1:15-24 — Practicing what we preach, Pt 3

I was unable to deal with the final point that arises from what Paul says in chapter 1 because of time. There is a continuation of the discussion commenced in chapter 1 into chapter 2. Paul is speaking of the overriding disposition of the man of God. We ... are helpers of your joy, 2 Corinthians 1:24.

I. THE MINISTER LABOURS TO ADVANCE THE JOY OF HIS FLOCK

1. The ministry of God’s Word is the key to true joy. Jeremiah 15:16, John 15:10, 1 John 1:4, 2 John 12.

2. Discipline ministers to the joy of the saint. Psalm 30:4-5, Hebs 12:11. Often it is neglected for the sake of the comfort of the administrator. 1 Sam 3:13.

3. The overriding determination. To avoid grief for the flock if possible. When he did grieve them it was out of love, verse 4.

4. The joy of the minister is to see his people joyful. Verses 2-3.

5. The sorrow of the man of God is to see sin amongst God’s people. What injury it causes them, Jer 9:1, 12:17, Luke 19:41, Acts 20:19.