“I have previously said when present the second time, and though now absent I say in advance to those who have sinned in the past and to all the rest as well, that if I come again I will not spare anyone, since you are seeking for proof of the Christ who speaks in me, and who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you” (2 Corinthians 13:2-3)
There are games that people play. The devil has those who will harm the fellowship. It is not that we are to police and seek to eradicate, but to know that repentance is needed in order to keep the wicked one at bay. Yes, those who practice wickedness must be confronted lest they rule and thereby overwhelm the cause of Christ in that place. This is eternal business which is why we are to take it most seriously.
Lord, I often treat church things as a part of my voluntary life and those things for which I want to volunteer as my purpose for life. Help me to realize that to follow You is to not take my hand from the plow, but instead to realize that with all earnestness I should seek after You all the days of my life knowing that by grace and through faith I am being prepared to be with You forever.
Lord Jesus, You did not die on the cross just to polish us up a bit and send us on our way. In this world of sin, You leave us here for awhile that we might undergo all that is needed in order for You to perfect in us that which You are perfecting. Help me submit to You, Lord and Savior, that I would know that all that happens in this life is with purpose that has eternal consequences. Amen.
