Examine Yourself: Paul's Warning to Corinth (2 Corinthians 12:13-13:14)



Why does Paul warn the Corinthians to examine themselves to see if they are really believers, and what does that mean for us? We will find out in this episode. Along the way we will see why Christ’s power often comes wrapped in weakness and how Paul’s authority is aimed at building people up.



Review



Today we finish our series on 2 Corinthians. We are in the last section, which began in chapter 10, where Paul confronts his critics directly.



Paul’s critics charge that he was bold in his letters but meek and unimpressive in person. Paul replied that when he comes again, he plans to be very bold toward those who dismiss him. His weapons are divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses, and he is ready to punish all disobedience.



Remember that Paul is on his way to Corinth when he writes this letter. He has come as far as Macedonia. Titus has reported how they responded to his last letter. Paul is sending this letter ahead of him, and then he will follow after it. They will have the opportunity to read it before he shows up.



That is important here because he is preparing them for what they may face when he comes. This next visit has the potential to be difficult. Their relationship is not great. He says this will be his third visit. That fits our timeline.



See: How many letters did Paul write to Corinth?



Boasting in Weakness



In the last podcast we looked at the end of chapter 11 and the beginning of chapter 12. Paul engaged in what he called foolish boasting. His critics challenged him on foolish issues, so he answered them in kind.



Instead of defending his ministry with impressive achievements, Paul boasted in his weakness. He even recounted the humiliating story of being lowered out of Damascus in a basket, showing that his authority as an apostle was not based on worldly power but on God’s deliverance and grace.



What looked like failure to his critics was proof that God was at work through him.



If he wanted to, Paul could boast about being taken to heaven and taught by revelation. That far surpasses any degrees his critics boast in. Yet he quickly shifted the focus away from this revelation to his “thorn in the flesh.”



Whatever the thorn was, it humbled Paul and kept him from getting conceited about his credentials. He recognized that his hardship created the clearest stage for displaying God’s strength.



Paul then delivered a painful rebuke. He said, I should have been commended by you. They had every reason to trust him as a true apostle, yet many listened to his opponents.







Why Paul Refused Their Money



For in what were you less favored than the rest of the churches, except that I myself did not burden you? Forgive me this wrong! Here for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be a burden, for I seek not what is yours but you. For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less? - 2 Corinthians 12:13-15



Paul returns to the question of why he did not take money from them. This should not be a problem. He should not need to explain it, but he is.



The Corinthians were upset that Paul would accept support elsewhere but not from them. This issue appears several times in the latter part of the letter.

Thorn in the Flesh: How to Embrace Weakness (2 Corinthians 11)



How do you make sense of ongoing weakness, unanswered prayer, or personal limitation, especially when you are faithfully trying to serve God? In this episode, we will look at Paul’s mysterious “thorn in the flesh” and why God sometimes says no.



If you have ever felt like your weakness disqualifies you, this passage may change how you see your story.



The Setting: Paul’s Final Section and His Opponents



When we left Paul last week in chapter 11, he engaged in what he called foolish boasting. His opponents not only rejected Paul, they boasted about their own superiority. So Paul decides to give them a taste of their own medicine. He says, this is foolish, but if they are going to boast this way, then let me show you I can beat them at this game.



They boast that they have authority because they are Jewish. He replies, I am Jewish too.



They boast that they are hardworking, self-sacrificing servants of Christ. He replies, I am even more so.



Then Paul gives a description of the sufferings he experienced because he is an apostle. He highlighted the seriousness and significance of his sufferings for Christ.



But from the perspective of Paul’s opponents, those sufferings make him look weak.



Boasting in Weakness and the Damascus Escape



If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, he who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying. At Damascus, the governor under King Aretas was guarding the city of Damascus in order to seize me, but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall and escaped his hands. - 2 Corinthians 11:30-33



Two questions come to mind.




* What does Paul mean by boasting in what pertains to his weakness?



* Why does he tell this story about being let down in a basket in Damascus?




He just told dramatic stories about being beaten with rods, whipped and shipwrecked, and then he ends with this story about how he was let down out of the city in a basket. What is he thinking?



Let’s review his foolish boasting. He said, are they Jewish? So am I. Are they servants of Christ? I am more so.



If you had not read what comes next, what would you expect him to list to prove he is a better servant of Christ?



We might expect a list like this: I converted many people in Athens. I founded many churches in Macedonia. I freed many people from demon possession. I received the blessing of the church in Jerusalem. I preached before kings and rulers.



That list would demonstrate what a great servant of Christ Paul is. It is about significance and power. And it is true that Paul accomplished many impressive things throughout his ministry.



But the list Paul actually gives also looks like the description of a loser from the perspective of his opponents. His claim to fame is being beaten, whipped, in fear for his life, and oppressed by his worries over the people he ministers to. Where is the victory? Where is the power?



Paul knows how this list sounds. So he embraces the implications head on: If I have to boast, I will boast in what pertains to my weakness. I admit it. I have suffered and I have faced death over and over again. I am not embarrassed that this list shows my weaknesses. My weakness is an important part of my true boast.



As an apostle, he sees himself as a weak man serving a powerful God.

False Apostles: Why Were They So Convincing? (2 Corinthians 11)



How can you tell the difference between true spiritual leadership and something that just sounds impressive? What if the most confident, polished, spiritual-sounding teacher you know is actually leading you away from the gospel? In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul pushes back against a group that looks powerful but distorts the truth. He exposes how easily we are drawn to spiritual showmanship and reminds us that real authority in the church comes through weakness, not image. If you have ever felt unsure about who to trust spiritually, this passage offers clarity and wisdom you can hold onto.



Review



In the last four chapters, Paul takes on his opponents in Corinth. Some of them are outsiders who have come in and challenged Paul’s leadership. They say Paul is a fraud, a paper tiger. He writes strong letters, but in person he is meek and unimpressive. They despise the unimpressive way he speaks and urge the church to listen to them, not Paul.



Paul responds with fighting words. In chapter 10, he said (paraphrasing), "My opponents claim I am meek and unimpressive in person, but I warn you not to join them, because next time I visit, the gloves will be off. My weapons are the divine empowerment God has given my ministry. I will fight their errors with truth. I will call people to align their thinking with the truth, and I will deal harshly with those who oppose the truth."



Paul is willing to boast in what matters, his authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ. But he will not boast the way his opponents do by comparing success, skill, or eloquence, or by taking credit for another man’s work. He will boast using the measure that matters, the calling of God. God sent Paul to the Corinthians, and Paul will boast in what God is doing through him.



“A Little Foolishness” Predicted



Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends. I wish you would bear with me in a little foolishness. Do bear with me!- 2 Corinthians 10:17-11:1



In chapter 11, Paul seems to violate his own words. He boasts. He does not say yet what this foolishness is. He explains later, but the “foolishness” is that he will boast in the same way his opponents do. Before he does it, he explains why he feels driven to it.



Paul’s Jealousy and the Betrothal Analogy (11:2-4)



Paul is deeply concerned about the situation in Corinth.



For I feel a divine jealousy for you, since I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ. But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough. - 2 Corinthians 11:2-4



We have a classic love triangle. Paul crafts the analogy carefully. Christ is the bridegroom. The Corinthians are the bride. Paul is like the father of the bride, the one who arranged the betrothal. Paul’s opponents are the rival seducer. Paul taught the Corinthians about Christ and urges them to remain faithful until the wedding day.



Paul hoped the Corinthians had given their hearts to Christ through his preaching, but now they are listening to his opponents. Will they remain faithful, or give their hearts to another?



The stakes are high. This is not just personal dislike of Paul.

In 2 Corinthians 10, Paul shows how spiritual authority follows the example of the meekness of Christ. He is gentle with the church and courageous with deceivers, using truth, not theatrics, to dismantle lies and build people up in the Lord.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why some in Corinth said Paul was “humble in person” but “bold in letters,” and how he answers that charge with pastoral clarity.



* What the “meekness and gentleness of Christ” means, and how Jesus used authority to serve, not to dominate.



* What it means that our weapons are not “of the flesh,” and how truth demolishes strongholds and takes every thought captive to obey Christ.



* How to spot teachers who impress with charisma but lack faithfulness, and why boasting belongs to the Lord, not to ourselves.



* Paul’s resolve to be tender with the church yet bold with opponents, protecting the flock without lording authority over their faith.




After listening, you’ll be able to recognize leadership that serves rather than showboats, measure messages by Scripture instead of polish, and practice discernment that brings your thinking under Christ. You will see that meekness is not weakness; it is strength directed by love, and it is the way of Jesus for all who follow him.







How To Confront With the Meekness of Christ (2 Corinthians 10)



Imagine your church split between two voices. One is polished and persuasive, the other quiet and unimpressive. Which do you trust?



In 2 Corinthians 10, Paul shows how to fight lies without theatrics and how to exercise authority that builds people up. Learn how to spot the difference between charisma that flatters and truth that sets you free.



Review



In these last chapters of 2 Corinthians, Paul takes on his critics. Here we find his sharpest criticism of his enemies and his strongest defense of his apostleship. The tone is so confrontational that some scholars argue this section does not belong in the letter.



Think about where we are. Paul spent the first seven chapters defending himself, insisting he acted with integrity and pleading with them to view him rightly. Then came the appeal for money for the Jerusalem collection. Paul spent two chapters urging them to follow through on what they promised.



Now he rebukes the very people he asked to give. Most people do not do that, so some suggest these chapters were grafted in from another letter, perhaps the sorrowful letter.



I am not convinced. I think 2 Corinthians is a unified whole and this strong conclusion fits the letter.



What Led Up to This Point



Paul begins defending himself in chapter 1.




* He insists he conducted himself with godly sincerity.



* He defends himself against the charge of being unconcerned and hypocritical because he did not visit as he said he would.



* He says he is not peddling the word of God but speaks from sincerity.



* He reminds them the changes in their own lives show he is preaching the true gospel. They can look at themselves and see the results of his ministry.



* He says his ministry is greater than Moses because the new covenant is about the Spirit of God transforming us.



* He admits he is inadequate in himself. God made him adequate as an apostle of Christ and causes the impact.



* He says God sees Paul’s faithfulness clearly,

In 2 Corinthians 8–9, Paul calls the Corinthian church to be cheerful givers and complete a promise they once made with joy: to support their fellow believers in Jerusalem. But this appeal is about much more than money. It’s a spiritual invitation to live out faith through sacrificial generosity, restore broken trust, and affirm unity across cultural and spiritual divides.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul views the Jerusalem collection as both charity and spiritual responsibility



* How the Corinthians’ initial enthusiasm faded and what that reveals about faith



* The example of the Macedonians and what it teaches about grace-driven giving



* Paul’s emphasis on integrity, transparency, and voluntary generosity



* What it means to “sow bountifully” and reap a harvest of righteousness



* How generosity reflects both love for God and love for others




By the end of the episode, you’ll see how generosity is more than a good deed—it’s a reflection of spiritual health, unity in Christ, and trust in God’s provision. This message will encourage you to think not just about what you give, but how and why you give.







Cheerful Giver: How to Sow for a Lasting Harvest (2 Corinthians 8-9)



What does it really mean to give generously, and why does it matter? When Paul asks for money for the Jerusalem collection, he is doing more than asking the Corinthians to donate. He is inviting them to express their faith, restore broken trust, and unite with their spiritual family. If you have ever wrestled with when, why, or how much to give, this message will help you see giving in a whole new light.



These two chapters in 2 Corinthians give us a glimpse into how early Christians understood generosity and what it means to live as a cheerful giver.



Background: The Jerusalem Collection



2 Corinthians 8-9 deal with what is commonly called the Jerusalem collection. Paul spent a lot of time in his ministry collecting money from the largely Gentile churches he ministered to. Then he sent the money to Jerusalem for the relief of the suffering Jewish believers in Judea.



In the last podcast, I argued that this collection was about more than helping the poor.



Paul was asked to make this collection by the apostles and elders of the church in Jerusalem. Leaders like Peter, John, and James specifically asked him to commit to raising this money, which he did for many years. They wanted to foster a relationship between the Gentile churches led by Paul and the Jewish believers in the church in Jerusalem.



Jerusalem was like the matriarch or family head of the Christian faith. All eleven apostles started their ministry from Jerusalem.



Paul, on the other hand, ministered far from Jerusalem. He did not spend much time there. Many Jewish believers feared him or had doubts about his apostleship. At the same time, many of Paul's Gentile converts had no relationship with the Jewish believers in Judea.



This gave Paul's collection for the Jewish poor greater significance than charity relief. When members of the Gentile churches in Asia Minor agreed to send money to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem, each side was acknowledging that they were members of the same spiritual family.



In fact, the Jews were a crucial part of their spiritual heritage. As Paul explains to the Romans, if the Gentiles shared in the spiritual things that came through the Jewish believers in Jerusalem, then the Gentiles have an obligation to minister...

2 Corinthians 8–9 records Paul's advice to Corinth about the Jerusalem Collection. But it isn’t just about fundraising. In order to understand this event, we trace the story behind the Jerusalem Collection. We look at various passages in Acts, Galatians and Romans. so we can hear Paul’s appeal to Corinth the way his first listeners did.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Paul’s path from persecutor to apostle (Acts 9; Gal 1).



* How a famine prophecy in Antioch launched the first relief gift and why “remember the poor” became Paul’s standing charge (Acts 11:27–30; Gal 2:10).



* How the Jerusalem Council’s decision shaped Paul’s mission strategy (Acts 15).



* Paul’s theological rationale behind the collection (Romans 15) and his prayer that the gift would be accepted despite real risks in Jerusalem (Acts 21).



* Three intertwined motives behind the Collection.




By listening you'll gain: an example of how to do a background study; and a clear understanding of the historical situation behind 2 Corinthians 8–9.







Why Gentiles Gave to Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8-9 Background)



Paul devoted more than a decade of his ministry to the Jerusalem Collection. Understanding the story behind it helps us understand 2 Corinthians 8-9. Today we'll explore the origin, purpose, and implications of the Jerusalem Collection, using events in Acts and Galatians to trace the evolving relationship between Paul, the Jerusalem apostles, and the Gentile churches.



Paul has finished his long defense of his ministry. He started in chapter 1 and ended with his plea for the Corinthians to make room in their hearts for him again. Now he moves on to the next concern of the letter, which we find in chapters 8-9.



From Defense to a New Concern



Throughout his ministry, Paul spent time collecting money from the Gentile churches he founded and sending it to Jerusalem.



Historically, this collection addressed relief from famine and persecution in Judea around AD 46-57, culminating in Paul’s delivery of the funds in Acts 24:17. At its most straightforward, the collection was a pragmatic response to material need in the region. But it is also about the relationship between the Gentile believers outside Judea and the Jewish believers in Judea, and Paul’s relationship with the apostles in Jerusalem.



We are going to look at the key events that explain the relationship between Paul, the original apostles, the Jerusalem church, and the Gentile churches outside Judea.



Paul’s Conversion and First Visit to Jerusalem (Acts 9; Galatians 1)



After Jesus ascended to heaven, the first followers of Jesus congregated in Jerusalem. At this point, his followers were almost all Jews.



A believer named Stephen gave a powerful sermon in Jerusalem about how their Jewish ancestors killed the prophets and now they had killed the Messiah, Jesus. The crowd became enraged and stoned Stephen to death. Watching this execution with approval was a man named Saul, whom we will later know as the apostle Paul. But at this point he is called Saul (Acts 6-7).



Saul became a persecutor of the church, dragging Christians off to prison.



As he traveled to Damascus to find even more Christians to arrest, he had an encounter with the risen Jesus. He saw a bright light. He heard a voice. Jesus called Saul not only to become a follower of Jesus, but to take the gospel to the Gentiles. He also renames Saul as Paul (Acts 9).

In 2 Corinthians 7:2–16, the Apostle Paul reflects on a painful moment in his relationship with the Corinthian church where he chose to speak hard truth out of love. His “sorrowful letter” caused grief, but it also sparked repentance and renewed connection. This passage offers profound insight into how godly sorrow can produce lasting spiritual change.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul wrote a sorrowful letter instead of visiting in person.



* How the Corinthians responded and what it revealed about their hearts.



* The difference between godly grief and worldly sorrow.



* What Titus reported back to Paul and why it mattered.



* How we can apply Paul’s approach when facing difficult conversations today.




By listening, you’ll gain a richer understanding of how confrontation, when done with humility and love, can strengthen relationships and deepen faith. Krisan Marotta walks through the text with clarity and insight, helping you see how Scripture speaks into real-life challenges.







Godly Grief and Worldly Sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:2-16)



When should you say the hard thing that might upset your friend but also bring repentance and reconciliation, and when should you stay silent? How do you tell godly grief from the kind that only wounds?



In today’s passage, we follow Paul’s emotional journey after sending a sorrowful letter to the Corinthians. As he recounts his story, he teaches us why some truth-telling heals and restores while other apologies only reopen the wound.



Review



Paul is writing to the church he founded in Corinth. He has a troubled relationship with them. Some in the church have rejected him and do not think he is really an apostle. From chapter 1 he has been defending himself and his apostleship.



Last time we walked through 2 Corinthians 6:13–7:2 to ask what Paul means by “unequally yoked” and why that command sits inside his appeal to “widen your hearts.” I argued this is not a tangent but fits very well with the plea that comes both before and after it: open your hearts to the true gospel.



Paul is writing to a church of mixed believers and unbelievers. A group in Corinth claims to be Christians, but they continue to pursue a pagan lifestyle. Paul argues God’s people fear God. They know God will be merciful if they repent and follow him. Their pagan neighbors are taking the road that leads to death, and the people of God will not follow them. Because they are heading in different directions, they cannot be joined together.



What is the problem with being unequally yoked? Those who are taking the road that leads to death and those who are traveling the road that leads to life cannot travel together. We are headed in different directions and we are not on the same team. It is foolish to try to behave as if we are.



Paul’s concern is what the church is communicating. Being a believer means turning back toward God and agreeing with God that we have done wrong, that we need his mercy, and that he needs to show us the right way. It makes no sense to include people who will not repent, who will not turn from idolatry and immorality. It makes no sense to encourage them in their deception that they are on the right road when they are not.



Why does Paul Speak so Positively?



Imagine you found this statement Paul wrote to a church: "I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy."

“Do not be unequally yoked” is not a blanket ban on contact with unbelievers. It is a warning about binding yourself in partnerships that tug your heart away from Christ and deceiving nonbelievers into thinking they are on the right path.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* How this section connects to the larger context, and why “open your hearts” frames Paul’s argument.



* What the yoke image means, and why mismatched bonds don’t move in the same direction.



* Paul’s five contrasts (righteousness/lawlessness, light/darkness, Christ/Belial, believer/unbeliever, temple/idols) and how they clarify the issue.



* What “unequally yoked” does and does not mean for marriage, business, friendship, and church life



* How wise separation protects love, loyalty, and holiness without withdrawing from the world




By the end, you’ll be able to read this passage in context, understand the “unequally yoked” metaphor, and evaluate your closest partnerships with clarity and confidence. You’ll gain practical ways to keep your heart open to truth while guarding your allegiance to Christ.







Unequally Yoked: Understanding Paul’s Warning (2 Corinthians 6:13-7:2)



What does Paul mean by “unequally yoked,” and how does it fit his call to “widen your hearts”? In this episode, you will learn what the yoke image symbolizes, why Paul links it to idolatry, and how to evaluate partnerships that pull your heart off course.



Review



Paul is writing to the church he founded in Corinth. He has a troubled relationship with them. Some in the church have rejected him and do not think he is really an apostle. From chapter 1 he has been defending himself and his apostleship.



In the first half of this chapter, Paul appeals to the Corinthians not just to hear the gospel, but to respond to it with genuine faith. He urged them not to receive the grace of God in vain. In other words, do not let the message of reconciliation go in one ear and out the other.



Reconciliation with God is not automatic. It must be embraced. How we respond to both the message and the messenger reveals the state of our hearts.



Some in Corinth dismissed Paul because he did not measure up to their worldly standards of success or status. But Paul reminded them he is not promoting himself. He is Christ’s ambassador, sent with a message from the King.



Paul describes the hardships he has endured for the sake of the gospel to show the depth of his sincerity. He is not manipulating or pressuring them. He is pleading with them to open their hearts in return.



Is 2 Corinthians 6:14–7:1 an interruption?



There are two main points I want to address today.



First, the issue of 6:14 through 7:1. Many have noticed these verses seem like an interruption in Paul’s flow. In 6:13 Paul urges them to open up to him, and in 7:2 he repeats the plea. You could jump from 6:13 to 7:2, skipping the middle and it would make sense. Some conclude the middle section does not fit and must have been inserted later.



But that leaves a problem. If it obviously does not fit, why would someone stick it here?



Others say it is a piece from another letter Paul wrote, inserted so it would not be lost. Again, why place it here?



The other option is that Paul wrote it and he wrote it here. We have good interpretive evidence for that. If the call to “open your hearts” surrounds this section, then the middle likely addresses the same issue.

In 2 Corinthians 6:1–12, Paul urges his readers not to receive the grace of God in vain. Though many in Corinth claimed to believe the gospel, their rejection of Paul revealed a lack of faith. In this episode, Krisan Marotta explains why responding to grace involves more than religious affiliation or claims of belief.



In this week's episode, we explore:




* Why Paul presents two urgent appeals: “Be reconciled to God” and “Don’t receive God’s grace in vain.”



* How some in Corinth received the gospel message yet rejected the messenger.



* How Paul defends his ministry through suffering, sincerity, and spiritual fruit.



* What Isaiah 49 reveals about the present “day of salvation.”



* How worldly values can keep us from embracing true faith.




By listening, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what it means to respond rightly to God’s grace and how Paul’s words challenge both ancient and modern assumptions about faith, success, and spiritual integrity.







Receiving Grace in Vain (2 Corinthians 6:1-12)



Paul continues his defense of his ministry by urging the Corinthians to respond rightly to the gospel message.



Two Urgent Appeals




* Paul speaks on behalf of God, entreating the Corinthians to do two things:

* be reconciled to God



* not receive the grace of God in vain.





* Being reconciled means acknowledging real guilt before God and trusting in His forgiveness through Christ (not through moral improvement or religious performance).




Receiving Grace in Vain




* Some commentators claim Paul cannot be talking about not receiving salvation because he addresses believers.



* But in this letter Paul sometimes speaks as if they are believers and at other times warns them to examine their faith, because he's speaking to a church that contains both genuine and false believers.



* Paul does not assume everyone who identifies as a believer actually possesses saving faith.



* He expresses confidence in his readers' faith when he has seen events in their life that encourage him they have faith.



* Likewise, he expresses reservations when their lifestyles don't match what they say they believe.



* They have received this message of grace in the sense that they have heard it and called themselves Christians. But some of them are living in way that contradicts their claims of faith.



* Receiving the grace of God in vain means hearing the gospel but failing to embrace its with faith.




Testing Genuine Faith




* The New Testament consistently warns that not all who claim to follow Jesus truly do.



* True saving faith includes four core convictions: recognition of sin, longing for holiness, understanding that forgiveness is undeserved, and trust in Christ's atoning work.



* Life tests faith, and real faith leads to repentance and change, not just words or religious activity.




Why Paul Questions Their Response




* Paul sees the Corinthians rejecting him not because of the content of his message, but due to superficial, worldly judgments.



* They value rhetorical skill, charisma, and worldly success (things Paul lacks in their opinion) more than his message.

In this episode of Wednesday in the Word, Krisan Marotta examines how the Apostle Paul defends his ministry against critics who judge him by outward appearance rather than by the message he proclaims. Paul insists that true transformation comes from God’s work in the heart, not from impressive credentials or presentation. Through this passage, Paul calls the Corinthians—and us—to see others through the lens of the gospel, not worldly standards.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul refuses to judge others “according to the flesh”



* What Paul means by being “beside himself” and “of sound mind”



* How the love of Christ shapes Paul’s ministry and message



* What it means to be a new creation in Christ



* The meaning of the ministry of reconciliation



* Why Paul calls himself an ambassador for Christ



* How Paul explains the gospel through the exchange of sin and righteousness




By listening, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Paul frames gospel ministry—not as self-promotion, but as a calling shaped by God’s grace and Christ’s love. This episode encourages us to reevaluate how we view others, how we assess ourselves, and how we respond to the gospel’s call to be reconciled to God.







New Creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:12-21)



Paul addresses criticism from the Corinthian church and explains the theological foundation and personal motivations behind his work. His message clarifies both the role of an apostle and the purpose of the gospel.



Review 2 Corinthians so far




* When Paul speaks in the plural (“we”), he usually means only himself.



* Paul has a difficult relationship with this church. Some in the church respect and accept him. But others in the church have rejected his authority as an apostle.



* He repeatedly emphasizes three themes:

* Paul is not adequate to produce the results that his ministry has been producing.



* Paul speaks with openness and integrity. Paul is not a salesman. His goal is NOT to manipulate you into buying the gospel.



* The gospel is superior to the Old Covenant because through His spirit, God is transforming his people.






Motivated by the Love of Christ




* Paul does not fear what men can do to him or what they think of him. He fears God.



* When trying to decide how to conduct himself or proclaim the gospel, his only concern to please God.



* Paul's intent in defending his ministry is to help them see him from the right perspective.



* When they think about how Paul treated them, it should  make them proud of the way Paul acted. 



* Paul reminds them what's true so they have an answer for his critics.




A New Way of Seeing




* Paul's critics judge him by externals like his appearance, presentation, and eloquence. They find him unimpressive as a speaker and a person.



* Paul urges the Corinthians to judge him instead by his motives and his actions.



* Whatever external thing caused them to call him crazy, Paul's commitment to following God was behind it. 




The New Creation




* Paul reminds them his actions are controlled, constrained, determined by his understanding of the love of Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 5:1–11, Paul continues his defense of his ministry by explaining how his confidence in the resurrection shapes his message, motivates his courage, and defines his integrity.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* How Paul contrasts earthly suffering with eternal glory



* What Paul means when he says “our outer self is wasting away”



* Why the Holy Spirit is described as a pledge and what it guarantees



* The debate between the two-stage and three-stage views of life after death



* The meaning and purpose of the judgment seat of Christ



* How Paul’s hope in the resurrection affects how he lives—and why that matters




By listening, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Paul’s eternal perspective gave him courage, how that same perspective can shape our lives today, and what it means to aim to please Christ in all we do.







Why We Should Not Fear Death (2 Corinthians 5:1-11)



Review 2 Corinthians so far




* When Paul speaks in the plural (“we”), he usually means only himself.



* Paul has a difficult relationship with this church. Some in the church respect and accept him. But others in the church have rejected his authority as an apostle.



* He repeatedly emphasizes three themes:

* Paul is not adequate to produce the results that his ministry has been producing.



* Paul speaks with openness and integrity. Paul is not a salesman. His goal is NOT to manipulate you into buying the gospel.



* The gospel is superior to the Old Covenant because through His spirit, God is transforming his people.





* In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul gave two reasons why he does not despair despite suffering for the gospel:

* God has given him a great ministry.



* God is teaching him through is sufferings.






Paul continues with this theme of learning through suffering in 2 Corinthians 5.



Paul's Metaphors and Contrasts




* Outer vs Inner man: By fixing his vision fixed on eternal things, he does not fall into despair even though outwardly he is suffering greatly.



* Present afflictions vs. eternal glory: His current sufferings pale in comparison to the future God has promised.



* Visible vs. invisible: If he focused on his tangible experience in this world he would lose heart. Instead he thinks about the unseen promises of God.




Earthly Tent vs. Heavenly building; Clothed vs naked:




* Paul is echoing Isaiah 25:6-8



* As an apostle, Paul faces death almost daily.



* His hope is that when he dies and loses is temporary tent and his current clothing that he will not be left naked or unprotected. 



* He longs for new clothing and a new house that will protect him when he dies.



* God has promised an eternal home, and gives the Spirit as a pledge.



* Paul’s confidence in the future is rooted in the Spirit’s work in his life now.



* The Spirit guarantees that Paul will indeed arrive at that new life in that new body. 



* The result is Paul can face death with courage.




Two Views on Life After Death



Throughout church history and in reading 2 Corinthians,...

Paul offers a powerful defense of his ministry, explaining how the gospel he proclaims is not about him, but about the transforming power of God. Though Paul faces rejection, suffering, and accusations, he remains unwavering because he knows the source of the message and the One who is truly at work through it.



In this week's episode, we explore:




* Why Paul insists he is not the source of the gospel’s power and what that means for his critics.



* How Paul contrasts human weakness (jars of clay) with the divine treasure of the gospel.



* What it means that the “god of this world” blinds unbelievers, and why Paul isn’t discouraged by rejection.



* How Paul connects the glory of God to the face of Christ, echoing imagery from Moses and the Old Covenant.



* Why Paul refuses to tamper with the message, even when it leads to suffering.



* The hope that sustains Paul through affliction: an eternal glory far outweighing the temporary trials of ministry.




What you’ll gain from this episode:



You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of Paul’s view of ministry, not as a showcase of human strength, but as a vessel for God's glory. Learn why Christian hope isn’t rooted in visible success or public approval, but in the unseen, eternal work God is doing in and through us.







Why Paul Did Not Lose Heart (2 Corinthians 4)



Paul responds to criticism of his ministry by affirming that the power of the gospel does not come from the messenger; it comes from God. His suffering, weakness, and rejection do not discredit his message. Instead, they showcase the surpassing power and glory of God.



Paul’s Ministry and Message



Paul repeats three themes through this section where he defends his ministry.




* Paul is not the source of the gospel's power. He is weak and ordinary, yet entrusted with a message that transforms lives.



* Paul speaks with openness and integrity. He does not alter or hide the gospel to make it more appealing.



* The gospel brings spiritual transformation. Paul compares his ministry to Moses’ but insists the gospel accomplishes far more—changing hearts and lives from within.




The Light and the Vessel




* In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul compared his ministry to that of Moses. After Moses spoke with God, his face shown with a bright light. But the people were afraid so Moses covered his face with a veil.



* Up to this point, Paul compared the glory of God on the face of Moses and the glory of God through the work of the Spirit becoming ours.



* Now he speaks of the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.



* Moses went in before God and the physical glory of God came off on his face. But Christ truly and totally reflects the glory of God to us.



* God shined the light of truth in Paul's life so that Paul can now take that light to the world.



* Paul describes how God “shone in our hearts” to give the light of the knowledge of God's glory in Christ. Paul, once in darkness, now carries the gospel light.



* Paul likens himself to a fragile clay jar holding a priceless treasure. The fragility of the vessel highlights that the power belongs to God, not the messenger.



* Paul is unimpressive by worldly standards, but his ministry bears evidence of divine power.




Affliction,

In this episode of Wednesday in the Word, Krisan Marotta explores Paul’s bold claim that his ministry as an apostle is more glorious than the ministry of Moses. By comparing the Old and New Covenants, Paul shows that spiritual transformation doesn’t come from the Law but from the work of the Holy Spirit.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul says the law kills, but the Spirit gives life.



* The symbolic meaning of Moses’ veil and how it relates to hardened hearts.



* How the Spirit removes the veil and brings true transformation.



* The contrast between external obedience and inward change.



* What it means to be transformed from “glory to glory.”




By listening, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the glory of the gospel and how God is at work transforming hearts. Whether you’re teaching the Bible or seeking personal encouragement, this passage is a reminder that real change comes from God’s Spirit, not from our own efforts.







Why Paul’s Ministry Outshines Moses (2 Corinthians 3:7-18)



Paul continues defending his apostleship by highlighting the source and impact of his work. He isn’t exalting himself but clarifying that the power behind his ministry comes from God and that power brings real transformation.



Three Unifying Themes



1 - Paul is not the source of the gospel’s power.




* Paul emphasizes that he is not adequate in himself to produce the powerful results that follow his ministry.



* Any sufficiency or effectiveness in his ministry comes from God, not from personal strength.



* He is merely a weak vessel, while God is the one producing results through him.



* 2 Corinthians 2:15-16; 2 Corinthians 3:2-6; 2 Corinthians 4:5-7




2 - Paul speaks and acts with integrity and boldness.




* Paul does not peddle the gospel for personal gain but speaks with sincerity as someone commissioned by God.



* Paul speaks openly and plainly, believing that the gospel should be presented without manipulation or deceit.



* 2 Corinthians 2:17; 2 Corinthians 3:12-13; 2 Corinthians 4:1-2




3 - The gospel (and therefore Paul’s ministry) brings spiritual transformation, something the Law couldn't do.




* The gospel leads to life, not death.



* The gospel transforms people from the inside out by the power of the Holy Spirit.




Background: Exodus 34:27-35




* Whenever Moses stood before God, receiving God's commands, his face was uncovered. He would then come out and tell Israel what God had commanded, and they would see that Moses face shone from having been in the presence of God.



* The word glory has several different associations which are important in this passage. Glory can refer to a literal, bright, glorious light. Glory can have a metaphorical meaning: something that has glory is attractive, wonderful, worthy of admiration.



* When Moses' face glows with the glory of God, the light testifies to the fact that Moses has been with God. It’s a sign that Moses is speaking the truth and this message is from God.



* This veil on Moses' face is an accommodation of the fact that the glory of God is too much for the people to handle. They are afraid.




Paul’s Ministry Outshines Moses’ Ministry

Trying harder won’t fix the human heart, and that’s exactly why the new covenant is such good news. In this episode, Krisan Marotta walks us through 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, where Paul defends his ministry by pointing not to his qualifications, but to the life-giving work of the Spirit. Paul’s confidence doesn’t come from his own strength. It comes from what God is doing through him.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul calls the Corinthians his letter of recommendation.



* How Paul carefully walks the line between defending his ministry and boasting.



* How Paul compares his ministry to the ministry of Moses



* How the Spirit changes hearts in a way the Law never could



* Why the “Victorious Christian Life” reading of this passage misses Paul’s point




By listening, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of the difference between law and Spirit, external obedience and inward transformation, and why the gospel offers something better than a new strategy for self-improvement.







What's New About the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:1-6)



In 2 Corinthians 3:1–6, Paul continues defending his ministry to the Corinthian church. Some in the church questioned his authority and demanded proof of his legitimacy. Paul responds by pointing to the Corinthian believers themselves as the evidence of his ministry and explains how his message brings life through the Spirit in a way the Law could not.



Paul’s Defense: No Letters Needed



Paul asks whether he needs to commend himself again or bring letters of recommendation.




* Paul walked a fine line between affirming the importance of his message and not boasting about himself.



* His ministry is critical because of the gospel message, not because of who he is personally.



* He is just a man, but nevertheless God chose him to preach the gospel as an apostle.




The Corinthians as Evidence of the Spirit’s Work



Paul expands the metaphor of the Corinthians as his “letter.”




* You give a letter of recommendation to someone who does not know you.



* Paul rejects the idea that he needs to reintroduce himself to the Corinthians.



* The changes in their lives testify that he preached the gospel to them.



* Paul describes himself as the deliveryman of this letter. God is its author.



* The transformation in Corinth came from God, not from Paul’s skill or power.




The Letter Kills but the Spirit Gives Life Explained



Paul introduces a contrast between the letter and the Spirit.




* “Letter” refers to the Old Testament Law.



* “Spirit” refers to the inner transformation that comes from the Holy Spirit.



* Paul claims that “the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”




Paul’s reference to the “new covenant” connects to Old Testament promises of heart transformation.




* Deuteronomy 30:4-6: Moses predicts God will circumcise hearts so that the people will love and follow Him.



* Ezekiel 36:22-28 God promises to remove hearts of stone and replace them with hearts of flesh, putting His Spirit within His people.



* Jeremiah 31:31-34: God promises a new covenant in which He will write His law on people’s hearts and forgive their sins.

Paul’s ministry didn’t look successful. He was often rejected, beaten, and misunderstood. But in 2 Corinthians 2:5–17, Paul reminds us that the gospel doesn’t need to be repackaged to be effective.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* The situation with the man disciplined in Corinth and Paul’s call to forgive him



* Why Paul delayed his visit and sent a letter instead



* How Paul viewed himself in God’s triumphal procession



* The difference between sincere preaching and peddling the gospel



* What it means to teach and trust God with the results




By listening, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Paul handled criticism, disappointment, and conflict in ministry. You’ll be encouraged to speak the truth faithfully, even when you can’t control how others respond.







Why Paul Refused to Change to Win More Converts (2 Corinthians 2:5-17)



In this passage, Paul addresses two major concerns with the church in Corinth: how they handled a disciplinary case involving a disruptive member, and how they viewed Paul’s own ministry. Paul defends his actions and clarifies his motives, reminding the Corinthians—and us—that the outcome of gospel ministry belongs to God.



A Painful Offense and a Call to Forgive (2 Corinthians 2:5–11)



Paul refers to a man who caused significant pain, likely during Paul’s sorrowful visit to Corinth.




* Paul states that the man’s offense hurt the entire church, not just him.



* The Corinthians had disciplined the man, and Paul now urges them to forgive and comfort him.



* Paul asks them to reaffirm their love, emphasizing the goal of restoration.



* Paul reminds them that he has already forgiven the man and urges them not to let Satan take advantage of the situation.




Who Was the Offender?



Paul never names the man or the exact offense, but scholars have proposed two main theories:




* Some believe the offender was the immoral man from 1 Corinthians 5.



* Others think the man publicly challenged Paul’s authority during the sorrowful visit.




Paul’s language suggests a personal offense against him that harmed the whole church and sparked division over Paul’s apostleship.



Paul’s Concern for the Church (2 Corinthians 2:12–13)



After writing the sorrowful letter, Paul eagerly awaited news of the Corinthians’ response.




* Paul went to Troas to preach but could not focus because Titus had not returned with news.



* He left Troas and continued to Macedonia, hoping to meet Titus along the way.



* Paul’s anxiety showed how deeply he cared about the church and their spiritual condition.




God’s Victory and Paul’s Role (2 Corinthians 2:14–17)



Paul reflects on his ministry using the image of a Roman triumphal procession.




* A conquering Roman general would return home to a victory parade. The people lining the streets burned incense to greet him. The general was followed by his victories soldiers and then by prisoners of war and captives.



* The the victories soldier the aroma of the incense is the sweet smell of success. To the captives it is the smell of death and defeat.

When Paul didn’t return to Corinth as expected, some accused him of being unreliable. In 2 Corinthians 1:12–2:4, Paul explains his decision did not result from selfish motives but from pastoral care. His example gives us a window into how mature faith navigates conflict, disappointment, and the hard work of loving others well.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul changed his mind about visiting Corinth.



* How Paul's opponents used his change of plans to question his integrity.



* What Paul meant when he said God's promises are always “yes” in Jesus.



* How the Holy Spirit guarantees that God's work in us will be completed.



* Why Paul chose to write a letter instead of making another painful visit.




By listening, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church and what it means to live and lead with integrity. Krisan Marotta helps unpack this passage in a way that’s honest, accessible, and grounded in Scripture, equipping you to better trust God when plans change and relationships get complicated.







Why Paul Didn’t Visit Corinth



In 2 Corinthians 1:12–2:4, Paul addresses a specific situation: why he didn’t visit the Corinthian church as originally planned. Some in the church questioned his integrity and commitment, assuming his change in plans reflected selfish motives. But Paul uses this conflict to defend his actions, affirm his sincerity, and remind the Corinthians that the gospel is trustworthy and certain.



Understanding this passage requires some background on Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians, including the letters and visits that didn’t survive.



Paul’s Relationship with Corinth



To understand Paul’s decision not to visit, we need to know the timeline of his interactions with the church at Corinth.



For more detail: How Many Letters did Paul write to Corinth?




* First Visit: Paul founded the church during his second missionary journey and stayed for about 18 months.



* First Letter: Paul wrote a letter after returning home that is lost.



* Letter From Corinth: The Corinthians wrote a letter to Paul in response to the lost letter.



* Second Letter: Paul responds to their letter in the letter we call 1 Corinthians.



* Second Visit: Paul visited Corinth, in a visit not recorded in Acts. This visit was a painful one



* Third Letter: Paul wrote a "sorrowful" or "severe letter after the painful visit instead of returning in person. This letter is lost.



* Fourth Letter: After hearing encouraging news from Titus about the Corinthians’ response, to the severe letter, Paul wrote 2 Corinthians from Macedonia.




Paul's Defense for Why He didn't Visit



Some Corinthians viewed Paul’s change in plans as a sign of unreliability. Paul explains his actions and defends his apostleship.




* Paul originally planned to visit the Corinthians twice, on his way to and from Macedonia.



* He changed his mind to spare them another painful confrontation.



* Paul did not change his plans from selfish or worldly motives. He acted sincerely and with godly wisdom.



* He reminded them that he had always been open and straightforward in his communication.

When Paul opens his second letter to the Corinthians, he doesn’t start with doctrine. He starts with suffering, comfort, and prayer. This passage gives us a glimpse into the personal cost of gospel ministry and the beauty of how God uses suffering to encourage others.



Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church was complicated. These opening verses set the tone for a letter that’s both tender and urgent.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul refers to himself as “we” and why it matters



* The complicated backstory behind Paul’s letter



* How Paul sees his suffering as part of his ministry to others



* What true encouragement looks like—and where it comes from



* Why Paul asks for prayer, and what that reveals about Christian community



* How God meets us in affliction not to remove the pain, but to strengthen our hope




By listening, you’ll gain a richer understanding of 2 Corinthians and the heart behind Paul’s words. You’ll see how his story models gospel-shaped leadership—and how our own trials can become a source of comfort to others.







Suffering, Comfort & Prayer: What Paul Teaches About Ministry (2 Corinthians 1:1-11)



To understand 2 Corinthians, we need three key pieces of context:




* Paul often uses “we” to refer to himself. Sometimes he means “we apostles,” but often he means “I, Paul.” It’s important to understand who he’s referring to in each passage.



* Paul wrote a now-lost letter between 1 and 2 Corinthians. This current letter responds to how the Corinthians reacted to that missing letter.



* Paul’s relationship with the church in Corinth was troubled. Some respected him, but others rejected his apostleship and questioned his sincerity.




See: How Many Letters did Paul write Corinth?



Paul’s Greeting: A Chosen Apostle



Paul opens by calling himself an “apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God.” That’s not just a formality. It’s a gentle but firm reminder to a church that doubted him: God chose Paul to speak for Christ. That calling didn’t come through popularity or persuasion—it came through divine appointment.




* Paul opens the letter by reminding the Corinthians that he is an apostle by the will of God—not by personal ambition.



* This introduction is significant because some in Corinth doubt his authority. Paul wants to clarify from the outset that his role is divinely appointed.



* Paul’s position is like that of an ambassador sent by a president to restore order in a disorganized branch. The local team claims to respect the president but rejects the ambassador’s authority.



* Paul’s defense is not about personal pride. It’s about preserving the authority of the message and the One who sent him.




Suffering, Comfort & Prayer



Paul praises God as “the Father of mercies and God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3). But Paul isn’t just making a general theological point. He’s describing his own life. God has encouraged him in the midst of real affliction, and that encouragement wasn’t just for Paul—it was for the Corinthians too.




* God encourages us in our affliction, not always by removing it.



* Paul’s sufferings are part of his ministry; he endures them for the sake of the Corinthian believers.

Corinth was one of the most influential and morally corrupt cities in the Roman Empire. Yet it became home to a growing church. In this episode, we study Acts 18 to explain how and why Paul founded a church in Corinth, what made Corinth strategic, and how God used unexpected partnerships to advance the gospel.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Corinth’s geography made it a powerful economic and military hub



* The city’s cultural identity and its reputation for immorality



* How Paul met and worked with Priscilla and Aquila



* What prompted Paul to stay in Corinth for 18 months



* How Roman politics gave Paul legal protection for ministry




By listening, you'll gain insight into the unique challenges and opportunities Paul faced in Corinth and how God used those circumstances to lay the foundation for one of the New Testament’s most complex and important churches.







Founding the Church in Corinth (Acts 18)



Corinth was a city of wealth, power, and moral decay—an unlikely place for a thriving church.



Corinth’s Strategic Significance




* Corinth was located on an isthmus between the Adriatic and Aegean Seas, allowing ships to cross land and avoid dangerous sea routes.



* The city functioned like an ancient version of the Panama Canal, with a road to haul small ships across the land bridge.



* Corinth served as both a commercial hub and a military outpost due to its geography and harbors.



* It was the second most important city in the Roman Empire and a vacation spot for the imperial family.



* The city was known for extreme wealth and sexual immorality; “to Corinthianize” became slang for engaging in immorality.



* Corinth had been destroyed by the Romans and later rebuilt by Julius Caesar around 46 BC.



* The rebuilt city became a place for freed slaves, with a population of 200,000 free citizens and 500,000 slaves.



* The patron god was Poseidon, but Corinth also hosted a major temple to Aphrodite with thousands of cult prostitutes.



* The culture was highly sophisticated and morally corrupt.




City of Corinth



Isthmus Map



Bible Atlas: Corinth



Map of NT Greece



Paul’s Ministry in Corinth




* Paul arrived in Corinth during his second missionary journey around 50 AD.



* He met Aquila and Priscilla, Jews recently expelled from Rome by Claudius’s edict.



* Paul lived and worked with them as a tentmaker.



* It’s unclear if Aquila and Priscilla were believers when they met Paul, but they were by the end of his stay.




Priscilla and Aquila




* Priscilla’s name often appears before Aquila’s, which was unusual for the time.



* The order may reflect her closer relationship with Paul, her reputation, or her role as a teacher.

June 2025 Reflections



2 Corinthians: When Church Hurts



Season 26 kicks off July 9



What happens when ministry gets messy? Or when people in the church misunderstand, question, or even reject you? In 2 Corinthians, the Apostle Paul opens his heart to a struggling, divided church and shows us what faithful ministry looks like in the midst of conflict.



This verse-by-verse podcast series walks through Paul’s most personal letter, filled with truth, grace, and surprising encouragement for anyone walking through conflict or discouragement in the church. Join us and discover how God shows up—even when church hurts.



Mark your calendar for July 9 and be sure to follow Wednesday in the Word wherever you listen so you can get notified when each new episode drops.



Listen with a Group



If you’d like to explore the podcast with a small group, I’ve created a set of thoughtful discussion questions to support deeper conversation and shared reflection. There are 15 questions for each episode ranging from the key themes to personal application, plus a few creative fun hypotheticals to help you connect biblical truths in meaningful and engaging ways.



​Free 2 Corinthians Discussion Questions​



Thanks again for listening. I’m looking forward to sharing Season 26 with you.









Next: July 2025



Previous: May 2025



Photo by the Author

In this episode, Krisan and David John Marotta present a biblical perspective on money, arguing that it all belongs to God and that we are called to be stewards, not owners. Drawing from Scripture and their extensive experience in financial management, they blend theological insights with practical advice to guide listeners in using money wisely for God’s purposes. They challenge the reluctance to discuss money openly and emphasize intentionally aligning financial decisions with faith.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* The biblical principle of stewardship, showing how everything we have comes from God and belongs to Him.



* How to use financial resources to fulfill the responsibilities and calling God gives us.



* The importance of work to meet those responsibilities, with practical encouragement for starting your career.



* Common pitfalls like overspending or over-giving, and how to avoid them through balanced planning.



* Practical strategies for spending, earning, and saving/investing, including budgeting tips and the power of compound interest.



* The virtues of justice, mercy, and faithfulness in handling money contrasted with the sins of pride, greed, and fear.




Listeners will gain a clear framework for integrating faith and finances, moving beyond taboo to purposeful stewardship. You’ll walk away with actionable steps—like setting up a budget that reflects your values or starting a Roth IRA—alongside a renewed understanding of how generosity and gratitude can transform your relationship with money. Whether you’re a recent graduate or seasoned professional, this episode offers wisdom to navigate wealth with confidence and align your financial life with God’s calling.



Krisan and David John Marotta gave this seminar to University of Virginia college students at the Center for Christian Study on February 6, 2018. The original title was Wealth Wisdom: A Biblical Perspective on Stewarding Money.



Seminar Handout







A Biblical Perspective on Money Key Points



Money belongs to God. We are His stewards.




* God claims ownership of all wealth, as Deuteronomy 8:17-18 reminds us: “It is He who gives you the power to get wealth.”



* We act as stewards, managing God’s property like a servant reflects a master’s wishes, not as owners drawing lines between “mine” and “His.”



* Temptation creeps in after college when we earn money and think, “I worked for this—it’s mine,” forgetting God provides the ability and opportunity.



* Stewards choose between faithful management and embezzlement—using money for God’s goals or selfishly taking it for ourselves.




God gives us money to fulfill His calling




* God entrusts us with money to support the path He sets, such as providing for basic needs, a spouse, children, or elderly parents.



* Money serves a purpose beyond happiness or comfort—it equips us to fulfill our God-given duties.



* We receive varying amounts, big or small, but each portion aligns with the responsibilities God assigns us.




Work is a biblical mandate




* Paul urges Christians in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 to “work with your hands” to live quietly, behave properly, and avoid dependency.