaphor about Superman being a savior. It almost works, but not quite. Still a stand out moment that may lead to conversation after, though.

DC comics fans should not miss this and DC animated tv show fans should not hesitate to buy it, as long as you go with the 2-disc or blue-ray version.

Rated PG-13 for action violence throughout and a crude comment

Quality: 9.0/10

Relevance: 7.0/10

"Pilgrim" Primary Mix Finished!

As of today, my primary mix for "Pilgrim's Progress: Similitude Of A Dream" is finished! I am now writing the script for the opening and closing credits which will be recorded sometime next week. Meanwhile, I will begin recording the parallel audiobook material to be included with this release.

The audiobook portion of the project will be MUCH easier to mix and I only anticipate it taking a week or two. (Though you all know what my estimates are worth.) I will only be sending out the primary mix to my test listeners, trusting my own ears to polish and master the credits and audiobook. I received very few notes on the mix for "Dark Ritual" at this stage, and so I'm confident I can handle those portions without testers. This will also cut at least two weeks off of the production schedule.

Ryan Emenecker, the designer for both Spirit Blade CD sets and our main website, will be adding text to an image for "Pilgrim's Progress" on the website. We're going for an understated look, but one that I think will represent the project well.

That's all I've got for now!

-Paeter Frandsen