Understanding what transpired before Paul wrote this letter clarifies an important concept Jesus taught his disciples in Matthew 21:28-32. Paul had learned of the drought and persecutions the congregations in Judea and Jerusalem had experienced a year before this letter. The Lord inspired Paul to collect a charitable gift from the Gentile congregations. So he sent word out, hoping they would voluntarily provide financial assistance to their brothers and sisters in Christ. The Corinthian congregation was the first to respond affirmatively.
The congregation gave a series of questions to Titus, asking him to give them to Paul to answer. Upon delivering the questions, Titus told Paul that Corinth had begun collecting the charitable gift. Paul answered Corinth’s questions with 1st Corinthians. Titus delivered the letter, which was received well. However, Titus noticed that they had stopped collecting the charitable gift. He reported this to Paul as well as information about the false prophets and teachers. Paul responded with 2nd Corinthians. In 8:10-11, he encouraged them to finish the work of collecting the offering. Starting without finishing is unacceptable and embarrassing.
Jesus taught this to the religious leaders in the “Parable of the Two Sons” (Matthew 21:28-32). Jesus concluded with, “‘Which of the two did what his father wanted?’
“‘The first,’ they answered.
“Jesus said to them, ‘I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.'”
The religious leaders looked like they started well. But because they did not finish by accepting the Messiah, they would not enter the kingdom of God. Listen to what Jesus teaches. Finish your walk of faith.
