THE BURDEN OF KNOWING

THE BURDEN OF KNOWING!

2 Cor 11:28-29

28 Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?

The Amplified New Testament sheds some light on what Paul was going through.

2 Cor 11:28-29

28 And besides those things that are without, there is the daily [inescapable pressure] of my care and anxiety for all the churches!

29 Who is weak, and I do not feel [his] weakness? Who is made to stumble and fall and have his faith hurt, and I am not on fire [with sorrow or indignation]?

AMP

           It is unseemly for the Pastor to complain of his duties and peculiar circumstances but this is Second Corinthians and not First Corinthians. In First Corinthians, Paul was on the attack against gross sin and error. One member was living with his mother as if she was his love partner. Whether she was his natural mother or step mother is hardly significant. In Second Corinthians Paul is under attack by the church not for substantive issues but for his tone in dealing with them.

           The next time your Pastor gives you a big smile and a warm, welcoming hug, ask yourself: “Does he know that I am not the Christian I pretend to be? Is he aware of my spiritual struggles?” In many cases he actually does know but he smiles and hugs you anyway.

           The burden of knowing is, I think, what Paul was talking about in verse 28. The word “care” means “solicitude, concern and kindness.” Pressure builds as the burden of knowing grows. It often stings more than those 39 lashes received at the hands of both Jews and Gentiles.

Jer 3:15

15 And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Dear Lord, carry in your strong and loving arms both sheep and shepherds today. AMEN