Allen began a new series this past Sunday—“Changed into His Image”—on the character of God. This Sunday we looked at the “God of all comfort” from 2 Corinthians 1:3-11.Paul’s Point
God is sovereign. God is King. God is known through Christ. Our true identity is in Him. That’s where we find fulfillment, even in suffering, because He is the God of all comfort.
What is comfort? It is not the absence of pain or problems, but rather the presence of God in the problems. It is the condition of peace in the midst of troubles, being confident of God’s deliverance (Psalm 46).
What are Paul (and we) being comforted from? Every problem—ones that we cause and ones that we don’t cause. God comforted Jesus; God comforted Paul; God comforts us.
Paul’s Position
Paul had been drowning in distress and saw death as the only out—except with God’s help. Because God had helped him in the past, he was confident he would do so in the future. Resulting in? Thanksgiving and praise!
Paul’s Perspectives
...of God: God’s character is comfort. It doesn’t change.
...of Suffering: Lumps it in one pot. The obedient suffer just as the disobedient suffer.
...of Ministry: Paul was an illustration of God’s power because Paul was called to suffering. Be faithful whether you're suffering or not.
Four Life Applications:
1. Live focused on thanksgiving and praise.
2. Live focused on the character of God. Learn who he is.
3. Live focused on God’s sovereignty. Honor his kingship.
4. Live focused on sharing with others the comfort we have received.
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