In earlier
verses Paul explained to the Corinthians why he had to change his plan about
visiting them. In these two verses he again explained why he made a second
change. His concern for the Corinthians made him make the first change. It was
also for the same reason that he made a second change in his plan.
These two verses tell us much about the pastoral heart of Paul. Apparently
he sent Titus to Corinth, very likely with the letter that he had written. After
he had delivered the letter, Titus was to meet Paul in Troas as his plan was to
go to minister there. When he arrived at Troas, he couldn’t find Titus. And
although he had an evangelistic opportunity where the people were ready to hear
him but he had no heart to minister. At other times Paul would have had welcomed
the opportunity but not this time. His heart was not at rest for he was concerned
for Titus’ where about. There were lots of people probably ready to hear him
preach but Titus was not there. So concerned was Paul that he left everything
and took leave of the people and went on to Macedonia. He went searching for
Titus. His mind must have been filled with thoughts of what had happened to
Titus. It must also be filled with thoughts of whether the letter to the Corinthians
was safely delivered. His heart could also be thinking about the situation in
Corinth and was hoping to hear from Titus concerning their progress.
What lesson can we learn from these two verses? Paul showed us that
while he cared for the Corinthians, he did not disregard the necessity to
continue in the task of reaching the lost. It was for that reason that he went
to Troas. This tells us that serving in the church and soul-winning must go
hand in hand. It also implies that just as important as reaching out to lost souls,
we must not neglect our role to care for our brothers and sisters in the Lord. Like Paul, we may change our plan, but we
should never lose sight of our purpose and priorities. We may need to exercise
the integrity of the moment but we mustn’t dilute our commitment to the Lord and
to our calling.
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