The apostle Paul had a tumultuous relationship with the church at Corinth. He had been the pioneer missionary who shared the gospel of Jesus with them (Acts 18:1-17). He preached in the synagogue and, after being expelled, was based at the home of Titius Justus. He stayed longer in Corinth than the other places because of a vision—he cared for them for 18 months before leaving after a court appearance.
However, later Paul hears some of the issues back in Corinth. People are divided in their loyalty: some follow Paul, others Apollos, and others false apostles with different teachings on Jesus and the resurrection. They allow obvious sexual sin in the church. They take each other to court. They live and worship independently and don’t really care about others. They claim to be generous but do not show much evidence. And although very gifted, the church lacks the love of Jesus.
Paul writes at least two letters to the church in Corinth (1 and 2 Corinthians). He is not afraid to deal with the issues but must do this sensitively. There are other leaders in the congregation who now have influence but are leading the church away from Jesus and His truth. How strong can he be? How much authority can he use? How can he show his reprimands are motivated by love? As you read these letters you see Paul’s dilemma—he wants both authority and grace, and strength and kindness, truth and love. He wants to be a father, not a dictator. A colleague not an authoritarian. And yet he has to remind them of the past and the sacrifices it took to bring the gospel to them (1 Corinthians 4; 2 Corinthians 4, 6, 10, 11).
I understand Paul’s dilemma—some issues need to be addressed. If you’re too soft no-one pays attention; if you’re too hard people can become obstinate. Pastors in leadership in all the countries of the South Pacific face similar issues. Their pastoral heart and calling wants the best for the members but they must uphold the standards of the Word of God and the gospel of Jesus.
Pastors and leaders don’t always get the balance right. However, if there are issues that could come between you and Jesus, it’s better to have them addressed. “Your restoration is what we pray for . . . I write these things while I am away from you, that when I come I may not be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down” (2 Corinthians 13:9,10 ESV).
