Paul is writing to the Corinthian believers, “for your joy” (2 Cor. 1:24) – but they have forgotten the way to find joy. So in this passage Paul reminds them what kind of ministry can lead them to the joy of their salvation. It is the ministry which:
- Is willing to punish in love, and swift to restore in grace
- Runs towards trouble, rather than chasing success
- Finds confidence, not in our strength, but in the love we are given for one another