II Corinthians 13:11 (KJV)
Paul, in concluding his second letter to Corinth, ends with some final words of instruction. In this one short verse we writes to the brethren four things they need to do and states what the outcome of that will be.Be Perfect
Paul writes to the brethren to be perfect. Other translations say to be complete or to aim for perfection. This is an admonition to continue growing in Christ. As a Christian aims for perfection, they will learn more about what they need to do (Hebrews 5:12-6:3), and will strive to be more and more dedicated to Christ.
Just as Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, encouraging them to be perfect, I would exhort you to aim for perfection. Study the scriptures often (Acts 17:11), learning more of the Lord and of the Lord's will. As you better learn and understand what the Bible contains, seek to apply it to your life.
Be of Good Comfort
Paul next tells them to be comforted. There is comfort to be found in Christ and in following Christ. There are rewards to be found in Chriist, which is a comforting thought. If you are truly following Christ, there is peace to be found while in this life (Philippians 4:7). If you continue to follow the Lord, then there is the promise of eternal life (Romans 2:7).
Brethren, be comforted. There is much in this life that can be discouraging and troubling. Bear in mind what comfort there is to be found in fully following and trusting in the Lord. It will be of benefit both in overcoming life's trials and in encouraging you to continue serving the Lord.
Be of One Mind
Paul encourages the brethren in Corinth to be united. The unity that he tells them to have is found only in the Lord (I John 1:7). If we seek first to have unity with the Lord, then we have unity, and agreement, with those others who are united with Christ. If we seek first to have unity with other men, then we turn our backs to Christ. True Christin unity with men cannot come at the expense of the Truth, at the expense of God's word, or at the expense of serving Christ. That way is a lie, and in that way lies spiritual death. Do you want unity? Then put God first, serve Him, and you will be united with those who do the same.
Again, this same exhortation must be heeded by you. Be of one mind. Seek unity and agreement. But not at the expense of truth and righteousness. Do not allow unnecessary division to enter the church.
Live in Peace
Paul next tells the Corinthians to live in peace. Christians are to live a quiet, peaceful life as much as they are able (Romans 12:18, I Thessalonians 4:11).
The same admonition is good for all of us today. We should strive to lead quiet, sensible, peaceable lives. As much as is up to you, live with those around you in peace.
God Will Be With You
Paul writes that if the Christians in Corinth do these things, growing and aiming for perfection, living in such a way as to be comforted by God's promises, being truly unified in Christ, and living in peace with those around them, then God will be with them. The other side of this is that if they do not do these things, then God will not be with them.
If you want God to be with you, you too must do these things. Study the word of God, make application to your lives, and so aim for the perfection of Christ. Live in such a way that the thought of God's judgment does not bring fear, but comfort. Be of one mind, united in faith and obedience to the Lord. Live in peace with the others in the community, that opportunities to teach and convert others may arise. Do these things diligently and zealously, without growing tired. If you do, then the Lord will be with you.
But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
II Thessalonians 2:13-17 (KJV)
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